One-Week Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dundee to Inverness, Elgin, Aberdeen, and Glasgow and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Scotland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
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, 1 night in Inverness, 1 night in Elgin, 1 night in Aberdeen, and 2 nights in Glasgow. 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 Urquhart Castle, learn more about the unique Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of George Square.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dundee, Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Elgin, Craigellachie, Stonehaven, Cruden Bay, Aberdeen, Doune, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Glasgow, 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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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Dundee and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dundee for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Daisy Tasker, a popular restaurant in Dundee. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dundee at Premier Inn Dundee North hotel, 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 The Fort. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dundee tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The King Of Islington offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Bank Bar Dundee is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Salty Dog is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Dundee
- Inverness
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 27 min
- The McManus Art Gallery & Museum
- RRS Discovery
- Broughty Castle Museum
- Dundee Law
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Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Dundee, 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 Inverness. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Dundee’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This heritage-rich museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Rrs Discovery, a must-visit museum in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Broughty Castle Museum, an up-and-coming castle. For a change of scene, check out Dundee Law, known for its romantic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Inverness's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Simpsons, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kingsmills Hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Inverness tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gunsmiths Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Malt Room, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 3
- Inverness
- Spean Bridge
- Moray
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Drive 240 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Eden Court Inverness
- Urquhart Castle
- Commando Memorial
- Clava cairns
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Inverness, Lewiston, and Spean Bridge. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Elgin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Inverness, including a performing arts theater and an archeological site. Start your adventure at Eden Court Inverness. This beloved performing arts theater is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Clava Cairns located in Inverness for an enchanting atmosphere.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Inverness, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lewiston. This drive usually takes around 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Urquhart Castle, a notable castle that draws visitors from near and far.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Spean Bridge. This car ride takes around 55 min.
Make your way to Commando Memorial, an up-and-coming war memorial that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Elgin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 4
- Moray
- Craigellachie
- Stonehaven
- Cruden Bay
- Aberdeen
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 43 min
- Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre
- Stonehaven Harbour
- Dunnottar Castle
- New Slains Castle
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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 4 vibrant destinations - Craigellachie, Stonehaven, Cruden Bay, and Bullers of Buchan. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberdeen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Craigellachie. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await.
Set your GPS to Craigellachie and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Craigellachie beckons with new experiences!
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Speyside Cooperage Visitor Centre. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the visitor center before you continue to your next stop.
After soaking in Craigellachie’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stonehaven. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 28 min. When you arrive in Stonehaven, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Stonehaven Harbour, an underrated marina that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Dunnottar Castle and admire its romantic features.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Stonehaven, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cruden Bay. This drive usually takes around 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Spend your afternoon discovering New Slains Castle, a beloved castle known for its romantic 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 Aberdeen. Aberdeen 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 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Mi Amore offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Tippling House is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Aberdeen.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Slains Castle, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Northern Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Aberdeen. The Grill is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!
Day 5
- Aberdeen
- Doune
- Cambuskenneth
- Stirling
- Glasgow
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Drive 276 km, 4 hours 5 min
- Doune Castle
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
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On day 5 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 Doune, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Doune and set your GPS to Cambuskenneth. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 16 min. Upon reaching Cambuskenneth, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Spend your afternoon discovering Doune Castle, a beloved castle known for its gorgeous features.
Cambuskenneth’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Doune behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Cambuskenneth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Take your self-guided tour to Wallace Monument, a captivating monument that everyone visiting Cambuskenneth should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
Set your GPS to Stirling and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stirling beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Stirling Castle, a popular castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park, where you can soak in the peaceful surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Glasgow. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Glasgow's best restaurants.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Ox and Finch in Glasgow by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Ox and Finch delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious mediterranean cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Cail Bruich, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern british cuisine in the city.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Gallery Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Steps Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bar 91 likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 6
- Glasgow
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Drive 30 km, 1 hour 35 min
- Glasgow Botanic Gardens
- Kelvingrove Park
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Riverside Museum
- Pollok Country Park
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Day 6 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Glasgow. You have 1 night left in Glasgow. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today's adventure in Glasgow promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This serene botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Kelvingrove Park, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its historic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Riverside Museum. This history-steeped museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Pollok Country Park, an intriguing park, and take a stroll around the area.
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 Glasgow, 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, a highly-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're eager to try something different, consider Novotel Glasgow Centre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 7
- Glasgow
- Larbert
- Skinflats
- Dundee
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Drive 158 km, 2 hours 35 min
- George Square
- Glasgow Cathedral
- Glasgow Green
- Falkirk Wheel
- The Kelpies
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dundee, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at George Square. This well-known public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Glasgow Cathedral, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Glasgow Green, one of the most popular places to see in Glasgow. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
When you’ve had your share of Glasgow, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Larbert. Your travel time is around 37 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering Falkirk Wheel, a locally renowned monument known for its symbolic features.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Skinflats, 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 Larbert to Skinflats may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Skinflats, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Head to The Kelpies, a captivating art installation in Skinflats. Explore its symbolic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dundee, 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 Dundee. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, an iconic dining spot in Dundee. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Porters Bar & Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Dundee. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Dundee East hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Dundee. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Trades House after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Speedwell Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Draffens is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 8
- Dundee - Departure day
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- Slessor Gardens
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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 Dundee before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dundee allows for both. Start by heading to Slessor Gardens. This often recommended park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dundee.
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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