Relaxed 10-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Aberdeen and Dundee

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Edinburgh, including a castle, a church, a museum, a street and much more! Start your day at Edinburgh Castle. This historic castle is an extraordinary place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to St Giles' Cathedral. If stunning sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find The Real Mary King's Close. This historic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Edinburgh offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Royal Mile is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the street, don’t forget to check out the respected National Museum Of Scotland. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this interesting museum in Edinburgh.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Edinburgh’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cafe Royal, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Ensign Ewart is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tonic also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Edinburgh as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Don’t miss Leith in Edinburgh today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Hmy Britannia, an increasingly popular historic ship in the city. Then, head to Scottish National Gallery and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in Edinburgh and when you are ready for more, go to Camera Obscura. This is one of the city’s most well-known spots. After exploring the museum, visit the increasingly popular Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Albanach offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Edinburgh Zoo. This notable zoo is a gorgeous place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Dean Village, a romantic historical landmark with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This well-known botanical garden offers a romantic encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to Holyrood Palace to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Holyrood Park, a popular park 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.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Edinburgh to find the best options for you!

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.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Newsroom Bar & Eatery offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Waverley Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Royal Oak offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. The Oxford Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Dunfermline and drive in the direction of the village of Crosshill for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Aberdeen, where you’ll stay for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Edinburgh. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a palace, a castle, a golf course and much more! Begin your adventure at Pittencrieff Park. This is an underrated park you should not miss. Another must-see is Lochore Meadows, an underrated park in Edinburgh.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Falkland Palace & Garden. From there, take a leisurely stroll to St Andrews Castle, another of the city’s worthwhile attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Old Course Hotel, a breathtaking place of interest in the city.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Aberdeen in this laid-back road trip in Scotland. You'll stay here for 2 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Aberdeen has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Aberdeen.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Slains Castle, known for its inviting atmosphere. Northern Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Grill provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Aberdeen, and meet locals along the way!

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

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at David Welch Winter Gardens. This frequently visited botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Duthie Park, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Aberdeen Maritime Museum, one of the most increasingly popular places to see in Aberdeen. This maritime museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Hazlehead Park. Wander around and soak in the picturesque atmosphere this park offers.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Scotland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Aberdeen offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Aberdeen, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Aberdeen.

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Scotland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Dundee for 2 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Scotland.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Aberdeen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Stonehaven Harbour is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic marina before continuing your journey. Stonehaven War Memorial is your next stop. This frequently visited war memorial is one of the best-rated sights in Aberdeen.

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 Dunnottar Castle. This visually striking castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - Viewpoint.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Dundee. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dundee, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Daisy Tasker, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Premier Inn Dundee North hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Fort is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dundee.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Dundee. The bars in Dundee make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The King Of Islington, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Bank Bar Dundee is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Salty Dog is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dundee as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dundee. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dundee. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dundee!

Get ready for an exciting day in Dundee. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a museum, a park, an art gallery and much more! Begin your adventure at Dundee Law. This is an intriguing historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum, an increasingly popular museum in Dundee.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Slessor Gardens. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rrs Discovery, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Dundee Contemporary Arts, a photogenic place of interest in the city.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dundee has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, an iconic dining spot in Dundee. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Porters Bar & Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Dundee. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Dundee East hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Dundee. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dundee. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Trades House offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Speedwell Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Draffens is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Scotland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Scotland tomorrow with new energy.