12-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Stirling, Oban, Fort William, Portree, and Inverness

Day 2 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.

Make sure to visit Old Town, a popular neighborhood in Edinburgh. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in Edinburgh. Begin your sightseeing with Holyrood Palace. This popular palace is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Edinburgh Castle, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Edinburgh, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This increasingly popular distillery is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St Giles' Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Royal Mile is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

Elevate your experience in Edinburgh with a visit to the city's premier shopping location, Grassmarket. Explore unique shops and uncover hidden gems along the way. For a cultural touch, look for artisan crafts that perfectly capture the charm of Scotland. After shopping, enjoy nearby attractions or simply people-watch and capture memorable photos.

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

Savor the flavors at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Novotel Edinburgh Centre beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tigerlily. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cambuskenneth and Stirling. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stirling, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Edinburgh. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Wallace Monument is the perfect place to start. This monument is one of the most interesting places to visit in Edinburgh. Next, head to Stirling Castle, a captivating castle, known for its standout features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Holy Rude. This historic church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Stirling Old Town Jail. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Stirling. Stirling offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Stirling. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hermanns, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Stirling.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Curly Coo Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Settle Inn, a bar catering to every mood and preference. No 2 Baker Street likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Oban, 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 Oban. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Stirling promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Dunollie Museum, Castle And Grounds. This breathtaking castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Mccaig's Tower & Battery Hill, another enchanting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Oban Distillery, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its instagrammable features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Oban War & Peace Museum. This heritage-rich museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oban. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Perle Oban Hotel & Spa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Tigh a Steill, Banavie, and Fort William. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Fort William. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Oban allows for both. Start by heading to Steall Waterfall. This intriguing waterfall provides an insightful glimpse into the hamlet's identity. Next, discover Neptune's Staircase, a gorgeous historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to West Highland Museum, an often recommended museum.

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

As you explore more of Fort William, 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.

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

On day 6 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 the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, and Glenfinnan. In the evening, you’ll end up in Portree, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Fort William, including an observation deck, a museum, a heritage railway, a beach and much more! Start your day at Glencoe Viewpoint. This idyllic observation deck is an up-and-coming place to see in Fort William. Then, wander over to Glencoe Folk Museum. If respected sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Glenfinnan Viaduct. This picture-perfect heritage railway is a favorite among visitors.

Fort William offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Glenfinnan Station Museum is an often recommended spot in the region that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the romantic Talisker Bay Beach. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved beach.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Portree. Portree offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 2 nights left in Portree, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Portree, including a castle, a lighthouse, and a hiking area. Start your day with a visit to Dunvegan Castle. This frequently visited castle is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Neist Point Lighthouse, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Portree 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 Neist Point Trail, a worthwhile hiking area in the village.

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

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

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Lewiston. You’ll stay in Inverness for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Inverness, including a castle, a museum, an archeological site, a lake and much more! Start your day with a visit to Urquhart Castle. This interesting castle is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery, which may be one of the most photogenic 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 Clava Cairns, a locally appreciated archeological site in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Loch Ness.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at MacGregor's, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The White House is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Kitchen Brasserie. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Inverness tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hootananny. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gellions Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Innes Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pitlochry and Little Dunkeld. 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.

Start by visiting Faskally Forest, a prime spot to begin your journey. This peaceful hiking area is sure to impress. Next on your list is The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry, another must-visit landmark and underrated art installation renowned for its noteworthy features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Inverness by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to The Hermitage. This mesmerizing hiking area is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Inverness experience.

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

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 a delicious meal 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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Hoot The Redeemer, known for its lively atmosphere. Albanach is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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