11-Day Scotland Road Trip from Dundee to Elgin, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh and surrounding area

Welcome to Dundee, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Dundee's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dundee 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 Dundee Contemporary Arts or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dundee. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dundee. 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 The Fort, a highly-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're eager to try something different, consider Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Porters Bar & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The King of Islington, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Bank Bar Dundee offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Salty Dog. 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 11-day road trip in Scotland!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dundee for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dundee Law. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,396 visitors.

Baxter Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,306 visitors.

Magdalen Green railway station is also highly recommended by travelers. This former railway station has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 855 visitors.

The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,551 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is RRS Discovery. This barque has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,529 travelers.

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

As you explore more of Dundee, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bird & Bear, a top-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Don Michele Italian Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gidi Grill Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Trades House after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Speedwell Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Draffens is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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 - Glamis, Kirriemuir, and Crathie. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Elgin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Dundee’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glamis. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 30 min. When you arrive in Glamis, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Glamis Castle is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,669 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Glamis, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kirriemuir may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Kirriemuir, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Bon Scott Statue. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 550 visitors.

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

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Stonehaven. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aberdeen, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stonehaven. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 39 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Stonehaven Harbour. This much-appreciated harbor is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,510 reviews.

Next up is Stonehaven War Memorial. This landmark has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 598 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Dunnottar Castle. This rock castle has been rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,220 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Aberdeen, 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.

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.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Aberdeen and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Cruden Bay’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aberdeen behind. This drive usually takes around 41 min. Cruden Bay welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at New Slains Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,673 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Cruden Bay, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bullers of Buchan. Your travel time is around 8 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Bullers of Buchan. Previous visitors have rated this village an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 691 reviews.

Set your GPS to Peterhead and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Peterhead beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like HM Prison Peterhead. This extraordinary prison has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,684 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maggie's Grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Malmaison Aberdeen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberdeen.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Krakatoa, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Prince Of Wales. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Aberdeen, 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 Edinburgh. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Make Aberdeen Maritime Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this maritime museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,270 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Queens Links Leisure Park. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,883 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Seaton Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,950 visitors.

When you’re finished at Seaton Park, the perfect next stop is Hazlehead Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,456 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Duthie Park. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,959 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Edinburgh. Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

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.

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

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Take the opportunity to see National Museum of Scotland. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 visitors.

St Giles' Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,293 travelers.

Edinburgh is also the home of The Real Mary King's Close. Around 10,638 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is The Edinburgh Dungeon. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 5,688 reviews, a visit to this point of interest is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Edinburgh is also your chance to admire Royal Mile. This must-visit sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Cafe Andaluz? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

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

Day 8 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like HMY Britannia. This extraordinary royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

Next, make your way to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

While in Edinburgh, we also recommend a visit to Museum of Edinburgh. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,741 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Dean Village. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 travelers, this village is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Edinburgh.

Make your way to National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One, perhaps the most famous art gallery in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,727 reviews.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Kitchin, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Witchery by the Castle, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Whiski Bar & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Edinburgh Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 visitors.

Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,926 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction. It’s estimated that around 238,542 people visit this 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.

Scottish National Gallery, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 660,741 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an art museum rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,079 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Craigmillar Castle, perhaps the most famous castle in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,301 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Edinburgh, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Edinburgh below.

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

Make sure to book a table at Cold Town House, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at The Dome, 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 The Edinburgh Larder. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Edinburgh tonight.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dundee, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Calton Hill. This extraordinary mountain has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,517 visitors.

Next, make your way to Holyrood Palace. This official residence is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 reviews.

While in Edinburgh, we also recommend a visit to Holyrood Park. This archaeological site has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Arthur's Seat. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,238 travelers, this mountain is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Edinburgh.

Make your way to Edinburgh Zoo, perhaps the most famous zoo in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 11,987 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dundee, 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 Dundee's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Taza Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tickety Boo's boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Rancho Pancho. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dundee.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Abandon Ship, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Dynamo Dundee, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 11 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dundee before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Dundee’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland. Take home a piece of Scotland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Slessor Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 864 reviews.

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

Savor the flavors at Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Milas beckons with its unique menu offerings.

You’ll then say farewell to Dundee. 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!