6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Elgin and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 Inverness and 2 nights in Elgin. 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 Inverness, 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 Glenfinnan Viaduct are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Commando Memorial, learn more about the unique Loch Ness, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chanonry Point.
As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Ballindalloch, Glenlivet, Forres, and Dyke, 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
- Inverness - Arrival day
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- Eden Court Inverness
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Say hello to Inverness! 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 Inverness for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Inverness. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Inverness, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Simpsons, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Gunsmiths Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Malt Room is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Maccallums Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Inverness
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours 16 min
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
- Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
- Neptune's Staircase
- Commando Memorial
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Inverness, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Start by visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic heritage railway is sure to impress. Next on your list is Glenfinnan Viewpoint, another must-visit landmark and intriguing observation deck renowned for its visually striking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Inverness by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland. This picture-perfect monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Inverness experience. We also recommend visiting Neptune's Staircase, an up-and-coming historical landmark. Nearby, you'll also find Commando Memorial, ready to add charm to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Inverness and your accommodation.
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.
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.
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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 3
- Inverness
- Moray
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Drive 232 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Loch Ness
- Urquhart Castle
- Chanonry Point
- Fort George
- Clava cairns
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Inverness, Lewiston, and Fortrose. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Elgin, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Inverness is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Loch Ness, an increasingly popular lake that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find Urquhart Castle, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Chanonry Point. This whale watching spot is one of the region’s most underrated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Inverness at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Fort George. After exploring the castle, head to the worthwhile Clava Cairns.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Elgin's best restaurants.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 4
- Moray
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Drive 150 km, 2 hours 32 min
- Bow Fiddle Rock
- Glenfiddich Distillery
- Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
- Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
- The Glenlivet Distillery
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Elgin, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Elgin is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Bow Fiddle Rock, an intriguing rock formation that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Glenfiddich Distillery, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre. This visitor center is one of the village’s most often recommended spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Elgin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Ballindalloch Castle And Gardens. After exploring the castle, head to the increasingly popular The Glenlivet.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Elgin.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Elgin's best restaurants.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Moray
- Inverness
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Drive 74 km, 1 hour 34 min
- Elgin Cathedral
- Cooper Park
- Duffus Castle
- Grant Park
- Brodie Castle
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On day 5 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 Elgin, Forres, and Dyke. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Elgin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Elgin Cathedral. This historic church is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Cooper Park, another scenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Duffus Castle, one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its historic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Grant Park. This visually striking park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Brodie Castle, an often recommended castle, and take a stroll around the area.
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 lovely dining experience at Cafe V8, a popular restaurant in Inverness. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Inverness at Scotch & Rye, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Johnny Foxes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Inverness tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Market Bar, where the evening is just getting started.
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 6
- Inverness - Departure day
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- Whin Park
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Day 6 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Inverness 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 Whin Park, a scenic park before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Inverness’s shopping center, the lively Inverness Victorian Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Inverness.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at River House, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bar One Inverness? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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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