5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Elgin and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Scotland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Dyke. 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 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 got 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, 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
- 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 immersing yourself in Inverness's charm 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Inverness. 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 Inverness, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Simpsons, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kingsmills Hotel? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Inverness.
Continue your lively evening at The Gunsmiths Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Malt Room is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Maccallums Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
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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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Inverness, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming village of Inverness. Your adventure starts at Glenfinnan Viaduct, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This up-and-coming observation deck is known for its breathtaking appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Inverness's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland. This culturally significant monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Neptune's Staircase is also worth visiting, along with Commando Memorial. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Inverness and your accommodation.
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 and reflect on the day'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.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Hootananny, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gellions Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Innes 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!
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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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Inverness, Lewiston, and Fortrose. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Elgin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Inverness, including a lake, a castle, a whale watching spot, an archeological site and much more! Start your day at Loch Ness. This eye-catching lake is an increasingly popular place to see in Inverness. Then, wander over to Urquhart Castle. If enchanting sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Chanonry Point. This mesmerizing whale watching spot 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, Fort George is a beloved spot in the region that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the standout Clava Cairns. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved archeological site.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Elgin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Elgin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!
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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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Dyke. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Inverness, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Elgin. Begin your sightseeing with Elgin Cathedral. This frequently visited church is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Bow Fiddle Rock, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Elgin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre. This frequently visited visitor center is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Duffus Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Brodie Castle is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Inverness, 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 Inverness's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Cafe V8, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Scotch & Rye boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Johnny Foxes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.
Keep the evening going at Market Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day 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 curiosity-inducing park is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Inverness’s shopping center, the lively Inverness Victorian Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Inverness.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar One Inverness, another premier location with a delectable menu.
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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