Travel packages in Scotland

Road trips in Scotland

5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Elgin and surrounding area

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Photo of view of Inverness, a city on Scotland’s northeast coast, where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth.

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Explore the best of Scotland on a remarkable 5-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Dyke.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Scotland. You will spend 3 nights in Inverness and 1 night in Elgin. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Inverness, 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. Urquhart Castle and Glenfinnan Viaduct are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Commando Memorial, learn more about the unique Loch Ness, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chanonry Point.

As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Dyke, 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, accommodations, 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

Inverness - Arrival day
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Eden Court Inverness
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Welcome to Inverness, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Inverness before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness, 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 Inverness. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas 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 Inverness, 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.

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

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

Day 2

Inverness
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours 16 min

Glenfinnan Viaduct
Glenfinnan Viewpoint
Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
Neptune's Staircase
Commando Memorial
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On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Glenfinnan, Banavie, and Spean Bridge. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Inverness, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Let Glenfinnan Viaduct set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect heritage railway before continuing your journey. Glenfinnan Viewpoint is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing observation deck 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 Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland. This picture-perfect monument is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Neptune's Staircase and Commando Memorial.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Inverness.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at MacGregor's, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The White House? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Kitchen Brasserie as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Inverness.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Hootananny, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gellions Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Innes Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 3

Inverness
Moray
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Drive 232 km, 4 hours 6 min

Loch Ness
Urquhart Castle
Chanonry Point
Fort George
Clava cairns
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Inverness, Lewiston, and Fortrose. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Elgin, where will spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Loch Ness has to offer. This is an underrated lake you should not miss. Another must-see is Urquhart Castle, an interesting castle in Inverness.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Chanonry Point. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Fort George, another of the region’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Clava Cairns, a culturally significant place of interest in the region.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Elgin, 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Elgin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 4

Moray
Inverness
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Drive 168 km, 2 hours 58 min

Elgin Cathedral
Bow Fiddle Rock
Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
Duffus Castle
Brodie Castle
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Dyke. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Inverness, where you'll spend 1 night.

Start your day at Elgin Cathedral. This symbolic church is an intriguing place to see in Elgin. Then, wander over to Bow Fiddle Rock. If serene sites excite you, this rock formation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre. This standout visitor center is a favorite among visitors.

Elgin offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Duffus Castle is a frequently visited spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the instagrammable Brodie Castle. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved castle.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Inverness. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe V8, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Scotch & Rye, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Johnny Foxes. 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 Market Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Scotland.

Day 5

Inverness - Departure day
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Whin Park
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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 Inverness 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 Whin Park. This beloved park is a hotspot among locals.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Inverness’s popular marketplace, Eastgate Shopping Centre. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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