7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dundee traveling north to Aberdeen, Elgin, and Pitlochry
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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, Dyke, Pitlochry, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Larbert, and Skinflats. 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. Marvel at the remarkable Falkirk Wheel, learn more about the unique Wallace Monument, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dundee, Aberdeen, Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, Dyke, Pitlochry, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Larbert, and Skinflats, 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
- Dundee - Arrival day
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- Dundee Contemporary Arts
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Welcome to Dundee, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dundee's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Dundee 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 Dundee Contemporary Arts or 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 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dundee, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at Daisy Tasker, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Premier Inn Dundee North hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Fort. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dundee.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at The King Of Islington after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Bank Bar Dundee for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Salty Dog is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Dundee
- Aberdeen
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Drive 116 km, 1 hour 56 min
- The McManus Art Gallery & Museum
- RRS Discovery
- Magdalen Green
- Dundee Law
- Baxter Park
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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 Dundee. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aberdeen, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Dundee is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum, an increasingly popular museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Rrs Discovery, enchanting visitors with its breathtaking appeal. Continue your exploration at Magdalen Green Railway Station. This park is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dundee at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Dundee Law. After exploring the historical landmark, head to the underrated Baxter Park. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.
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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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 The Tippling House. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Aberdeen.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Slains Castle after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Northern Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Grill also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!
Day 3
- Aberdeen
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Drive 23 km, 58 min
- Hazlehead Park
- Johnston Gardens
- Westburn Park
- Footdee
- Duthie Park
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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.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Start at the underrated Hazlehead Park, a noteworthy park in Aberdeen. Next, go to Johnston Gardens.
After visiting Hazlehead Park and Johnston Gardens, take time to explore Aberdeen's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Westburn Park. This enchanting park offers a unique experience. Footdee is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Duthie Park, one of the most peaceful places to visit in Aberdeen.
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 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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting St. Machar Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Old Blackfriars, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Krakatoa also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Say good night to Aberdeen and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 4
- Aberdeen
- Moray
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Drive 111 km, 2 hours 21 min
- Aberdeen Maritime Museum
- Aberdeen Science Centre
- Queens Links Leisure Park
- Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
- Seaton Park
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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 1 vibrant destinations - Aberdeen. 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.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This intriguing maritime museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Aberdeen Science Centre, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Queens Links Leisure Park, one of the most intriguing places to see in Aberdeen. This amusement center is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Donmouth Local Nature Reserve. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this nature reserve offers. Finally, take the path to the intriguing Seaton Park, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Elgin, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Elgin, 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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 5
- Moray
- Portknockie
- Craigellachie
- Pitlochry
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Drive 265 km, 4 hours 1 min
- Elgin Cathedral
- Bow Fiddle Rock
- Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Elgin, Portknockie, Craigellachie, and Dyke. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Pitlochry, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start your day with a visit to Elgin Cathedral. This curiosity-inducing church is a must-visit in the town.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Portknockie. This car ride takes around 32 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Bow Fiddle Rock, a beloved rock formation that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Portknockie, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Craigellachie. Your travel time is around 38 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre, an underrated visitor center that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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 Pitlochry. Pitlochry 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Pitlochry. 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.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 6
- Pitlochry
- Cambuskenneth
- Stirling
- Larbert
- Dundee
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 40 min
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
- Falkirk Wheel
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Larbert, and Skinflats, 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 Dundee. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Cambuskenneth, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stirling. Your travel time is around 11 min.
Take your self-guided tour to Wallace Monument, a notable monument that everyone visiting Cambuskenneth should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’ve had your share of Cambuskenneth, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stirling. Your travel time is around 11 min.
Stirling Castle is a popular castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park, an enchanting safari park that’s well-regarded in the area.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stirling, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Larbert. This drive usually takes around 33 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Falkirk Wheel. Spend some time admiring the symbolic features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dundee. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dundee's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Don’t miss out on dining at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a top-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Porters Bar & Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Dundee East hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Trades House is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Speedwell Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Draffens. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 7
- Dundee - Departure day
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- Slessor Gardens
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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 Dundee before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Dundee’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. 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 Dundee.
Savor the flavors at Bird & Bear, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Don Michele Italian Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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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