Relaxed 12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow, and Inverness

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Drop by the renowned Hmy Britannia. This popular royal yacht has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Royal Mile. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Museum Of Scotland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 travelers, this national museum is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Edinburgh.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Scotland.

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a memorable dining experience in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Edinburgh, Condita shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, The Kitchin is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Edinburgh. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Hoot The Redeemer is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Albanach, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Bow Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Arthur's Seat. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,238 visitors.

Holyrood Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This archaeological site has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 visitors.

Holyrood Palace is also highly recommended by travelers. This official residence has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 visitors.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 travelers.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Edinburgh has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Kitchin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Witchery by the Castle offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Journey into the unknown at Edinburgh Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 238,542 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.

Scottish National Gallery is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Edinburgh. This art museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,079 reviews. Each year, approximately 660,741 people travel to visit Scottish National Gallery.

Lastly, don't miss out on Scott Monument. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,370 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Edinburgh by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Edinburgh and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Scotland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Scotland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blackness. This car ride takes around 42 min.

Kick off the day at Blackness Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at The Kelpies, a remarkable sculpture where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Larbert. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Falkirk Wheel. This extraordinary boat lift has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,951 visitors.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Glasgow. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Scotland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Glasgow by securing a reservation at Ox and Finch. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of mediterranean cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Cail Bruich, 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 Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern british menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gallery Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar 91, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Glasgow, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Glasgow, and meet locals along the way!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kelvingrove Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 travelers from near and far.

Glasgow is also the home of Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,580 visitors. Each year, around 1,037,594 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Riverside Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Pollok Country Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Scotland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Glasgow offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Glasgow, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alston Bar & Beef, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Elia Greek Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Glasgow as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Glasgow Science Centre. This skyscraper is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,454 visitors.

When you’re finished at Glasgow Science Centre, head to Glasgow Green. This one-of-a-kind stadium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit George Square. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,066 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,737 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Seven Lochs Wetland Park. This famous park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,044 travelers.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Glasgow, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Willow Tea Rooms, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Òran Mór, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stereo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Glasgow. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the village of Cambuskenneth. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Inverness, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glasgow and set your GPS to Cambuskenneth. 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 39 min. Upon reaching Cambuskenneth, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Wallace Monument. This extraordinary monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cambuskenneth, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stirling may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Stirling, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Stirling Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,632 visitors.

Next, make your way to Stirling Old Town Jail. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 913 reviews.

While in Stirling, we also recommend a visit to Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,922 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stirling, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Doune may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Doune, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Doune Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,505 visitors.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Inverness. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Inverness, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Kingsmills Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Inverness. If you're in the mood for something new, try MacGregor's, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The White House. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Inverness.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Inverness.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Gunsmiths Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Malt Room provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Maccallums Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 9, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Scotland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Glenfinnan and beyond. With 2 nights left in Inverness, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

After soaking in Inverness’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glenfinnan. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 59 min. When you arrive in Glenfinnan, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Glenfinnan Viaduct. This extraordinary stone bridge has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,217 visitors.

Next, make your way to Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,393 reviews.

While in Glenfinnan, we also recommend a visit to Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland. This park has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,167 reviews.

Set your GPS to Banavie and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Banavie beckons with new experiences!

Make Neptune's Staircase your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this staircase locks an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,895 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Spean Bridge. This car ride takes around 16 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Commando Memorial. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,656 reviews.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Inverness has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Cafe V8, a top-rated dining spot in Inverness. If you're in the mood for something new, try Scotch & Rye, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Johnny Foxes. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Inverness.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Hootananny, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gellions Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Inverness. Innes Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Inverness!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Pitlochry and drive in the direction of the town of Little Dunkeld for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pitlochry. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Faskally Forest, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 815 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Little Dunkeld. This car ride takes around 23 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Hermitage. This waterfall is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Little Dunkeld, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,918 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Little Dunkeld and set your GPS to Perth. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Perth, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Quarrymill Woodland Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 366 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at South Inch. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,523 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this urban park every year.

Branklyn Garden is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 660 visitors.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Scotland at Edinburgh. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!