6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen traveling west to Inverness

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in Scotland as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Aberdeen, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Inverness, Lewiston, Fortrose, Cawdor, Poolewe, Crathie, and Braemar.

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 Aberdeen and 3 nights in Inverness. 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 Aberdeen, 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. Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Chanonry Point, learn more about the unique Balmoral Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Duthie Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Inverness, Lewiston, Fortrose, Cawdor, Poolewe, Crathie, and Braemar, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Aberdeen

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Duthie Park
Glenfiddich DistillerySpeyside Cooperage Visitor CentreInverness Museum and Art GalleryEden Court InvernessSt Mary's Roman Catholic Church
Loch NessUrquhart CastleChanonry PointClava cairnsCawdor Castle
Victoria FallsInverewe GardenBeinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
Cairngorm Reindeer HerdBalmoral CastleBraemar Duck PondDess Waterfall
Union Street

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Aberdeen - Arrival day
  • More
  • Duthie Park
  • More

Say hello to Aberdeen! Your exciting road trip through Scotland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Aberdeen for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Aberdeen 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 Duthie Park, 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 Aberdeen. 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 Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mi Amore boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Tippling House. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Slains Castle is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Northern Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Grill. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Aberdeen
  • Inverness
  • More

Drive 183 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Glenfiddich Distillery
  • Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
  • Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
  • Eden Court Inverness
  • St Mary's Roman Catholic Church
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dufftown, Craigellachie, and Inverness. 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 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Aberdeen, including a distillery, a visitor center, a museum, a performing arts theater, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Glenfiddich Distillery. This frequently visited distillery is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Aberdeen on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery, a curiosity-inducing museum in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Eden Court Inverness and St Mary's Roman Catholic Church.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Inverness, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Inverness. 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 delicious meal at Simpsons, a highly-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. 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 The Gunsmiths Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Malt Room, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Maccallums 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.

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Inverness
  • More

Drive 187 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Loch Ness
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Chanonry Point
  • Clava cairns
  • Cawdor Castle
  • More

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Inverness for your remaining 2 nights in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in the Scottish Highlands, Lewiston, Fortrose, Inverness, and Cawdor.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Inverness, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Loch Ness, an often recommended lake in the region. Then, head to Urquhart Castle and soak in the ambiance of this respected castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Inverness, and when you are ready for more, go to Chanonry Point. This is one of the region’s most locally appreciated romantic spots of interest. After exploring the whale watching spot, visit the curiosity-inducing Clava Cairns. Not far away, you'll also find Cawdor Castle. This castle is a visually striking highlight in Inverness.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Inverness. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at MacGregor's, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The White House, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Kitchen Brasserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Inverness
  • More

Drive 243 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Victoria Falls
  • Inverewe Garden
  • Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Inverness for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience the Scottish Highlands and Poolewe to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Inverness on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Victoria Falls is the first of them. Inverewe Garden is your next stop. This often recommended botanical garden is one of the best-rated sights in Inverness.

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 Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. This picturesque nature reserve is a sight to behold.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Inverness.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Inverness's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe V8, 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 Scotch & Rye, 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 Johnny Foxes, a hidden gem nestled in Inverness. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Market Bar is an excellent place to start.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Inverness
  • Aberdeen
  • More

Drive 286 km, 4 hours 38 min

  • Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
  • Balmoral Castle
  • Braemar Duck Pond
  • Dess Waterfall
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Glenmore, Crathie, Braemar, and Dess. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aberdeen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views in the charming hamlet of Inverness. Your adventure starts at Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Balmoral Castle. This underrated castle is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Inverness's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Braemar Duck Pond. This eye-catching lake offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Dess Waterfall is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aberdeen. Aberdeen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aberdeen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at St. Machar Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Old Blackfriars, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Krakatoa provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Aberdeen - Departure day
  • More
  • Union Street
  • More

Day 6 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Aberdeen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Union Street, a street that captures the true essence of Aberdeen. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Aberdeen’s popular marketplace, Bon Accord & St. Nicholas Centre. 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 Aberdeen.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The City Bar and Diner, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Maggie's Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Malmaison Aberdeen.

You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

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.