7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Edinburgh and Glasgow

On day 2 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.

Start by visiting Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a prime spot to begin your journey. This historic maritime museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile nature reserve renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Aberdeen by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Seaton Park. This serene park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Hazlehead Park also adds charm to your journey, and Duthie Park wraps up your day with its instagrammable appeal.

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.

Begin 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Juniper Edinburgh, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Panda & Sons likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Scotland.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Edinburgh, including a street, a museum, a castle, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Royal Mile. This notable street is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to National Museum Of Scotland, which may be one of the most photogenic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Edinburgh on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Edinburgh Castle, one of the city’s most famous castle. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Dean Village.

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 explore more of Glasgow, 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cail Bruich is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern british cuisine in the city.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Gallery Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Steps Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bar 91 is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Glasgow for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for an exciting day in Glasgow. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a park, a museum, a public square and much more! Begin your adventure at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This is a captivating botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Kelvingrove Park, a locally renowned park in Glasgow.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Riverside Museum, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a picture-perfect public square. George Square is a truly remarkable place to visit in Glasgow.

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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Alston Bar & Beef, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Elia Greek Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Larbert, Skinflats, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Aberdeen, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Skinflats. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Falkirk Wheel is a locally renowned monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Larbert, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Skinflats may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Skinflats, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to The Kelpies, a locally renowned art installation in Skinflats. Explore its symbolic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Skinflats 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 28 min. Upon reaching Cambuskenneth, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take your self-guided tour to Wallace Monument, an interesting monument that everyone visiting Cambuskenneth should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Foodstory, a highly-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ninety-Nine, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at St. Machar Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Old Blackfriars offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Krakatoa provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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