One-Week Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Inverness and Fort William

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Description

Explore the best of Scotland on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Aberdeen, Crathie, Inverness, Fortrose, Lewiston, Fort Augustus, Stromeferry, Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Pitlochry, and Stonehaven. 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 3 nights in Aberdeen, 2 nights in Inverness, and 2 nights in Fort William. 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 Aberdeen, 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. Urquhart Castle and Glenfinnan Viaduct are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Loch Ness, learn more about the unique Chanonry Point, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Glenfinnan Viewpoint.

As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Crathie, Inverness, Fortrose, Lewiston, Fort Augustus, Stromeferry, Glencoe, Fort William, Glenfinnan, Banavie, Pitlochry, and Stonehaven, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Duthie Park
Hazlehead ParkAberdeen Maritime MuseumThe Tolbooth MuseumSeaton ParkDonmouth Local Nature ReserveUnion Street
Balmoral CastleInverness Museum and Art GalleryClava cairnsChanonry Point
Falls of DivachBlairbeg ParkUrquhart CastleThe Clansman CentreBridge of OichLoch Ness
Loch Carron View PointGlencoe Lochan TrailWest Highland MuseumSgurr Finniosg-aigNevis Range Gondola Top
Glenfinnan ViaductGlenfinnan ViewpointGlenfinnan Station MuseumGlenfinnan Monument - National Trust for ScotlandNeptune's StaircaseSteall Waterfall
Faskally ForestThe Enchanted Forest, PitlochryBlair Athol DistilleryStonehaven Harbour
Footdee

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Aberdeen - Arrival day
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  • Duthie Park
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Welcome to Aberdeen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Aberdeen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Duthie Park, or just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mi Amore boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Tippling House. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Slains Castle, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Northern Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Grill, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Scotland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Aberdeen
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 2 min

  • Hazlehead Park
  • Aberdeen Maritime Museum
  • The Tolbooth Museum
  • Seaton Park
  • Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
  • Union Street
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Aberdeen for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Aberdeen is Union Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Aberdeen, including a park, a maritime museum, a museum, a nature reserve and much more! Start your day with a visit to Hazlehead Park. This beloved park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Aberdeen on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to The Tolbooth Museum, an increasingly popular museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Seaton Park and Donmouth Local Nature Reserve.

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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Foodstory, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ninety-Nine, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at St. Machar Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Old Blackfriars offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Aberdeen. Krakatoa 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 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
  • Inverness
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Drive 258 km, 4 hours 37 min

  • Balmoral Castle
  • Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
  • Clava cairns
  • Chanonry Point
  • More

On day 3 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 Crathie, Inverness, and Fortrose. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Aberdeen on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Balmoral Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this stunning castle before continuing your journey. Inverness Museum And Art Gallery is your next stop. This beloved museum is one of the best-rated sights in Aberdeen.

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 Clava Cairns. This stunning archeological site is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Chanonry Point.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Inverness, 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 Inverness. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Simpsons, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 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.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Inverness
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 28 min

  • Falls of Divach
  • Blairbeg Park
  • Urquhart Castle
  • The Clansman Centre
  • Bridge of Oich
  • Loch Ness
  • More

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Inverness, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Get ready for an exciting day in Inverness. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a waterfall, a park, a castle, a museum, a monument, a lake and much more! Begin your adventure at Falls Of Divach. This is a worthwhile waterfall you should not miss. Another must-see is Blairbeg Park, a worthwhile park in Inverness.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Urquhart Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to The Clansman Centre, another of the region’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Bridge Of Oich, a breathtaking place of interest in the region. If time allows, add Loch Ness to your itinerary. This worthwhile lake offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Inverness.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Inverness.

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 MacGregor's, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The White House, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Kitchen Brasserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Inverness
  • Fort William
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Drive 308 km, 5 hours 10 min

  • Loch Carron View Point
  • Glencoe Lochan Trail
  • West Highland Museum
  • Sgurr Finniosg-aig
  • Nevis Range Gondola Top
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Stromeferry, Glencoe, Fort William, and the Scottish Highlands. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Fort William, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Inverness on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile observation deck, Loch Carron View Point. Afterward, continue to Glencoe Lochan Trail, a hiking area every traveler should visit.

As you explore Inverness’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to West Highland Museum. This underrated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Sgurr Finniosg-aig, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Nevis Range Gondola Top, an often recommended observation deck in the village.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Fort William. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Fort William. 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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Fort William
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Drive 79 km, 1 hour 57 min

  • Glenfinnan Viaduct
  • Glenfinnan Viewpoint
  • Glenfinnan Station Museum
  • Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
  • Neptune's Staircase
  • Steall Waterfall
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Fort William, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today’s agenda in Fort William includes a heritage railway, an observation deck, a museum, a monument, a historical landmark, a waterfall and much more! Glenfinnan Viaduct is must-visit heritage railway and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Glenfinnan Viewpoint, an increasingly popular observation deck, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Glenfinnan Station Museum, a history-steeped museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Fort William. If you’re looking for more, Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Neptune's Staircase, a beloved gem to see in the village.

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

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

Say good night to Fort William and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Fort William
  • Aberdeen
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Drive 280 km, 3 hours 57 min

  • Faskally Forest
  • The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
  • Blair Athol Distillery
  • Stonehaven Harbour
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Pitlochry and Stonehaven, 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 Aberdeen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Fort William’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Faskally Forest. This serene hiking area is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry, a must-visit art installation in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Blair Athol Distillery, an underrated distillery. For a change of scene, check out Stonehaven Harbour, known for its romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Aberdeen. Aberdeen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Aberdeen, 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The City Bar and Diner, a top-rated dining spot in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood for something new, try Maggie's Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Malmaison Aberdeen. 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 Prince Of Wales after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Aberdeen - Departure day
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  • Footdee
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Day 8 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, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Aberdeen's best shopping area, Bon Accord & St. Nicholas Centre. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.

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

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!

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