5-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, and Glasgow and surrounding area

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Description

Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Scotland. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Stirling. 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 Edinburgh, 1 night in Aberdeen, and 1 night in Glasgow. 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 Edinburgh, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Stirling, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Edinburgh - arrival day

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
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  • The Royal Mile
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Edinburgh and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 Royal Mile or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Edinburgh. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Edinburgh. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to book a table at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The Newsroom Bar & Eatery. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Edinburgh tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Panda & Sons, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cafe Royal is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Edinburgh, and Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 38 min

  • Holyrood Park
  • Holyrood Palace
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • HMY Britannia
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aberdeen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Holyrood Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Holyrood Palace. Holyrood Palace is an official residence with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 reviews.

National Museum Of Scotland is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Hmy Britannia. This royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a famous botanical garden in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Aberdeen's best restaurants.

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

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

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 281 km, 3 hours 50 min

  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Camera Obscura
  • Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Glasgow. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Aberdeen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Edinburgh. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 33 min. When you arrive in Edinburgh, it's time to take a break from the road.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Scottish National Gallery. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors. Attracting more than 660,741 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

When you’re finished at Scottish National Gallery, head to Camera Obscura. This one-of-a-kind visitor centre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors. Visiting Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre means you'll be one of 238,542 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Castle. This castle is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Glasgow, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Glasgow. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Glasgow by securing a reservation at Ox and Finch. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of mediterranean cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Cail Bruich, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern british menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

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 Bar 91. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Glasgow, Stirling, and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • Glasgow
  • Stirling
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Drive 121 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • George Square
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Stirling Castle
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow, and Stirling. 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 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, George Square is a great place to start. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,066 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Riverside Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This site gets more than 1,037,594 visitors annually. The art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Kelvingrove Park. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 reviews.

Stirling’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Glasgow behind. This drive usually takes around 38 min. Stirling welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stirling Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Edinburgh. Edinburgh offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Edinburgh. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Heron in Edinburgh by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Heron offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Condita, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at The Kitchin, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Hoot The Redeemer, known for its inviting atmosphere. Albanach is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Bow Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Edinburgh - departure day

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
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  • Dean Village
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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 Edinburgh before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Edinburgh’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.

Drop by the renowned Dean Village. This popular village has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Kitchin, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Witchery by the Castle? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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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