5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dundee to Edinburgh
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Scotland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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 Dundee and 2 nights in Edinburgh. 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 Dundee, 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. Edinburgh Castle and National Museum Of Scotland are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Holyrood Palace, learn more about the unique Royal Mile, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dean Village.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dundee, Edinburgh, Glencoe, Banavie, and Glenfinnan, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Dundee - Arrival day
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- Dundee Law
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Welcome to Dundee, 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 Dundee's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Dundee 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 Dundee Law, 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 Dundee. 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 Dundee, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Daisy Tasker, a top-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Premier Inn Dundee North hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Fort. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The King Of Islington, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Bank Bar Dundee offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dundee. The Salty Dog is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Dundee
- Edinburgh
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Drive 102 km, 1 hour 51 min
- National Museum of Scotland
- St Giles' Cathedral
- The Royal Mile
- Calton Hill
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Edinburgh. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dundee allows for both. Start by heading to National Museum Of Scotland. This popular museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover St Giles' Cathedral, a breathtaking church, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Mile, a well-known street. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the increasingly popular Calton Hill.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Theatre Royal Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Juniper Edinburgh offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Panda & Sons. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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.
Day 3
- Edinburgh
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 6 min
- Arthur's Seat
- Holyrood Palace
- Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
- Edinburgh Castle
- Dean Village
- Leith
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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.
A top thing to do today is to explore Leith, a must-see neighborhood in Edinburgh. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Edinburgh on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Arthur's Seat is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic hiking area before continuing your journey. Holyrood Palace is your next stop. This captivating palace is one of the best-rated sights in Edinburgh.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This picture-perfect distillery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Edinburgh Castle and Dean Village.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Edinburgh's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Make sure to reserve a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Novotel Edinburgh Centre, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Tigerlily, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Cafe Royal, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Ensign Ewart is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tonic also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- Dundee
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Drive 467 km, 7 hours 3 min
- Glencoe War Memorial
- Neptune's Staircase
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
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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 - Glencoe, Banavie, and Glenfinnan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dundee. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a war memorial, a historical landmark, a heritage railway, an observation deck and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally appreciated Glencoe War Memorial. Just a short distance away is Neptune's Staircase, a historic historical landmark that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Glenfinnan Viaduct, one of the village’s most underrated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Glenfinnan Viewpoint.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dundee. Dundee offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dundee. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a top-rated dining spot in Dundee. If you're in the mood for something new, try Porters Bar & Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Premier Inn Dundee East hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dundee.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Trades House after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Speedwell Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Draffens also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Dundee - Departure day
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- Slessor Gardens
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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 Dundee before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Slessor Gardens, a picture-perfect park before you head out.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dundee.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Bird & Bear, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Don Michele Italian Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Dundee. 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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