10-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Dundee, Inverness, and Glasgow

Welcome to Edinburgh, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Edinburgh's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Dean Village or 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 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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Edinburgh by reserving a table at Heron. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Condita, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Kitchin, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Panda & Sons, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafe Royal provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Ensign Ewart offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Scotland!

Day 2 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Edinburgh. You have 2 nights left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Arthur's Seat. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,238 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Holyrood Park. This archaeological site has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Holyrood Palace. This official residence has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit HMY Britannia. This royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 visitors.

You can learn more about Edinburgh today by going on a tour. Edinburgh offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafe Andaluz, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Hoot The Redeemer, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Albanach is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Bow 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 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Scott Monument. This monument is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,370 visitors.

Scottish National Gallery is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 660,741 people visit this art museum every year.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Camera Obscura. Visitors have rated this visitor centre an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 238,542 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a museum rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Edinburgh Castle, perhaps the most famous castle in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 travelers.

Your discoveries in Edinburgh do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Edinburgh on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Kitchin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Witchery by the Castle offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, 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 Dundee. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors.

When you’re finished at Royal Mile, head to The Real Mary King's Close. This one-of-a-kind sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,293 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to National Museum of Scotland. This national museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This famous botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Fort, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Porters Bar & Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dundee.

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

Say good night to Dundee and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!

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 Dundee, and Stonehaven. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 2 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Dundee Law. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,396 reviews.

Continue your journey at The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,551 travelers from near and far.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dundee, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stonehaven may take around 59 min. Upon your arrival in Stonehaven, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Dunnottar Castle. This rock castle is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors.

When you’re finished at Dunnottar Castle, head to Stonehaven Harbour. This one-of-a-kind harbor is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,510 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Inverness. Inverness offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Dine in style at Kingsmills Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, MacGregor's boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The White House. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.

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

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Inverness. You’ll stay in Inverness for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Scotland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Inverness has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe V8, an iconic dining spot in Inverness. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Scotch & Rye, a popular restaurant in Inverness. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Johnny Foxes, a hidden gem nestled in Inverness. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Hootananny, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gellions Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Innes Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Doune, Stirling, and Cambuskenneth. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

After soaking in Inverness’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Doune. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 34 min. When you arrive in Doune, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Doune Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,505 reviews.

After soaking in Doune’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stirling. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Stirling, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,922 reviews.

Stirling Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Glasgow, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Glasgow. 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 an outstanding dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional mediterranean menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Cail Bruich, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Glasgow is Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern british menu.

Keep the evening going at The Gallery Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar 91, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Glasgow has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Glasgow by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This extraordinary botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,594 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kelvingrove Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Hosting 1,037,594 visitors every year, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Glasgow. This art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Riverside Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Pollok Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,112 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Glasgow has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Glasgow offers and add your favorites to your Scotland travel package below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alston Bar & Beef, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Elia Greek Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to George Square. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,066 visitors.

Glasgow Cathedral is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,737 visitors.

Glasgow Green is also highly recommended by travelers. This stadium has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,762 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glasgow and set your GPS to Larbert. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 37 min. Upon reaching Larbert, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Falkirk Wheel, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,951 reviews.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Cold Town House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Dome beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Edinburgh Larder. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

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

Day 10 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.

As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Edinburgh's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.

Make Calton Hill your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mountain an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,517 reviews.

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 Bramble Bar & Lounge, 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!