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

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Photo of Dunnottar Castle. An amazing scottish landscape. Stonehaven, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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Explore the best of Scotland on a remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Aberdeen, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Inverness, Lewiston, Fortrose, Cawdor, Poolewe, Crathie, and Braemar.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Scotland. You will spend 2 nights in Aberdeen and 3 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 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 Loch Ness are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Inverness, Lewiston, Fortrose, Cawdor, Poolewe, Crathie, and Braemar, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Aberdeen - Arrival day
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  • Duthie Park
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Aberdeen and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 1 night and explore what to see in Aberdeen, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated dining spot in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mi Amore, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Tippling House. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberdeen.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Aberdeen
  • Inverness
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Drive 183 km, 3 hours 8 min

  • Glenfiddich Distillery
  • Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
  • Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
  • Eden Court Inverness
  • St Mary's Roman Catholic Church
  • More

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.

One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Glenfiddich Distillery. This eye-catching distillery will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre and learn what makes this instagrammable visitor center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Inverness Museum And Art Gallery. After exploring the museum, head to Eden Court Inverness. This curiosity-inducing performing arts theater is a highlight in Aberdeen. As your day continues, stop by St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, known for its photogenic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. 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 Inverness. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Simpsons, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kingsmills Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Inverness.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

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Day3

Day 3

  • Inverness
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Drive 187 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Loch Ness
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Chanonry Point
  • Clava cairns
  • Cawdor Castle
  • More

Wake up to day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of the Scottish Highlands, Lewiston, Fortrose, Inverness, and Cawdor. With 2 nights to stay in Inverness, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Whatever your travel style is, Loch Ness is an essential stop in Inverness. This often recommended lake provides an insightful glimpse into the region's identity. Next, discover Urquhart Castle, an awe-inspiring castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Chanonry Point, an intriguing whale watching spot. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the worthwhile Clava Cairns. Round off your day at Cawdor Castle, another gem in Inverness with enchanting features to discover.

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

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 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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Hootananny, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Gellions Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Inverness. Innes Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Inverness
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Drive 243 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Victoria Falls
  • Inverewe Garden
  • Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, where you have 1 night left to stay.

To truly experience Inverness, make sure to drop by Victoria Falls. This frequently visited sightseeing destination is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Inverewe Garden, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Inverness. This nature reserve is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Inverness's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Cafe V8, 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 Scotch & Rye, 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 Johnny Foxes, 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 Market Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Inverness
  • Aberdeen
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Drive 286 km, 4 hours 38 min

  • Cairngorm Reindeer Herd
  • Balmoral Castle
  • Braemar Duck Pond
  • Dess Waterfall
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip in Scotland, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Glenmore, Crathie, Braemar, and Dess are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aberdeen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Cairngorm Reindeer Herd has to offer. This is an increasingly popular wildlife reserve you should not miss. Another must-see is Balmoral Castle, an underrated castle in Inverness.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Braemar Duck Pond. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Dess Waterfall, another of the hamlet’s worthwhile attractions.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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.

Aberdeen 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 Aberdeen.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Foodstory, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ninety-Nine? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Miller & Carter Aberdeen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberdeen.

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

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

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Day6

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 places to visit today is 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.

Take some time to indulge in shopping at Aberdeen’s popular marketplace, Aberdeen Market. 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 Aberdeen.

Dine in style at The City Bar and Diner, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Maggie's Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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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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