11-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen traveling west to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William

Greet day 2 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Aberdeen for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Aberdeen and Stonehaven.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Aberdeen, including a park, a castle, a war memorial, a marina and much more! Start your day at Duthie Park. This eye-catching park is an increasingly popular place to see in Aberdeen. Then, wander over to Dunnottar Castle. If history-steeped sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Stonehaven War Memorial. This breathtaking war memorial is a favorite among visitors.

Aberdeen offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Stonehaven Harbour is an intriguing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Foodstory, a top-rated dining spot in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ninety-Nine, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberdeen.

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.

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

On day 3 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 Newtonmore. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 3 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Aberdeen on today’s itinerary. First up is the often recommended castle, Balmoral Castle. Afterward, continue to Strathspey Railway - (aviemore, Station), a heritage railway every traveler should visit.

As you explore Aberdeen’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Highland Folk Museum. This worthwhile museum is an essential stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Savor the flavors at Simpsons, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kingsmills Hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Inverness tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Gunsmiths Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Malt Room offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Maccallums Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Inverness for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Inverness, including a museum, a church, a performing arts theater, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery. This underrated museum is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Inverness Cathedral, Dedicated To St Andrew, which may be one of the most monumental places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Inverness on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Eden Court Inverness, an often recommended performing arts theater in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Bellfield Park and Whin Park.

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

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Portree, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Portree on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Quiraing is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring rock formation before continuing your journey. Dunvegan Castle is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing castle is one of the best-rated sights in Portree.

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 Neist Point Lighthouse. This respected lighthouse is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Neist Point Trail.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Glenfinnan and Banavie. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Fort William. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the locally appreciated Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland, a breathtaking monument in Portree. Next, go to Glenfinnan Viewpoint.

After visiting Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland and Glenfinnan Viewpoint, have a stroll along Portree's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Glenfinnan Viaduct. This awe-inspiring heritage railway offers a unique experience. Glenfinnan Station Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Neptune's Staircase, one of the most stunning places to visit in Portree.

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.

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

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

Wake up to day 9 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Fort William, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Start by visiting Treasures Of The Earth, a prime spot to begin your journey. This photogenic museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Nevis Range Gondola Top, another must-visit landmark and locally appreciated observation deck renowned for its picturesque features.

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Pitlochry, Port na Craig, Blair Atholl, and Pitagowan, 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 Aberdeen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Fort William includes a distillery, a historical landmark, a castle, a waterfall and much more! Blair Athol Distillery is must-visit distillery and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Pitlochry Fish Ladder, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Blair Castle, Hercules Garden, Statue Of Hercules, a standout castle, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The City Bar and Diner, a top-rated dining spot in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Maggie's Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Malmaison Aberdeen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberdeen.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Prince Of Wales after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.

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