Isle of Skye, Scotland is dramatic and beautiful. The mountains are majestic and the landscapes are otherworldly. The top things to do in Isle of Skye revolve around the island’s unique natural aspects – and we are highlighting all the best sights to see!
On our weeklong trip to Isle of Skye, we soaked in the sublime scenery. From challenging hiking trails to marvelous viewpoints, we savored every second we spent on Isle of Skye.
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Our tips for the best Isle of Skye things to do are based on our personal experiences – plus a few tips from locals!
Planning a Trip to Isle of Skye
In addition to deciding what to do on Isle of Skye, you will need to determine how many days, where to stay and what to eat. Don’t fret, we share a complete day-by-day trip plan in our Perfect Skye Itinerary!
Most trips to Isle of Skye are part of a longer Scotland Itinerary. If your visit includes other top destinations in Scotland, these articles will be useful!
- 3 Days in Edinburgh – plus, What and Where To Eat!
- Day Trip to Dunbar from Edinburgh
- East Coast Scotland (including St Andrews)
- Top Glasgow Attractions
- What To See in Inverness and the Highlands
- Visiting Plockton, Scotland
- Hiking the West Highland Way
Those visiting Scotland from abroad will also find it helpful to read our tips for Planning a European Vacation.
Organize Your Isle of Skye Trip
As you start making your travel plans, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the important details.
Best Things To Do in Isle of Skye
Now that we have covered some basic info, it’s time to get to our list of Things To Do on Isle of Skye, Scotland.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Skye Island Travel Guide for your trip to Scotland!
#1 Stand in Awe of Old Man of Storr
Ranking as one of the top attractions in Isle of Skye and serving as a symbol of the island, Old Man of Storr is an Isle of Skye must see sight!
The ‘Old Man’ – a 164-foot-tall rocky pinnacle – stands separated from the cliffs of The Storr. Part of the Trotternish Ridge, the oblong rock appears to be standing precariously on one end. Balanced, but with a slight tilt.
Hike to Old Man of Storr
Of all the things to do on Skye, hiking up to Old Man of Storr is a premier activity! There are two paths to choose from – both continue to a elevated viewpoint that provides an outstanding vista of the rock formation.
We recommend taking the longer, sloping route, rather than the steep and crowded path that ascends directly toward Old Man Storr.
Additional points of interest along the route are the Sanctuary (at the base of the towering cliffs), Needle Rock (also called The Cathedral and recognizable by the hole in the rock) and views across the bay.
There is a pay-for-parking lot at the trailhead, as well as free toilets. This spot can also be reached by bus #57 from Portree.
#2 Gaze at Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
A distinct basalt-column cliff, Kilt Rock rises 295 feet from the sea. When the sunlight is just right, the colors appear to form a plaid pattern, much like a traditional tartan of Scottish clans.
Nearby, water spills from Loch Mealt over the cliff edge and streams 180 feet into the ocean below. The Mealt Waterfall is a gorgeous sight from near and far.
How To See Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
The easiest way to see Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock is from the designated viewpoint, where there is plenty of room for parking as well as a bus stop.
The viewing platform stands right next to the waterfall, with Kilt Rock just beyond it. Although the angle is a bit awkward, they are visible. Both can also be seen from Brother’s Point (above photo and #6 on our list).
#3 Wander through the Enchanting Fairy Glen
Mystical and almost spellbinding, the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen is a spectacular sight! The area is comprised of grassy knolls, rocky buttes and glassy ponds.
In the vast and immense terrain of Skye, the glen appears miniature and intimate (which, they say, is an ideal place for fairies to live).
Under a clear and sunny sky, the glen is a bright, vivid green, but when it’s misty and fog settles in, the glen looks like an unearthly realm.
Wandering along the rustic paths that weave through the whimsical glen is a wonderful Isle of Skye thing to do.
Take in the scenic viewpoints, clamber to the top of Castle Ewan (the tallest rock formation in the glen)…and keep an eye out for fairies!
You can get to Fairy Glen by car or public bus (plus a 30 minute walk). Most Skye day tours stop here, and we highlight some popular options later.
#4 Let the Beautiful Quiraing Leave You Speechless
The Quiraing is the most awe-inspiring region of the island. With jagged peaks, sloping escarpments and grassy plateaus, the panoramic vistas are mesmerizing.
Visitors can get a glimpse of the Quiraing from the main parking lot, but the prime views are along the trails that lead out from there.
Quiraing Hikes on Isle of Skye
The challenging Quiraing trail can be completed in a 4-mile loop or as an out-and-back trek to the ‘Prison’ and ‘Needle’ rock formations.
Public buses do not travel through the Quiraing. It is possible to take Bus 57 to the Flodigarry Hike Parking Lot on A855 and follow the trail into the Quiraing, which will add a couple of miles to the hike each way.
#5 Visit Neist Point Lighthouse
Visiting Neist Point Lighthouse is a top thing to do on Isle of Skye. Not only is the scene stunningly picturesque, but the viewpoint is also ideal for spotting wildlife.
The lighthouse dates to the year 1909 and is one of the most famous landmarks in Scotland. Marking the westernmost point of Isle of Skye, the lighthouse stands 62 feet atop a sensational 140-foot cliff.
From the point, you can scan the waters for sea creatures, such as whales, dolphins, porpoises and basking sharks. Neist Point is also an excellent place to spot sea birds – and sunsets are said to be phenomenal.
A paved path leads down a steep set of stairs and on to the point, but the lighthouse itself is not accessible. We actually found the best Neist Point Lighthouse views along the cliffs to the west from the parking lot.
There is no public bus service to Neist Point, but it is an included stop on many organized Skye tours.
#6 Search for Dinosaur Prints at Brother’s Point
Searching for dinosaur footprints is one of the unusual things to do on Isle of Skye. Some skeptics may wonder if it is just a ploy, but it’s legit!
The footprints of dinosaurs that roamed the land 170 million years ago can be found in a couple different places on Skye Island, but Brother’s Point has the best examples.
The dinosaur footprints at Brother’s Beach are a cluster of seven 3-toed impressions that are close to the water’s edge. They are unmarked, but can be found on the large, flat rock at the shoreline –so it’s best to go at low tide.
Brother’s Point Hike
In addition to searching for ancient evidence of dinosaurs, you can also embark on a beautiful coastline hike at Brother’s Point. This lesser-known trek is one of the best hikes on Isle of Skye.
After following the path past the sheep down to the water (where the prints are), cross the rocky beach and join the trail that leads south along the coast.
Although it can be muddy at points – and the cliff-edge trail out to the point is not for the faint of heart – the view is unsurpassed!
Uncrowded and moderate difficulty, the hike quickly became one of our favorite Isle of Skye things to do. Brother’s Point can be reached by car or Bus 57.
#7 Explore the Historic Dunvegan Castle
Dunvegan ranks as the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland and visiting it is one of the best things to do on the Isle of Skye.
Home to the MacLeod Clan for more than 800 years, Dunvegan Castle is architecturally significant and rich in history.
You can explore the rooms and marvel at the artifacts while learning about the lives of the inhabitants. Admission covers entry into the meticulously manicured gardens, too.
Additionally, tickets can be upgraded to include a boat trip. Departing from the castle pier, passengers can catch a glimpse of the Loch Dunvegan Seal Colony.
Dunvegan Castle can be reached by car (free parking) or bus. Some Isle of Skye tours include a stop at the castle, but typically don’t include the cost of entry.
#8 Walk along the Magical Fairy Pools
A series of tumbling waterfalls spilling into turquoise ponds, the Fairy Pools are a magical sight and one of the most famous Skye attractions.
A tributary of the Brittle River, the stream is fed by fresh mountain water from the mighty Cuillin Mountains, which backdrop the scenic series of falls.
The Fairy Pools are reached on foot via a gravel path that follows alongside the falls, making it relatively easy to enjoy the scenery (save for the pesky midges!).
The pools are frigid, yet swimming in the chilly waters is quite popular – so it’s common to see brave souls heading in for a dip.
You can reach the Fairy Pools by car or bus. Adventurous travelers can even hike to the Fairy Pools from Sligachan (5 miles one way).
Most tours on Isle of Skye stop at the Fairy Pools, as well. Bathrooms are available in the parking lot and there is a place to refill water bottles.
#9 Sip Whisky at a Local Skye Distillery
Trying local whisky is a must on Isle of Skye – and there are two distilleries where you can sniff, swirl and sip.
Talisker Distillery on the Minginish Peninsula is the oldest working distillery on the island. Dating to 1830, Talisker welcomes visitors for tours and tastings. The nearby Oyster Shed is a great fish and chips spot on Skye, if you’re feeling peckish.
You can also taste whisky at Torabhaig on the Sleat Peninsula. A relatively new distillery, Torabhaig is housed in a renovated 19th century building and offers affordable tours.
#10 Find Grazing Sheep and Highland Cows
While the wild and unruly landscapes of the Isle of Skye are fascinating, for local farmers the land is a pasture.
Grazing sheep and cows are a regular sight around the island – and sometimes they even wander onto the roads and trails. Just be sure to keep a safe distance – and don’t chase or feed them!
Sheep seem to be everywhere. In fact, it would be impossible to visit Skye and not see sheep roaming the fields.
The much-loved hairy, Highland cows – or coos, as they are affectionately called – are a bit more elusive. The prime place to see them is at Hector’s Highland Cow Farm, which is right off A87 near Sconser.
#11 Watch the Tumbling Lealt Falls
A dazzling, multi-tiered waterfall, Lealt Falls is one of the beautiful things to see in Skye, Scotland. The River Lealt tumbles down a deep gorge, dropping a total of 300 feet before joining the Sound of Raasay.
A wooden viewing platform extends over the gorge, offering fine views of the Upper Falls. However, it is worth trekking down to the lower viewing area for a different vantage point.
Experienced hikers can scramble down a set of zig-zag tracks to the shoreline for an impressive view of the lower falls and abandoned buildings. The Lealt Waterfall can be reached by car or Bus 57.
#12 See Sligachan
The small and historic settlement of Sligachan sits at a significant crossroad on Skye. From here, roads lead north to Portree, northwest to Dunvegan and south to Broadford. Hiking trails also head west into the majestic Cuillin Mountain Range.
The top attraction is the Sligachan Old Bridge, which was built in 1810. Nearby is the Collie and MacKenzie Statue. This bronze memorial is dedicated to the Cuillins mountaineers, who creating many of the hiking trails we use today.
While here, we suggest following the trails along the Sligachan River and taking in the epic mountain views.
Another trek leads to the nearby Sligachan Waterfalls and continues all the way to the Fairy Pools. Yet another separate trail extends all the way to Loch Coruisk.
You can also stop by the Seumas Bar for a meal and a pint. In addition to the huge selection of whisky, they have local beer from several regional brewers, including the Cuillin Brewery right next door.
#13 Set Sail to Raasay Island
Sitting just across the sea to the east of Skye is the Isle of Raasay – and it is another wonderful place to visit in Scotland!
The small island can be reached by a short and inexpensive boat ride from the Sconser Ferry Terminal. Check schedule and fares.
The top things to do in Raasay are hiking and biking and the best trails follow the coastline and delve into forests. This pamphlet outlines the easy hikes near the Raasay Ferry Port.
Those who want to explore on two wheels can rent bikes from Raasay House. The hotel is also a restaurant, equipment rental and tourist information center.
Visiting the island’s distillery is another one of the top Isle of Raasay things to do. The Isle of Raasay Distillery is just a short walk from the ferry pier and they offer engaging guided tours of their facilities. Plus, they have an exceptional bar with outstanding views of Skye!
To be honest, our absolute favorite part of Raasay were the incredible Isle of Skye views. The headland to the northwest of the ferry port is the best place to savor the vistas. It’s a good spot for a picnic lunch, too!
#14 Hike to the Northern Point of Skye
Only accessible by trail, Rubha Hunish is the most northern point of Isle of Skye. The trek can be completed in a loop – using an upper trail (stunning views) combined with the lower coastline trail (somewhat boggy and undefined) – or as an out-and-back from the parking lot utilizing only the upper trail.
Perched on the cliff above the trail is a bothy – and the mountain hut is open to all, so trek up and take a peek inside!
A steep and challenging trail descends from the cliff down to the point, but we opted to simply take in the vast and spacious views from the clifftop.
On the coastline to the southwest is the ruins of the Duntulm Castle and you can freely explore the remains. Dinosaur prints have also been discovered here on rocks along the beach to the south of the castle.
#15 Discover the Best of Portree
Portree, a hub of hotels, restaurants and shops, is the biggest and busiest town on the island. Visitors will also find some of the best things to do on the Isle of Skye in Portree.
Like many travelers, we based ourselves in Portree for our Skye Island trip and spent ample time checking out the sights in town.
The prime activities are hiking along the Scorrybreac coastal trail, trekking up The Lump and taking in the picture-perfect vistas of the harbor and colorful houses.
We share complete details in our article, Best Things To Do in Portree, Scotland.
#16 Learn the History of Skye at a Local Museum
The Skye Museum of Island Life maintains a wealth of information about the past. Featuring preserved thatched cottages once used by crofters, the museum shares the history of the local people – as well as the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie, the Jacobites and Flora MacDonald.
The Staffin Dinosaur Museum is the place to go in Isle of Skye to learn about the ancient history of the island. Displays feature prehistoric fossils and fascinating finds.
#17 Armadale Castle and Gardens
Reigning as one of the most magnificent castles on Isle of Skye during the early 19th century, Armadale Castle now sits in ruins.
The stronghold, which belongs to the MacDonald Clan, overlooks the Sound of Sleat and features a splendid 40-acre garden. With a ticket, you can visit the castle grounds and on-site museum that details the history of Clan Donald.
#18 Sleat Peninsula
The Sleat marks the southern end of Isle of Skye. The green foliage has earned it the nickname of The Garden of Skye and it is characterized by castles ruins, quaint villages and lush scenery.
Sleat is also far less crowded than other parts of the island – and a preferred refuge for those looking for a quiet place to visit on Skye.
Active explorers can set off on some excellent walks from Sleat. One recommended trail follows the shore of the Black Lochs and connects to another trek that leads down to the Point of Sleat and the white sand Camas Daraich Beach.
Kilmore Church and Dunscaith Castle are other things to see on Isle of Skye to the south. While parts of the Sleat Peninsula can be accessed by bus, a car really is necessary to explore most of this area of Skye.
#19 Dun Beag Broch
Although mostly in ruins, the 2000 year old Dun Beag Broch stone tower is one of the best places in Isle of Skye to learn about the mysterious Picts.
They were an Iron Age society that settled Scotland, but much of their history is shrouded in myth and legend. One thing thought to be true is that they built numerous hollow stone towers, called broch, on elevated points of land.
Dun Beag Broch on the west side of Skye is an excellent example of the Pictish round towers. It stands on a hill with views over Loch Bracadale and the Cuillin Mountains.
#20 Boat Trips on Isle of Skye
While there are heaps of things to see on the Isle of Skye, one of the fantastic ways to experience the area is by boat.
Taking the ferry from Sconser to Raasay is a great way to get out on the water and one of the fun and cheap things to do on Isle of Skye. However, there are several exciting Skye boat cruises that tourist can join.
From Portree Harbor, you can embark on wildlife spotting boat tours, offering participants a chance to see dolphins, puffins, sea eagles, seals and even whales!
Travelers can also opt to join a boat tour from Elgol that traverses the breathtaking Loch Coruisk – like the popular Bella Jane Cruise.
Scenic wildlife sailings also depart Elgol on the AquaXplore to visit the islands off the southwestern tip of Skye.
#21 Multiday Hike on Isle of Skye
While we enjoyed hiking Isle of Skye on single day treks, there are longer trails that active travelers can use for a multiday trip.
Hiking the Isle of Skye on a multiday trek can be both challenging and rewarding. The Skye Trail is an 80-mile route that takes in some splendid attractions over 7 stages.
#22 Isle of Skye Tours
During our stay, we opted to join an excursion that featured the best Skye tourist attractions that are not easily reached by bus.
The 1 Day Isle of Skye Tour by Real Scottish Journeys is a small-group outing that not only included top sights, but also allowed time for exploring some beautiful places on foot.
That said, there a several options that focus on a variety of interests. Visitors can join tours that include a distillery stop, partake in a guided hiking tour or simply sit back and enjoy the scenery on a Scenic Spots Tour.
Looking for an organized tour to Isle of Skye from other Scotland destinations? We share tips on bus tours to Skye from locations around Scotland below.
Top Things To Do Near Isle of Skye
There is no doubt that there is a plethora of things to see in Isle of Skye. Those who want to see more of the region have many choices, as well. We are sharing a few of the top places to see near Isle of Skye.
Plockton
The picturesque village of Plockton is just 7 miles from the bridge to Isle of Skye – and it’s a wonderful place to spend a few hours or a full day. Plan your time with our article, Best Things To See in Plockton.
Eilean Donan Castle
Situated just 10 miles from the Skye Bridge, Eilean Donan is regularly touted as one of the best castles in Scotland. The impressive stone structure, which sits imposingly on an island, is truly picture-perfect!
Loch Ness
The legend of Nessie the Loch Ness Monster has long made Loch Ness one of the top tourist attractions in the Scottish Highlands.
While searching for the obscure creature is a fun activity, enticing waterfalls, charming lakeside villages and pleasant hiking trails are a few more reasons to spend a day at Loch Ness.
Inverness
Inverness is the bustling capital of the Highlands and a great place to visit. Even better, the route from Skye to Inverness offers some of the most incredible vistas in Scotland. Read our advice for What To Do in Inverness to make sure you don’t miss a thing!
Best Restaurants in Isle of Skye
As well as determining the best things to do in Skye, you also need to figure out where to eat. We are sharing a few of our favorite Isle of Skye restaurants.
The Isles Inn
A traditional Scottish pub in the heart of Portree, The Isles offers classics, like Cullen skink, haggis and steak pie in a cozy and atmospheric environment. In addition to the tasty and hearty food, the bar is stocked with Scottish whisky and local craft beer.
Pizza in the Skye
A favorite local spot for wood-fired pizzas in Portree, Pizza in the Skye serves up tasty creations at fair prices. The food truck is located outside the busy center of Portree, in a parking lot behind the Gaelic school. Just be sure to order ahead!
Sea Breezes
A top restaurant in Skye housed in one of the colorful buildings on Portree Harbour, Sea Breezes specializes in locally caught seafood. The Skye mussels are highly recommended – but for a big appetite, get the seafood platter. As with anywhere on Skye, advance reservations are a must!
Michelin Restaurants in Isle of Skye
Those looking for upscale eats can find fine dining at one of the several Michelin Guide restaurants on Skye. Loch Bay is noted for their modern cuisine, while The Three Chimneys, Scorrybreac Restaurant and Coruisk House are all Michelin mentioned.
Map of Isle of Skye, Scotland
We have marked the top things to do for Isle of Skye on the map below. Use this Google Map for an interactive version.
Looking for a paper Isle of Skye, Scotland Map? The VisitScotland Portree iCenter provides a useful Isle of Skye attractions map for free!
Isle of Sky Travel Tips
Now that you are well on your way to creating your ultimate Isle of Skye to do list, we have a few final travel tips that will help make planning your visit simple!
Getting To Isle of Skye
Isle of Skye, Scotland can be reached by car, bus or ferry. There are no commercial flights to Isle of Skye. The closest airport to Skye is Inverness (INV).
Visitors can also fly into Edinburgh (EDI) or Glasgow (GLA) and then make their way to Skye via rental car or public transport.
Travelers renting a car should use our tips for Finding Low Rates. Also, before booking that plane ticket, check out our advice for scoring Cheap Flights.
Tours to Skye, Scotland
Rather than fretting about how to plan a trip to Skye, you can opt to join one of the organized tours from Inverness, Edinburgh or Glasgow.
Inverness Tours to Isle of Skye
The highly rated full-day tours to Isle of Skye from Inverness make the most of the day by taking in top attractions on Skye – and great sights along the route. Get the details!
Multiday Glasgow to Isle of Skye Tours
Leave the hassle of transportation and trip planning to the professionals and sit back, relax and enjoy a 3-day trip to the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye from Glasgow. Find out more!
Edinburgh to Isle of Skye 3-Day Trip
Let a professional guide lead the way to the best places to see in the Highlands and Isle of Skye on a 3-day planned trip from Edinburgh. Read reviews!
Getting Around Isle of Skye
Many of the top things to do on Isle of Skye can be reached by bus. For our trip, we relied solely on buses, tours and ferries to get around.
That said, bus schedules are limited and vary by day of week and season, so it is essential to consult current timetables when making plans.
There are two companies that provide bus routes on Isle of Skye: Stagecoach and CityLink.
Where To Stay on Isle of Skye
From hotels to hostels, glamping to camping, Airbnb to bed-and-breakfasts, there are Skye accommodations aimed at all styles.
Travelers with a car might opt for a remote location, but for those using Isle of Skye buses or plan to join tours, should stay in Portree. Before making your reservation, be sure to read our advice for Finding Cheap Hotels.
Cuillin Hills Hotel
A superb property in Portree, Cuillin Hills is both classy and cozy. The hotel is top-rated for its phenomenal views, exceptional service, well-decorated rooms and on-site dining options.
Portree Youth Hostel
Offering affordable bunk beds in dorm rooms, as well as private rooms with ensuite bathrooms, Portree Youth Hostel is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Glamping on Isle of Skye
Looking for a remote-but-not-so-rustic place to stay on Isle of Skye? Glamping pods on Skye might be just what you’re looking for! Wigwam Holidays offers pods in several locations.
Vacation Apartments on Isle of Skye
We believe renting a holiday apartment is a good choice for travelers staying longer than just a few days. Perfect for our weeklong trip, The Portree Garden Room is located a short walk from the center of town and features a small kitchenette.
What To Pack for your Isle of Skye Vacation
Our final travel tips are all about what to pack in your suitcase or backpack. So grab our FREE Checklist and let’s get you to Scotland!
Sturdy Shoes
The majority of activities on Isle of Skye are outdoors – and most require some trail walking. It is essential to pack the right shoes for your trip!
For light trekking, everyday trainers or trail shoes might suffice, but for taking longer hikes, we recommend packing a good pair of hiking boots. Find more styles in our article, The Best Shoes for Travel.
Scotland Weather Gear
The Isle of Skye best places to visit are amongst nature – so you need to consider the weather when packing for Scotland.
Unfortunately, Isle of Skye weather is highly unpredictable – and it can change in a hurry. Therefore, it is best to be prepared for whatever might come your way.
We recommend packing a lightweight raincoat that is both wind and waterproof. As the summers can still be cool, a fleece jacket is also a good idea.
On warm and still days in the Highlands, pesky midges can be a big problem. Pack an insect repellent with picaridin to keep the midges, mosquitoes and ticks away.
Travel Camera
The Isle of Skye top sights are simply gorgeous – and you will want to use a real camera to properly capture that beauty.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. Not only does it take quality photos and is easy to use, but it is well-priced, making it one of the most affordable cameras for travelers.
Zippered Day Pack
When sightseeing on Isle of Skye, it is ideal to carry a zippered day bag to stow your everyday travel items.
We like to wear small backpacks that are still big enough for extra layers, snacks and water. Get more ideas in our article, Best Day Packs for Travelers.
UK Travel Insurance
Sometimes travel goes wrong – and trip insurance might help recoup some of the costs incurred. A robust policy may cover things, like canceled flights and lost luggage – and even getting sick abroad. Check rates and coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel 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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