6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling east to Dundee and Aberdeen

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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 Edinburgh, Dundee, St Cyrus, Stonehaven, Cruden Bay, and Aberdeen. 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 3 nights in Edinburgh, 1 night in Dundee, and 1 night in Aberdeen. 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 National Museum Of Scotland are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, learn more about the unique Holyrood Palace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Royal Mile.

As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Dundee, St Cyrus, Stonehaven, Cruden Bay, and Aberdeen, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Dean Village
Holyrood ParkHolyrood PalaceScottish National GalleryCamera ObscuraEdinburgh Castle
The Royal MileThe Real Mary King's CloseNational Museum of ScotlandHMY BritanniaRoyal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - viewpointDunnottar CastleStonehaven War MemorialStonehaven HarbourNew Slains Castle
Aberdeen Maritime MuseumQueens Links Leisure ParkSeaton ParkHazlehead ParkDuthie Park
Calton Hill

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
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  • Dean Village
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Say hello to Edinburgh! 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 Edinburgh for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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 Dean Village, 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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Nightcap - Cocktail Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Juniper Edinburgh offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Panda & Sons, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 8 min

  • Holyrood Park
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Camera Obscura
  • Edinburgh Castle
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Edinburgh today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Holyrood Park. This mesmerizing park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Holyrood Palace and learn what makes this historic palace unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Scottish National Gallery. After exploring the art gallery, head to Camera Obscura. This well-known museum is a highlight in Edinburgh. As your day continues, stop by Edinburgh Castle, known for its picture-perfect features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Edinburgh by securing a reservation at Heron. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Kitchin, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Royal, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Ensign Ewart offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. Tonic is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Edinburgh
  • Dundee
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Drive 110 km, 2 hours 6 min

  • The Royal Mile
  • The Real Mary King's Close
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • HMY Britannia
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, 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 Dundee. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at Royal Mile, a captivating street in the city. Then, head to The Real Mary King's Close and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Edinburgh, and when you are ready for more, go to National Museum Of Scotland. This is one of the city’s most interesting respected spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the often recommended Hmy Britannia. Not far away, you'll also find Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is a mesmerizing highlight in Edinburgh.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dundee, 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 Dundee's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Daisy Tasker, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Premier Inn Dundee North hotel beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Fort. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dundee tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The King Of Islington, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Bank Bar Dundee, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Salty Dog likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dundee
  • Aberdeen
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Drive 208 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - viewpoint
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Stonehaven War Memorial
  • Stonehaven Harbour
  • New Slains Castle
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, St Cyrus, Stonehaven, and Cruden Bay. 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 agenda in Dundee includes a nature reserve, a castle, a war memorial, a marina and much more! St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - Viewpoint is must-visit nature reserve and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Dunnottar Castle, an interesting castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Stonehaven War Memorial, a picture-perfect war memorial, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dundee. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the locally appreciated Stonehaven Harbour. If you’re looking for more, New Slains Castle is also an often recommended attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aberdeen. 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 Aberdeen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Aberdeen
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 224 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Aberdeen Maritime Museum
  • Queens Links Leisure Park
  • Seaton Park
  • Hazlehead Park
  • Duthie Park
  • More

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 Aberdeen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Aberdeen today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This heritage-rich maritime museum will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Seaton Park. After exploring the park, head to Hazlehead Park. This worthwhile park is a highlight in Aberdeen. As your day continues, stop by Duthie Park, known for its romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Edinburgh. Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rabble Taphouse and Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Black Ivy is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
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  • Calton Hill
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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 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 Calton Hill, a visually striking park before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Edinburgh’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing George Street. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.

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 The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, 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!

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