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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Aberdeen and drive in the direction of the city of Edinburgh for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This locally appreciated 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 increasingly popular 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 romantic atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Duthie Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Edinburgh. Begin your sightseeing with Hmy Britannia. This beloved historic ship is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Scottish National Gallery, 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 Camera Obscura. This notable museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Edinburgh Castle is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Royal, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Ensign Ewart, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tonic likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at National Museum Of Scotland. This captivating museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is St Giles' Cathedral, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out The Real Mary King's Close, one of the most captivating 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, Royal Mile. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this street offers. Then, head to Calton Hill, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rabble Taphouse and Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Black Ivy. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip 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 agenda in Edinburgh includes a zoo, a historical landmark, a botanical garden, a palace, a park and much more! Edinburgh Zoo is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Dean Village, an interesting historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a serene botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Edinburgh. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the well-known Holyrood Palace. If you’re looking for more, Holyrood Park is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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!

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Newsroom Bar & Eatery? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Waverley Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Royal Oak is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Oxford Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 6 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 Edinburgh, including an art installation, a park, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at The Kelpies. This popular art installation is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Callendar Park located in Edinburgh for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Falkirk Wheel. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Wallace Monument. Visitors usually appreciate the standout features of this monument. Next up is Stirling Castle, a highly recommended castle.

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 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 Aberdeen, 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 Foodstory, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ninety-Nine offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Miller & Carter Aberdeen is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight 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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at St. Machar Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Old Blackfriars for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Krakatoa is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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