5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Inverness

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Photo of Dunnottar Castle. An amazing scottish landscape. Stonehaven, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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Experience the freedom of the open road on an unforgettable 5-day road trip in Scotland! Embark on a self-drive tour that caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Aberdeen, Crathie, Inverness, Lewiston, Glencoe, Banavie, and Pitlochry.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Scotland. You will spend 2 nights in Aberdeen and 2 nights in Inverness. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Scotland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have you covered.

Upon arriving in Aberdeen, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Scotland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Scotland. Urquhart Castle and Fairy Pools are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Crathie, Inverness, Lewiston, Glencoe, Banavie, and Pitlochry, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Scotland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Scotland.

Throughout your road trip in Scotland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Scotland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodations, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Scotland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Scotland today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Aberdeen - Arrival day
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  • Duthie Park
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Welcome to Aberdeen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night discovering what to see in Aberdeen before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Aberdeen 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 Duthie Park. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Aberdeen. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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 The Tippling House, a hidden gem nestled in Aberdeen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Slains Castle, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Northern Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Grill is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Scotland!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Aberdeen
  • Crathie
  • Inverness
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Drive 254 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • Balmoral Castle
  • Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
  • Eden Court Inverness
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Crathie, Glenmore, and Inverness. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Inverness, where will spend 2 nights.

Crathie’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aberdeen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 21 min. Crathie welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Balmoral Castle, an underrated castle that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Crathie’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glenmore. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 52 min. When you arrive in Glenmore, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, a curiosity-inducing wildlife reserve that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking in Glenmore’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Inverness. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 54 min. When you arrive in Inverness, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Eden Court Inverness, an often recommended performing arts theater known for its visually striking features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Simpsons, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kingsmills Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Inverness.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Gunsmiths Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Malt Room, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Maccallums Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Inverness
  • Lewiston
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Drive 370 km, 5 hours 57 min

  • Urquhart Castle
  • 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
  • Sligachan Waterfalls
  • Fairy Pools
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On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Lewiston, Sligachan, and the Scottish Highlands.

Set your GPS to Lewiston and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lewiston beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Urquhart Castle and explore the visually striking features.

When you’ve had your share of Lewiston, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sligachan. Your travel time is around 2 hours 1 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit 슬리가찬 오래된 다리, a worthwhile historical landmark that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

The Scottish Highlands’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Sligachan behind. This drive usually takes around 6 min. The Scottish Highlands welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in the Scottish Highlands is Sligachan Waterfalls, a beloved waterfall that draws attention for its serene features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Fairy Pools, a romantic waterfall that stands out in the village.

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

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.

Dine in style at MacGregor's, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The White House boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Kitchen Brasserie. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.

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

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Inverness
  • Glencoe
  • Banavie
  • Pitlochry
  • Aberdeen
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Drive 442 km, 6 hours 32 min

  • Glencoe Lochan Trail
  • Neptune's Staircase
  • The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Glencoe, Banavie, and Pitlochry. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Aberdeen, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Inverness, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Glencoe. Your travel time is around 2 hours 13 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Glencoe Lochan Trail, a frequently visited hiking area that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Banavie may take around 37 min. Upon your arrival in Banavie, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Neptune's Staircase, a locally appreciated historical landmark known for its breathtaking features.

Pitlochry’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Banavie behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 40 min. Pitlochry welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry, a beloved art installation in Pitlochry. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Aberdeen. Aberdeen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aberdeen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Foodstory, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ninety-Nine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Miller & Carter Aberdeen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberdeen.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at St. Machar Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Old Blackfriars, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Krakatoa provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Aberdeen - Departure day
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  • Union Street
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Day 5 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Aberdeen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

At the top of the list of places to visit today is Union Street, a street that captures the true essence of Aberdeen. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Aberdeen’s popular marketplace, Aberdeen Market. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The City Bar and Diner, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Maggie's Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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!

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Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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

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