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

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Photo of the scenic Dean Village in a sunny afternoon, in Edinburgh, Scotland.
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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 Edinburgh, Pitlochry, Blair Atholl, Inverness, Foyers, Lewiston, Aviemore, and Newtonmore.

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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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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.

Find your way to your hotel in Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Theatre Royal Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Juniper Edinburgh is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Panda & Sons also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Pitlochry, Blair Atholl, and Inverness. 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 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry. This often recommended art installation is a visually striking place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Blair Castle, Hercules Garden, Statue Of Hercules, a stunning castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Eden Court Inverness. This beloved performing arts theater offers a romantic encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to St Mary's Roman Catholic Church to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Edinburgh.

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.

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

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Gunsmiths Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Malt Room provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Maccallums Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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
  • More

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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Inverness. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Falls Of Foyers is the perfect place to start. This waterfall is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Inverness. Next, head to Loch Ness, an increasingly popular lake, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Corrimony Chambered Cairn. This respected archeological site is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Urquhart Castle and Blairbeg Park. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey. Finish the day with a visit to Falls Of Divach, a mesmerizing waterfall in Inverness.

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

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 MacGregor's, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The White House, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Kitchen Brasserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

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

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

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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
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Aviemore, Glenmore, and Newtonmore, 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 Edinburgh. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Inverness, including a heritage railway, a wildlife reserve, and a museum. Start your adventure at Strathspey Railway - (aviemore, Station). This underrated heritage railway is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cairngorm Reindeer Herd located in Inverness for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Highland Folk Museum. Its historic features will captivate you.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tigerlily. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Royal, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Ensign Ewart is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tonic is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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, we recommend visiting Edinburgh Castle, a culturally significant castle before you head out.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rabble Taphouse and Grill is another top choice with a popular 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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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.
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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