7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to North Berwick and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a palace, a street, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Holyrood Park. Just a short distance away is Holyrood Palace, a historic palace that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Royal Mile, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular The Real Mary King's Close. Last up on today’s itinerary is a museum. Make your way to National Museum Of Scotland for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Edinburgh.

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 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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Royal, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Ensign Ewart is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tonic is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Edinburgh. You have 1 night left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Edinburgh on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this peaceful botanical garden before continuing your journey. Scottish National Gallery is your next stop. This locally renowned art gallery is one of the best-rated sights in Edinburgh.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Camera Obscura. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre and Edinburgh Castle.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Black Ivy. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.

Keep the evening going at Hoot The Redeemer, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Albanach, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Thistle Street Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Penicuik, Dalkeith, Newtongrange, and Dewartown. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in North Berwick, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Penicuik, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dalkeith may take around 18 min. Upon your arrival in Dalkeith, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your journey at Pentland Hills Regional Park and explore the romantic features.

Set your GPS to Dalkeith and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dalkeith beckons with new experiences!

Head to Fort Douglas Adventure Park, an often recommended adventure park in Dalkeith. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Newtongrange, 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 Dalkeith to Newtongrange may take around 11 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Newtongrange, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Scottish Mining Museum, a frequently visited museum in Newtongrange. Explore its heritage-rich features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to North Berwick, 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 North Berwick, 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.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to North Berwick for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in West Barns and Auldhame.

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

Take your self-guided tour to John Muir Alpacas, an increasingly popular farm that everyone visiting West Barns should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to East Links Family Park. This instagrammable adventure park is one of the most worthwhile attractions in the region.

Set your GPS to Auldhame and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Auldhame beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Tantallon Castle. Spend some time admiring the history-steeped features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to North Berwick and your accommodation.

As you explore more of North Berwick, 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.

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

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, North Berwick, Dirleton, and West Saltoun. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Lodge Grounds is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day.

After soaking in North Berwick’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Dirleton. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Dirleton, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dirleton Castle & Gardens, an often recommended castle known for its visually striking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, West Saltoun. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Glenkinchie Distillery, an increasingly popular distillery known for its eye-catching features.

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 Edinburgh. Edinburgh 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Waverley Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Royal Oak, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Oxford 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!