7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Glasgow traveling east to Edinburgh and Inverness
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Scotland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Glasgow, 2 nights in Edinburgh, and 1 night 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 Glasgow, 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 Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, Edinburgh, Inverness, Lewiston, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling, 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
- Glasgow - Arrival day
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- George Square
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Glasgow and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Glasgow 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 George Square, 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 Glasgow. 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 Glasgow, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Piper Whisky Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're eager to try something different, consider The National Piping Centre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pasha Glasgow. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gallery Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Steps Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar 91 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Glasgow
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 18 min
- Pollok Country Park
- Glasgow Science Centre
- Riverside Museum
- Glasgow Botanic Gardens
- Seven Lochs Wetland Park
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Day 2 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Glasgow. You have 1 night left in Glasgow. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Immerse yourself in Glasgow’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Pollok Country Park. This mesmerizing park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Glasgow Science Centre, a must-visit science center in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Riverside Museum, a well-known museum. For a change of scene, check out Glasgow Botanic Gardens, known for its romantic features. We also recommend visiting Seven Lochs Wetland Park. This nature reserve is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
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 Buchanan Street in Glasgow for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique boutiques and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Buchanan 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 Glasgow's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cail Bruich is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern british cuisine in the city.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Scotland.
Day 3
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
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Drive 97 km, 2 hours 14 min
- Kelvingrove Park
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Glasgow Cathedral
- Falkirk Wheel
- The Kelpies
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Glasgow. Your adventure starts at Kelvingrove Park, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This captivating museum is known for its serene appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Glasgow's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Glasgow Cathedral. This picture-perfect church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Falkirk Wheel is also worth visiting, along with The Kelpies. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Edinburgh, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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.
Have a memorable dining experience in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Edinburgh, Condita shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, The Kitchin is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Edinburgh. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Nightcap - Cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Juniper Edinburgh offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Panda & Sons, another top-rated bar in the area.
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
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Drive 18 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- Scottish National Gallery
- Camera Obscura
- Holyrood Palace
- Holyrood Park
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Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Get ready for an exciting day in Edinburgh. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, an art gallery, a museum, a palace, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This is an interesting botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Scottish National Gallery, an interesting art gallery in Edinburgh.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Camera Obscura. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Holyrood Palace, another of the city’s popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Holyrood Park, an eye-catching place of interest in the city.
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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Novotel Edinburgh Centre? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Tigerlily as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Royal, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Ensign Ewart provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tonic offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 5
- Edinburgh
- Inverness
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Drive 253 km, 3 hours 19 min
- The Royal Mile
- National Museum of Scotland
- Edinburgh Castle
- Dean Village
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Edinburgh. 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.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Edinburgh, including a street, a museum, a castle, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Royal Mile. This locally renowned street is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to National Museum Of Scotland located in Edinburgh for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Edinburgh Castle. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Dean Village. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this historical landmark.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Inverness's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Simpsons, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kingsmills Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Inverness.
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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Inverness
- Glasgow
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Drive 351 km, 4 hours 46 min
- Urquhart Castle
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
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On day 6 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, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Inverness, including a castle, a monument, and a safari park. Start your day at Urquhart Castle. This visually striking castle is a locally renowned place to see in Inverness. Then, wander over to Wallace Monument. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Stirling Castle. This culturally significant castle is a favorite among visitors.
Inverness offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park is a curiosity-inducing spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Glasgow. Glasgow offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Glasgow. 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Alston Bar & Beef, an iconic dining spot in Glasgow. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Elia Greek Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Glasgow. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 7
- Glasgow - Departure day
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- Glasgow Green
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Day 7 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Glasgow 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 Glasgow Green, a stunning park before you head out.
As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Glasgow's best shopping area, Argyle Street. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Glasgow.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Òran Mór, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Glasgow. 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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