5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen traveling west to Inverness and Portree
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Scotland as you embark on an unforgettable 5-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Aberdeen, Cawdor, Inverness, Fortrose, Dunvegan, and Portree.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Aberdeen, 1 night in Inverness, and 1 night in Portree. 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 got 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. Dunvegan Castle and Fairy Pools are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Glenmore Forest Park, learn more about the unique Chanonry Point, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Duthie Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Cawdor, Inverness, Fortrose, Dunvegan, and Portree, 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, accommodation, 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!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Aberdeen
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Aberdeen - Arrival day
- More
- Duthie Park
- More
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 immersing yourself in Aberdeen's charm 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, or just 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 Aberdeen. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mi Amore offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Tippling House is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Aberdeen.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Slains Castle after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Northern Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Grill is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Aberdeen
- Inverness
- More
Drive 236 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Cawdor Castle
- Fort George
- Clava cairns
- Chanonry Point
- Eden Court Inverness
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cawdor, the Scottish Highlands, Inverness, and Fortrose. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Inverness, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Aberdeen. Begin your sightseeing with Cawdor Castle. This locally appreciated castle is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Fort George, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Aberdeen, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Clava Cairns. This underrated archeological site is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Chanonry Point, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Eden Court Inverness is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Inverness. Inverness 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 Inverness's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Simpsons, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kingsmills Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Inverness.
Keep the evening going at The Gunsmiths Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Malt Room, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Maccallums Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Inverness and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 3
- Inverness
- Portree
- More
Drive 293 km, 5 hours 18 min
- 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
- Fairy Pools
- Neist Point Trail
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Dunvegan Castle
- More
On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Sligachan, the Scottish Highlands, and Dunvegan. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Portree, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at 슬리가찬 오래된 다리. This intriguing historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Fairy Pools, one of the hamlet’s best highlights.
Next, check out Neist Point Trail, one of the most beloved places to see in Inverness. This hiking area is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Neist Point Lighthouse. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this lighthouse offers. Then, head to Dunvegan Castle, a top-rated castle that adds another dimension to your day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Portree. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Portree. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 4
- Portree
- Aberdeen
- More
Drive 430 km, 6 hours 34 min
- Strome Castle
- Cairngorm Mountain
- Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
- Glenmore Forest Park
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - North Strome, the Scottish Highlands, and Glenmore. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberdeen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Immerse yourself in Portree’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Strome Castle. This visually striking castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Cairngorm Mountain, a must-visit ski resort in the hamlet.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, an often recommended wildlife reserve. For a change of scene, check out Glenmore Forest Park, known for its mesmerizing features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Aberdeen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Foodstory, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aberdeen at Ninety-Nine, 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 Miller & Carter Aberdeen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Aberdeen tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at St. Machar Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Old Blackfriars, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Krakatoa provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 5
- Aberdeen - Departure day
- More
- Union Street
- More
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 things to do today is to explore 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.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Aberdeen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Aberdeen Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Aberdeen.
Savor the flavors at The City Bar and Diner, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Maggie's Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom
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.
