One-Week Relaxed Scotland Road Trip from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Your relaxed road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Aberdeen and begin your adventure in Scotland.

Kick off the day at Queens Links Leisure Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 2,883 reviews.

Find your way to your hotel in Aberdeen. 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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Aberdeen.

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 Foodstory. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Aberdeen. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Northern Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Grill offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Old Blackfriars, another top-rated bar in the area.

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 Aberdeen as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Aberdeen, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at David Welch Winter Gardens, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 575 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Duthie Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,959 travelers.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned maritime museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,270 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Seaton Park. This well-loved park boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,950 reviews.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Aberdeen, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Scotland.

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 Aberdeen.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, a highly-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Maggie's Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Malmaison Aberdeen. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your lively evening at Krakatoa, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Prince Of Wales is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

Day 3 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!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Aberdeen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Glamis may take around 1 hour 6 min. Upon your arrival in Glamis, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Glamis Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,669 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dundee. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,551 visitors.

Slessor Gardens is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 864 travelers.

Dundee is also the home of RRS Discovery. Around 2,529 people have rated this barque an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Scotland at Edinburgh. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience, Condita shines as one of the top destinations known for its delicious modern cuisine in Edinburgh. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, The Kitchin is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Edinburgh. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Panda & Sons is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Cafe Royal, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Ensign Ewart. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Edinburgh!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like HMY Britannia. This extraordinary royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

Next, make your way to Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

While in Edinburgh, we also recommend a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to St Giles' Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,293 travelers, this cathedral is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Edinburgh.

Make your way to National Museum of Scotland, perhaps the most famous national museum in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Cafe Andaluz offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Edinburgh. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Hoot The Redeemer, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Albanach provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Bow Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Holyrood Park. This extraordinary archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 visitors.

Next, make your way to Holyrood Palace. This top attraction is an official residence with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Dean Village. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 11,987 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Edinburgh by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Kitchin, 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 Witchery by the Castle, 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 Whiski Bar & Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Edinburgh and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Make Edinburgh Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,949 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 238,542 annual visitors.

Camera Obscura is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

When you’re finished at Camera Obscura, the perfect next stop is Scottish National Gallery. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,079 reviews. Scottish National Gallery attracts approximately 660,741 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Scott Monument. This monument is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,370 reviews.

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.

Dine in style at Cold Town House, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Dome boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Edinburgh Larder. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Dunfermline and drive in the direction of the village of Crosshill for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the region of Glenrothes, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dunfermline, 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 Edinburgh to Dunfermline may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dunfermline, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Pittencrieff Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,956 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Dunfermline Abbey. This abbey has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,297 reviews.

Crosshill’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dunfermline behind. This drive usually takes around 24 min. Crosshill welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Lochore Meadows, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,003 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Glenrothes, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Glenrothes, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Lomond Hills Regional Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,249 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Aberdeen. 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.

Exploring the food culture in Aberdeen offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at BrewDog Aberdeen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Aberdeen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aberdeen tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 8 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 Aberdeen.

As your final day in Scotland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Aberdeen’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’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. Keep the spirit of your trip to Scotland alive with these special souvenirs.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Aberdeen is the remarkable William Wallace Statue, Aberdeen. This sculpture and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 559 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Aberdeen or just grab something light to keep you going.

Dine in style at The Silver Darling, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Harmony boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Aberdeen and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.