Skip to main content
Top Portree activities
Top Portree landmarks
Beyond Portree
Portree trip ideas
Colorful houses overlooking the Portree harbor in Scotland.

Things to do in  Portree

The Skye’s the limit

Although it’s the Isle of Skye’s capital and biggest town, Portree retains the atmosphere of a bustling little fishing village. Set around a pretty, cliff-fringed harbor, the town charms with its colorful houses and winding streets. Many visitors use Portree as a base for exploring the Isle of Skye’s wild landscapes and historical landmarks, but the town is worth lingering in. From savoring fresh-off-the-boat seafood to embarking on a wildlife-watching tour from the harbor, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Portree.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

Top 3 attractions in Portree

Top activities in Portree

See all Portree tours

All about Portree

Local Currency
British Pound (£)
When to visit

The best time to visit Portree and the Isle of Skye is typically in spring and summer when the weather is mild and the daylight hours are long. However, overtourism is an issue on Skye, and the peak summer months of July and August can get uncomfortably crowded. Visiting in April, May, or September should allow you to avoid the worst crowds while enjoying reasonably mild weather.

Getting around

Portree is a small town that can easily be navigated on foot. When exploring more of the Isle of Skye, your best bet is to rent a car or join a guided tour. With patience, however, it is possible to get around Skye using only public transportation. While they are infrequent, local Stagecoach buses connect the main towns and villages. Save money on fares by purchasing an all-you-can-ride Skye DayRider bus pass.

Traveler tips

With its narrow, single-track roads, driving on the Isle of Skye is challenging, especially when tourists crowd the roads in summer. If driving on a single-track road and a vehicle approaches or the driver behind you wants to pass, pull into a signposted passing place on your left (don't cross to a right-hand side passing place or park in a passing place). Look out for animals, like sheep and deer, which often stray onto the roads.

en
79795168-3e41-4dc9-871c-0c8883f4a97b
attraction_list
People Also Ask
Q:What are the must-see attractions in Portree?
A:

Must-see attractions in Portree include Portree Harbour, lined with colorfully painted buildings and an attractive spot for a stroll. Am Meall (The Lump) is a small hill offering great views across the harbor and toward the surrounding mountains.

Q:Are there any hiking trails near Portree?
A:

Yes, there are hiking trails near Portree. The most popular is the Scorrybreac Trail, which leads walkers 1.9 miles (3.1 kilometers) along the coastline and provides excellent views of the bay and the surrounding landscape, as well as the chance to spot sea eagles.

Q:Can I take a boat tour from Portree to see wildlife like dolphins or sea eagles?
A:

You can take a boat tour from Portree to see wildlife, including dolphins or sea eagles. A number of tour operators offer trips departing from Portree Harbour and specialize in spotting wildlife such as white-tailed eagles, dolphins, whales, and seals. In late spring and early summer, look for puffins.

Q:How do I get to Portree from Inverness?
A:

To get to Portree from Inverness, you can drive: The journey takes less than three hours and includes crossing the Skye Bridge. You can also take a bus from Inverness to Portree (expect about a 3-hour-and-15-minute ride). Alternatively, join a guided tour of Skye departing from Inverness.

Q:Is Portree a good base for exploring the rest of the Isle of Skye?
A:

Yes, Portree is a good base for exploring the Isle of Skye. Portree is centrally located and well connected by roads that offer access to the island’s most popular attractions including the Old Man of Storr and Fairy Pools. You’ll find Skye’s widest choice of accommodations and restaurants in Portree.

Q:What are some family-friendly activities to do in Portree?
A:

Some family-friendly activities in Portree include exploring the colorful harbor and going on a wildlife-watching boat trip. The Storrybreac Trail is also suitable for children. Younger kids can burn off some energy at the Portree Community Centre’s playground.

More Tours in Portree

Things to do near Portree

Popular on Viator