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

1 / 30
Photo of Dunnottar Castle. An amazing scottish landscape. Stonehaven, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in Scotland as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Aberdeen, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Inverness, Lewiston, Fortrose, Cawdor, Poolewe, Crathie, and Braemar.

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 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 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 Loch Ness are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Chanonry Point, learn more about the unique Balmoral Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Duthie Park.

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, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Aberdeen

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Aberdeen - Arrival day
  • More
  • Duthie Park
  • More

Welcome to Aberdeen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Aberdeen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, an iconic dining spot in Aberdeen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mi Amore, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Tippling House, a hidden gem nestled in Aberdeen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Slains Castle, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Northern Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Grill also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Aberdeen
  • Inverness
  • More

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

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Dufftown, Craigellachie, and Inverness, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Inverness. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Aberdeen, including a distillery, a visitor center, a museum, a performing arts theater, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Glenfiddich Distillery. This locally appreciated distillery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre located in Aberdeen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Inverness Museum And Art Gallery. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Eden Court Inverness. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this performing arts theater. Next up is St Mary's Roman Catholic Church, a highly recommended church.

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.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Simpsons, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kingsmills Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Inverness.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Gunsmiths Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Malt Room is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Maccallums Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Inverness
  • More

Drive 187 km, 3 hours 26 min

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

On day 3 of your road trip in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Inverness for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience the Scottish Highlands, Lewiston, Fortrose, Inverness, and Cawdor to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Inverness. Begin your sightseeing with Loch Ness. This increasingly popular lake is one of the top attractions in the region. Proceed to Urquhart Castle, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Inverness, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Chanonry Point. This increasingly popular whale watching spot is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Clava Cairns, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Cawdor Castle is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Inverness's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hootananny after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gellions Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Innes Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Inverness
  • More

Drive 243 km, 3 hours 34 min

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Inverness for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in the Scottish Highlands and Poolewe.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Next, go to Inverewe Garden.

After visiting Victoria Falls and Inverewe Garden, have a stroll along Inverness's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. This idyllic nature reserve offers a unique experience.

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 an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Cafe V8, a popular restaurant in Inverness. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Inverness at Scotch & Rye, 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 Johnny Foxes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Inverness tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Market Bar, where the evening is just getting started.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Inverness
  • Aberdeen
  • More

Drive 286 km, 4 hours 38 min

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

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

Today’s route brings fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Cairngorm Reindeer Herd. This often recommended wildlife reserve is a visually striking place to see in Inverness. Continue your discovery at Balmoral Castle, a history-steeped castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Inverness, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this hamlet so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Braemar Duck Pond. This frequently visited lake offers a serene encounter with Inverness. Next, make your way to Dess Waterfall to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Inverness.

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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Aberdeen. 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.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at St. Machar Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Old Blackfriars for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Krakatoa is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Aberdeen - Departure day
  • More
  • Union Street
  • More

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.

One of the best things to do on your last day 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, Aberdeen Market. 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The City Bar and Diner, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Maggie's Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

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.
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.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.