10-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness and Portree

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Don’t miss Leith in Edinburgh today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Old Town, another neighborhood that adds to the charm of Edinburgh.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Edinburgh, including a palace, a museum, a castle, a park and much more! Start your day at Holyrood Palace. This picture-perfect palace is an interesting place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to National Museum Of Scotland. If historic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Edinburgh Castle. This historic castle is a favorite among visitors.

Edinburgh offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Calton Hill is a worthwhile spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

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 wonderful meal at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try Novotel Edinburgh Centre, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Tigerlily. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cafe Royal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Ensign Ewart. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tonic, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Wallace Monument. This captivating monument is a standout place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Stirling, Old Bridge, a picture-perfect historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Stirling Castle. This interesting castle offers an awe-inspiring encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to Stirling Old Town Jail to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum, an underrated art gallery that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at The King's Knot, an increasingly popular historical landmark in the village. 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.

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

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.

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.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Edinburgh and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Today’s agenda in Inverness includes a lake, a castle, a museum, a performing arts theater and much more! Loch Ness is must-visit lake and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Urquhart Castle, a well-known castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery, a photogenic museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at MacGregor's, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The White House offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Kitchen Brasserie. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Inverness.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hootananny after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gellions Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Innes Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Inverness, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s itinerary in Inverness covers several incredible sights, including an archeological site, a castle, and a bird watching area. Start your adventure at Clava Cairns. This often recommended archeological site is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Fort George, a must-see castle in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Brodie Castle. This locally appreciated castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Rspb Culbin Sands, where you can take in gorgeous features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Inverness. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Cafe V8, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Scotch & Rye beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Johnny Foxes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Inverness tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Market Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, the Scottish Highlands and Portree. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Portree, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Inverness, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Bealach Na Ba (pass Of The Cattle), a worthwhile mountain range in the region. Then, head to Bealach Na Ba Viewpoint and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable observation deck.

There are many interesting places to see in Inverness, and when you are ready for more, go to The Lump. This is one of the region’s most increasingly popular scenic spots of interest.

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

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

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.

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Portree, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Garafad and the Scottish Highlands. You still have 1 night left in Portree.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Portree. Some of the hamlet’s most loved attractions await! A Corran Beach is the perfect place to start. This beach is one of the most underrated places to visit in Portree. Next, head to Jurassic Dinosaurs Footprints At A Corran, a locally appreciated archeological site, known for its picturesque features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to The Quiraing. This romantic rock formation is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

As you explore more of Portree, 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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Spean Bridge, Glenfinnan, and Glencoe. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Portree on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended war memorial, Commando Memorial. Afterward, continue to Glenfinnan Viaduct, a heritage railway every traveler should visit.

As you explore Portree’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This frequently visited observation deck is an essential stop. Following that, head to Glencoe War Memorial, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Newsroom Bar & Eatery offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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.

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