6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen traveling west to Inverness

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Dufftown, Craigellachie, and Inverness. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Inverness, where will spend 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberdeen and set your GPS to Dufftown. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. Upon reaching Dufftown, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Glenfiddich Distillery. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the distillery before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Craigellachie. This car ride takes around 6 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre, a frequently visited visitor center that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Inverness may take around 1 hour 18 min. Upon your arrival in Inverness, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery, an up-and-coming museum that everyone visiting Inverness should see. Next, head to Eden Court Inverness. This romantic performing arts theater is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, a standout church popular among locals as well as 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.

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.

Dine in style at Simpsons, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kingsmills Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Gunsmiths Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Malt Room is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Maccallums Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience the Scottish Highlands and Poolewe. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Inverness, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to the Scottish Highlands may take around 1 hour 20 min. Upon your arrival in the Scottish Highlands, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Victoria Falls is a curiosity-inducing point of interest we recommend visiting today.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Poolewe, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Poolewe, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Inverewe Garden, an underrated botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Inverness is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Inverness.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe V8, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Scotch & Rye is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Johnny Foxes. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Inverness tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Market Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Head back to your accommodation in Inverness and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland.

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, including Glenmore, Crathie, Braemar, and Dess. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Aberdeen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Inverness, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Glenmore. This drive usually takes around 51 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Cairngorm Reindeer Herd and explore the visually striking features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Crathie may take around 1 hour 52 min. Upon your arrival in Crathie, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Balmoral Castle, an often recommended castle that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Braemar. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Braemar Duck Pond and explore the majestic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aberdeen. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Foodstory, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ninety-Nine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aberdeen tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into St. Machar Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Old Blackfriars offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Krakatoa, another top-rated bar in the area.

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