Do I need a car for this itinerary?

Yes, for the Highlands and Skye. You could do Edinburgh by train/bus, but you'll miss the scenic drives and remote areas. Public transport to Skye exists but takes twice as long.

What if it rains every day?

It probably will rain at some point. Pack proper waterproofs and embrace it. Many attractions are indoors (castles, distilleries, museums). The landscapes look dramatic in rain anyway.

Is one week enough for Scotland?

It's enough for a solid introduction covering the main highlights. You won't see everything, but you'll get Edinburgh, classic Highland scenery, and either Skye or another region well.

How to Spend a Week in Scotland

A week in Scotland gives you enough time to see Edinburgh, the Highlands, and one island or coastal region. Focus on 3-4 bases rather than rushing everywhere. Budget £80-120 per day including accommodation, transport, and meals.

Days 1-2: Start in Edinburgh. Fly into Edinburgh Airport (EDI). Take the Airlink 100 bus to city center (£4.50, 30 minutes). Book accommodation on Royal Mile or New Town. Walk the Royal Mile, visit Edinburgh Castle (£17), and climb Arthur's Seat for city views. Day 2: explore Grassmarket, take a whisky tour, and walk through New Town's Georgian architecture.
Days 3-4: Drive to the Highlands. Rent a car from Edinburgh (£25-40/day). Drive to Pitlochry via Stirling Castle (2.5 hours total, £15 castle entry). Stay overnight in Pitlochry. Day 4: drive through Cairngorms to Inverness (2 hours). Visit Culloden Battlefield (£11) and stay in Inverness city center.
Days 5-6: Loch Ness and Isle of Skye. Day 5: drive around Loch Ness (1 hour), then to Portree on Skye (2.5 hours). Book ahead—accommodation fills up. Day 6: explore Skye. Drive the Trotternish Loop: Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, Quiraing. Each stop is 20-30 minutes apart.
Day 7: Return to Edinburgh. Drive back to Edinburgh (5 hours) or fly from Inverness (1 hour, £80-150). If driving, stop in Fort William for Ben Nevis views. Drop rental car at Edinburgh Airport and fly home, or extend in the city.

Do I need a car for this itinerary?: Yes, for the Highlands and Skye. You could do Edinburgh by train/bus, but you'll miss the scenic drives and remote areas. Public transport to Skye exists but takes twice as long.
What if it rains every day?: It probably will rain at some point. Pack proper waterproofs and embrace it. Many attractions are indoors (castles, distilleries, museums). The landscapes look dramatic in rain anyway.
Is one week enough for Scotland?: It's enough for a solid introduction covering the main highlights. You won't see everything, but you'll get Edinburgh, classic Highland scenery, and either Skye or another region well.