Planning an Isle of Skye Itinerary for a Scotland vacation is a big task. The mountainous island is the largest of the Inner Hebrides and Isle of Skye Attractions dot the magnificent landscapes from one end to the other.
Therefore, it takes some effort to create the best Isle of Skye Itinerary, but there’s no need to stress. From iconic rock formations to ancient dinosaur footprints to awesome viewpoints, we are highlighting a perfect Isle of Skye trip plan!
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Planning an Isle of Skye Vacation
We are providing details about the entire Skye Island trip planning process. In addition to the daily agenda, we also share tips on how to get there, where to stay and what to pack.
For many travelers, a vacation to Isle of Skye is part of a longer Scotland trip – and we have tons of advice on what to see and do!
- 10 Days in Scotland Itinerary
- What to See in Plockton, Scotland
- How To Spend 3 Days in Edinburgh – plus What and Where to Eat
- Discovering East Coast Scotland
- What To Do in Glasgow for a Day
- Best Things To Do in Inverness and the Highlands
- Walking the West Highland Way
- Guide to Planning a European Vacation
Organizing Your Isle of Skye, Scotland Itinerary
As you begin your Isle of Skye trip planning, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to track all the details!
Best 3 Day Itinerary Isle of Skye
Our outlined Isle of Skye 3 Day Itinerary details how to best spend 72 hours on the Misty Isle – with or without a car.
Save, Pin or Bookmark this Isle of Skye Travel Guide to plan your vacation to Scotland!
Day 1: Trotternish Loop
On the first day of your Isle of Skye, Scotland Itinerary, discover the area’s most impressive landscapes located on the Trotternish Peninsula.
Old Man of Storr
One of the Trotternish Loop Isle of Skye must see sights, Old Man of Storr is the island’s most recognizable rock formation. The tall and skinny 164-foot pinnacle balances on one end, as if might topple over at any moment.
Hike Old Man of Storr
A moderate hike winds its way up to a grassy perch that overlooks thefascinating rocky outcrop. Visitors typically spend about 2 hours in total hiking the trail to Old Man of Storr and taking in the views.
Lealt Falls
There are many waterfalls on Isle of Skye – but Lealt Falls is one of the most impressive. The multi-tiered waterfall drops 300 feet in total and there are two fantastic viewing points – plus a trail that descends below the lower falls to the shore.
Most travelers spend about 15 minutes at Lealt Falls, but those who hike down the zig-zag track should plan about an hour.
Dinosaur Prints at Brother’s Point
One of the many cool things on Isle of Skye are the footprints left by dinosaurs 170 million years ago. The best dinosaur footprints can be found at Brother’s Point (Rubhan am Brathairean in Gaelic), where there are a cluster of 7 prints on the flat, black rocks.
The prints are near the water’s edge (depending on tides) at the end of the sloping trail. As they are not marked, it is best to have an idea of what to look. Plan to spend about 45 minutes to an hour walking to and visiting the site.
Hike To Brother’s Point
From the dino footprints, embark on a fun hike along the coast to Brother’s Point headland. The walk across the unmarked bluff is gorgeous (and boggy in places) and the views are spectacular! Allow an additional 1 hour to hike to the headland of Brother’s Point.
Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
Kilt Rock is a basalt-column cliff that has an uncanny likeness to the pleats of a Scottish kilt. When lit just right by the sun, even the coloring resembles a tartan plaid.
Flowing from the cliff’s ledge is the marvelous Mealt Falls. The waterfall plunges 180 feet down to the sea in one, long, misty stream.
The Kilt Rock Viewing Platform offers the best up-close view of the unique formations and waterfall.
That said, they can both be seen from Brother’s Point. Visitors who stop at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls Viewpoint typically spend 15 minutes taking in the view.
Lunch in Staffin
Staffin is a quaint township of little white houses and grazing sheep that sits between the sea and The Quiraing. It’s also home to a few cafes where travelers can stop for a bite to eat.
The Hungry Gull is a casual eatery that serves an all-day brunch and daily specials. At the nearby Columba 1400, they offer affordable toasties, salads and soups.
Plan on spending at least an hour at lunch. Those who would rather eat on the go should pack a picnic lunch. Affordable items are available at the Portree Co-Op grocery store.
The Quiraing
Millions of years of volcanoes, erosion and landslips have resulted in one of the most extraordinary scenes on the Isle of Skye: The Quiraing.
Taking in the panorama of the vast and distinctive scenery is a must for your Isle of Skye Itinerary! The Quiraing Lookout offers a sublime vista, but the views are even better from the looping trail.
The complete Quiraing Walk is 4.2-miles and will take 2 to 3 hours to complete from the lookout parking lot. Alternatively, you can walk 30 minutes (1 hour round trip) to The Needle and The Prison rock formations.
Another route into The Quiraing is via the Flodigarry Hike Car Park on A855. The 1.5-mile trail connects to The Quiraing Loop north of The Prison and offers wonderful views as well as some solitude.
Duntulm Castle and Rubha Hunish
The Duntulm Castle ruins sit on a promontory above the sea on the northern end of the Trotternish Peninsula.
The small castle dates to the 14th century and was the seat of Clan MacDonald during the 17th century. You are free to roam the crumbling remains.
Rubha Hunish Hike
Travelers who still have enough energy left in their legs (and daylight left in the day) can set off on a hike to Rubha Hunish – the most northern point of Isle of Skye.
The trek can be completed as a loop along the shoreline east of Duntulm Castle or as an out-and-back hike from the car park (marked by a red telephone booth) along A855.
Allow about 2 hours in total to get to the northern Skye viewpoint and an extra hour to scramble down to the tip and back up.
The Fairy Glen
Plucked right from the pages of a storybook, The Fairy Glen is a must-see place on your 3-Day Itinerary for Skye, Scotland.
With grassy knolls and rocky buttes, the enchanting landscape is fabled to be the home of Skye fairies – and it’s the perfect place to frolic about.
Footpaths weave around and over the grass-covered hills (as do the local farmer’s sheep). People typically spend about an hour in the mystical sanctuary.
Dinner and Drinks at The Isles Inn Pub
End your first day on Isle of Skye in a Portree pub, The Isles Inn. They serve up Scottish classics, like Haggis, Neeps and Tatties, Cullen Skink, fresh seafood and Sticky Toffee Pudding – along with Skye craft beer and wee drams of Scottish whisky.
Tips for Trotternish Loop Without a Car
Travelers using public buses on Isle of Skye will need to pick and choose what to see on the Trotternish Peninsula.
Since services are limited and vary by day and season, you’ll have to choose what sights look the most appealing to you. Our ideal Trotternish Loop by bus 57A would include making two stops for hikes.
First, visit Brother’s Point to find the dino prints and hike out to the point. Then, ride to Flodigarry to make the out-and-back trek to The Quiraing. Lastly, catch the 57A going the same direction and enjoy the views as you complete the loop back to Portree.
Note that with a very early start (7am bus), it would be possible to squeeze in one more stop or hike along the route. In that case, we would recommend adding either Old Man of Storr or Rubha Hunish.
Day 2: Sightseeing Isle of Skye
Spend the second day of your Isle of Skye 3 Days Itinerary discovering more of the dramatic landscapes and iconic attractions.
Dunvegan Castle
Ranking as the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, Dunvegan is one of the top Isle of Skye destinations. Held by the MacLeod Clan for the past 800 years, the castle has a well-defined place in the history of Skye.
Ticketed entry includes visiting castle as well as the spacious and grandiose gardens. Upgraded tickets include a boat trip on Loch Dunvegan, where seals and sea birds are often spotted.
Guests typically spend 2-3 hours at Dunvegan Castle – possibly longer if also taking the boat trip.
Neist Point Lighthouse
A top attraction for your 3-Day Skye Itinerary, Neist Point Lighthouse is an incredible landmark. Built in 1909, the structure stands on a mesmerizing 140-foot-tall cliff.
A steep path leads down to the complex. The vantage point is ideal for spotting sea life, but the building is closed to visitors.
Additionally, the open area west of the parking lot along the elevated coast provides sensational views over the cape, encompassing both the lighthouse and the cliffs.
We recommend spending about an hour at the lighthouse (maybe longer if setting off on both treks).
Lunch in Glendale
For lunch, stop at the delightful Café Lephin. The menu features simple sandwiches, tasty soups and delicious cakes. The Haggis Panini with onion chutney and cheddar is unique and scrumptious!
If you would rather pick up something to go, pop into the old-fashioned Glendale General Store across the street from Lephin Café.
Dun Beag Broch
Dun Beag Broch is an ancient round, stone tower that dates to the Iron Age. Built by the Picts more than 2,000 year ago, it’s mostly ruins today.
However, the views of Loch Bracadale and the Cuillin Mountains are quite nice. People typically need about 30 minutes here.
Talisker Distillery
Next up is the famous Talisker Whisky Distillery. Opened in 1830, Talisker is the oldest distillery on Skye and produces excellent single malt scotch whiskies.
You can join a Talisker Distillery Tour, Tasting Experience or a special Cask Draw Tour. That said, are welcome to sample whisky at the bar or make a purchase at the gift shop. If joining a tour, plan about 1.5 hours, otherwise 30 minutes should suffice.
Fairy Pools
A succession of streaming waterfalls among the mighty Cuillin Mountains, the picturesque Fairy Pools are a gorgeous sight!
The water flows down the mountains, gathering into turquoise pools before slipping downstream and spilling into subsequent rocky basins.
A gravel path traces the flowing stream, making it easy to see the Fairy Pools, which are sensational in the sunlight and magical in the mist.
Swimming is permitted in the Fairy Pools, but be aware that the water is cold and moves swiftly in places. Plus, the pesky midges can make sitting in one place nearly unbearable. Most spend about 1.5 – 2 hours here.
Portree Sights
Portree is the largest town on Isle of Skye and serves as the capital. It’s a busy tourist hub with shops, restaurants, bars and hotels.
The pastel-painted houses of the Portree Harbor are one of the most popular attractions – but, if time allows, we recommend setting off for a short hike.
The Scorrybreac Trail follows the coastline before ascending into a forest, while the pleasant Meall Portree Walkway wraps around The Lump headland offering grand vistas. Read about all the Things To Do in Portree!
Dinner and Drinks: Fine Dining in Portree
For dinner, make a reservation at The View Restaurant at Cuillin Hills Hotel. It boasts one of the best views in town, offers a menu of exceptional locally sourced food.
Other options are the Michelin mentioned Scorrybreac Restaurant (a small establishment that features a tasting menu of local delicacies) and Sea Breezes (a harborside space specializing in locally caught seafood).
It is essential to make reservations at nearly all Skye restaurants in advance – especially during the busy summer season.
Tips for Day 2 Sightseeing Without a Car
While the local buses serve most spots (except for the lighthouse), it is difficult to line them up to see more than one place.
Therefore, we recommend booking a locally guided tour. Each of the following excursions visit different sights, but most include stops at Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock and The Quiraing. So consider eliminating those from Day 1 when you’re using buses.
Isle of Skye 1 Day Tour with Real Scottish Journeys
We opted to join a 1 Day Skye Tour with Real Scottish Journeys – and loved it! The outing included photo stops at top attractions, with time for exploration at Neist Point, The Fairy Glen and Fairy Pools. Plus, the guides are knowledgeable, engaging and humorous. Read reviews!
Isle of Skye Tour with Whisky
Visitors keen on tasting whisky straight from the source can join this full day Isle of Skye tour from Portree that features top Skye attractions – including a visit to Talisker Distillery. Get the details!
Day 3: Raasay and Sligachan
Wrap up your 3 Days on Skye Itinerary by embarking on a trip to the Isle of Raasay and then savor the beauty of the Cuillin Mountain Range from Sligachan.
Isle of Raasay
The CalMac Isle of Skye Ferry departs from Sconser Pier and makes the half hour scenic journey to Isle of Raasay. The ferry to Raasay welcomes foot passengers, cyclists and a limited number of vehicles, too.
Utilizing the ferry is a fun (and inexpensive) way to get out on the water – and the only way to travel to Raasay Island. We recommend checking ferry schedules ahead of time.
You could spend an hour simply riding back and forth between the two islands, taking in the phenomenal views from the open-air seats on the upper deck.
However, we know it is certainly worth sticking around Raasay for at least a few hours and taking a trek around the seaside and villages adjacent to the ferry pier.
Raasay Sights
Characterized by rustic charm, marked by historical remnants and featuring a modern distillery, Raasay Island is a delightful place to spend a few hours.
Top attractions are the shoreline trails that offer epic views across the bay – but you can rent bikes and kayaks from Raasay House, too.
Additionally, the Isle of Raasay Distillery is a fun place to stop for a taste of the gin and whisky produced on site.
Picnic Lunch with a View
While Raasay House and the Distillery offer lunch menus, we opted to enjoy a picnic with an unsurpassed view of Isle of Skye.
Gather your supplies before setting sail and then find a spot atop the promontory next to the Raasay Ferry Port to eat while enjoying the staggering views.
Alternatively, grab something for takeaway at The Noost (next to the Sconser Ferry Port), before you depart.
Highland Cows
Highland Cows – or coos – are a special breed of cattle in Scotland. With long hair and pointy horns, the cows are ‘udderly’ adorable (lame pun, we know).
While these popular Scottish cows can be found in pastures around the country, they are few are far between on Isle of Skye. The best place to see one up close is at Hector’s Highland Cows Farm, right off of A87 by Sconser.
Sligachan Trails
The small settlement of Sligachan is a gateway to the Cuillin Mountains. Multiple trails extend south from the village, leading to waterfalls, lochs and mountaintops.
While the trails in their entirety are rated difficult, you can opt to hike just a short distance along the footpaths for incredible vantage points.
A popular trail from Sligachan takes trekkers five miles to the Fairy Pools – but the pretty Sligachan Waterfall is just a one-mile hike.
Several footpaths also follow the River Sligachan. We feel it is well worth scampering along the route to find a quiet and peaceful place along the water to relish the panoramic views.
You could spend as little as 15 minutes or as much as 5 hours hiking the trails in Sligachan. The paths are often wet and muddy, so appropriate footwear is required.
Dinner and Drinks: Seumas’ Bar in Sligachan
End your last day at Seumas’ Bar for dinner and drinks. Enjoy the jovial atmosphere and feast on hearty beef burgers or Scottish classics – like fish and chips or venison.
The bar at Seumas’ is stocked with more than 400 Scottish whiskies (flights are available for tastings), as well as local craft beer from the Cuillin Brewery next door.
Tips for Day 3 in Skye Without a Car
Buses from Portree can be used to get to the Raasay ferries – and a car is not necessary once on Isle of Raasay.
A bus can also be used to get between Sconser and Sligachan – and then back to Portree. In fact, both CityLink and Stagecoach buses run along A87, so there are several opportunities to catch a ride.
Itinerary for Isle of Skye Map
Use this Google Map for an online version of our Isle of Skye, Scotland Map below. It is marked with all the attractions included in our 3 Day Skye Itinerary. Day 1 is Blue; 2 is Purple; 3 is Green.
Isle of Skye 3 Day Itinerary Travel Tips
Now that you are well on the way to planning your perfect 3-Day Isle of Skye Itinerary, we have a few final wee bits of advice.
Tips for Restaurants
During your 3-Day Vacation to Isle of Skye, we have a few tips that might make dining on the island a bit more enjoyable.
Always Check Opening Hours. Times vary by day and season at restaurants on Skye. Before making plans to eat somewhere, make sure they will be open.
Make Reservations. Skye gets incredibly busy in the summer season – and without reservations you may end up eating a supermarket sandwich for dinner. Wven the wildly popular Pizza in the Skye food truck takes pre-orders!
Picnic Lunch. If you’re truly trying to get in as much activities as possible, skip eating at restaurants for lunch. Instead, eat big breakfasts and stock up on snacks and picnic lunches.
Getting to Isle of Skye and Around
Driving. There are ferries to Skye from Mallaig and Glenelg, but the bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh is usually best for visitors traveling by car.
Buses. Direct buses operated by CityLink run from Inverness and Glasgow to Skye, and with one connection from Edinburgh.
Trains and Planes. There are no trains or commercial flights to Isle of Skye. You can opt to ride part of the way to Skye on a train – but will need to transfer to a bus in Fort William or Kyle of Lochalsh.
Driving Tips for Skye
Review the Rules. Driving on Skye can get complicated, due to the numerous single lane roads and heavy traffic. Understand how to use the lay-bys (passing areas) and recognize signage for priority traffic. Additionally, be ready to pay for parking.
Get in the Left Side Mindset. You need to be comfortable driving on the left side of the road. It can be a big adjustment!
Be Patient. Summertime crowds can clog roads and parking lots. Be patient when driving and when searching for a parking space.
Tips for Riding Buses on Isle of Skye
Limited Schedules. While Skye has numerous bus routes, the actual number of daily buses is quite constrained. It is best to have a clear understanding of the bus schedules when planning your Skye trip itinerary without a car.
Paying for your Ride. All tickets are purchased from the driver – and can be paid with a contactless card or with cash. In most cases, it is monetarily beneficial to purchase the Day Rider Ticket.
Know Where You’re Going. The drivers are generally helpful in getting you where you want to go…but they are not travel guides!
Skye Accommodations
Visitors have many options when it comes to where to stay on Isle of Skye. Hotels, guesthouses, self-catering apartments and camping are all options.
Where To Stay in Skye
Portree. We believe Portree makes the best base for Skye visitors. Not only is it centrally located, but it offers the most dining options, grocery stores and is the starting point for Skye tours. Those without a car will definitely want to find a place in Portree, as it has the best bus connections.
Stay in a Skye Hotel. While we typically like staying in Airbnb apartments, on a 3 day trip to Skye, we feel it’s better to stay in a hotel. In fact, it is ideal to find a hotel in Skye that offers an included breakfast – like the fabulous Cuillin Hills.
Book Early. The best Isle of Skye hotels book up early – and those who wait might unexpectedly find themselves camping. We recommend searching at least 6 months prior. Start with our Tips for Booking the Best Hotels – and then hop on Booking.com!
What To Pack for Isle of Skye
Durable Shoes. Pack a good pair of shoes that can be worn on trails and in the rain. While hiking boots might not be necessary for the treks we feature, a good trail shoe or lightweight trainers definitely are.
Weatherproof Apparel. The weather in Isle of Skye is unpredictable at best…and rainy, windy and cold at worst. We suggest packing a good raincoat along with clothing that can be layered and dries quickly.
Insect Repellent. The Scottish Highlands are notorious for midges – the relentless insects that are more than just a little annoying. Pack a bug spray with picaridin to keep the midges, mosquitoes and ticks away.
Travel Camera. The scenic landscapes on Skye are breathtaking – and it’s best to have a real camera to capture the beauty of the island. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens.
Insurance. As well as you plan your trip itinerary for Skye, things can go wrong. If you haven’t already purchased coverage, check rates with World Nomads.
Travel Organizer. Make sure you have all of your necessary documents – from your passport to confirmation of your pre-booked activities. And be sure to use our Travel Planner, too!
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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