One-Week Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Glasgow, Fort William, and Portree
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-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 Edinburgh, 1 night in Glasgow, 2 nights in Fort William, and 1 night in Portree. 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 Stirling Castle, learn more about the unique Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of George Square.
As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Glasgow, Luss, Fort William, Banavie, Glenfinnan, Dunvegan, Portree, Stromeferry, Pitlochry, and Blair Atholl, 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
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
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- Calton Hill
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Say hello to Edinburgh! 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 Edinburgh for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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.
Don’t miss out on dining at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Theatre Royal Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Nightcap - Cocktail Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Juniper Edinburgh, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Panda & Sons. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Edinburgh
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Drive 10 km, 49 min
- Arthur's Seat
- Holyrood Palace
- Edinburgh Castle
- The Royal Mile
- Princes Street
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
A visit to Princes Street in Edinburgh is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Edinburgh. Your adventure starts at Arthur's Seat, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Holyrood Palace. This captivating palace is known for its serene appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Edinburgh's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Edinburgh Castle. This awe-inspiring castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Royal Mile is also worth visiting.
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 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 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.
Keep the evening going at Cafe Royal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Ensign Ewart, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tonic, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
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Drive 130 km, 2 hours 16 min
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Riverside Museum
- Kelvingrove Park
- George Square
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Glasgow. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Wallace Monument. This well-known monument is a breathtaking place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Stirling Castle, a picture-perfect castle 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 Riverside Museum. This popular museum offers a picture-perfect encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to Kelvingrove Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit George Square, a locally renowned public square 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 Edinburgh.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Glasgow's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Piper Whisky Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The National Piping Centre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pasha Glasgow. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.
Continue your lively evening at The Gallery Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Steps Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Bar 91 ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 4
- Glasgow
- Fort William
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Drive 169 km, 3 hours 12 min
- Glasgow Cathedral
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Loch Lomond
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Glasgow and Luss. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Fort William. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Glasgow, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at Glasgow Cathedral, an up-and-coming church in the city. Then, head to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum and soak in the ambiance of this historic museum.
There are many interesting places to see in Glasgow, and when you are ready for more, go to Loch Lomond. This is one of the city’s most up-and-coming idyllic spots of interest.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Fort William, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Fort William's best restaurants.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 5
- Fort William
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Drive 57 km, 1 hour 16 min
- Neptune's Staircase
- Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
- Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
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On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Fort William, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s itinerary in Fort William covers several incredible sights, including a historical landmark, a monument, a church, an observation deck, a heritage railway and much more! Start your adventure at Neptune's Staircase. This up-and-coming historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland, a must-see monument in the village.
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 Saint Mary & Saint Finnan Church. This frequently visited church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Glenfinnan Viewpoint, where you can take in instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Glenfinnan Viaduct. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Fort William and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Fort William. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 6
- Fort William
- Portree
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Drive 286 km, 5 hours 14 min
- 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
- Fairy Pools
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Dunvegan Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Sligachan, the Scottish Highlands, and Dunvegan. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Portree, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Fort William, including a historical landmark, a waterfall, a lighthouse, a castle and much more! Start your day at 슬리가찬 오래된 다리. This visually striking historical landmark is an often recommended place to see in Fort William. Then, wander over to Fairy Pools. If romantic sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Neist Point Lighthouse. This visually striking lighthouse is a favorite among visitors.
Fort William offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Dunvegan Castle is a frequently visited spot in the hamlet that will captivate you with its unique charm.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Portree. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
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 sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 7
- Portree
- Edinburgh
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Drive 421 km, 5 hours 51 min
- Loch Carron View Point
- The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
- Blair Castle
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On day 7 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 Stromeferry, Pitlochry, and Blair Atholl. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Portree includes an observation deck, an art installation, and a castle. Loch Carron View Point is must-visit observation deck and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry, a beloved art installation, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Blair Castle, Hercules Garden, Statue Of Hercules, a visually striking castle, also available for your discovery today.
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.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Angels with Bagpipes, 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 Rabble Taphouse and Grill, 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 Black Ivy, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Hoot The Redeemer, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Albanach. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Thistle Street Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 8
- Edinburgh - Departure day
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- National Museum of Scotland
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Day 8 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, begin at National Museum Of Scotland. This interesting museum is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Edinburgh’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing George Street. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Edinburgh.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
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!
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