Best Places to Visit in Scotland for Christmas Cheer

Scotland, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the festive season. Expats and digital nomads looking to get into the holiday spirit will find an array of charming cities and towns decked out in Christmas lights, bustling markets, and joyous events. From the cobbled streets of Edinburgh to the picturesque scenery of the Highlands, there's a festive experience waiting around every corner. Here are some of the best places to visit in December to immerse yourself in Scotland's holiday cheer.

Edinburgh's Christmas Market

The capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh, is renowned for its festive celebrations, and the Edinburgh's Christmas Market is a highlight. Located in the heart of the city, the market offers a traditional European Christmas experience with a Scottish twist. Stalls brimming with artisan crafts, unique gifts, and delicious food line the streets, while the scent of mulled wine and cinnamon fills the air. The market usually runs from late November to early January, providing ample time for visitors to explore and enjoy the festivities.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try a hot toddy or a portion of warm, freshly made Scottish tablet—a buttery, sugary confection that's a local favorite during the holidays.

Glasgow's George Square

Glasgow's George Square transforms into a winter festival, complete with a stunning Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and a variety of entertainment. The Glasgow Loves Christmas event features a traditional market, fairground rides, and the much-anticipated Christmas lights switch-on. The square becomes a hub of activity, with carolers and live bands adding to the festive atmosphere. This celebration typically kicks off in late November and continues through December.

We Recommend: Be sure to enjoy a cup of Glasgow's finest hot chocolate, often topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of festive spices, as you wander through the market stalls.

Aberdeen's Winter Festival

Aberdeen's Winter Festival is a seasonal spectacle that includes a Christmas Village with an open-air ice rink, a festive fairground, and a charming Christmas market. The market is a great place to find local crafts and indulge in seasonal treats. Aberdeen's Winter Festival usually starts in late November and runs until the end of December, with the market being a central feature throughout the festival.

We Recommend: Sample the Aberdeen butteries, also known as "rowies," which are a rich, flaky pastry perfect for a cold December day.

Stirling's Victorian Christmas Market

Stirling's Victorian Christmas Market is a step back in time, offering a unique historical twist on the traditional market experience. Held in the city's historic center, the market features vendors dressed in Victorian attire, selling a range of handcrafted goods and festive foods. Carol singers and brass bands provide a soundtrack to your shopping, and the market typically takes place in early December.

We Recommend: Try the clootie dumpling, a traditional Scottish fruit pudding that's especially popular during the festive season.

Inverness's Victorian Market

In the heart of the Highlands, Inverness hosts a delightful Victorian Market in its beautifully restored Victorian Market Hall. The market offers a cozy and intimate shopping experience, with local artisans selling everything from handmade jewelry to Scottish delicacies. The market runs throughout December, providing a perfect escape from the winter chill.

We Recommend: Warm up with a dram of local whisky or a mulled cider, which are often available from the market's food vendors.

Perth's Festive Market

Perth's Festive Market is a smaller, more intimate affair that captures the essence of a traditional Scottish Christmas. Located in the city center, the market features local produce, crafts, and plenty of festive entertainment. The market usually takes place over a weekend in early December, making it an ideal spot for picking up unique Christmas gifts.

We Recommend: Indulge in a slice of Dundee cake, a rich fruit cake topped with almonds, which originates from the nearby city of Dundee.

Dundee's City Square

Dundee's City Square is the focal point for the city's Christmas celebrations, with a large and lively Christmas market. The market boasts a range of stalls selling festive goods, from handcrafted decorations to gourmet food items. There's also an ice rink and a variety of children's activities, ensuring fun for the whole family. The market typically runs from late November to Christmas Eve.

We Recommend: Don't leave without trying the local specialty, Dundee marmalade, which is often incorporated into various sweet treats available at the market.

Oban's Winter Festival

The coastal town of Oban hosts a Winter Festival that celebrates both Christmas and the town's unique heritage. The festival includes a Christmas market, parades, and a range of cultural events. One of the highlights is the Haggis Festival, which takes place during the Winter Festival, offering a chance to taste this iconic Scottish dish in various forms. The festival usually occurs in late November.

We Recommend: For a true taste of Scotland, try haggis with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes) from one of the local food vendors.