Scotland offers visitors new ways to connect with its Gaelic culture, landscapes and communities this year with new openings and experiences.

Inverness Castle Experience

This experience transformed the city’s iconic castle into a vibrant cultural destination. Once home to a prison and courts, the castle has now been reimagined through the landscapes, heritage and people of the Highlands.

Scotland Gains 2 New Michelin Stars

Scotland’s culinary reputation is on the rise, with both 1887 at The Torridon in Wester Ross and Killiecrankie House near Pitlochry both earning Michelin stars in the 2026 guide. This brings Scotland’s total Michelin star number to 15, with restaurants like Restaurant Andrew Fairlie and The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant retaining two-star status.

Si! Spa at The Waterside © SimpsInns

New Coastal Hotel

On Scotland’s west coast in West Kilbride, Waterside Hotel & Spa opens, complete with a sea spa and restaurant overlooking the Firth of Clyde.

New Direct Route

It’s easier than ever to reach Scotland this year. Operating May–October, United Airlines flies between Newark (EWR) and Glasgow (GLA), increasing seasonal service in response to growing demand.

Upcoming Festivals

Plan your trip around these exciting events. The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, July 23–Aug. 2, welcomes athletes and spectators from across the world. On May 1, Stirling launches its first Culture Night, a new celebration of creativity. The inaugural festival theme is Carnival of the Wolf, featuring museums, galleries, venues and community spaces transforming into a vibrant nighttime cultural stage. Aug. 7 to 31, Edinburgh Fringe Festival returns, letting visitors experience the largest arts festival of its kind.

Kilmory suite at Waterside © SimpsInns

Gaelic Events

Gaelic has been spoken in Scotland for about 2,000 years and remains a vital part of Scottish culture. Many events and festivals throughout Scotland celebrate Gaelic language, music and storytelling. May 1–4, head to Feis Rois in Ullapool in the Highlands, where you’ll find a long-established celebration of Gaelic music and traditional arts. The Hebridean Celtic Festival, July 15–18, occurs on the Isle of Lewis. This internationally recognized summer festival blends Gaelic and contemporary music. Other highly anticipated events include Dunoon Tradfest (Sept. 24–27) and Royal National Mod (Oct. 9–17).