Scotland hotels

The vibrant nightlife of Scotland

Scotland's cities buzz with an eclectic mix of nightlife options, from cosy traditional pubs steeped in history to cutting-edge clubs pulsating with the latest music. Whether you're looking to soak in some local culture with a pint of Scottish ale or dance until the wee hours, here's what you need to know about going out in Scotland's most lively cities.

Party and nightlife in Edinburgh

For a deeper dive into the bustling nightlife of Scotland's capital, visit our page dedicated solely to Edinburgh's nightlife to discover even more exciting things to do after dark.

• Night Clubs: Head to The Liquid Room or The Bongo Club for a mix of live music and DJ sets.

• Concert Halls: Usher Hall and Queen’s Hall are prime venues for experiencing everything from classical to contemporary performances.

• Secret Party Spots: Discover intimate live music at Sneaky Pete's or enjoy the vibes at The Jazz Bar.

• Best Neighbourhoods for Going Out: Explore the lively streets of the Grassmarket and Cowgate, brimming with bars and clubs.

Party and nightlife in Glasgow

• Night Clubs: Sub Club and SWG3 are the heartbeats of Glasgow’s electronic music scene.

• Concert Halls: Catch international acts and classical performances at The SSE Hydro and Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

• Secret Party Spots: For an alternative scene, check out Nice N Sleazy and The Art School for gigs and club nights.

• Best Neighbourhoods for Going Out: Sauchiehall Street and Ashton Lane offer a vibrant mix of nightlife and dining options.

Party and nightlife in Dundee

• Night Clubs: Fat Sam's and The Reading Rooms are popular choices for a night of dancing.

• Concert Halls: Caird Hall hosts a range of events from classical concerts to pop gigs.

• Secret Party Spots: Seek out hidden gems like Duke's Corner for live music in a relaxed atmosphere.

• Best Neighbourhoods for Going Out: The West End and Perth Road are bustling with bars and restaurants, perfect for evening exploration.

Party and nightlife in Aberdeen

• Night Clubs: Krakatoa and Tunnels provide a lively setting for music lovers.

• Concert Halls: The Music Hall and The Lemon Tree offer a diverse lineup of performances.

• Secret Party Spots: Discover the vibrant scene at Underdog and BrewDog for craft beers and live music.

• Best Neighbourhoods for Going Out: Belmont Street and Union Street are the go-to places for a night out, featuring a range of bars and clubs.

Party and nightlife in Inverness

• Night Clubs: Enjoy the intimate club scene at The Tooth and Claw or Ironworks.

• Concert Halls: Eden Court Theatre is the cultural hub for performances and cinema.

• Secret Party Spots: Hootananny offers traditional Scottish music and ceilidhs in a cosy setting.

• Best Neighbourhoods for Going Out: The Victorian Market and Church Street area provide a charming backdrop for your evening adventures.

Scotland's nightlife is as diverse as its landscape, offering everything from traditional experiences to modern entertainment. Each city has its unique character, ensuring visitors can find the perfect spot to enjoy Scotland's vibrant evenings.

Discover accommodations across Scotland

Embarking on a journey to Scotland offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending historic landscapes with vibrant city life. Each city in Scotland boasts unique areas that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, from those seeking the hustle and bustle of city life to travellers looking for a more serene getaway. Here's a comprehensive guide to some of the best places to stay in Scotland's most iconic cities, providing insights into what each area has to offer.

In Edinburgh

Edinburgh, a city of unparalleled history and beauty, offers neighbourhoods that cater to every traveller's needs. Explore our selection of hotels in Edinburgh for more details on where to stay.

• City Centre & Old Town: The heart of Edinburgh, ideal for visitors looking to explore historic sites like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.

• New Town: Known for its stunning Georgian architecture, New Town is perfect for those who love shopping and dining in style.

• Leith: For a taste of the city's maritime history and some of the best seafood, Leith is a vibrant port area with a distinct character.

In Glasgow

Glasgow's lively culture and architectural marvels make it a must-visit destination. Dive into the diverse accommodation options at hotels in Glasgow.

• City Centre: The epicentre of Glasgow's shopping, nightlife, and cultural attractions, including the Glasgow School of Art and George Square.

• West End: A bohemian district known for its Victorian architecture, cobbled streets, and a plethora of cafes, boutiques, and parks.

• Merchant City: Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and historical significance, Merchant City is perfect for those who enjoy exploring by foot.

In Dundee

Dundee, the City of Discovery, is rich in maritime history and cultural experiences. Find the perfect place to stay with our guide to hotels in Dundee.

• City Centre: The heart of Dundee's regeneration, the city centre is home to the V&A Dundee and a bustling shopping scene.

• West End: Offers a quieter, more residential experience, with easy access to the University of Dundee and the Botanic Gardens.

• Broughty Ferry: A quaint seaside suburb, ideal for those looking for a mix of beachside relaxation and local charm.

In Aberdeen

Aberdeen, the Granite City, combines its rich history with a strong sense of community. For accommodations in Aberdeen, check out hotels in Aberdeen.

• City Centre: Aberdeen's city centre is a mix of old and new, with historic buildings and modern shopping centres.

• Old Aberdeen: Known for its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, Old Aberdeen is close to the University of Aberdeen.

• Aberdeen Beach: For those who love the sea, staying near Aberdeen Beach offers scenic views and fresh sea air.

In Inverness

Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, serves as a gateway to Scotland's most breathtaking landscapes. Explore places to stay at hotels in Inverness.

• City Centre: Inverness's compact city centre is great for exploring on foot, with easy access to Inverness Castle and the River Ness.

• Loch Ness: For adventure seekers and nature lovers, staying near Loch Ness provides an opportunity to explore the Scottish Highlands.

This guide offers a glimpse into the varied accommodations available across Scotland's cities, each offering a unique experience to visitors. Whether you're drawn to the historical allure of Edinburgh, the cultural vibrancy of Glasgow, the innovative spirit of Dundee, the maritime charm of Aberdeen, or the natural beauty of Inverness, Scotland welcomes you with open arms and a place to call home during your stay.

Shopping in Scotland's Cities

Scotland's cities are a shopper's paradise, offering everything from high-end fashion and bespoke boutiques to historic markets and local crafts. Whether you're searching for the perfect souvenir, the latest fashion trends, or unique Scottish goods, here's where to shop in Scotland's vibrant cities.

Going shopping in Edinburgh

• Trendy shopping area: Princes Street and George Street offer high street brands, luxury boutiques, and designer stores.

• Cheap shopping area: Grassmarket and Victoria Street are great for finding unique items and independent shops.

• Typical local souvenirs: Scottish whisky, tartan fabrics, and Edinburgh Crystal.

• Markets: The Royal Mile hosts several shops selling Scottish souvenirs, while Stockbridge Market is perfect for local produce and crafts.

Going shopping in Glasgow

• Trendy shopping area: Buchanan Street is the main shopping thoroughfare, lined with flagship stores and designer boutiques.

• Cheap shopping area: The Barras Market is known for bargains and second-hand finds.

• Typical local souvenirs: Glasgow School of Art gifts, Scottish jewellery, and local artwork.

• Markets: The Merchant City area is home to trendy boutiques and the weekend Merchant City Market.

Going shopping in Dundee

• Trendy shopping area: The Overgate and Wellgate shopping centres house a mix of high street and designer brands.

• Cheap shopping area: The Perth Road offers a range of independent shops with unique finds.

• Typical local souvenirs: Dundee marmalade, comics (like The Beano), and local crafts.

• Markets: The Dundee Farmers' Market showcases the best of local produce and goods.

Going shopping in Aberdeen

• Trendy shopping area: Union Street and the Union Square shopping centre offer a comprehensive shopping experience with major brands.

• Cheap shopping area: Rosemount is known for its vintage shops and independent boutiques.

• Typical local souvenirs: Aberdeen Angus beef, cashmere, and local whisky.

• Markets: The Aberdeen Country Fair on Belmont Street features local crafts and foods.

Going shopping in Inverness

• Trendy shopping area: The Eastgate Shopping Centre and the Victorian Market for a mix of high street stores and unique boutiques.

• Cheap shopping area: Academy Street and Church Street offer thrift stores and local independents.

• Typical local souvenirs: Highland soap, Scottish kilt, and handmade crafts.

• Markets: The Inverness Farmer's Market provides local produce, and the Victorian Market is great for gifts and souvenirs.

Shopping in Scotland is an adventure in itself, offering a delightful blend of the modern and the traditional. Whether you're after iconic Scottish items or the latest fashion, Scotland's cities provide a rich shopping experience that caters to all tastes and budgets.

The must-sees of Scotland's premier cities

Scotland, with its rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers an array of attractions and landmarks across its cities. Each city, from Edinburgh's historic charm to Glasgow's vibrant culture, presents unique sights that are essential for any visitor. Here's a look at what you shouldn't miss in each city.

The must-sees of Edinburgh

• Edinburgh Castle: A historic fortress that dominates the city's skyline, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's past.

• Royal Mile: The bustling heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, lined with medieval buildings, shops, and historic pubs.

• Arthur's Seat: An ancient volcano providing panoramic views of the city.

• Calton Hill: Known for its iconic monuments and buildings, it offers one of Edinburgh's best vistas.

• The Palace of Holyroodhouse: The British monarch's official Scottish residence, located at the Royal Mile's end.

Museums and cultural heritage in Edinburgh

• National Museum of Scotland: A journey through natural history, cultures around the world, art and design, science and technology, and Scottish history.

• Museum of Childhood: Captivates families with its extensive collection of children's toys and playthings.

• The Royal Lyceum Theatre: Features a diverse range of theatre productions, from classics to contemporary works.

• St Giles' Cathedral: A breathtaking example of Gothic architecture, central to Presbyterianism.

• The National Library of Scotland: The largest library in Scotland, housing a vast collection of literature and historical documents.

The must-sees of Glasgow

• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Houses 22 galleries in a stunning building, ranging from art collections to natural history.

• Glasgow Cathedral: A prime example of Scottish Gothic architecture, with a history stretching back to medieval times.

• The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel: Explores Glasgow’s industrial heritage through its extensive transport collections.

• Glasgow Science Centre: Filled with interactive exhibits, it's a modern museum designed to spark curiosity.

• The Necropolis: A Victorian-era garden cemetery, offering tranquility and panoramic city views.

Museums and cultural heritage in Glasgow

• The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery: Scotland's oldest public museum, featuring a broad spectrum of exhibits.

• The Glasgow Museum of Transport: Chronicles the city's transport history through a vast array of vehicles and models.

• King's Theatre Glasgow: A leading venue for musicals, dance, comedy, and drama, showcasing a variety of performances.

• Glasgow Cathedral: Not only an architectural marvel but also a place of historical and cultural significance.

• Mitchell Library: Among Europe's largest public libraries, it boasts an impressive collection of resources and archives.

Each of Scotland's cities tells its own story, filled with historic sites, cultural treasures, and natural wonders. Whether drawn to Edinburgh's ancient allure or Glasgow's dynamic spirit, visitors will find a wealth of experiences awaiting discovery.