Scotland is an eye-catching land of stately castles and shimmering lochs that is rich with modern culture as well as natural splendor.
Edinburgh tops numerous “best city” lists and is ideal for visitors who appreciate compact cities with walkable environments. Here you’ll find museums and galleries, historic sandstone buildings, as well as Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s designs that can be discovered.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland’s cultural heart and capital city, provides free healthcare and education at world-class universities. With low crime rates, friendly residents, stunning vistas, and beautiful parks & gardens – Edinburgh is an idyllic place for life! Renowned as the first UNESCO City of Literature; home of Arthur Conan Doyle, JK Rowling, Alexander McCall Smith, Allan Ramsay & Walter Scott as famous authors!
Edinburgh is built upon seven hills, creating scenic vistas from almost anywhere within its limits. Visitors and residents alike can take in this view by climbing Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for stunning panoramas of its varied heritage sites.
Aberdeenshire region in Scotland is another prime spot for expats in Scotland, boasting breathtaking natural landscapes. Castles, ruins, stately homes and museums can be found here; plus you can also take in Cairngorms National Park for beaches and clifftop forts!
Leith
Leith is an Edinburgh maritime area known for its bustling maritime past that is now considered one of the most desirable locations to live. Hailed for its vibrant grit and creative spirit, its culture scene boasts forward-thinking businesses such as eco-friendly gift shops and secondhand bookshops that exist alongside traditional pubs and cafes. Leith Walk provides the ideal setting to experience this vibrant neighbourhood; each pavement lined with independent boutiques and unique galleries makes Leith a prime place to call home.
Leith’s bustling port area is also home to the Royal Yacht Britannia, an international tourist attraction that attracts millions every year. Furthermore, Leith offers some of Edinburgh’s best dining establishments including Michelin-star eateries such as Kitchin and Martin Wishart.
The Shore is the ideal place for an idyllic stroll and offers a much-needed respite from Edinburgh’s busy streets. History lovers will delight in visiting Robert Burns’ statue which was unveiled back in 1898; additionally, Inverleith Park and Royal Botanic Garden can also be found nearby.
Dundee
Dundee is an easily walkable city boasting an internationally-recognized university, the V&A museum of art and design, vibrant arts scene, excellent schools and plenty to keep children occupied. Its lively city center offers high street favourites alongside quirky independent stores plus numerous restaurants and pubs for any family outings.
Broughty Ferry, located four miles outside the city center, offers stunning waterside views towards Fife. Packed with local attractions and charming cafes and pubs where residents enjoy sampling classic Scottish fare, Broughty Ferry is an idyllic spot to settle.
Newport-on-Tay is a highly desirable residential area just east of Dundee, known for its attractive sea-view villas, bungalows and cottages built into hills overlooking the Firth of Tay. There’s also an array of newly built flats available which all provide excellent access to city centres.
Inverurie
Scotland may have an unpredictable climate, but its culture and gorgeous natural features still draw many expats. From bustling cities to idyllic countryside retreats – Scotland offers everything.
One of the finest locations to live in Scotland is Inverurie, a bustling market town 16 miles northwest of Aberdeen known as ‘Heart of Garioch.’ Set amid stunning countryside of River Don valley and with excellent transportation links into The Granite City itself.
Town also boasts an assortment of restaurants and bars offering cuisine at prices to meet every budget. Popular local favourites include Fennel, BrewDog Inverurie, Porterhouse and Sabai Thai Restaurant – among many others.
Inverurie is an ideal location to discover the nearby hills and castles. Just five miles away lie the remnants of Kinkell Church as well as Mons Grampius battlefield. Additionally, Inverurie boasts historic attractions like East Aquhorthies stone circle with Pictish symbol stone as well as walking routes for those wanting to take in its scenery on foot.
Stirling
Stirling, situated along the River Forth and known for its exquisite mediaeval architecture. Once Scotland’s capital, its medieval castle is one of its most striking features and today serves as home for world-renowned University of Stirling.
Moving to this Scottish city offers numerous advantages, with a lower cost of living than in Edinburgh and more affordable houses available in the area, not to mention lower transportation expenses compared to other Scottish cities.
Stirling offers some of the finest restaurants in the country, including Friars – a boutique hotel serving gourmet fare – fresh ingredients from nearby farms, and some of the best whiskeys around.
Drum Farm B&B stands out as an exceptional lodging option in Stirling. Situated 15 kilometers outside of town on a farm, it not only offers incredible services but also boasts breathtaking scenery including lake, mountains and countryside views from every room in its accommodation. Take an outdoor hike here!