The United Kingdom is a treasure trove of history, landscapes, and cultural charm. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, this 10-day itinerary strikes the perfect balance between iconic cities, legendary countryside, and unforgettable experiences.
From the pageantry of London’s royal sites to the windswept beauty of the Scottish Highlands and the mystical allure of the Isle of Skye, this journey captures the UK at its most evocative. The itinerary begins in England’s capital, flies north to Inverness, and ends among the cobbled streets of Edinburgh—offering the flexibility to tweak your final stop to include vibrant Glasgow.
Days 1–3: London – Icons, Palaces & Timeless Charm
The UK adventure begins in London, a city that effortlessly blends tradition and modernity. For first-time visitors, three days offer a compelling introduction—but it’s worth noting that London alone could easily fill a full 10-day trip. With world-class museums, vibrant neighborhoods, royal landmarks, cutting-edge restaurants, theatre, and markets, there are countless ways to shape your time here based on your interests. Click here to see a London-only itinerary for more ideas.
A classic first day might include the city’s most iconic landmarks: Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the historic interiors of Westminster Abbey, and the regal façade of Buckingham Palace. A stroll through St. James’s Park connects naturally to Trafalgar Square, where you might step inside the National Gallery if time allows.
On Day 2, discover London’s medieval and mercantile layers. Walk across Tower Bridge and explore the Tower of London, home to centuries of royal intrigue and the Crown Jewels. From there, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, then relax with dinner on the South Bank or explore the characterful neighborhoods of Soho or Camden.
Day 3 offers the chance to step beyond the city’s center. Join a popular day trip to see Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Bath—or mix and match based on your interests. Other alternatives include Oxford, Cambridge, or the Cotswolds for charming villages and countryside. Even within London, entire days can be dedicated to exploring Notting Hill, the British Museum, markets in Shoreditch, or the West End’s theatre scene.
Travel Tip: Consider buying an Oyster card or Travelcard for unlimited public transport within London zones. And don’t feel pressured to see everything—London rewards a slower pace just as much as a packed itinerary.
Where to Stay: Central areas like Westminster, Covent Garden, or South Bank offer convenient access to major sights and transit. For a more local vibe, consider Kensington, Notting Hill, or Shoreditch.
Days 4–5: Inverness – Highland Gateway & Whisky Trails
From London, catch a short flight to Inverness, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands. This part of the journey is designed with flexibility in mind and is ideal for those who are comfortable driving. Renting a car upon arrival at Inverness Airport gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and venture off the beaten path. If you're not comfortable driving and looking for a public transport based itinerary, this is the one for you.
Spend your first afternoon settling into the relaxed rhythm of Inverness. Walk along the River Ness, take in the views from Inverness Castle, and browse the quaint shops of the Victorian Market. For a deeper dive into local heritage, the Inverness Museum offers a great primer on Highland history.
On day 4, begin with a drive from Inverness to Aviemore, where you can enjoy the Strathspey Steam Railway, a scenic ride through the Cairngorm Mountains. The journey lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes and offers stunning views. If you have more time, this region can be explored leisurely on it's own, with an afternoon tea service on the steam train to top off the old-world charm.
Next, drive through the charming Grantown-on-Spey and head into the heart of Scotland’s Whisky Trail. This region is home to some of the world’s finest distilleries, and no visit to the Highlands would be complete without a tour. Stop by iconic distilleries like Glenfiddich and Glenlivet for informative whisky tastings. Glenfiddich’s visitor center is a particularly popular destination, with options for both beginners and whisky connoisseurs to dive deep into the history and process of whisky making. Don’t miss the chance to sample some rare and aged whiskies, and perhaps pick up a bottle to take home.
Continue to Nairn, a tranquil seaside town with sandy beaches and coastal walks. The Moray Firth is known for dolphin watching, so keep an eye out for these majestic creatures while enjoying the views.
End the day with a visit to Culloden Battlefield, where the Jacobite uprising came to an end in 1746. The nearby Clava Cairns offers a glimpse into Scotland’s ancient past. Return to Inverness in the evening—it can be a long driving day, but we promise it's worth your while.
Travel Tip: Picking up a rental car at Inverness Airport and returning it in Edinburgh keeps the route efficient and avoids backtracking. Automatic vehicles can be in limited supply—book well in advance if needed.
Where to Stay: Base in Inverness for convenience and access to services. Alternatively, choose a rural B&B near Speyside for a more immersive countryside experience.
Days 6–7: Fort William & the Isle of Skye – Highland Majesty
Leave Inverness and set out along the legendary route following Loch Ness toward Fort William. It’s a drive steeped in myth and framed by Highland beauty. Stop to admire the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, then pass through Drumnadrochit and Invermoriston, two charming villages nestled in forested valleys. In Fort Augustus, stretch your legs beside the Caledonian Canal, where boats rise and fall through a series of picturesque locks.
As you continue south, the landscape grows wilder. A pause at Spean Bridge’s Commando Memorial offers sweeping Highland views before reaching Fort William, where Ben Nevis towers above the town.
On Day 7, set out on a full-day adventure to the Isle of Skye, known for its otherworldly landscapes and ancient legends. En route, pass by the storybook-like Eilean Donan Castle, perched at the meeting point of three lochs—a perfect spot for photos. Cross the Skye Bridge and immerse yourself in the island’s raw beauty: visit the colorful harbor town of Portree, marvel at the towering Old Man of Storr, and gaze out over the dramatic cliffs of Kilt Rock. The journey from Fort William to Skye takes about 2.5 to 3 hours each way, depending on stops—so plan accordingly.
Travel Tip: If time allows, consider spending the night on Skye. Staying overnight lets you explore deeper into the island, take in sunrise or sunset at spots like Quiraing or Neist Point, and enjoy the slower rhythm of Highland island life without the need to rush back.
Where to Stay: Overnight in Fort William for a well-connected base, or choose to stay on Skye for a more immersive experience—Portree offers charming inns and local guesthouses, while Banavie or Spean Bridge near Fort William provide quieter Highland stays.
Days 8–10: Edinburgh – A Grand Finish in Scotland’s Capital
Leave Fort William behind and journey south through the West Highlands, taking the scenic route through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park. This drive winds through a landscape of shimmering lochs, forested hills, and craggy peaks. Stop to stretch your legs by the shores of Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest loch, or enjoy a quick bite in Luss, a postcard-perfect village with charming stone cottages.
Continue the drive toward Edinburgh, arriving by afternoon. Alternatively, some travelers may choose to end their trip in Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, known for its architecture, live music, and modern art scene. Both cities offer easy options for dropping off rental cars before exploring on foot.
Edinburgh, however, offers a perfect finale. The city’s skyline is a breathtaking mix of medieval spires, neoclassical terraces, and the looming rock of Edinburgh Castle. Stroll the length of the Royal Mile, ducking into hidden closes and discovering tucked-away courtyards. Visit Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament, or one of the city's many world-class museums. Climb Arthur’s Seat for wide open views, or enjoy a gentler walk up Calton Hill. The city's literary and intellectual spirit is alive in every corner—from historic pubs frequented by philosophers to independent bookstores on cobbled streets. By evening, settle into one of Edinburgh’s lively restaurants or cozy whisky bars to reflect on your journey.
Travel Tip: The drive from Fort William to Edinburgh via Loch Lomond takes about 4.5–5 hours with scenic stops. Drop off your rental car upon arrival, as Edinburgh is compact, walkable, and best enjoyed without the hassle of driving or parking.
Where to Stay: Stay in the Old Town for atmosphere and proximity to major sights, or the New Town for elegant Georgian architecture and boutique shopping. For a quieter local vibe, consider Dean Village or Stockbridge, both within walking distance of the city center.
This 10-day UK itinerary gives a well-rounded glimpse of what the country has to offer—historic cities, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. London sets the tone with grandeur and diversity, while the Scottish Highlands provide a breath of fresh air and soul-stirring landscapes. While this is a great start, the UK and Ireland offer so many more diverse experiences. From unmissable travel experiences to practical tips, the Ultimate UK and Ireland Travel Guide has it all.
