6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Stirling, Inveraray, and Portree
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Scotland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Edinburgh, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Skinflats, Falkirk, Luss, Inveraray, Dunvegan, Portree, Banavie, and Glenfinnan. 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 Edinburgh, 1 night in Stirling, 1 night in Inveraray, 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 Edinburgh, 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. Edinburgh Castle and The Kelpies are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Stirling Castle, learn more about the unique Royal Mile, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Wallace Monument.
As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Skinflats, Falkirk, Luss, Inveraray, Dunvegan, Portree, Banavie, and Glenfinnan, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
- More
- The Royal Mile
- More
Welcome to Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Edinburgh 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 Royal Mile, 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 Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, 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 The Theatre Royal Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Juniper Edinburgh. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Panda & Sons, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Edinburgh
- Stirling
- More
Drive 124 km, 2 hours 30 min
- Calton Hill
- Stirling Castle
- The National Wallace Monument
- The Kelpies
- Callendar Park
- 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 5 vibrant destinations - Edinburgh, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Skinflats, and Falkirk. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Stirling. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. The first attraction of today is Calton Hill. This curiosity-inducing park is a respected place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Stirling Castle, a culturally significant castle with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Wallace Monument. This locally renowned monument offers a historic encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to The Kelpies to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Callendar Park, an up-and-coming park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Edinburgh.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Stirling. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Stirling, 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Stirling. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hermanns, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Stirling this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Curly Coo Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Settle Inn is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, No 2 Baker Street 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!
Day 3
- Stirling
- Inveraray
- More
Drive 203 km, 3 hours 16 min
- Loch Lomond
- Inveraray Castle
- Inveruglas Pyramid - A Ceann Mòr
- More
On day 3 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 Luss, Inveraray, and Inveruglas. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inveraray, where you will stay for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Stirling today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Loch Lomond. This instagrammable lake will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Inveraray Castle and learn what makes this romantic castle unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Inveruglas Pyramid - A Ceann Mòr.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Inveraray. Inveraray offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Inveraray's best restaurants.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 4
- Inveraray
- Portree
- More
Drive 370 km, 5 hours 47 min
- Eas a' Bhradain
- 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
- Fairy Pools
- Dunvegan Castle
- More
Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore the Scottish Highlands, Sligachan, and Dunvegan, 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 Portree. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Inveraray. Some of the region’s most loved attractions await. Eas A' Bhradain is the perfect place to start. This waterfall is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Inveraray. Next, head to 슬리가찬 오래된 다리, a beloved historical landmark, known for its enchanting features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Fairy Pools. This romantic waterfall offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Dunvegan Castle adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Portree's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Portree
- Edinburgh
- More
Drive 460 km, 7 hours 16 min
- Neptune's Staircase
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Steall Waterfall
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Banavie, Glenfinnan, and Tigh a Steill. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in Portree. Begin your sightseeing with Neptune's Staircase. This up-and-coming historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Glenfinnan Viaduct, another must-visit attraction that enhances the village’s allure.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Portree, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Steall Waterfall. This intriguing waterfall is a traveler-favorite.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Edinburgh. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider Novotel Edinburgh Centre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tigerlily. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cafe Royal is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Ensign Ewart, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Tonic. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 6
- Edinburgh - Departure day
- More
- Edinburgh Castle
- More
Day 6 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Edinburgh 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, we recommend visiting Edinburgh Castle, a culturally significant castle before you head out.
On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Edinburgh’s popular marketplace, Grassmarket. 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 Edinburgh.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom
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.