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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Whether you decide to explore Aberdeen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Aberdeen Maritime Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching maritime museum before continuing your journey. Donmouth Local Nature Reserve is your next stop. This underrated nature reserve is one of the best-rated sights in Aberdeen.

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 Hazlehead Park. This noteworthy park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Johnston Gardens and Duthie Park.

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.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Edinburgh by securing a table at Heron. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Condita, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Kitchin, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Edinburgh.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Juniper Edinburgh, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Panda & Sons provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 3 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!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Hmy Britannia. This locally appreciated historic ship is a breathtaking place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Scottish National Gallery, a photogenic art gallery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Camera Obscura. This captivating museum offers a stunning encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Edinburgh Castle, an impressive castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Edinburgh.

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.

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.

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.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure 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.

Edinburgh is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at National Museum Of Scotland, a popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find St Giles' Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at The Real Mary King's Close. This museum is one of the city’s most well-known 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 Mile. After exploring the street, head to the frequently visited Calton Hill.

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.

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.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Edinburgh.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Hoot The Redeemer after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Albanach for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Thistle Street Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 5 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!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Edinburgh, including a zoo, a historical landmark, a botanical garden, a palace, a park and much more! Start your adventure at Edinburgh Zoo. This well-known zoo is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Dean Village located in Edinburgh for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Its serene features will captivate you. After the botanical garden, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Holyrood Palace. Visitors usually appreciate the history-steeped features of this palace. Next up is Holyrood Park, a highly recommended park.

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.

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 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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Waverley Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Royal Oak provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Oxford Bar 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.

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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Edinburgh. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an art installation, a park, a monument, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at The Kelpies. This is a locally renowned art installation you should not miss. Another must-see is Callendar Park, a locally appreciated park in Edinburgh.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Falkirk Wheel. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Wallace Monument, another of the village’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Stirling Castle, a historic place of interest in the village.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Aberdeen in this laid-back road trip in Scotland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Foodstory, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aberdeen at Ninety-Nine, 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 Miller & Carter Aberdeen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Aberdeen tonight.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to St. Machar Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Old Blackfriars is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Krakatoa provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!