Here’s our quickfire guide to spending the summer in Scotland’s seven cities - take your pick to discover places to eat, things to do, and what's on.
Aberdeen
Dundee
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Inverness
Perth
Stirling
Spot dolphins in the harbour, admire the striking architecture and discover the cosmopolitan side to this east coast city by the sea.
A walk
Wander the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen to admire the cathedral-like grandeur of King’s College and explore Cruickshank Botanic Garden.
The food
The city's restaurants have a fantastic array of local produce to play with. Succulent Aberdeen Angus beef and fresh seafood dishes await at locations such as the Silver Darling Restaurant.
The views
Head to Torry Battery, which was used for defence during World War Two, to admire city views and see if you can spot dolphins in the harbour.
The attractions
Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Moray Firth boat trips and delightful parks and gardens await in the city. Aberdeenshire is home to over 250 castles, including Dunnottar Castle, just south of the city.
Summer events
The North Atlantic Fiddle Convention, 11 – 15 July
Stonehaven Highland Games, 15 July
Simplyhealth Great Aberdeen Run, 26 August
Stonehaven Highland Games, 15 July
Named one of the Lonely Planet’s Top Ten 'Best in Europe 2018' destinations, Dundee is a UNESCO City of Design and home to the hotly anticipated V&A Dundee.
A walk
A walk or cycle along the River Tay provides excellent waterside views and passes some of the city's top attractions. Walk further to reach Broughty Ferry, a charming seaside town.
The food
Try The Flame Tree Café for their famed rainbow bagel, Jessie's Kitchen for delightful afternoon tea, and Castlehill Restaurant for the dinner tasting menu.
The views
Scale Dundee Law to enjoy views over Dundee, across the river and beyond.
Attractions
There are plenty of places to explore the city's rich history, such as Discovery Point and Verdant Works. Performance spaces, gardens and boat trips are all on offer too.
Summer events
The Open, Carnoustie, 15 – 22 July
Alba Real Ale Festival, 24 – 26 August
Dundee Flower & Food Festival, 31 August – 1 September
The 3D Festival at V&A Dundee Opening, 14 - 15 September
Scotland's capital has recently been listed as one of TripAdvisor's Most Excellent Cities, and quite rightly. Edinburgh thrives in summertime, when the world-famous Edinburgh Festivals take centre stage.
A walk
Calton Hill is a fascinating place for a walk, home to a cacophony of monuments and the soon to be opened Collective gallery, as well as some of the finest panoramic views of the city.
The food
In Edinburgh you'll find four of Scotland's Michelin Star Restaurants, as well as plenty of other culinary delights such as The Scotch Whisky Experience, Edinburgh Gin Distillery and Six by Nico.
The views
Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park offers a birds-eye view of the city as well as Duddingston Loch and the medieval ruins of St Anthony's Chapel.
Attractions
Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Yacht Britannia and The Palace of Holyroodhouse are a must for history lovers, while fans of a certain Harry Potter may prefer to tour sites associated with J.K Rowling.
Summer events
Scottish Real Ale Festival, 5 – 07 July
The Edinburgh Festivals, 20 June – 27 August
Rip it Up, 22 June – 25 November
Discover more about Edinburgh.
Did you know that the name Glasgow actually means 'dear green place'? Home to over 90 parks and gardens, it's the perfect place to be on a summer's day and was recently listed as one of TripAdvisor's Most Excellent Cities.
A walk
Take the Heritage Trail through Glasgow Botanic Gardens and return to the tea room for refreshments.
The food
Glasgow is home to foodie institutions, such as Crolla’s Gelateria, as well as reimagined pubs and bars providing a modern twist on seasonal Scottish food and drink, such as The Finnieston.
The views
Enter The Lighthouse, Scotland's Centre for Design and Architecture, to explore the exhibitions, visit the Mackintosh Centre, and take in the city from the viewing platform.
Attractions
Join a Glasgow School of Art Tour, visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, or follow the City Centre Mural Trail for creative insight into the city.
Events
World Pipe Band Championships, 17 – 18 August
Piping Live!, 13 – 19 August
European Championships, 2 – 12 August
Known as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area, and has plenty of attractions of its own.
A walk
Head upstream along the River Ness by foot or by bike and cross the footbridge to the delightful Ness Islands. Keen walkers can continue on to the Caledonian Canal.
The food
Tuck into seasonal dishes at the Kitchen Brasserie, enjoy coffee and cake at Velocity Café and Bicycle Workshop, or sit back and listen to traditional Scottish music at the award-wining Hootananny pub.
The views
The striking Inverness Castle in the city centre offers excellent 360 degree views along the River Ness.
Attractions
The city is home to the impressive Inverness Cathedral, the historic Victorian Market and Fort George. Nearby you can also visit Clava Cairns, Culloden Battlefield and Urquhart Castle on the banks of Loch Ness.
Events
Inverness Highland Games, 21 July
Inverness Highland Games, 21 July
Loch Ness Film Festival, 27 – 28 July
Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival, 2 – 4 August
Glenurquhart Highland Games, 25 August
Discover more about Inverness.
Perth is Scotland’s newest city and located on the banks of the River Tay, an easily accessible city which can be reached in 90 minutes by 90 percent of Scotland’s population.
A walk
Follow the River Tay Public Art Trail to find specially commissioned sculptures along the way, each inspired by the history and natural landscapes of Perth.
The food
Dine in restaurants such as The Bothy and Tabla and browse the amazing selection of goods in Provender Brown, an award-winning delicatessen.
The views
Walk through the woods up Kinnoull Hill for a variety of veiwpoints, including views across the city, and along the River Tay. The clifftop Kinnoull Tower is a particularly impressive sight.
Attractions
Perth Museum and Art Gallery, Black Watch Museum, Perth Concert Hall and Perth Theatre will keep you entertained, as well as activities on the River Tay and around surrounding Perthshire.
Events
Rewind Scotland, 20 – 22 July
Southern Fried Festival, various locations, 26 – 29 July
Perth Show, 3 – 4 August
Perth Highland Games, 12 Aug
Stirling is a must for fans of Scottish history and lovers of the outdoors, with Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park right on its doorstep.
A walk
Dumyat, at the end of the Ochil hill range, is a rewarding short hike that offers views across the city and along the River Forth.
The food
Stirling is home to some historic pubs, including Nicky-Tams, as well as great spots for lunch, like Cisco’s. Head to Port Street for the regular farmers’ market to pick up some local treats.
The views
Scale the 246 steps to the top of The National Wallace Monument to be rewarded with fantastic views.
Attractions
History abounds, with Stirling Castle, the site of the Battle of Bannockburn and the Old Town Jail open to visitors. Into the National Park plenty more attractions can be found.
Events
Doune the Rabbit Hole, 13 – 15 Jul
Bridge of Allan Highland Games, 5 August
Stirling Highland Games, 18 August
Great Scottish Swim, 25 August