One-Week Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen traveling west to Inverness, Portree, Fort William, and Stirling
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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 2 nights in Aberdeen, 2 nights in Inverness, 1 night in Portree, 1 night in Fort William, and 1 night in Stirling. 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 Aberdeen, 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. Stirling Castle and Wallace Monument are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dunvegan Castle, learn more about the unique Fairy Pools, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Loch Ness.
As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Crathie, Aviemore, Inverness, Fortrose, Stromeferry, Carbost, Portree, Dunvegan, Fort William, Glencoe, Lochawe, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Port na Craig, Pitlochry, and Stonehaven, 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
- Aberdeen - Arrival day
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- Duthie Park
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Say hello to Aberdeen! 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 Aberdeen for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Aberdeen 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 Duthie Park, 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 Aberdeen. 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 Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a highly-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Tippling House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Aberdeen
- Inverness
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Drive 252 km, 4 hours 11 min
- Balmoral Castle
- Strathspey Steam Railway
- Clava cairns
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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 Crathie, Aviemore, and Inverness. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Start by visiting Balmoral Castle, a prime spot to begin your journey. This history-steeped castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Strathspey Railway - (aviemore, Station), another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated heritage railway renowned for its breathtaking features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Aberdeen by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Clava Cairns. This breathtaking archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Aberdeen experience.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Inverness. Inverness 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 Inverness. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Simpsons, a highly-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Gunsmiths Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Malt Room offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 3
- Inverness
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Drive 93 km, 2 hours 15 min
- Loch Ness
- Chanonry Point
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
- Eden Court Inverness
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Inverness, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s itinerary in Inverness covers several incredible sights, including a lake, a whale watching spot, a museum, a performing arts theater and much more! Start your adventure at Loch Ness. This curiosity-inducing lake is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Chanonry Point, a must-see whale watching spot in the region.
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 Inverness Museum And Art Gallery. This underrated museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Eden Court Inverness, where you can take in instagrammable 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at MacGregor's, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The White House offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Kitchen Brasserie is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Inverness.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Hootananny, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Gellions Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Innes Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!
Day 4
- Inverness
- Portree
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Drive 283 km, 4 hours 51 min
- Loch Carron View Point
- Talisker Distillery
- Fairy Pools
- The Quiraing
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Stromeferry, Carbost, and the Scottish Highlands, 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 Portree. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Inverness. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Loch Carron View Point is the perfect place to start. This observation deck is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Inverness. Next, head to Talisker Distillery, an up-and-coming distillery, known for its instagrammable 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 Fairy Pools. This romantic waterfall is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find The Quiraing. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Portree's best restaurants.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Portree.
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 5
- Portree
- Fort William
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Drive 295 km, 5 hours 15 min
- Dunvegan Castle
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Sligachan Waterfalls
- 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
- Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Dunvegan, the Scottish Highlands, Sligachan, and Portree. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Fort William, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Portree. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a lighthouse, a waterfall, a historical landmark, a visitor center and much more! Begin your adventure at Dunvegan Castle. This is an increasingly popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Neist Point Lighthouse, an underrated lighthouse in Portree.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Sligachan Waterfalls. From there, take a leisurely stroll to 슬리가찬 오래된 다리, another of the village’s underrated attractions.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Fort William. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 6
- Fort William
- Stirling
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Drive 200 km, 3 hours 19 min
- Glencoe Folk Museum
- Glencoe War Memorial
- Kilchurn Castle
- Stirling Castle
- Stirling Old Town Jail
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Glencoe, Lochawe, and Stirling. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stirling. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Fort William today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Glencoe Folk Museum. This eye-catching museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Glencoe War Memorial and learn what makes this historic war memorial unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Kilchurn Castle. After exploring the castle, head to Stirling Castle. This interesting castle is a highlight in Fort William. As your day continues, stop by Stirling Old Town Jail, known for its heritage-rich features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Stirling. Stirling 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 Stirling's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Stirling. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hermanns, a popular restaurant in Stirling. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house, a hidden gem nestled in Stirling. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Curly Coo Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Settle Inn offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Stirling. No 2 Baker Street is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 7
- Stirling
- Aberdeen
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Drive 253 km, 4 hours 7 min
- Stirling, Old Bridge
- The National Wallace Monument
- Pitlochry Fish Ladder
- Blair Athol Distillery
- Stonehaven War Memorial
- Stonehaven Harbour
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cambuskenneth, Port na Craig, Pitlochry, and Stonehaven. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aberdeen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Stirling is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historical landmark, a monument, a distillery, a war memorial, a marina and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Stirling, Old Bridge and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Wallace Monument, a breathtaking monument that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Pitlochry Fish Ladder, one of the village’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the underrated Blair Athol Distillery. When you're finished at the distillery, Stonehaven War Memorial awaits your visit. This war memorial is a picture-perfect highlight on today's itinerary. Last up is a marina - the locally appreciated Stonehaven Harbour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aberdeen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Foodstory, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ninety-Nine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into St. Machar Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Old Blackfriars offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Krakatoa, another top-rated bar in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 8
- Aberdeen - Departure day
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- Aberdeen Maritime Museum
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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 Aberdeen 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 Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a visually striking maritime museum before you head out.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Aberdeen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Aberdeen Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Aberdeen.
You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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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