7-Day Scotland Road Trip from Aberdeen traveling south to Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow

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 Westburn Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Aberdeen. 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 in Aberdeen. 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated dining spot in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mi Amore, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Foodstory. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberdeen.

Continue your lively evening at Northern Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Grill is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Old Blackfriars ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Scotland!

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 1 vibrant destinations - Aberdeen. 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a remarkable maritime museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,270 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Donmouth Local Nature Reserve. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,055 travelers.

Seaton Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,950 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Hazlehead Park. This well-loved park boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,456 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Duthie Park awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,959 previous visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Edinburgh, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Edinburgh by reserving a table at Heron. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Condita, 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 The Kitchin, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Panda & Sons. Alternatively, go to Cafe Royal, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dean Village. This village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Scottish National Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 reviews. Usually, around 660,741 people visit Scottish National Gallery every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Holyrood Palace. This official residence is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 visitors.

You can learn more about Edinburgh today by going on a tour. Edinburgh offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh.

Don’t miss out on dining at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Andaluz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Hoot The Redeemer after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Albanach for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Bow Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Dive into day 4 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 Inverness. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Royal Mile. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

Next up is National Museum of Scotland. This national museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is The Real Mary King's Close. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

Edinburgh Castle is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Inverness. Inverness offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Kingsmills Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider MacGregor's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The White House. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Gunsmiths Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Malt Room offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Inverness. MacCallums Bar 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 Inverness and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Inverness, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Eden Court Inverness, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,725 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Glasgow, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Discover the culinary delights of Glasgow by securing a reservation at Ox and Finch. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of mediterranean cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Cail Bruich, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern british menu. With its 1-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Gallery Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bar 91, offering a different kind of charm.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like George Square. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,066 visitors.

Next, make your way to Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

While in Glasgow, we also recommend a visit to Kelvingrove Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,336 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Larbert. This drive usually takes around 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Falkirk Wheel. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,951 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Aberdeen, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Aberdeen.

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

Keep the evening going at Krakatoa, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Prince Of Wales, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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 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.

As your final day in Scotland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Aberdeen’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Scotland. Keep the spirit of your trip to Scotland alive with these special souvenirs.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Footdee. This suburb is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 602 reviews.

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 eager to try something different, consider Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!