7-Day Scotland Road Trip from Dundee traveling north to Aberdeen, Elgin, and Pitlochry

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
7 days & 6 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
6 nights included
Car rental
7 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Explore the best of Scotland on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dundee, Aberdeen, Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, Pitlochry, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, and Larbert. 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 Dundee, 2 nights in Aberdeen, 1 night in Elgin, and 1 night in Pitlochry. 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 Dundee, 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. The Kelpies and Stirling Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dundee, Aberdeen, Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, Pitlochry, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, and Larbert, 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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Included

Hotel, 6 nights
Rental car, 7 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Dundee - region in United KingdomDundee / 2 nights
Photo of aerial view of Aberdeen as River Dee flows in a curve to the North Sea showing Duthie Park with bridge and traffic from south.Aberdeen / 2 nights
Stirling - region in United KingdomStirling
Moray - region in United KingdomMoray / 1 night
photo of Pitlochry panoramic aerial view with church. Pitlochry is a town in the Perth and Kinross council area of Scotland.Pitlochry / 1 night

Map

Attractions

Scotland kelpies on a sunny dayThe Kelpies
Aerial View of Stirling castle.Stirling Castle
The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Scotland, United Kingdom.The Falkirk Wheel
National Wallace Monument on top of the hill Abbey Craig in Stirling, Scotland.Wallace Monument
Low level aerial image over Blair Drummond Safari Park.Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
Photo of The Duthie park, Aberdeen, Scotland, with reflections in the early morning light.Duthie Park
Queens Links Leisure Park
The McManus Art Gallery & Museum
Photo of RRS Discovery DundeeRRS Discovery
Photo of Large children playground area with slides, bars, swings and other equipment in Hazlehead park, Aberdeen, Scotland .Hazlehead Park
Photo of Aberdeen Maritime Museum,Scotland.Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Elgin Cathedral
Photo of Large children playground in Seaton Park, Aberdeen city, Scotland .Seaton Park
Brodie Castle
Photo of Dundee City Sky View from Dundee Law, Scotland UK.Dundee Law
Photo of Baxter Park , Dundee , Scotland .Baxter Park
Bow Fiddle Rock
Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
Dundee Contemporary Arts
Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, Seaton and Linksfield, Aberdeen, Scotland, United KingdomDonmouth Local Nature Reserve
Photo of A small water stream coming under a scenic stone bridge in Westburn park, Aberdeen, Scotland .Westburn Park
Magdalen Green
Slessor Gardens, Dundee City, Scotland, United KingdomSlessor Gardens
Photo of Tulip Farm in Johnston, Rhode Island. Shallow depth of field with focus on flowers in foreground ,Scotland .Johnston Gardens
Aberdeen Science Centre
Photo of Fishermen's houses with brightly coloured plants and decorations in the Footdee Sweep, Aberdeen, Scotland.Footdee

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Dundee - arrival day

  • Dundee - Arrival day
  • More
  • Dundee Contemporary Arts
  • More

Say hello to Dundee! 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 region. You will stay in Dundee for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Dundee is a beautiful region with plenty to discover. 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 Dundee. 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 in Dundee. 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.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Gidi Grill Restaurant. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Dundee boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 614 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Dundee is Taza Restaurant. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,747 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at The Bach, in Dundee. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 985 satisfied customers.

After dinner, visit Trades House, which is considered one of the best bars in the region of Dundee. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,466 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Tickety Boo's. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 990 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend Bird & Bear. This bar, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 898 customers, is one of the best bars in the region of Dundee.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Dundee and Aberdeen

  • Dundee
  • Aberdeen
  • More

Drive 116 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • The McManus Art Gallery & Museum
  • RRS Discovery
  • Magdalen Green
  • Dundee Law
  • Baxter Park
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Dundee and Aberdeen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aberdeen, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Kick off the day at The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,551 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit RRS Discovery. RRS Discovery is a barque with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,529 reviews.

Magdalen Green railway station is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This former railway station is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 855 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Dundee Law. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,396 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Baxter Park, a famous park in Dundee. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,306 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aberdeen, 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 Dundee to Aberdeen may take around 1 hour 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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 region.

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 region, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Reserve your spot at Maggie's Grill, a popular local restaurant in Aberdeen. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 587 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Miller & Carter Aberdeen during your stay in Aberdeen. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,026 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Aberdeen, a popular local gem in Aberdeen. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,555 satisfied guests.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Aberdeen. Prince Of Wales is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,166 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out The Grill. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 881 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is BrewDog Aberdeen. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 870 customers.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • More

Drive 23 km, 58 min

  • Hazlehead Park
  • Johnston Gardens
  • Westburn Park
  • Footdee
  • Duthie Park
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Aberdeen. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Scotland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Aberdeen has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Scotland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in The Silver Darling, a distinguished dining establishment in Aberdeen. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 1,130 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Aberdeen is Foodstory. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 958 happy diners.

Rustico stands out as a local favorite in Aberdeen. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 931 customers.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend No.10 Bar and Restaurant, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 746 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Ninety-Nine. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 587 customers.

Fierce Bar Aberdeen is another top-rated bar where you can spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 438 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Aberdeen and Elgin

  • Aberdeen
  • Moray
  • More

Drive 111 km, 2 hours 21 min

  • Aberdeen Maritime Museum
  • Aberdeen Science Centre
  • Queens Links Leisure Park
  • Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
  • Seaton Park
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Aberdeen and Elgin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Elgin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This much-appreciated maritime museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,270 reviews.

Next up is Aberdeen Science Centre. This museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 630 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Queens Links Leisure Park. This point of interest has been rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 2,883 reviews.

Donmouth Local Nature Reserve is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,055 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Seaton Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,950 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Aberdeen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Elgin. Your travel time is around 1 hour 32 min.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Elgin. Elgin 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.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Pitlochry

  • Pitlochry
  • More

Drive 265 km, 4 hours 1 min

  • Elgin Cathedral
  • Bow Fiddle Rock
  • Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
  • Brodie Castle
  • More

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Pitlochry, 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 Pitlochry. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Elgin Cathedral one of your first sightseeing stops in Elgin. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,994 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Pitlochry. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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

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

Don't forget to book a table at Cafe Tabou, a well-known eatery in Pitlochry. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 566 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Paco's Restaurant while exploring Pitlochry. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,338 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Highland Safaris, a popular restaurant in Pitlochry. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,005 discerning diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend The Old Ship Inn, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 519 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is The Twa Tams, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 559 customers. This spot is known for its unique atmosphere and impressive selection of beverages, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

The Tavern is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 536 customers.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Larbert, and Dundee

  • Stirling
  • Dundee
  • More

Drive 257 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Wallace Monument
  • Stirling Castle
  • Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
  • The Falkirk Wheel
  • The Kelpies
  • More

On day 6 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 Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Larbert, and Dundee. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dundee, where you will stay for 1 night.

Cambuskenneth’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Pitlochry behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 5 min. Cambuskenneth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Wallace Monument. This popular monument has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

After soaking in Cambuskenneth’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stirling. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in Stirling, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

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

Don't miss out on experiencing Rancho Pancho, a renowned dining spot in Dundee. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 636 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Tailend Dundee while immersing yourself in Dundee. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 653 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a beloved dining establishment within Dundee. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 571 satisfied customers.

If you're in the mood for an after-dinner drink, Don Michele Italian Restaurant is our number one recommendation. Around 522 customers have rated this bar 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa also has a great drinks menu. This bar is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,104 reviews.

The Bank Bar Dundee is another popular place to spend the evening in Dundee. This bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 575 customers.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Dundee - departure day

  • Dundee - Departure day
  • More
  • Slessor Gardens
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dundee 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 Dundee’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the region’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.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Dundee. 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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