7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Scotland as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Aberdeen, Lossiemouth, Inverness, Lewiston, Portree, Dunvegan, Banavie, Fort William, Glenfinnan, Glencoe, Pitlochry, and Killiecrankie.
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 Aberdeen, 2 nights in Inverness, 1 night in Portree, and 1 night in Fort William. 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 Aberdeen, 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 Dunvegan Castle, learn more about the unique Fairy Pools, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Loch Ness.
As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Lossiemouth, Inverness, Lewiston, Portree, Dunvegan, Banavie, Fort William, Glenfinnan, Glencoe, Pitlochry, and Killiecrankie, 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
- Aberdeen - Arrival day
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- Duthie Park
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Aberdeen and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Aberdeen 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.
Aberdeen 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 Duthie Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Aberdeen. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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 Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mi Amore? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Tippling House as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberdeen.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Slains Castle, known for its lively atmosphere. Northern Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Grill offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Aberdeen
- Inverness
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Drive 198 km, 3 hours 34 min
- Aberdeen Maritime Museum
- Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
- Seaton Park
- Johnston Gardens
- West Beach
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Aberdeen and Lossiemouth, 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 2 nights.
Today’s itinerary in Aberdeen covers several incredible sights, including a maritime museum, a nature reserve, a park, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This underrated maritime museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the idyllic wonders of Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, a must-see nature reserve in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Seaton Park. This underrated park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Johnston Gardens, where you can take in idyllic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to West Beach and West Beach. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Simpsons, a highly-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gunsmiths Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Malt Room, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Maccallums Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 3
- Inverness
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Drive 122 km, 2 hours 23 min
- Urquhart Castle
- Eden Court Inverness
- Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew
- Clava cairns
- Loch Ness
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Day 3 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Lewiston. You have 1 night left in Inverness. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in the charming village of Inverness. Your adventure starts at Urquhart Castle, a captivating local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Eden Court Inverness. This underrated performing arts theater is known for its romantic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Inverness's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Inverness Cathedral, Dedicated To St Andrew. This stunning church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Clava Cairns is also worth visiting, along with Loch Ness. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
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 Inverness. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Hootananny offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Gellions Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Innes Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 4
- Inverness
- Portree
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Drive 305 km, 5 hours 26 min
- Strome Castle
- Fairy Pools
- 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
- The Quiraing
- Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
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On day 4 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 North Strome, the Scottish Highlands, Sligachan, and Portree. In the evening, you’ll end up in Portree, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Inverness promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Strome Castle. This romantic castle is a highlight of any visit in the hamlet. Then, enjoy Fairy Pools, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to 슬리가찬 오래된 다리, one of the hamlet’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its romantic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of The Quiraing. This eye-catching rock formation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Isle Of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre, an intriguing visitor center, and take a stroll around the area.
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.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Portree. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
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.
Day 5
- Portree
- Fort William
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Drive 291 km, 5 hours 23 min
- Dunvegan Castle
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Neist Point Trail
- Neptune's Staircase
- Ben Nevis
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Dunvegan, the Scottish Highlands, and Banavie. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Fort William, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Portree today. One of the most intriguing attractions included on the itinerary is Dunvegan Castle. This history-steeped castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Neist Point Lighthouse and learn what makes this history-steeped lighthouse unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Neist Point Trail. After exploring the hiking area, head to Neptune's Staircase. This often recommended historical landmark is a highlight in Portree. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the curiosity-inducing Ben Nevis. Enjoy exploring this incredible mountain range at your own pace.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Fort William. Fort William offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Fort William. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 6
- Fort William
- Aberdeen
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Drive 385 km, 5 hours 49 min
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
- Glencoe Lochan Trail
- Blair Athol Distillery
- Garry Bridge
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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 Glenfinnan, Glencoe, Pitlochry, and Killiecrankie. 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.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the beloved Glenfinnan Viaduct, an instagrammable heritage railway in Fort William. Next, go to Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland.
After visiting Glenfinnan Viaduct and Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland, take time to explore Fort William's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Glencoe Lochan Trail. This mesmerizing hiking area offers a unique experience. Blair Athol Distillery is another noteworthy stop.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Aberdeen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Foodstory, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ninety-Nine boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Miller & Carter Aberdeen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aberdeen.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like St. Machar Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Old Blackfriars is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Krakatoa offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.
Day 7
- Aberdeen - Departure day
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- Union Street
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Day 7 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Aberdeen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
One of the best things to do on your last day is to explore Union Street, a street that captures the true essence of Aberdeen. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Aberdeen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Aberdeen Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Aberdeen.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Maggie's Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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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