Relaxed 7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Edinburgh

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Photo of view of Inverness, a city on Scotland’s northeast coast, where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth.
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Experience Scotland like never before on this 7-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Edinburgh, Perth, Little Dunkeld, and Pitlochry. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in Scotland.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Scotland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Edinburgh, Perth, Little Dunkeld, and Pitlochry. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 2 nights in Inverness and 4 nights in Edinburgh. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Scotland.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Scotland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Inverness, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across Scotland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Scotland with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Scotland.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Scotland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Edinburgh Castle. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating National Museum Of Scotland.

Traveling leisurely through Scotland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Urquhart Castle. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Get close to the spectacular Holyrood Palace and the wonderful Royal Mile. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Scotland's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Scotland.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Scotland. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Scotland's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Scotland.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Scotland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in Scotland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in Scotland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Eden Court Inverness
Loch NessUrquhart CastleCommando Memorial
Holyrood ParkHolyrood PalaceEdinburgh CastleDean VillageEdinburgh Zoo
The Real Mary King's CloseSt Giles' CathedralNational Museum of ScotlandThe Royal Mile
HMY BritanniaRoyal Botanic Garden EdinburghScottish National GalleryScotch Whisky Heritage CentreCamera Obscura
South InchKinnoull Hill Woodland ParkThe HermitageBlair Athol DistilleryFalls of Bruar
Whin Park

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Inverness - Arrival day
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  • Eden Court Inverness
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Your relaxed road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Inverness, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Inverness and begin your adventure in Scotland.

Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Inverness. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

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.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Inverness and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Gunsmiths Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Malt Room is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland. Enjoy your first taste of Inverness as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Inverness
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 351 km, 5 hours 2 min

  • Loch Ness
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Commando Memorial
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the region of Inverness and drive in the direction of the village of Lewiston for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Loch Ness. This curiosity-inducing lake is a serene place to see in Inverness. Continue your discovery at Urquhart Castle, a romantic castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Inverness, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this region so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Commando Memorial. This up-and-coming war memorial offers a culturally significant encounter with Inverness. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Inverness.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Edinburgh. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Scotland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Condita, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Edinburgh is The Kitchin, a renowned restaurant with a 1-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Edinburgh’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

Keep the evening going at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Juniper Edinburgh, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Panda & Sons, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Holyrood Park
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Dean Village
  • Edinburgh Zoo
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Holyrood Park. This popular park is an idyllic place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Holyrood Palace, an instagrammable palace with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Edinburgh Castle. This impressive castle offers a culturally significant encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to Dean Village to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Edinburgh Zoo, a popular zoo that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Edinburgh.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Novotel Edinburgh Centre is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Tigerlily. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Cafe Royal, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Tonic. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 3 km, 17 min

  • The Real Mary King's Close
  • St Giles' Cathedral
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • The Royal Mile
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Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Edinburgh. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! The Real Mary King's Close is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Edinburgh. Next, head to St Giles' Cathedral, an up-and-coming church, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to National Museum Of Scotland. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Royal Mile. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Edinburgh to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Edinburgh has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Angels with Bagpipes, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rabble Taphouse and Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Black Ivy. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Hoot The Redeemer, known for its inviting atmosphere. Albanach is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Scotland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • HMY Britannia
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
  • Camera Obscura
  • More

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Today's adventure in Edinburgh promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Hmy Britannia. This standout historic ship is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Scottish National Gallery, one of the city’s most interesting attractions, known for its photogenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This instagrammable distillery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Camera Obscura, a captivating museum, and take a stroll around the area.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Scotland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Edinburgh offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Waverley Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Royal Oak, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Oxford Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Edinburgh can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Edinburgh
  • Inverness
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Drive 260 km, 3 hours 50 min

  • South Inch
  • Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park
  • The Hermitage
  • Blair Athol Distillery
  • Falls of Bruar
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Scotland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Scotland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. 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. South Inch is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning park before continuing your journey. Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park is your next stop. This underrated park 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 The Hermitage. This serene hiking area is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Blair Athol Distillery and Falls Of Bruar.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Inverness. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Savor the flavors at MacGregor's, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The White House beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Kitchen Brasserie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Inverness tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Inverness.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Hootananny, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Gellions Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Innes Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Inverness - Departure day
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  • Whin Park
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Inverness.

As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Inverness's best shopping area, Inverness Victorian Market. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Whin Park. This beloved park is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Inverness or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Inverness and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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