Relaxed 12-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Glasgow to Oban and South Ayrshire
Description
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Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 12-day road trip in Scotland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Scotland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Glasgow, West Dunbartonshire, Balloch, Oban, Luss, Helensburgh, Inveraray, Dunbeg, Lochawe, South Ayrshire, Alloway, Dunure, and Girvan. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Glasgow, 4 nights in Oban, and 2 nights in South Ayrshire. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Scotland.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Scotland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Glasgow, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 12-day journey across Scotland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Scotland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Scotland.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Scotland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating George Square.
Traveling leisurely through Scotland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Riverside Museum. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Kelvingrove Park. Get close to the spectacular Glasgow Botanic Gardens and the wonderful Glasgow Green. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Scotland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Scotland.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Scotland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Scotland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Scotland.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Scotland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 11 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 12 days of your self-drive road trip in Scotland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 12-day vacation in Scotland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland today!
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Day 1
- Glasgow - Arrival day
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- George Square
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Your relaxed road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Glasgow, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Glasgow and begin your adventure in Scotland.
Glasgow 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 George Square, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Glasgow. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Glasgow, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at The Piper Whisky Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The National Piping Centre boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Pasha Glasgow. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Glasgow.
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.
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 Steps Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar 91 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland. Enjoy your first taste of Glasgow as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Glasgow
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 4 min
- Glasgow Botanic Gardens
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Kelvingrove Park
- Pollok Country Park
- Ashton Lane
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.
A top thing to do today is to explore Ashton Lane, a must-see street in Glasgow. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Today's adventure in Glasgow promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This idyllic botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, another picture-perfect attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Kelvingrove Park, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Pollok Country Park. This romantic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
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.
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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Ox and Finch in Glasgow by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Ox and Finch offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious mediterranean menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Cail Bruich, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern british menu.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Glasgow and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Glasgow can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!
Day 3
- Glasgow
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Drive 16 km, 40 min
- Glasgow Green
- People's Palace
- Glasgow Cathedral
- Seven Lochs Wetland Park
- Merchant City
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Glasgow. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Glasgow. 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 Glasgow!
Merchant City is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Glasgow, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Glasgow, including a park, a museum, a church, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Glasgow Green. This well-known park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to People's Palace, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Glasgow 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 Glasgow Cathedral, a beloved church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Seven Lochs Wetland Park.
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.
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.
Savor the flavors at Alston Bar & Beef, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Elia Greek Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Glasgow tonight.
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.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.
Day 4
- Glasgow
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Drive 17 km, 44 min
- Victoria Park Pond
- Riverside Museum
- The Tall Ship Glenlee
- Glasgow Science Centre
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On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Glasgow, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!
Immerse yourself in Glasgow’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Victoria Park Pond. This romantic lake is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Riverside Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to The Tall Ship Glenlee, an often recommended historic ship. For a change of scene, check out Glasgow Science Centre, known for its picture-perfect features.
Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Glasgow. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Glasgow that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Glasgow to find the best options for you!
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Willow Tea Rooms, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Òran Mór offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Stereo. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Glasgow.
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.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!
Day 5
- Glasgow
- Oban
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Drive 168 km, 2 hours 50 min
- Dumbarton Castle
- Levengrove Park
- Balloch Castle & Country Park
- SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium
- Loch Lomond Shores
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Day 5 of your self-drive tour in Scotland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Oban for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Scotland.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Dumbarton Castle. This often recommended castle is a historic place to see in Glasgow. Continue your discovery at Levengrove Park, an awe-inspiring park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Glasgow, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Balloch Castle & Country Park. This increasingly popular castle offers a history-steeped encounter with Glasgow. Next, make your way to Sea Life Loch Lomond Aquarium to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Loch Lomond Shores, an increasingly popular shopping mall that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Glasgow.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Oban. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular town.
Exploring the food culture in Oban 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 town.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Perle Oban Hotel & Spa, a top-rated dining destination in Oban.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Oban.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Oban!
Day 6
- Oban
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 42 min
- Loch Lomond
- Loch Lomond Faerie Trail
- The Hill House
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Oban and visit amazing attractions in Luss and Helensburgh destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 3 nights left in Oban. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Oban, including a lake, a hiking area, and a museum. Start your adventure at Loch Lomond. This frequently visited lake is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Loch Lomond Faerie Trail located in Oban for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of The Hill House. Its historic features will captivate you.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Oban and your accommodation.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Oban has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.
With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oban.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Oban and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Oban 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
- Oban
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Drive 227 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Puck's Glen
- Benmore Botanic Garden
- Inveraray Jail
- Inveraray Castle
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Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Rashfield, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Puck's Glen. This up-and-coming hiking area is a mesmerizing place to see in Oban. Continue your discovery at Benmore Botanic Garden, a romantic botanical garden with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Oban, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this hamlet so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Inveraray Jail. This worthwhile museum offers a standout encounter with Oban. Next, make your way to Inveraray Castle to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Oban.
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.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Oban.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Oban and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!
Day 8
- Oban
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Drive 15 km, 33 min
- Dunstaffnage Castle and Chapel
- McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill
- Oban distillery
- Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 8, 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 Oban and beyond. With 1 night left in Oban, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the up-and-coming Dunstaffnage Castle And Chapel, a breathtaking castle in Oban. Next, go to Mccaig's Tower & Battery Hill.
After visiting Dunstaffnage Castle And Chapel and Mccaig's Tower & Battery Hill, have a stroll along Oban's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Oban Distillery. This eye-catching distillery offers a unique experience. Dunollie Museum, Castle And Grounds is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Oban.
Exploring the food culture in Oban 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 town.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Oban.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Scotland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Scotland tomorrow with new energy.
Day 9
- Oban
- South Ayrshire
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Drive 245 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Kilchurn Castle
- Loch Tulla Viewpoint
- Inveruglas Pyramid - A Ceann Mòr
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On day 9 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Whether you decide to explore Oban on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Kilchurn Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning castle before continuing your journey. Loch Tulla Viewpoint is your next stop. This increasingly popular observation deck is one of the best-rated sights in Oban.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Inveruglas Pyramid - A Ceann Mòr. This instagrammable monument is a sight to behold.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in South Ayrshire. Staying in the town enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Scotland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, South Ayrshire has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.
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 town.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!
Day 10
- South Ayrshire
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Drive 77 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Heads Of Ayr Farm Park
- Dunure Castle
- Culzean Castle
- Stair Park
- Girvan
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On day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around South Ayrshire, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of South Ayrshire will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Scotland.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in South Ayrshire, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and romantic experiences. Start at Heads Of Ayr Farm Park, a worthwhile adventure park in the town. Then, head to Dunure Castle and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting castle.
There are many interesting places to see in South Ayrshire, and when you are ready for more, go to Culzean Castle. This is one of the town’s most frequently visited enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the up-and-coming Stair Park. Not far away, you'll also find Girvan. This beach is a romantic highlight in South Ayrshire.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to South Ayrshire and your accommodation.
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 South Ayrshire, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
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.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Alloway can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!
Day 11
- South Ayrshire
- Glasgow
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 25 min
- Rozelle Estate
- Burns Cottage
- Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
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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 Alloway and drive in the direction of the city of Glasgow for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Glasgow, where you’ll stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in South Ayrshire. Begin your sightseeing with Rozelle Estate. This underrated park is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Burns Cottage, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of South Ayrshire, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Burns Cottage. This frequently visited museum is a traveler-favorite.
In the city of Glasgow, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Scotland.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Max's Bar & Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? ibis Glasgow City Centre - Sauchiehall St. Offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre South hotel. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Glasgow.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Glasgow and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!
Day 12
- Glasgow - Departure day
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- Buchanan Street
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Day 12 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Glasgow.
Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Glasgow’s shopping center, the lively Merchant City. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Buchanan Street, a street that captures the true essence of Glasgow. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Glasgow or just grab something light to keep you going.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre Buchanan Galleries hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Anchor Line? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Glasgow and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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