Relaxed 12-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Edinburgh and Glasgow

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Inverness, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Inverness will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Scotland.

Urquhart Castle is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This romantic castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Fort George, another must-visit landmark and beloved castle renowned for its picture-perfect features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Inverness by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cawdor Castle. This instagrammable castle is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Inverness experience. We also recommend visiting Clava Cairns, an underrated archeological site. Nearby, you'll also find Glenmore Forest Park, ready to add charm to your journey.

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

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 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.

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

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

Your relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 3 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Scotland better by exploring the top attractions of Inverness and beyond. With 1 night left in Inverness, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whatever your travel style is, Glenfinnan Viaduct is an essential stop in Inverness. This underrated heritage railway provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Glenfinnan Viewpoint, an enchanting observation deck, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland, an up-and-coming monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Neptune's Staircase. Round off your day at Commando Memorial, another gem in Inverness with culturally significant features to discover.

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

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 Inverness, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Cafe V8, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Scotch & Rye offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Johnny Foxes is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Inverness.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Market Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

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

On day 5 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!

Whether you decide to explore Edinburgh on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Visiting Calton Hill is always a good idea. This curiosity-inducing park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Royal Mile, a must-see street in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This popular museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to St Giles' Cathedral, where you can take in symbolic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Museum Of Scotland. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Novotel Edinburgh Centre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tigerlily. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Edinburgh’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

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

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

Day 6 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!

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the well-known Edinburgh Zoo and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Dean Village, a romantic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, one of the city’s most well-known spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Holyrood Palace. When you're finished at the palace, Holyrood Park awaits your visit. This park is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rabble Taphouse and Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Black Ivy is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Albanach offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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

Whatever your travel style is, Hmy Britannia is an essential stop in Edinburgh. This frequently visited historic ship provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Scottish National Gallery, a visually striking art gallery, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Camera Obscura, an interesting museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. Round off your day at Edinburgh Castle, another gem in Edinburgh with awe-inspiring features to discover.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

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

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

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

Day 8 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Scotland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Blackness. By evening, drive toward the Glasgow, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Blackness Castle and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, The Kelpies, a breathtaking art installation that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Callendar House, one of the village’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the interesting Falkirk Wheel. When you're finished at the monument, Strathclyde Country Park awaits your visit. This park is a scenic highlight on today's itinerary.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Glasgow. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cail Bruich is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern british cuisine in the city.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Glasgow. The bars in Glasgow make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Gallery Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Steps Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar 91 provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Glasgow and visit amazing attractions in Balloch and Glasgow, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Glasgow, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Whether you decide to explore Balloch on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Let Loch Lomond Shores set the tone for the day. Glasgow Science Centre is your next stop. This increasingly popular science center is one of the best-rated sights in Glasgow.

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 George Square. This culturally significant public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Glasgow Cathedral and Glasgow Green.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Novotel Glasgow Centre? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Glaschu Restaurant & Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Glasgow.

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

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Balloch can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!

On day 10 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!

Glasgow Botanic Gardens is an ideal stop early in the day. This well-known botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Kelvingrove Park, which may be one of the most romantic 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 Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, a notable museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Riverside Museum and Pollok Country Park.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 11 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Cambuskenneth and drive in the direction of Stirling for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Inverness, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Wallace Monument is an ideal stop early in the day. This well-known monument is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Stirling Castle, which may be one of the most historic 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 Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park, a frequently visited safari park in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Doune Castle.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Inverness. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Scotland.

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 Inverness.

Enjoy a delicious meal at River House, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bar One Inverness, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland!