5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness traveling south to Pitlochry and Edinburgh
Description
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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 Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Glenfinnan, Pitlochry, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Larbert, Skinflats, Edinburgh, and Dunfermline. 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 Inverness, 1 night in Pitlochry, and 1 night 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 Inverness, 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 The Kelpies, learn more about the unique Stirling Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Urquhart Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Glenfinnan, Pitlochry, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Larbert, Skinflats, Edinburgh, and Dunfermline, 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!
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Day 1
- Inverness - Arrival day
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- Eden Court Inverness
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Welcome to Inverness, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Inverness's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Inverness. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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 Inverness, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at Simpsons, an iconic dining spot in Inverness. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kingsmills Hotel, a popular restaurant in Inverness. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, a hidden gem nestled in Inverness. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gunsmiths Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Malt Room, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Maccallums Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Inverness
- Pitlochry
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Drive 269 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Urquhart Castle
- Commando Memorial
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
- Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
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On day 2 of your road trip in Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lewiston, Spean Bridge, and Glenfinnan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Pitlochry, where you will stay for 1 night.
Inverness is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle, a war memorial, an observation deck, a monument, a heritage railway and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Urquhart Castle and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Commando Memorial, a respected war memorial that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Glenfinnan Viewpoint, one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland. When you're finished at the monument, Glenfinnan Viaduct awaits your visit. This heritage railway is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Pitlochry, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Pitlochry. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Pitlochry.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 3
- Pitlochry
- Edinburgh
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Drive 192 km, 3 hours 17 min
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
- Falkirk Wheel
- The Kelpies
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Larbert, and Skinflats. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Pitlochry on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Wallace Monument is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this standout monument before continuing your journey. Stirling Castle is your next stop. This captivating castle is one of the best-rated sights in Pitlochry.
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 Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park. This picturesque safari park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies.
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 you explore more of Edinburgh, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Juniper Edinburgh offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. Panda & Sons is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- Inverness
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 53 min
- National Museum of Scotland
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- Pittencrieff Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Edinburgh and Dunfermline. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Inverness, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in the charming city of Edinburgh. Your adventure starts at National Museum Of Scotland, a well-known local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Edinburgh Castle. This top-rated castle is known for its photogenic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Edinburgh's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This romantic botanical garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Pittencrieff Park is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Inverness's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at MacGregor's, a highly-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're eager to try something different, consider The White House, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Kitchen Brasserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.
Keep the evening going at Hootananny, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Gellions Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Innes Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 5
- Inverness - Departure day
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- Whin Park
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Day 5 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Inverness 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, we recommend visiting Whin Park, a gorgeous park before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Inverness’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Eastgate Shopping Centre. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Inverness.
You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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!
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