13-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Oban, Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen

Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Edinburgh and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 3 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.

Edinburgh 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 Dean Village or 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 Edinburgh. 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 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Heron in Edinburgh by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Heron offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Condita, 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 The Kitchin, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Panda & Sons, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Cafe Royal. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Ensign Ewart, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Scotland!

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

Drop by the renowned Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This popular botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Scottish National Gallery. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors, this art museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, drawing over 238,542 yearly visitors. This museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,926 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 travelers, this castle is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Edinburgh.

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.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Cafe Andaluz, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Edinburgh tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hoot The Redeemer stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Albanach offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Bow Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 3 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to HMY Britannia. This royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,023 reviews.

Next up, make your way to National Museum of Scotland. This national museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Holyrood Palace. This official residence has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Arthur's Seat. This mountain is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,238 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Kitchin, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Witchery by the Castle offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Whiski Bar & Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oban, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Royal Mile. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

Continue your journey at The Real Mary King's Close. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 travelers from near and far.

Edinburgh is also the home of St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Edinburgh Zoo. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 11,987 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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

As you explore more of Oban, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Perle Oban Hotel & Spa, highly recommended for tonight's dining.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Oban, Inveraray, Luss, West Dunbartonshire, and Balloch, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Glasgow. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,619 visitors.

Set your GPS to Inveraray and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Inveraray beckons with new experiences!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Inveraray Castle. Previous visitors have rated this country house an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,604 reviews.

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.

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

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Gallery Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar 91, offering a different kind of charm.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Glasgow Botanic Gardens, a remarkable botanical garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,580 travelers. Given the site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 1,037,594 people visit it every year.

Kelvingrove Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 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 Glasgow Cathedral. This well-loved cathedral boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 6,737 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, George Square awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a square, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,066 previous visitors.

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. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

As you explore more of Glasgow, 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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Alston Bar & Beef, 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 Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, 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 Elia Greek Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Glasgow. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Glasgow, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Journey into the unknown at Pollok Country Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Glasgow Science Centre is a recommended place to visit. This skyscraper is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,454 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Glasgow is Riverside Museum. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Glasgow offers an experience you will remember.

Glasgow Green is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Glasgow. This stadium promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glasgow and set your GPS to Motherwell. 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 18 min. Upon reaching Motherwell, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Glasgow. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to book a table at The Willow Tea Rooms, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Glasgow at Òran Mór, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Stereo. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Glasgow tonight.

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

On day 8 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 Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Doune. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Cambuskenneth’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. Cambuskenneth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stirling, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cambuskenneth to Stirling may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stirling, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Stirling Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,632 visitors.

Stirling Old Town Jail is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 913 visitors.

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This zoo has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,922 visitors.

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

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.

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

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.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Inverness has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Inverness by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the region.

Kick off the day at Eden Court Inverness, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,725 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 Inverness's best restaurants.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe V8, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Scotch & Rye is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Johnny Foxes. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Inverness tonight.

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.

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

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Glenfinnan, Banavie, and Spean Bridge. You still have 1 night left in Inverness.

Upon your arrival in Glenfinnan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Glenfinnan Viaduct, a remarkable stone bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,217 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,393 travelers.

Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,167 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Banavie.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Neptune's Staircase. This much-appreciated staircase locks is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,895 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Spean Bridge.

Make Commando Memorial one of your first sightseeing stops in Spean Bridge. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,656 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Bar One Inverness, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Black Isle Bar & Rooms, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Mustard Seed Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Market Bar, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Inverness, Stonehaven, and St Cyrus. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aberdeen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Clava cairns is a great place to start. This group is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,316 visitors.

After soaking in Inverness’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stonehaven. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 31 min. When you arrive in Stonehaven, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Dunnottar Castle is a great place to start. This rock castle is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Stonehaven Harbour. This harbor has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,510 travelers.

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

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

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

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Northern Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Grill for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Old Blackfriars is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 12 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Dunfermline, Larbert, and Skinflats. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dunfermline. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Dunfermline Abbey one of your first sightseeing stops in Dunfermline. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,297 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Pittencrieff Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,956 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dunfermline, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Larbert. This drive usually takes around 34 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Falkirk Wheel. This boat lift is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Larbert, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,951 visitors.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

Day 13 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Edinburgh before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Edinburgh’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.

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.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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!