12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Glasgow traveling east to Edinburgh

Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Glasgow and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 5 nights 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.

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 McLennan Arch or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Glasgow. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Gallery Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar 91 offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 4 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Glasgow Science Centre. This skyscraper is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,454 reviews.

Continue your journey at The Tall Ship Glenlee. This museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,710 travelers from near and far.

Glasgow is also the home of Riverside Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Victoria Park Pond. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,238 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Scotland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Glasgow has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Scotland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Alston Bar & Beef, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Elia Greek Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Glasgow for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Glasgow, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,737 visitors.

Glasgow Green, Doulton Fountain is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 763 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to People's Palace. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,474 reviews. People's Palace receives around 289,977 visitors every year.

Glasgow Green is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a stadium rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Seven Lochs Wetland Park, perhaps the most famous park in Glasgow. This attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,044 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Glasgow has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Glasgow offers and add your favorites to your Scotland travel package below.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Willow Tea Rooms, a top-rated dining spot in Glasgow. If you're in the mood for something new, try Òran Mór, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Stereo. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Glasgow.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Glasgow. You have 2 nights left in Glasgow. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Glasgow Botanic Gardens your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 1,037,594 annual visitors.

Kelvingrove Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kelvingrove Park, the perfect next stop is Pollok Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Burrell Collection. This art museum is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,840 reviews.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Glasgow, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Elderslie. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Gleniffer Braes Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,685 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Renfrewshire. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Drop by the renowned St Mirin's RC Cathedral Paisley. This popular church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 276 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Barshaw Park. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,438 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

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

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 Bothy Glasgow, 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 The Social, 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 The Citizen Glasgow, 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!

On day 6 of your road trip in Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Falkirk, Larbert, Skinflats, and Blackness. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 5 nights.

Falkirk’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Glasgow behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Falkirk welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Callendar Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,686 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Callendar House. This building has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,815 reviews.

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 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Falkirk Wheel, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,951 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Edinburgh, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Condita, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Edinburgh is The Kitchin, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious modern menu.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Panda & Sons, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cafe Royal offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make Royal Commonwealth Pool one of your first sightseeing stops in Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,184 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Arthur's Seat is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This mountain is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,238 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Holyrood Park. This archaeological site has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Holyrood Palace. A trip to this popular official residence is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 17,746 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo enjoys an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 local and international travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafe Andaluz, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hoot The Redeemer. Alternatively, go to Albanach, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Bow Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Scott Monument, a remarkable monument where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,370 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Scottish National Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 660,741 people visit it every year.

Camera Obscura is another must-visit attraction. This renowned visitor centre offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 8,926 reviews. In a single year, approximately 238,542 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Edinburgh Castle awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a castle, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 previous visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

As you explore more of Edinburgh, 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.

Savor the flavors at The Kitchin, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Witchery by the Castle beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Whiski Bar & Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

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

Day 9 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Calton Hill. This extraordinary mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,517 visitors.

Next, make your way to Royal Mile. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit St Giles' Cathedral. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at National Museum of Scotland. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Edinburgh on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

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

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

Day 10 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Edinburgh. You have 1 night left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One. Previous visitors have rated this art gallery an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,727 reviews.

Dean Village is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

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

HMY Britannia is another outstanding experience in Edinburgh. Around 9,023 travelers have rated this royal yacht an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Museum of Edinburgh is not far away. This museum is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,741 reviews.

You can learn more about Edinburgh today by going on a tour. Edinburgh offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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.

Dine in style at Howies Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bramble Bar & Lounge boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Howies Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Linlithgow. This car ride takes around 41 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Linlithgow Palace is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,329 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Beecraigs Country Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,456 travelers.

Set your GPS to Motherwell and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Motherwell beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Strathclyde Country Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,543 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Glasgow. Glasgow 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.

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.

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.

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

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

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Glasgow’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Scotland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Scotland forever.

Journey into the unknown at George Square, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,066 reviews.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider La Lanterna, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Glasgow. 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!