12-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Glasgow to Stirling, Edinburgh, Pitlochry, Inverness, and Portree

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 1 night.

Whether you decide to explore Glasgow on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Merchant City, a popular neighborhood in Glasgow. 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.

No visit to Glasgow is complete without George Square. This popular public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Glasgow Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Glasgow, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Riverside Museum. This popular museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Kelvingrove Park 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 experiences you can add to your travel plans in Scotland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Bring home unique finds from Glasgow's bustling shopping hub, Argyle Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Argyle Street offers plenty of options, including restaurants, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Glasgow Centre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Glaschu Restaurant & Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

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

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Luss, Stirling, and Cambuskenneth. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Stirling, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Luss and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Luss beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Loch Lomond, a curiosity-inducing lake that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stirling Castle, a notable castle in Stirling. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Stirling Old Town Jail. This locally appreciated museum is a top recommendation in the area.

Set your GPS to Stirling and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stirling beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Cambuskenneth is Stirling, Old Bridge, an increasingly popular historical landmark that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stirling. Check in and relax 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 Stirling. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Stirling. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hermanns, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stirling this evening.

Keep the evening going at Curly Coo Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Settle Inn, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is No 2 Baker Street, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Scotland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Edinburgh are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Edinburgh, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Stirling to Edinburgh may take around 56 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edinburgh, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the day by heading to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a popular botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to National Museum Of Scotland, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.

Next, explore Royal Mile, yet another notable place to see in the area.

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

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

Dine in style at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Theatre Royal Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Juniper Edinburgh provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Panda & Sons offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Glasgow. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy all that Arthur's Seat has to offer. This is an often recommended hiking area you should not miss. Another must-see is Holyrood Palace, a well-known palace in Edinburgh.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Calton Hill. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Edinburgh Castle, another of the city’s spectacular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Camera Obscura, a breathtaking place of interest in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Scotland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider Novotel Edinburgh Centre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tigerlily. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Royal, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Ensign Ewart, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tonic 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 Scotland.

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Scotland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Pitlochry. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pitlochry, where you'll spend 1 night.

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Pitlochry is Faskally Forest, a curiosity-inducing hiking area that draws attention for its mesmerizing features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry, a noteworthy art installation that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Blair Athol Distillery, a frequently visited distillery that offers a unique experience.

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

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

Head back to your accommodation in Pitlochry and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Inverness. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Inverness, where will spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Pitlochry, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Inverness. Your travel time is around 1 hour 38 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Clava Cairns and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Eden Court Inverness, another highlight in Inverness. When you’re done exploring the performing arts theater, continue to Inverness Cathedral, Dedicated To St Andrew, a picture-perfect church.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Inverness's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Simpsons, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kingsmills Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Inverness tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Gunsmiths Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Malt Room, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Maccallums Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Foyers, the Scottish Highlands, Inverness, and Lewiston.

Make time for Inverness Museum And Art Gallery, an increasingly popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the village.

Foyers’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Inverness behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Foyers welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Falls Of Foyers and explore the peaceful features.

Set your GPS to the Scottish Highlands 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. The Scottish Highlands beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Loch Ness. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the lake before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at MacGregor's, a popular restaurant in Inverness. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Inverness at The White House, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Kitchen Brasserie. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Inverness tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hootananny, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gellions Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Innes Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Glencoe and Balloch. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Glencoe’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Portree behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 2 min. Glencoe welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Glencoe War Memorial, a beloved war memorial known for its respected features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Glencoe Folk Museum, an increasingly popular museum.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glencoe and set your GPS to Balloch. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Balloch, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Loch Lomond Seaplanes is a worthwhile adventure park we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Alston Bar & Beef, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Elia Greek Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Glasgow.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Scotland.