It’s not always the big cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh that offer the best breaks closer to home, as a walkable city has been highlighted as one of the best places to visit
The best staycation in Scotland has been named, and it’s not where you might think.
The UK, including Scotland, is gearing up for some balmy weather, with warm rays set to arrive in perfect time for the upcoming bank holiday weekend. And with warmer temperatures finally on the horizon, it might just be the perfect time to book that staycation, as Brits opt for a getaway closer to home.
Data from Airbnb revealed that British holidaymakers have shown a greater interest in staycations, with a year-on-year increase of more than 11 per cent. The rental platform also found that those seeking a staycation are looking for “metro-fringe destinations”, as UK travellers opt for cheaper alternatives in smaller cities or areas on the outskirts.
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Not only does it allow travellers to still explore a bustling city, but it also lets them stay in a slightly quieter destination that typically offers cheaper accommodation. There are plenty of destinations across Scotland that offer a blend of rural and city escape, but one has been highlighted by Airbnb as it soars in popularity.
The charming city of Stirling, which is often known as the ‘gateway to the Highlands’ and a ‘little Edinburgh’, has seen a staggering 79 per cent increase in searches for the summer of 2026. Situated in central Scotland, nestled on the River Forth, Stirling is steeped in history, with its iconic landmarks and access to some of Scotland’s most scenic landscapes.
Known as a walkable city, there are some impressive attractions to explore, including the famed Stirling Castle, a clifftop fortress offering views across the city, which was the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots. There’s also the National Wallace Monument with around 246 steps to access sweeping views over the Forth Valley, and the Battle of Bannockburn for a look back at the past.
With ample green space surrounding the city, there’s an array of walking trails to take advantage of during the warmer weather, with Stirling expected to reach highs of 20C from Friday, 22 May to Saturday. Or if you’re looking for a weekend escape later in the year, why not plan to walk around the stunning landscapes of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, just a short drive from the centre.
While it’s considerably smaller than the likes of Glasgow or Edinburgh, Stirling still offers an array of eateries and shops to browse if the weather turns. There’s also the Old Town charatised by cobbled streets, charming cafés and the former jail, which will feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
Top 5 UK escapes on the fringe of a city
- Richmond upon Thames, London (+140% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Milton Keynes (+96% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Stirling, Scotland (+79% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Harrow (+78% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Stretford (+77% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
Top 5 UK rural destinations
- Herefordshire (+76% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Staffordshire (+50% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Worcestershire (+48% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Forest of Dean District (+34% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
- Shropshire (+32% increase in YoY searches for summer 2026)
Lisa Marçais, general manager for Northern Europe and MEA, Airbnb, said: “This summer, UK travellers are rethinking how and where they travel – embracing emerging destinations both at home and abroad. From off the beaten path UK towns like Halton to rising European destinations like Novalja in Croatia, people are searching beyond the usual favourites to find better value for money, more space and a slower pace for some real rest and relaxation.
“At the same time, the growth in group travel shows Brits are getting savvy – taking advantage of the variety of Airbnbs available for big bookings to find ways to travel more, and travel better, by sharing costs and making the most of their summer breaks.”
For more information or to book accommodation for your next staycation, visit the Airbnb website.
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