12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow and Dundee and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Edinburgh and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night 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.

Edinburgh 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 Dean Village 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 Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh. 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Edinburgh by securing a reservation at Heron. Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Condita, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to The Kitchin, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Panda & Sons, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Cafe Royal is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Ensign Ewart also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Scotland!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, 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 Glasgow. You’ll stay here for 8 nights.

Make Scottish National Gallery one of your first sightseeing stops in Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This art museum attracts 660,741 visitors every year.

Camera Obscura is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This visitor centre is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors. Up to 238,542 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Edinburgh Castle. A trip to this popular castle is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 90,949 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Holyrood Palace. This official residence enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 local and international travelers.

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.

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 an outstanding dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional mediterranean menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Cail Bruich, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Glasgow is Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious modern british menu.

Continue your lively evening at The Gallery Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar 91 is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Glasgow, where you'll stay for 7 nights more.

When you’ve had your share of Glasgow, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Edinburgh. Your travel time is around 1 hour 3 min.

Make National Museum of Scotland one of your first sightseeing stops in Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

St Giles' Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to The Edinburgh Dungeon. A trip to this popular point of interest is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 5,688 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 local and international travelers.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Alston Bar & Beef, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Elia Greek Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Glasgow.

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

On day 4 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 6 nights left in Glasgow.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Glasgow, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Edinburgh may take around 51 min. Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Edinburgh Zoo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 visitors.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

Edinburgh is also the home of HMY Britannia. Around 9,023 people have rated this royal yacht an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Holyrood Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,119 reviews, a visit to this archaeological site is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Edinburgh is also your chance to admire Arthur's Seat. This must-visit mountain enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,238 reviews.

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

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. 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.

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

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Glasgow for your remaining 5 nights 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 Auldhame, North Berwick, Dirleton, and West Saltoun.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glasgow and set your GPS to Auldhame. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 28 min. Upon reaching Auldhame, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Tantallon Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 30,879 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,072 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Auldhame, you’ll hit the road in the direction of North Berwick. This drive usually takes around 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lodge Grounds. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in North Berwick, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 425 visitors.

Yellowcraig is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 323 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dirleton. This drive usually takes around 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Dirleton Castle & Gardens. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,026 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Glasgow, 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 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Glasgow, where you'll stay for 4 nights more.

After soaking in Glasgow’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Melrose. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 43 min. When you arrive in Melrose, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Melrose Abbey. Previous visitors have rated this cistercian monastery an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,019 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cove Farm, 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 Melrose to Cove Farm may take around 58 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cove Farm, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cove Harbour. This harbor is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 762 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Cove Farm, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of St. Abbs. Your travel time is around 19 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,341 visitors.

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.

Dine in style at Bothy Glasgow, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Social boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Citizen Glasgow. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Glasgow.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 3 nights left in Glasgow, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Jedburgh and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Jedburgh beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Jedburgh Abbey. This abbey is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,413 reviews.

Continue your journey at Queen Mary's House. This museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 446 travelers from near and far.

Jedburgh is also the home of Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 659 visitors.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Alea Glasgow Casino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Italian Kitchen beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Chaophraya. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Glasgow tonight.

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

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Glasgow has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Glasgow by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This extraordinary botanical garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,594 visitors.

Next, make your way to Riverside Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,799 reviews.

While in Glasgow, we also recommend a visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Hosting around 1,037,594 visitors every year, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the best places to visit. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,580 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Kelvingrove Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Glasgow.

Make your way to George Square, perhaps the most famous square in Glasgow. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Glasgow, 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 Glasgow below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're eager to try something different, consider La Lanterna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent 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!

On day 9 of your road trip in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Larbert, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Glasgow for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Larbert, Skinflats, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Larbert. This drive usually takes around 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Falkirk Wheel. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,951 visitors.

After soaking in Larbert’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Skinflats. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Skinflats, it's time to take a break from the road.

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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Skinflats, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cambuskenneth. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mono, a highly-rated dining destination in Glasgow.

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 2 destinations, Stonehaven and Aberdeen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dundee, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Stonehaven’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Glasgow behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 22 min. Stonehaven welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Dunnottar Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this rock castle an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,220 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Stonehaven Harbour. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,510 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this harbor every year.

Aberdeen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stonehaven behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Aberdeen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Hazlehead Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Aberdeen. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,456 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Duthie Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,959 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dundee, 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 Dundee.

Savor the flavors at The Fort, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Porters Bar & Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dundee tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The King of Islington, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Bank Bar Dundee, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Salty Dog provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - St Andrews, Falkland, Kirkcaldy, Crosshill, and Dunfermline. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in St Andrews. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St Andrews Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,683 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of St Andrews, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Falkland. Your travel time is around 35 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Falkland Palace & Garden. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,711 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.

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

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Hoot The Redeemer offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Albanach is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Bow Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Edinburgh before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Edinburgh’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Scotland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Scotland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Take the opportunity to see Calton Hill. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,517 visitors.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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!