12-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dundee to Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Elgin and surrounding area

On day 2 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 Dundee. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 5 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Dundee on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this photogenic museum before continuing your journey. Desperate Dan Statue is your next stop. This up-and-coming point of interest is one of the best-rated sights in Dundee.

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 Rrs Discovery. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Magdalen Green Railway Station and Baxter Park.

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

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Edinburgh by securing a reservation at Heron. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Kitchin, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Juniper Edinburgh is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Panda & Sons also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

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

Today’s agenda in Edinburgh includes a historic ship, a botanical garden, a museum, a castle and much more! Hmy Britannia is must-visit historic ship and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a well-known botanical garden, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to National Museum Of Scotland, a history-steeped museum, also available for your discovery today.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Edinburgh. 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Black Ivy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Hoot The Redeemer, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Albanach offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Thistle Street Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Edinburgh is Old Town. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Edinburgh, including a church, a museum, a street, a park and much more! Start your adventure at St Giles' Cathedral. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to The Real Mary King's Close located in Edinburgh for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Royal Mile. Its visually striking features will captivate you. After the street, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Calton Hill. Visitors usually appreciate the visually striking features of this park.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

Continue your lively evening at The Waverley Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Royal Oak is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Oxford Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Edinburgh. You have 1 night left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start by visiting Arthur's Seat, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching hiking area is sure to impress. Next on your list is Holyrood Park, another must-visit landmark and notable park renowned for its eye-catching features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Edinburgh by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Holyrood Palace. This historic palace is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Edinburgh experience. We also recommend visiting Dean Village, an interesting historical landmark. Nearby, you'll also find Edinburgh Zoo, ready to add charm to your journey.

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 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.

Savor the flavors at Fishers In The City, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Amber Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Ondine Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Alchemist Edinburgh, known for its lively atmosphere. Regent Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Bow Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aberdeen, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Edinburgh. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a monument, an art gallery, a museum, a distillery and much more! Begin your adventure at Scott Monument. This is an increasingly popular monument you should not miss. Another must-see is Scottish National Gallery, a captivating art gallery in Edinburgh.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Camera Obscura. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, another of the city’s intriguing attractions.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Aberdeen, 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 Aberdeen, 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 Fierce Bar Aberdeen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mi Amore offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Tippling House. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

Keep the evening going at Slains Castle, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Northern Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Grill, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Aberdeen for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Seaton Park. This up-and-coming park is a mesmerizing place to see in Aberdeen.

As you stroll around Aberdeen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Queens Links Leisure Park. Next, make your way to Duthie Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit David Welch Winter Gardens, an up-and-coming botanical garden 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 Aberdeen.

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 Aberdeen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Foodstory, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ninety-Nine is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aberdeen tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at St. Machar Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Old Blackfriars, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Krakatoa provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

On day 9 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Aberdeen. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Aberdeen. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Johnston Gardens is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most underrated places to visit in Aberdeen. Next, head to The Gordon Highlanders Museum, an increasingly popular military museum, known for its eye-catching 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 Hazlehead Park. This awe-inspiring park is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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 Aberdeen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dine in style at The City Bar and Diner, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Maggie's Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Malmaison Aberdeen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Prince Of Wales after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Aberdeen, 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 Elgin. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Aberdeen, including a museum, a maritime museum, and a park. Start your day at The Tolbooth Museum. This history-steeped museum is a beloved place to see in Aberdeen. Then, wander over to Aberdeen Maritime Museum. If visually striking sites excite you, this maritime museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Westburn Park. This enchanting park is a favorite among visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Elgin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Stonehaven and St Cyrus. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dundee. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Elgin, including a marina, a war memorial, a castle, a nature reserve and much more! Start your adventure at Stonehaven Harbour. This up-and-coming marina is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Stonehaven War Memorial located in Elgin for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Dunnottar Castle. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the town with a visit to St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - Viewpoint. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this nature reserve.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a highly-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're eager to try something different, consider Porters Bar & Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Dundee East hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Trades House stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Speedwell Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Draffens is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!