Tips for traveling in Scotland and Ireland during peak season

Hi everyone, it’s Shannon. I just got back from an amazing 15-day trip through Scotland and Ireland with my parents. It had been years since I last visited Europe, and although July is peak season, the great weather made it totally worth it.

• Go with a private driver. Coach tours are really popular, but we preferred having private drivers. It gave us more flexibility and helped us avoid crowds—our drivers often timed visits to busy spots between big tour groups. Splurging on private or special experiences is worth it too. One of our favorites was the Whisky Cellar experience at Johnnie Walker Princes Street, where we tasted straight from the cask. We also enjoyed stopping at tiny roadside cafés and scenic pullouts we never would have found on a group tour.
• Find quieter places. Instead of the Ring of Kerry, we chose the Dingle Peninsula—still stunning, but far less crowded. Scotland’s Highlands and Glasgow are great alternatives to busier Edinburgh (though it’s still worth seeing!). Skip the big-name distilleries and try smaller ones for a more personal feel. Some of our best moments came from unplanned stops in little towns or chatting with locals at small pubs.
• Book in advance. If you’re thinking of going in July, book 9–10 months in advance. This gives you access to charming boutique stays, which are often not set up for large groups. These smaller properties fill quickly and really add character to your trip—think converted manor houses, cozy inns, and waterfront B&Bs.
• Mix it up. We visited castles and battlefields, but also went to music and dance shows, whisky tastings, and tried local food (definitely make reservations!). Getting out into the small towns really added to the experience. Some of the most memorable evenings were spent listening to traditional music in local pubs or walking along the coast after dinner.
• Plan for every type of weather. We were lucky—we had amazing weather. But you will likely have sun, rain, wind and everything in between. Pack your poncho, waterproof jacket, sweater and sunglasses—you’ll likely need them all at some point. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for cobblestone streets and scenic hikes.

I would love to help you plan your next trip to Scotland and Ireland. I loved both countries equally and each has something different to offer. Now is the time to plan for your 2026 summer trip. Let’s start dreaming—it’s never too early!