Relaxed 7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Day 2 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Aberdeen. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This up-and-coming maritime museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Hazlehead Park, one of the most often recommended places to see in Aberdeen. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Johnston Gardens. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Duthie Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

In the city of Edinburgh, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Scotland.

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 Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Start your culinary exploration in Edinburgh by securing a reservation at Heron. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Kitchin, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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 Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Juniper Edinburgh. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Panda & Sons, another top-rated place in the area.

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.

Day 3 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!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Edinburgh. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Hmy Britannia is the perfect place to start. This historic ship is one of the most underrated places to visit in Edinburgh. Next, head to Scottish National Gallery, a well-known art gallery, known for its photogenic 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 Camera Obscura. This stunning museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre and Edinburgh Castle. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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 Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Novotel Edinburgh Centre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tigerlily. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cafe Royal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Ensign Ewart. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tonic, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Today's adventure in Edinburgh promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at National Museum Of Scotland. This history-steeped museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy St Giles' Cathedral, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to The Real Mary King's Close, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Royal Mile. This romantic street is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Calton Hill, an often recommended park, and take a stroll around the area.

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!

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Black Ivy. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Hoot The Redeemer, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Albanach offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. Thistle Street Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience 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!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Edinburgh Zoo. This well-known zoo is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dean Village, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, one of the most captivating places to see in Edinburgh. This botanical garden is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Holyrood Palace. Wander around and soak in the awe-inspiring atmosphere this palace offers. Then, head to Holyrood Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

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 The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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.

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

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

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Scotland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Skinflats and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Falkirk and the town of Larbert. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at The Kelpies, a captivating art installation in the village. Then, head to Callendar Park and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking park.

There are many interesting places to see in Edinburgh, and when you are ready for more, go to Falkirk Wheel. This is one of the village’s most captivating noteworthy spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the interesting Wallace Monument. Not far away, you'll also find Stirling Castle. This castle is a picture-perfect highlight in Edinburgh.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Scotland at Aberdeen. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Foodstory, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ninety-Nine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Miller & Carter Aberdeen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberdeen.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, St. Machar Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Old Blackfriars is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Krakatoa is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Aberdeen!