5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness

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Explore the best of Scotland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Edinburgh, Pitlochry, Blair Atholl, Inverness, Foyers, Lewiston, Aviemore, and Newtonmore. This road trip itinerary in Scotland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 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 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 Urquhart Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Loch Ness, learn more about the unique Falls Of Foyers, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Eden Court Inverness.

As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Pitlochry, Blair Atholl, Inverness, Foyers, Lewiston, Aviemore, and Newtonmore, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Old Town
The Enchanted Forest, PitlochryBlair CastleEden Court InvernessSt Mary's Roman Catholic Church
Falls of FoyersLoch NessCorrimony Chambered CairnUrquhart CastleBlairbeg ParkFalls of Divach
Strathspey Steam RailwayCairngorm Reindeer HerdHighland Folk Museum
Edinburgh Castle

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
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  • Old Town
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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 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.

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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, 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 The Theatre Royal Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.

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.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Edinburgh
  • Inverness
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
  • Blair Castle
  • Eden Court Inverness
  • St Mary's Roman Catholic Church
  • More

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Pitlochry, Blair Atholl, and Inverness, 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 Inverness. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an art installation, a castle, a performing arts theater, a church and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Blair Castle, Hercules Garden, Statue Of Hercules, a respected castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Eden Court Inverness, one of the town’s most beloved spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the up-and-coming St Mary's Roman Catholic Church.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Inverness. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Simpsons, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gunsmiths Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Malt Room, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Say good night to Inverness and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Inverness
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Drive 146 km, 2 hours 49 min

  • Falls of Foyers
  • Loch Ness
  • Corrimony Chambered Cairn
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Blairbeg Park
  • Falls of Divach
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Inverness, including a waterfall, a lake, an archeological site, a castle, a park and much more! Start your day at Falls Of Foyers. This instagrammable waterfall is an up-and-coming place to see in Inverness. Then, wander over to Loch Ness. If instagrammable sites excite you, this lake will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Corrimony Chambered Cairn. This breathtaking archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Inverness offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Urquhart Castle is a locally renowned spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the visually striking Blairbeg Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this often recommended park. Wrap up your self-guided tour of Inverness's top attractions with a visit to Falls Of Divach.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at MacGregor's, an iconic dining spot in Inverness. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The White House, a popular restaurant in Inverness. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Kitchen Brasserie, a hidden gem nestled in Inverness. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Inverness
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 277 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Strathspey Steam Railway
  • Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
  • Highland Folk Museum
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Aviemore, Glenmore, and Newtonmore. 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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Inverness on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Strathspey Railway - (aviemore, Station) is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this gorgeous heritage railway before continuing your journey. Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is your next stop. This often recommended wildlife reserve is one of the best-rated sights in Inverness.

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 Highland Folk Museum. This breathtaking museum is a sight to behold.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Edinburgh. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Edinburgh, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tigerlily is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cafe Royal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Ensign Ewart, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tonic also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
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  • Edinburgh Castle
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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.

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

As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Edinburgh's best shopping area, Grassmarket. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rabble Taphouse and Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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