10-Day Scotland Road Trip from Inverness traveling south to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow

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Explore the best of Scotland on a 10-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Inverness, Spean Bridge, Glenfinnan, Stonehaven, St Cyrus, Aberdeen, Blackness, Skinflats, Larbert, Falkirk, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. This road trip itinerary in Scotland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 Inverness, 1 night in Aberdeen, 1 night in Edinburgh, and 4 nights in Glasgow. 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 Inverness, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Spean Bridge, Glenfinnan, Stonehaven, St Cyrus, Aberdeen, Blackness, Skinflats, Larbert, Falkirk, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling, 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

Day 1 – Inverness - arrival day

  • Inverness - Arrival day
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  • Eden Court Inverness
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Inverness and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Inverness for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness 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 Inverness. 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 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 Kingsmills Hotel, 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 MacGregor's, 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 The White House, a hidden gem nestled in Inverness. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Gunsmiths Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Malt Room offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Maccallums Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Inverness, Spean Bridge, and Glenfinnan

  • Inverness
  • Spean Bridge
  • Glenfinnan
  • More

Drive 254 km, 4 hours 3 min

  • Urquhart Castle
  • Commando Memorial
  • Glenfinnan Viaduct
  • More

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Inverness, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Spean Bridge and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Spean Bridge beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Commando Memorial, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable monument has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,656 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Glenfinnan. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,393 visitors.

When you’re finished at Glenfinnan Viewpoint, head to Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,167 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Glenfinnan Viaduct. This stone bridge is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,217 visitors.

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 Cafe V8, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Scotch & Rye offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Johnny Foxes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Inverness.

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

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.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Inverness, Stonehaven, St Cyrus, and Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • Inverness
  • Stonehaven
  • St Cyrus
  • More

Drive 276 km, 4 hours 8 min

  • Clava cairns
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Stonehaven Harbour
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Inverness, Stonehaven, and St Cyrus. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberdeen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Clava Cairns, a remarkable group where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,316 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Inverness, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stonehaven. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Dunnottar Castle. Previous visitors have rated this rock castle an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,220 reviews.

Stonehaven War Memorial is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This landmark is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 598 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Stonehaven Harbour. This 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 your accommodation in Aberdeen. Aberdeen offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Aberdeen. 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 Fierce Bar Aberdeen, an iconic dining spot in Aberdeen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mi Amore, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Foodstory, a hidden gem nestled in Aberdeen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Aberdeen, Blackness, Skinflats, Larbert, Falkirk, and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • Blackness
  • Skinflats
  • Larbert
  • Falkirk
  • More

Drive 278 km, 4 hours 5 min

  • Blackness Castle
  • The Kelpies
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • Callendar Park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Blackness, Skinflats, Larbert, and Falkirk. 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.

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 Blackness. Your travel time is around 2 hours 17 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Blackness Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,186 reviews.

Skinflats’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Blackness behind. This drive usually takes around 25 min. Skinflats welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make The Kelpies your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sculpture an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 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.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Condita, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Edinburgh is The Kitchin, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Panda & Sons, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cafe Royal, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Ensign Ewart provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Edinburgh, and Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 76 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Calton Hill
  • The Royal Mile
  • The Real Mary King's Close
  • St Giles' Cathedral
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • More

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 Edinburgh. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 4 nights.

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.

Next up, make a stop at Royal Mile. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

The Real Mary King's Close is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

When you’re finished at The Real Mary King's Close, the perfect next stop is St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,293 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Museum Of Scotland. This national museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 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.

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

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gallery Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bar 91, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Glasgow, and Edinburgh

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 160 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • HMY Britannia
  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Camera Obscura
  • Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Glasgow, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Edinburgh. You still have 3 nights left in Glasgow.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Edinburgh. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Hmy Britannia, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Scottish National Gallery is a recommended place to visit. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,079 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 660,741 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Edinburgh is Camera Obscura. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Edinburgh offers an experience you will remember.

Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Edinburgh. This museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Each year, approximately 238,542 people travel to visit Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre.

Lastly, don't miss out on Edinburgh Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Alston Bar & Beef, an iconic dining spot in Glasgow. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Elia Greek Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Glasgow. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Glasgow, and Edinburgh

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 165 km, 3 hours

  • Edinburgh Zoo
  • Dean Village
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Holyrood Park
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Glasgow, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Edinburgh. This car ride takes around 51 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Edinburgh Zoo. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dean Village. This village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

While in Edinburgh, we also recommend a visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden has been 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 Holyrood Palace. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 travelers, this official residence is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Edinburgh.

Make your way to Holyrood Park, perhaps the most famous archaeological site in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Glasgow.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at The Willow Tea Rooms, an iconic dining spot in Glasgow. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Òran Mór, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Stereo, a hidden gem nestled in Glasgow. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Glasgow

  • Glasgow
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Pollok Country Park
  • More

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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This much-appreciated botanical garden is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Next up is Kelvingrove Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This art museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,580 reviews. Every year, 1,037,594 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Riverside Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Pollok Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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 a delicious meal at Max's Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Anchor Line, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Paesano Pizza. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Inverness

  • Inverness
  • Glasgow
  • Cambuskenneth
  • Stirling
  • More

Drive 299 km, 4 hours 1 min

  • George Square
  • Glasgow Green
  • The National Wallace Monument
  • Stirling Castle
  • Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
  • More

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling, 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 Inverness. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like George Square. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,066 visitors.

Next, make your way to Glasgow Green. This stadium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cambuskenneth, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Glasgow to Cambuskenneth may take around 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cambuskenneth, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Wallace Monument. This extraordinary monument has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,772 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Inverness, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Don’t miss out on dining at Bar One Inverness, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Black Isle Bar & Rooms, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Mustard Seed Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Market Bar is an excellent place to start.

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.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Inverness - departure day

  • Inverness - Departure day
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  • Bellfield Park
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Day 10 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Inverness before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Inverness’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Bellfield Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 492 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Inverness.

You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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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