Relaxed 14-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness

Day 2 of your self-drive tour in Scotland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Edinburgh 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.

Immerse yourself in Aberdeen’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This historic maritime museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the peaceful features of Duthie Park, a must-visit park 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 David Welch Winter Gardens, an intriguing botanical garden. For a change of scene, check out Hazlehead Park, known for its noteworthy features.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Scotland at Edinburgh. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Kitchin, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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 Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Juniper Edinburgh is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Panda & Sons also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Edinburgh will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Scotland.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Edinburgh Zoo, a popular zoo in the city. Then, head to Dean Village and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking historical landmark.

There are many interesting places to see in Edinburgh and when you are ready for more, go to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This is one of the city’s most interesting spots. After exploring the botanical garden, visit the increasingly popular Calton Hill.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dunfermline, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Edinburgh may take around 28 min. Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Pittencrieff Park, an up-and-coming park in Dunfermline. Explore its idyllic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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 Edinburgh.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

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 Cafe Royal, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Ensign Ewart offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tonic provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Edinburgh, including a historic ship, a palace, a museum, a castle, an art gallery and much more! Start your day at Hmy Britannia. This instagrammable historic ship is an intriguing place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to Holyrood Palace. If historic sites excite you, this palace will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find National Museum Of Scotland. This standout museum is a favorite among visitors.

Edinburgh offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Edinburgh Castle is an impressive spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the detailed National Galleries Of Scotland: Modern One. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this up-and-coming art gallery in Edinburgh.

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.

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 Edinburgh, 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 Angels with Bagpipes, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rabble Taphouse and Grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Black Ivy as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Edinburgh. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Hoot The Redeemer, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Albanach provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Thistle Street Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 5 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!

Edinburgh is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at The Real Mary King's Close, a popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find St Giles' Cathedral, enchanting visitors with its respected appeal. Continue your exploration at Royal Mile. This street is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Edinburgh at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit The Edinburgh Dungeon.

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 Edinburgh.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, 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 Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Waverley Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Royal Oak offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. The Oxford Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Scotland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 4 nights.

Start by visiting Holyrood Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This standout park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Arthur's Seat, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile hiking area renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Edinburgh by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This photogenic distillery is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Camera Obscura also adds charm to your journey, and Scottish National Gallery wraps up your day with its heritage-rich appeal.

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.

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 Glasgow.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Ox and Finch in Glasgow by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Ox and Finch delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious mediterranean cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Cail Bruich, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern british cuisine in the city.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Gallery Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Steps Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bar 91, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Glasgow and visit amazing attractions in Balloch and Glasgow destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Glasgow. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Today’s itinerary in Glasgow covers several incredible sights, including a botanical garden, a park, and a museum. Start your adventure at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This captivating botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Kelvingrove Park, a must-see park in the town.

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 Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This notable museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Riverside Museum, where you can take in its picture-perfect features.

When you’ve had your share of Balloch, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Glasgow. Your travel time is around 34 min.

Loch Lomond Shores is an underrated shopping mall we recommend making time to visit today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Glasgow 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 Alston Bar & Beef, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Glasgow at Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, 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 Elia Greek Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Glasgow tonight.

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.

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

On day 9 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!

Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is George Square. This captivating public square is a detailed place to see in Glasgow. Continue your discovery at Glasgow Cathedral, a grand church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Glasgow, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Green. This notable park offers a noteworthy encounter with Glasgow. Glasgow Science Centre is the last of our recommendations for today. 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.

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.

Exploring the food culture in Glasgow 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.

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.

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

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

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Scotland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Scotland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Set your GPS to Stirling and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stirling beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Wallace Monument. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Stirling, Old Bridge. This beloved historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the village.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cambuskenneth, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stirling. This drive usually takes around 7 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Stirling Castle, a locally renowned castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park, where you can soak in the picturesque surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stirling, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Doune. This drive usually takes around 12 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Doune Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle that draws attention for its stunning features.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Inverness. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Scotland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Simpsons, a top-rated dining spot in Inverness. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kingsmills Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Inverness.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Gunsmiths Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Malt Room offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Maccallums Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 12, 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 Inverness and beyond. With 1 night left in Inverness, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Spean Bridge’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Inverness behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Spean Bridge welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take your self-guided tour to Commando Memorial, an often recommended war memorial that everyone visiting Spean Bridge should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Spean Bridge and set your GPS to Banavie. 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 15 min. Upon reaching Banavie, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Neptune's Staircase, an intriguing historical landmark that draws attention for its historic features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Banavie, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Glenfinnan may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Glenfinnan, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland is an underrated monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour to Glenfinnan Viewpoint, a history-steeped observation deck that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Glenfinnan Viaduct, an eye-catching heritage railway.

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

Exploring the food culture in Inverness 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 Cafe V8, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Scotch & Rye, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Johnny Foxes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Inverness.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Market Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

Day 13 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Inverness. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Aberdeen, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Inverness. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. Clava Cairns is the perfect place to start. This archeological site is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Inverness.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stonehaven. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your journey at Dunnottar Castle and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Stonehaven War Memorial, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the war memorial, continue to Stonehaven Harbour, a visually striking marina.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Aberdeen in this laid-back road trip in Scotland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 delicious meal at Foodstory, a highly-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ninety-Nine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Aberdeen.

Keep the evening going at St. Machar Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Old Blackfriars, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Krakatoa, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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