6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Elgin and surrounding area

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Photo of view of Inverness, a city on Scotland’s northeast coast, where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth.
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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 Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Ballindalloch, Glenlivet, Forres, and Dyke. 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 Inverness and 2 nights in Elgin. 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. Urquhart Castle and Glenfinnan Viaduct are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Commando Memorial, learn more about the unique Loch Ness, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chanonry Point.

As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Spean Bridge, Lewiston, Fortrose, Elgin, Portknockie, Dufftown, Craigellachie, Ballindalloch, Glenlivet, Forres, and Dyke, 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
Eden Court Inverness
Glenfinnan ViaductGlenfinnan ViewpointGlenfinnan Monument - National Trust for ScotlandNeptune's StaircaseCommando Memorial
Loch NessUrquhart CastleChanonry PointFort GeorgeClava cairns
Bow Fiddle RockGlenfiddich DistillerySpeyside Cooperage Visitor CentreBallindalloch Castle and GardensThe Glenlivet Distillery
Elgin CathedralCooper ParkDuffus CastleGrant ParkBrodie Castle
Whin Park

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Inverness - Arrival day
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  • Eden Court Inverness
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Say hello to Inverness! 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 Inverness for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness, 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 Inverness. 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 Inverness, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Inverness.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gunsmiths Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Malt Room, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Inverness
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours 16 min

  • Glenfinnan Viaduct
  • Glenfinnan Viewpoint
  • Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
  • Neptune's Staircase
  • Commando Memorial
  • More

Greet day 2 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 Glenfinnan, Banavie, and Spean Bridge.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Glenfinnan Viaduct. This up-and-coming heritage railway is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Glenfinnan Viewpoint, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland, one of the most often recommended places to see in Inverness. This monument is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Neptune's Staircase. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this historical landmark offers. Then, head to Commando Memorial, a top-rated war memorial that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at MacGregor's, 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 The White House, 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 Kitchen Brasserie. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Inverness tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Hootananny, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Gellions Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Innes Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Inverness
  • Moray
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Drive 232 km, 4 hours 6 min

  • Loch Ness
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Chanonry Point
  • Fort George
  • Clava cairns
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 Fortrose. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Elgin. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Loch Ness. This worthwhile lake is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Urquhart Castle, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out Chanonry Point, one of the most up-and-coming places to see in Inverness. This whale watching spot is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Fort George. Wander around and soak in the culturally significant atmosphere this castle offers. Then, head to Clava Cairns, a top-rated archeological site that adds another dimension to your day.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Elgin. Elgin offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Elgin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Moray
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Drive 150 km, 2 hours 32 min

  • Bow Fiddle Rock
  • Glenfiddich Distillery
  • Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
  • Ballindalloch Castle and Gardens
  • The Glenlivet Distillery
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Elgin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Today's adventure in Elgin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bow Fiddle Rock. This serene rock formation is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Glenfiddich Distillery, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre, one of the village’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its standout features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Ballindalloch Castle And Gardens. This history-steeped castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit The Glenlivet, a frequently visited distillery, and take a stroll around the area.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Elgin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Moray
  • Inverness
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Drive 74 km, 1 hour 34 min

  • Elgin Cathedral
  • Cooper Park
  • Duffus Castle
  • Grant Park
  • Brodie Castle
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Elgin, Forres, and Dyke, 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 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Elgin, including a church, a park, and a castle. Start your day at Elgin Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is a frequently visited place to see in Elgin. Then, wander over to Cooper Park. If eye-catching sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Duffus Castle. This historic castle is a favorite among visitors.

Elgin offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Grant Park is a frequently visited spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the romantic Brodie Castle. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally appreciated castle.

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

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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Market Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Inverness - Departure day
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  • Whin Park
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Whin Park. This curiosity-inducing park is a popular place to see in the city.

Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Inverness’s shopping center, the lively Eastgate Shopping Centre. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland.

Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Inverness.

Savor the flavors at River House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bar One Inverness beckons with its unique menu offerings.

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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