Travel packages in Scotland

Road trips in Scotland

5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Scotland and England With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Glasgow and Windermere

1 / 31

Photo of the scenic Dean Village in a sunny afternoon, in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Perfect travel plans

Everything included

Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights

Select dates

Hotel

Select dates

Car rental

Select dates

Tours & tickets

Select dates

Travel plan

From A to Z

Travel agent

24/7 fast service

Description

Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 5 days. The journey covers Scotland and England, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in Scotland and 1 night in England.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Scotland, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Edinburgh and begin your adventure from there. Explore Edinburgh, Stirling, Balmaha, Glasgow, Eastriggs, Melrose, and Roslin, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of England. Immerse yourself in the allure of Rydal, Grasmere, Near Sawrey, Keswick, and Windermere, where every street tells a story.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Rydal’s Rydal Cave. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Scotland and England will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 5-day self-drive adventure in Scotland and England. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Scotland and England.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Edinburgh

Include flights

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65

I live in

Include car

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days

Destination

Attractions

Overnight

Day

City & Overnight

Attractions

Day 1

Old Town

Day 2

Stirling Castle•Tom Weir Statue•Glasgow Cathedral•Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum•George Square

Day 3

Rydal Cave•National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere•National Trust - Hill Top•Friars Crag•Castlerigg stone circle

Day 4

The Devils Porridge•Melrose Abbey•Roslin Castle•Roslin Glen Country Park

Day 5

Edinburgh Castle

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Edinburgh - Arrival day
More

Old Town
More

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Scotland and England begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Edinburgh in Scotland. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Edinburgh for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Scotland to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Edinburgh before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

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 Old Town, a must-see neighborhood, and 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 the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Edinburgh. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Scotland in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Theatre Royal Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Juniper Edinburgh, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Panda & Sons provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Your multi-country road trip in Scotland and England has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Day 2

Edinburgh
Glasgow
More

Drive 158 km, 3 hours 1 min

Stirling Castle
Tom Weir Statue
Glasgow Cathedral
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
George Square
More

On day 2 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Scotland and England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Stirling in Scotland. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Edinburgh. Begin your sightseeing with Stirling Castle. This popular castle is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Tom Weir Statue, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Edinburgh, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Glasgow Cathedral. This often recommended church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. George Square is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Glasgow. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Scotland and England by rewarding yourself with a taste of Glasgow’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Piper Whisky Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The National Piping Centre offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Pasha Glasgow. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Glasgow.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Gallery Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Steps Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar 91 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Day 3

Glasgow
Bowness-on-Windermere
More

Drive 328 km, 4 hours 58 min

Rydal Cave
National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
National Trust - Hill Top
Friars Crag
Castlerigg stone circle
More

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across Scotland and England, 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 to see in Rydal in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Windermere, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Rydal Cave. This increasingly popular cave is a must-visit in the village.

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 National Trust - Hill Top, an up-and-coming museum in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Friars Crag and Castlerigg Stone Circle.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Windermere. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Windermere's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of England to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the town’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Windermere has them.

Take in the ambiance of Windermere as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Day 4

Bowness-on-Windermere
Edinburgh
More

Drive 273 km, 4 hours 27 min

The Devils Porridge
Melrose Abbey
Roslin Castle
Roslin Glen Country Park
More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Eastriggs in Scotland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, your home for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at the frequently visited The Devils Porridge, a heritage-rich museum in Windermere. Next, go to Melrose Abbey.

After visiting The Devils Porridge and Melrose Abbey, have a stroll along Windermere's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Roslin Castle. This visually striking castle offers a unique experience. Roslin Glen Country Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Edinburgh’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Scotland and England, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Edinburgh. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Savor the flavors at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Novotel Edinburgh Centre beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tigerlily. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

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

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Day 5

Edinburgh - Departure day
More

Edinburgh Castle
More

On day 5 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Edinburgh before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Scotland and England. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Edinburgh’s shopping center, the lively Princes Street. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Edinburgh Castle. This famous castle is a popular place to see in the city.

Get a last taste of Scotland’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Edinburgh and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Scotland and England.

If you're in the mood for something new, try Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Edinburgh for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 5-day European road trip in Scotland and England with fond memories. Safe travels!

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

From 0

Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.