Things to do in Isle of Skye
Discover the best attractions and experiences Isle of Skye has to offer
Historic Monuments
Skye's history lives in its castles, fortresses, and ancient sites that crown the island’s rugged landscape.
Dunvegan Castle
Seat of the MacLeod clan with medieval towers and sea views, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Castle Varrich
A remote hilltop ruin near Tongue with dramatic ruins and sweeping northern coastline views.
Armadale Castle, Gardens & Estate
Ruined mansion set among lush grounds with the nearby Museum of the Isles nearby.
Museums
Discover Skye’s stories through dedicated museums and heritage centers scattered around the island.
Skye Museum of Island Life
A recreated Hebridean township revealing rural island life in the 19th century.
Museum of the Isles
Covers Skye’s history and culture with exhibits housed at Armadale Castle.
Talisker Distillery
Historic distillery offering insight into whisky production and the island’s whisky heritage.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites offer a quieter, historic glimpse into Skye’s spiritual and cultural past.
Kilmuir Old Church
Historic churchyard with notable headstones and sweeping Minch views.
Portree Parish Church
19th-century church with a tall spire overlooking Portree Harbour.
National & Theme Parks
Skye offers dramatic landscapes ideal for outdoor exploration, even without a formal national park.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Isle of Skye. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Base your explorations in Skye’s characterful towns and villages.
Portree
The island’s hub with a colorful harbor, shops and a gateway to many sights.
Broadford
A lively village with cafés, shops and easy access routes to the south.
Dunvegan
Home to the famed castle and nearby beaches, a classic base for Wester Ross excursions.
Uig
A scenic ferry port and starting point for trips to Harris and Lewis.
Elgol
Remote coastal village with striking Cuillin views and boat trips from the pier.
Free Things to Do
Many of Skye’s highlights are outdoors and free to enjoy at your own pace.
Fairy Pools
Crystal-clear pools and woodland pathways near Glen Brittle.
Old Man of Storr
Iconic rock pillar with a rewarding hike and dramatic coastal views.
Quiraing
Geologic wonderland offering dramatic cliffs and superb panoramic walks.
Neist Point
Lighthouse headland with sweeping sea views and potential wildlife spotting.
Portree Harbour Walk
Stroll along the harbor to soak in colorful boats and local life.
Gastronomy
Isle of Skye menus showcase local seafood, island produce, and iconic whiskies.
Talisker Distillery
Coastal distillery offering insights into whisky craft and island heritage.
The Three Chimneys
Renowned restaurant delivering modern Scottish cuisine with Hebridean ingredients.
The Oyster Shed
Casual seafood cafe in Stein serving fresh catches from nearby waters.
Nightlife
Evenings on Skye blend cozy pubs with dramatic landscapes as a backdrop.
Sligachan Hotel Pub
Traditional pub with fireside warmth and Cuillin views.
The Stein Inn
Historic pub in Stein known for local ales and friendly atmosphere.
The Clachan Inn
Broadford’s historic pub offering a warm, local vibe and good music.
Entertainment
Cultural hubs and venues host performances, films and exhibitions amid the scenery.
Aros Centre
Portree-based arts venue with cinema, theater and rotating exhibitions.
Skye Theatre
Community theatre offering local performances and events in island venues.
Sports
Outdoor enthusiasts will find classic Island activities and challenging terrains.
Old Man of Storr
Epic hillside hike with spectacular stacks and cliff-top scenery.
Quiraing
Geological plateaus inviting brisk walks and dramatic photo opportunities.
Sea kayaking from Elgol
Glide along the coastline with Cuillin peaks in your sights.
Cuillin Ridge scramble
Technical mountain scrambling for experienced hikers seeking a vertical challenge.
Off the Track
Ventures a little off the beaten path reveal hidden gems and unique experiences.
Loch Coruisk boat trip
Boat excursion from Elgol to a remote sea-loch set among the Cuillins.
Staffin Dinosaur Footprints
Coastal fossils along Staffin Beach offer a glimpse into ancient life.
Fairy Glen
Whimsical, lush landscape near Uig with miniature hills and winding paths.