1. Inverness Castle

Built on the site of an 11th century wooden fortress, this stone castle now is used as the Scottish Sheriff’s Court. It was actually constructed in 1835, as the previous structure was destroyed with explosives by a Jacobite rebel. Supposedly, the original castle was where Duncan I was killed in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. They say that you can still see his ghost wandering along the river’s edge.

The present-day castle is set across from the Inverness Cathedral; it is on a low cliff that overlooks the River Ness. Tourists aren’t actually allowed to enter, but you can appreciate it from the outside. You can also walk up the road behind the castle and see the gorgeous displays of flowers that lead up to the statue of Flora MacDonald. It is a true landmark in the area, and is even featured on the 50 pound notes of the Royal Bank of Scotland.

2. Inverness Cathedral/St. Andrew’s

Gothic in style and filled with stained glass masterpieces, this cathedral is another famous landmark. It was designed by Alexander Ross and constructed from 1866 to 1869. Money was tight, so the two 30 meter spires that were originally supposed to be part of the design were never built.

Tourists can explore the cathedral and visit the popular tea room and shop, which provide home-made bakery, fresh tea, coffee, soups, and sandwiches all summer long.

3. Loch Ness and Nessie

One of the top tourist attractions not just in Scotland is Loch Ness. Loch Ness is actually only one of many murky lochs (lakes) linked together that flow right along a fault zone called Great Glen. There have been sightings and claims that a monster, similar to a dinosaur, lives in it. While here, visit the Official Loch Ness Exhibition Centre; it explains the both history and the legend in highly entertaining, multimedia presentations.

4. Craig Phadrig

Check out the ruins of a Pictish fort atop the lovely hill, Craig Phadrig. From the summit you can see all of Inverness, Beauly Firth, and inner Moray Firth. This is a great place to take a break from the tourist traps and walk peacefully along one of the many forest trails.

5. Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre

Watch an intense reenactment of the bloody battle that took place between the Jacobite clans and government troops at the Culloden Battlefield. It gives you a closer look into the history of Scotland. The Visitor’s Centre provides interactive displays, a restaurant, and a gift shop.