6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Stirling and surrounding area
Description
Included
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 Edinburgh, Blackness, Whitecross, Grangemouth, Stirling, Larbert, Falkirk, and Skinflats.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Edinburgh and 1 night in Stirling. 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 Edinburgh, 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 Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Holyrood Palace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Blackness, Whitecross, Grangemouth, Stirling, Larbert, Falkirk, and Skinflats, 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 Edinburgh
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
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
- More
- Calton Hill
- More
Welcome to Edinburgh, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Edinburgh's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Edinburgh 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 Calton Hill, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Edinburgh. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Theatre Royal Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Juniper Edinburgh is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Panda & Sons is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Edinburgh
- More
Drive 9 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Holyrood Park
- Holyrood Palace
- Scottish National Gallery
- Camera Obscura
- Edinburgh Castle
- More
Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Today’s agenda in Edinburgh includes a park, a palace, an art gallery, a museum, a castle and much more! Holyrood Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Holyrood Palace, a well-known palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Scottish National Gallery, a visually striking art gallery, 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 interesting Camera Obscura. If you’re looking for more, Edinburgh Castle is also an astonishing attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cafe Royal, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Ensign Ewart offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tonic provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
- More
Drive 8 km, 41 min
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- The Royal Mile
- The Real Mary King's Close
- St Giles' Cathedral
- National Museum of Scotland
- 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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Edinburgh today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This stunning botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Royal Mile and learn what makes this enchanting street unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known The Real Mary King's Close. After exploring the museum, head to St Giles' Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a highlight in Edinburgh. As your day continues, stop by National Museum Of Scotland, known for its photogenic features.
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.
Visit Princes Street in Edinburgh for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Princes Street has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Edinburgh's best restaurants.
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.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Albanach is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Say good night to Edinburgh and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- Stirling
- More
Drive 82 km, 1 hour 48 min
- Blackness Castle
- Muiravonside Country Park
- Zetland Park
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Blackness, Whitecross, and Grangemouth, 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 Stirling. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Edinburgh on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Blackness Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching castle before continuing your journey. Muiravonside Country Park is your next stop. This intriguing park is one of the best-rated sights in Edinburgh.
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 Zetland Park. This picturesque park is a sight to behold.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Stirling. Stirling offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Stirling. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Dine in style at Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hermanns boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Stirling.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Curly Coo Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Settle Inn is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, No 2 Baker Street is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!
Day 5
- Stirling
- Edinburgh
- More
Drive 75 km, 1 hour 54 min
- Falkirk Wheel
- Callendar House
- Callendar Park
- The Kelpies
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Larbert, Falkirk, and Skinflats. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start by visiting Falkirk Wheel, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Callendar House, another must-visit landmark and often recommended museum renowned for its historic features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Stirling by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Callendar Park. This respected park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Stirling experience. We also recommend visiting The Kelpies, a captivating art installation.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Edinburgh. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Edinburgh's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Waverley Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Royal Oak, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Oxford Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 6
- Edinburgh - Departure day
- More
- Dean Village
- More
Day 6 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Edinburgh 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 Dean Village, a visually striking historical landmark before you head out.
On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Edinburgh’s popular marketplace, Princes Street. 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 Edinburgh.
You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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.