Relaxed 9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Scott Monument. This increasingly popular monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Scottish National Gallery, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Camera Obscura, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Edinburgh. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this distillery offers. Then, head to Edinburgh Castle, a top-rated castle that adds another dimension to your day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Scotland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Edinburgh offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Condita, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Edinburgh is The Kitchin, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

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 Cafe Royal, known for its lively atmosphere. The Ensign Ewart is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tonic offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Edinburgh on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Craigmillar Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped castle before continuing your journey. Royal Mile is your next stop. This popular street is one of the best-rated sights in Edinburgh.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit The Real Mary King's Close. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit St Giles' Cathedral and National Museum Of Scotland.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Angels with Bagpipes, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rabble Taphouse and Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Black Ivy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

Continue your lively evening at Hoot The Redeemer, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Albanach is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Thistle Street Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!

Edinburgh is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Arthur's Seat, a worthwhile hiking area that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Holyrood Park, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Holyrood Palace. This palace is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Edinburgh at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. After exploring the botanical garden, head to the well-known Edinburgh Zoo.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Edinburgh. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Waverley Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Royal Oak offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Oxford Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in 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 Dunfermline and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Crosshill and the village of Falkland. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Edinburgh. Begin your sightseeing with Pittencrieff Park. This frequently visited park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Lochore Meadows, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Edinburgh, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Falkland Palace & Garden. This often recommended palace is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St Andrews Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Old Course Hotel is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

In the city of Aberdeen, 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 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 Aberdeen.

Don’t miss out on dining at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Tippling House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Aberdeen’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in 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 Aberdeen and beyond. With 1 night left in Aberdeen, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the well-known Dunnottar Castle, a romantic castle in Aberdeen. Next, go to Stonehaven War Memorial.

After visiting Dunnottar Castle and Stonehaven War Memorial, have a stroll along Aberdeen's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Stonehaven Harbour. This gorgeous marina offers a unique experience. Balmoral Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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 Aberdeen.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Foodstory, a top-rated dining spot in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ninety-Nine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberdeen.

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

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.

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

On day 8 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Aberdeen, including a park and a museum. Start your adventure at Westburn Park. This frequently visited park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Duthie Park located in Aberdeen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Rrs Discovery. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this museum.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Edinburgh. 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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Monteiths offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cafe Andaluz is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

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