Relaxed 12-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Edinburgh and Glasgow

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Scotland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Scotland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Start by visiting Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking maritime museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Seaton Park, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing park renowned for its masterful features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Aberdeen by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Hazlehead Park. This noteworthy park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Aberdeen experience. We also recommend visiting Duthie Park, a beloved park. Nearby, you'll also find David Welch Winter Gardens, ready to add charm to your journey.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Edinburgh. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Kitchin, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Juniper Edinburgh provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Panda & Sons offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Edinburgh will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Scotland.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Pittencrieff Park, a curiosity-inducing park in the city. Then, head to Dunfermline Abbey and soak in the ambiance of this grand church.

There are many interesting places to see in Edinburgh, and when you are ready for more, go to Blackness Castle. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the notable Falkirk Wheel. Not far away, you'll also find The Kelpies. This art installation is a symbolic highlight in Edinburgh.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Edinburgh.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Dine in style at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Novotel Edinburgh Centre boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Tigerlily. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cafe Royal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Ensign Ewart, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tonic also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Hmy Britannia. This breathtaking historic ship is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Royal Mile, a must-visit street in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to The Real Mary King's Close, a popular museum. For a change of scene, check out St Giles' Cathedral, known for its breathtaking features. We also recommend visiting National Museum Of Scotland. This museum is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Edinburgh to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Edinburgh has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rabble Taphouse and Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Black Ivy is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Hoot The Redeemer, known for its lively atmosphere. Albanach is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Today’s itinerary in Edinburgh covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a historical landmark, a botanical garden, a palace, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Edinburgh Zoo. This notable zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Dean Village, a must-see historical landmark in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This well-known botanical garden offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Holyrood Palace, where you can take in instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Holyrood Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Waverley Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Royal Oak, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Oxford Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Scotland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 5 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Scotland.

Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, an art gallery, a museum, a distillery, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Calton Hill and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Scottish National Gallery, a photogenic art gallery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Camera Obscura, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. When you're finished at the distillery, Edinburgh Castle awaits your visit. This castle is a culturally significant highlight on today's itinerary.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Glasgow. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Scotland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Glasgow by booking a table at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional mediterranean menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Cail Bruich, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a local gem known for its delightful modern british cuisine in Glasgow. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gallery Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Steps Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar 91 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Scotland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Glasgow and beyond. With 4 nights left in Glasgow, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s itinerary in Glasgow covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a castle, and a park. Start your adventure at New Lanark. This increasingly popular museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Craignethan Castle, a must-see castle in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Chatelherault Country Park. This beloved park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Summerlee Museum Of Scottish Industrial Life, where you can take in heritage-rich features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Strathclyde Country Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Glasgow and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Glasgow, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Novotel Glasgow Centre is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Glasgow tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Glasgow and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Glasgow and visit amazing attractions in Balloch and Glasgow destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Glasgow. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Next, go to Glasgow Botanic Gardens.

After visiting Loch Lomond Shores and Glasgow Botanic Gardens, have a stroll along Glasgow's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Riverside Museum. This breathtaking museum offers a unique experience. Glasgow Cathedral is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to George Square, one of the most breathtaking places to visit in Glasgow.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Glasgow.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Glasgow, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Alston Bar & Beef, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Elia Greek Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Glasgow and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots await you in Glasgow on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known park, Glasgow Green. Afterward, continue to Kelvingrove Park, a park every traveler should visit.

As you explore Glasgow’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This notable museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Glasgow Science Centre, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Pollok Country Park, a frequently visited park in the city.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Glasgow, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Willow Tea Rooms, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Òran Mór, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stereo. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Scotland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Scotland tomorrow with new energy.

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Glasgow will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Scotland.

Get ready for an exciting day in Glasgow. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a safari park, a monument, a visitor center and much more! Begin your adventure at Doune Castle. This is a locally appreciated castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park, an increasingly popular safari park in Glasgow.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Stirling Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Wallace Monument, another of the village’s well-known attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at The Battle Of Bannockburn Visitor Centre, a history-steeped place of interest in the village.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Glasgow and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Glasgow has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at Max's Bar & Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, ibis Glasgow City Centre - Sauchiehall St. Beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre South hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Glasgow tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Glasgow. The bars in Glasgow make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Glasgow as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

On day 11 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Glasgow. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! The Hermitage is the perfect place to start. This hiking area is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Glasgow. Next, head to Dunnottar Castle, an interesting castle, known for its respected features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Rspb Scotland Fowlsheugh. This enchanting bird watching area is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Stonehaven War Memorial and Stonehaven Harbour. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Aberdeen in this laid-back road trip in Scotland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Aberdeen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Foodstory, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ninety-Nine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Miller & Carter Aberdeen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Aberdeen. The bars in Aberdeen make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. St. Machar Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Old Blackfriars, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Krakatoa. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Scotland!