5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dundee to Edinburgh
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Scotland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dundee, Edinburgh, Glencoe, Banavie, and Glenfinnan. This road trip itinerary in Scotland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dundee and 2 nights in Edinburgh. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Scotland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Dundee, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Scotland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Scotland. Edinburgh Castle and National Museum Of Scotland are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Holyrood Palace, learn more about the unique Royal Mile, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dean Village.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dundee, Edinburgh, Glencoe, Banavie, and Glenfinnan, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Scotland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Scotland.
Throughout your road trip in Scotland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Scotland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Scotland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Scotland today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Dundee
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Dundee - Arrival day
- More
- Dundee Law
- More
Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Dundee and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dundee for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Dundee is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Dundee Law, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dundee. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dundee, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Daisy Tasker, a top-rated dining spot in Dundee. If you're in the mood for something new, try Premier Inn Dundee North hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Fort. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dundee.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The King Of Islington, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Bank Bar Dundee offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dundee. The Salty Dog is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Dundee
- Edinburgh
- More
Drive 102 km, 1 hour 51 min
- National Museum of Scotland
- St Giles' Cathedral
- The Royal Mile
- Calton Hill
- More
Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Edinburgh. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Dundee. Begin your sightseeing with National Museum Of Scotland. This well-known museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to St Giles' Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Dundee, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Royal Mile. This interesting street is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Calton Hill, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Edinburgh. Edinburgh offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Edinburgh. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, 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 Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, 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 The Theatre Royal Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.
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 to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
- More
Drive 16 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Arthur's Seat
- Holyrood Palace
- Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
- Edinburgh Castle
- Dean Village
- Leith
- More
On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Leith is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Edinburgh, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.
Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a hiking area, a palace, a distillery, a castle, a historical landmark and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Arthur's Seat and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Holyrood Palace, a historic palace that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the widely recognized Edinburgh Castle. When you're finished at the castle, Dean Village awaits your visit. This historical landmark is an enchanting highlight on today's itinerary.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tigerlily is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Royal, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Ensign Ewart offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. Tonic is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- Dundee
- More
Drive 467 km, 7 hours 3 min
- Glencoe War Memorial
- Neptune's Staircase
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Glencoe, Banavie, and Glenfinnan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dundee, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Edinburgh, including a war memorial, a historical landmark, a heritage railway, an observation deck and much more! Start your day at Glencoe War Memorial. This instagrammable war memorial is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to Neptune's Staircase. If historic sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Glenfinnan Viaduct. This historic heritage railway is a favorite among visitors.
Edinburgh offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Glenfinnan Viewpoint is a locally appreciated spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dundee. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dundee. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Porters Bar & Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn Dundee East hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dundee tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Trades House. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Speedwell Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Draffens provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 5
- Dundee - Departure day
- More
- Slessor Gardens
- More
Day 5 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dundee before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Slessor Gardens. This increasingly popular park is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Dundee’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dundee.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Don Michele Italian Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Dundee. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Scotland!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.