6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Edinburgh and Glasgow
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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 Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Edinburgh, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Glasgow, and Skinflats. 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 Inverness, 2 nights in Edinburgh, and 1 night in Glasgow. 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 Inverness, 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 The Kelpies, learn more about the unique Stirling Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Urquhart Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Edinburgh, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Glasgow, and Skinflats, 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
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Day 1
- Inverness - Arrival day
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Inverness and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Inverness for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Inverness is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Inverness. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 Simpsons, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Inverness
- Edinburgh
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Drive 351 km, 5 hours 3 min
- Eden Court Inverness
- Urquhart Castle
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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 vibrant destinations - Inverness, Lewiston, and Spean Bridge. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots. Start at the curiosity-inducing Eden Court Inverness, an instagrammable performing arts theater in Inverness.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lewiston, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Inverness to Lewiston may take around 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lewiston, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make your way to Urquhart Castle, a popular castle that draws attention for its enchanting features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Edinburgh, 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 in Edinburgh. 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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Edinburgh by securing a table at Heron. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Condita, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Kitchin, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Juniper Edinburgh offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Panda & Sons provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Dean Village
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- National Museum of Scotland
- Holyrood Palace
- Holyrood Park
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Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Dean Village. This instagrammable historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a must-visit botanical garden in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to National Museum Of Scotland, a well-known museum. For a change of scene, check out Holyrood Palace, known for its stunning 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.
Savor the flavors at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Novotel Edinburgh Centre beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tigerlily. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Royal after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Ensign Ewart for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Tonic is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- Stirling
- Cambuskenneth
- Glasgow
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Drive 121 km, 2 hours 4 min
- Camera Obscura
- Scottish National Gallery
- Edinburgh Castle
- Stirling Castle
- The National Wallace Monument
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Edinburgh, Stirling, and Cambuskenneth. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Edinburgh, including a museum, an art gallery, and a castle. Start your day at Camera Obscura. This breathtaking museum is a well-known place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to Scottish National Gallery. If respected sites excite you, this art gallery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Edinburgh Castle. This culturally significant castle is a favorite among visitors.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stirling. This drive usually takes around 56 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to Stirling Castle, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Stirling should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stirling and set your GPS to Cambuskenneth. 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 8 min. Upon reaching Cambuskenneth, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Wallace Monument is a notable monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its culturally significant features before continuing your self-guided tour.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Glasgow. Glasgow offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Glasgow. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Glasgow by reserving a table at Ox and Finch. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional mediterranean menu. For a different taste experience, head to Cail Bruich, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a local favorite known for its delightful modern british cuisine in Glasgow. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern british foodies seeking culinary excellence.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gallery Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Steps Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bar 91 provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Say good night to Glasgow and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 5
- Glasgow
- Skinflats
- Inverness
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Drive 304 km, 3 hours 53 min
- George Square
- Kelvingrove Park
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- The Kelpies
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow and Skinflats. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Inverness, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Glasgow includes a public square, a park, and a museum. George Square is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Kelvingrove Park, a locally renowned park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, a mesmerizing museum, also available for your discovery today.
After soaking in Glasgow’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Skinflats. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in Skinflats, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering The Kelpies, a captivating art installation known for its stunning features.
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.
As you explore more of Inverness, 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.
Dine in style at MacGregor's, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The White House boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Kitchen Brasserie. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Hootananny. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Gellions Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Innes Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
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
- Inverness - Departure day
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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 Inverness before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Inverness’s popular marketplace, Eastgate Shopping Centre. 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 Inverness.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Scotch & Rye, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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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