6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Inverness and Portree
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Explore the best of Scotland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Aberdeen, Tarland, Glenlivet, Braemar, Inverness, Lewiston, Foyers, Stromeferry, Portree, Glencoe, Banavie, and Port na Craig. 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 Aberdeen, 2 nights in Inverness, and 1 night in Portree. 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 Aberdeen, 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 Fairy Pools are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Loch Ness, learn more about the unique Duthie Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Neptune's Staircase.
As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Tarland, Glenlivet, Braemar, Inverness, Lewiston, Foyers, Stromeferry, Portree, Glencoe, Banavie, and Port na Craig, 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
- Aberdeen - Arrival day
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- Duthie Park
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Say hello to Aberdeen! Your exciting road trip through Scotland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Aberdeen for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
Aberdeen 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 Duthie Park, or just 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 Aberdeen. 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 Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Tippling House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Slains Castle, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Northern Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Grill is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Aberdeen
- Inverness
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Drive 314 km, 5 hours 25 min
- Tomnaverie Stone Circle
- The Glenlivet Distillery
- Braemar Castle
- Clava cairns
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Tarland, Glenlivet, Braemar, 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, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Aberdeen, including an archeological site, a distillery, and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Tomnaverie Stone Circle. This locally appreciated archeological site is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to The Glenlivet, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Aberdeen on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Braemar Castle, an up-and-coming castle in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Clava Cairns.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Simpsons, 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 Kingsmills Hotel, 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 Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa, 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 enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Gunsmiths Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Malt Room offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 3
- Inverness
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Drive 116 km, 2 hours 23 min
- Urquhart Castle
- Eden Court Inverness
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
- Loch Ness
- Falls of Foyers
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Inverness, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Inverness, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Urquhart Castle, a captivating castle in the village. Then, head to Eden Court Inverness and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching performing arts theater.
There are many interesting places to see in Inverness, and when you are ready for more, go to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery. This is one of the village’s most beloved heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the beloved Loch Ness. Not far away, you'll also find Falls Of Foyers. This waterfall is a romantic highlight 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.
Dine in style at MacGregor's, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The White House boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Kitchen Brasserie. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Hootananny, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Gellions Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Innes Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 4
- Inverness
- Portree
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Drive 280 km, 4 hours 46 min
- Loch Carron View Point
- Eas a' Bhradain
- 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
- Fairy Pools
- Rigg Viewpoint
- The Quiraing
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Stromeferry, the Scottish Highlands, and Sligachan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Portree. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today's adventure in Inverness promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Loch Carron View Point. This romantic observation deck is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Eas A' Bhradain, another eye-catching attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to 슬리가찬 오래된 다리, one of the village’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Fairy Pools. This peaceful waterfall is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Rigg Viewpoint, a worthwhile observation deck, and take a stroll around the area. If you want to extend your self-guided sightseeing tour, go check out The Quiraing before you head back to your hotel.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Portree, 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 Portree's best restaurants.
Say good night to Portree and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 5
- Portree
- Aberdeen
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Drive 509 km, 7 hours 25 min
- Glencoe Lochan Trail
- Neptune's Staircase
- Pitlochry Fish Ladder
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On day 5 of your road trip in Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Glencoe, Banavie, and Port na Craig. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aberdeen, where you will stay for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Portree’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Glencoe Lochan Trail. This mesmerizing hiking area is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the gorgeous features of Neptune's Staircase, a must-visit historical landmark in the village.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Pitlochry Fish Ladder, an underrated historical landmark.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aberdeen. Aberdeen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you explore more of Aberdeen, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Foodstory, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aberdeen at Ninety-Nine, 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 Miller & Carter Aberdeen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Aberdeen tonight.
Continue your lively evening at St. Machar Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Old Blackfriars is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Krakatoa ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Aberdeen - Departure day
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- Union Street
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Day 6 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Aberdeen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Union Street, a street that captures the true essence of Aberdeen. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Aberdeen's best shopping area, Bon Accord & St. Nicholas Centre. 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 Aberdeen.
You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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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