Relaxed 10-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow, and Aberdeen

Your relaxed road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Edinburgh and begin your adventure in Scotland.

When you're ready to see some sights, Dean Village is a great place to start. This village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 visitors.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Heron in Edinburgh by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Heron delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Condita, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at The Kitchin, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Edinburgh and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Panda & Sons, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cafe Royal is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland. Enjoy your first taste of Edinburgh as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Drop by the renowned HMY Britannia. This popular royal yacht has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Royal Mile. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors, this sightseeing destination deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Museum of Scotland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 travelers, this national museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Andaluz offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

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

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 2 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!

Make Arthur's Seat your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mountain an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,238 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Holyrood Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this archaeological site every year.

Holyrood Palace is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This official residence has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 visitors.

When you’re finished at Holyrood Palace, the perfect next stop is Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Scotland.

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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at The Kitchin, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Witchery by the Castle is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Whiski Bar & Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Edinburgh!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Edinburgh Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 visitors.

When you’re finished at Edinburgh Castle, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Every year, approximately 238,542 travelers come here to experience the museum for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Camera Obscura. This visitor centre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Scottish National Gallery. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors. Around 660,741 travelers visit Scottish National Gallery every year.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Scott Monument. This famous monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,370 travelers.

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

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

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.

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

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

Day 5 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Blackness. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Glasgow, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Set your GPS to Blackness and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blackness beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Blackness Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,186 reviews.

Set your GPS to Skinflats and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Skinflats beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The Kelpies. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 reviews.

Larbert’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Skinflats behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Larbert welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Falkirk Wheel. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,951 reviews.

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

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 Glasgow.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cail Bruich is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern british cuisine in the city.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Gallery Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar 91, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Scotland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Balloch and beyond. With 2 nights left in Glasgow, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Kick off the day at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 1,037,594 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,580 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Kelvingrove Park. Kelvingrove Park is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 reviews.

Glasgow Cathedral is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,737 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit George Square. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,066 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glasgow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Balloch. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Loch Lomond Shores. This extraordinary shopping mall is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 8,718 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Glasgow and your accommodation.

Exploring the food culture in Glasgow offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Alston Bar & Beef, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Elia Greek Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Glasgow and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to see Glasgow Green. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,762 visitors.

Glasgow Science Centre is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This skyscraper has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,454 travelers.

Glasgow is also the home of Riverside Museum. Around 16,799 people have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Glasgow Botanic Gardens. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,594 reviews, a visit to this botanical garden is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Glasgow is also your chance to admire Pollok Country Park. This must-visit park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 reviews.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Glasgow. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Glasgow 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 Glasgow to find the best options for you!

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 Glasgow, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to book a table at The Willow Tea Rooms, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Glasgow at Òran Mór, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Stereo. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Glasgow tonight.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Glasgow can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!

On day 8 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Mugdock. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Make Mugdock Country Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Mugdock. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,141 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking in Mugdock’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 48 min. When you arrive in Doune, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Doune Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,505 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stirling. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,922 visitors.

When you’re finished at Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, head to Stirling Castle. This one-of-a-kind castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Aberdeen in this laid-back road trip in Scotland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Aberdeen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Mi Amore offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Foodstory. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

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

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Mugdock can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Scotland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Scotland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

When you’ve had your share of Aberdeen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stonehaven. Your travel time is around 24 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Stonehaven Harbour. This harbor is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,510 visitors.

Dunnottar Castle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This rock castle has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,220 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, St Andrews. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

Kick off the day at St Andrews Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,683 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of St Andrews, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Crosshill may take around 53 min. Upon your arrival in Crosshill, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Lochore Meadows. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,003 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Scotland at Edinburgh. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Howies Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bramble Bar & Lounge boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Howies Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Edinburgh and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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.

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Edinburgh.

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.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Edinburgh is the remarkable Calton Hill. This mountain and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,517 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Edinburgh or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Edinburgh and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.