Scotland’s domestic tourism sector continues to show strength in 2025, with new data from the Scottish Tourism Index (Autumn 2025) revealing a resilient market adapting to ongoing pressures.
By the end of October, 41% of Scots had already taken a Scottish break, a six-point increase on the same time in 2024. With a further 5% still intending to take a trip, the report notes that up to 46% of Scots could holiday domestically this year.
The Index also shows that 32% of Scots have taken more domestic holidays this year compared with 2024 – highlighting the continued appeal of staycations even as behaviours shift.
Self-catering remains the most-used accommodation type at 32%, holding steady for the third consecutive year.
This makes it the leading choice for Scottish holidaymakers once again.
The report links self-catering’s stability to wider trends such as:
Changes in how Scots travel are clear:
Despite rising living costs and global uncertainty, Scots continue to prioritise time away. Holidays remain a valued part of life, with travellers adapting rather than opting out.
The report highlights “buoyancy” in the domestic market, noting that Scottish breaks continue to form a substantial part of holiday plans – especially among those adjusting spending habits.
As behaviours shift toward shorter, more cost-conscious breaks, Scotland’s diverse self-catering offering is well positioned to meet evolving visitor needs.