One-Week Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Inverness and Glasgow
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Scotland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Edinburgh, Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Banavie, Glenfinnan, Doune, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats.
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 Edinburgh, 2 nights in Inverness, 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 Edinburgh, 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. Edinburgh Castle and National Museum Of Scotland are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable The Kelpies, learn more about the unique Stirling Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Urquhart Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Banavie, Glenfinnan, 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
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
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- Dean Village
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Welcome to Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Edinburgh 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 Dean Village or 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 Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, 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 Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, 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 The Theatre Royal Bar, 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 Nightcap - Cocktail Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Juniper Edinburgh, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Panda & Sons also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Edinburgh
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Drive 11 km, 43 min
- Scottish National Gallery
- Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
- Camera Obscura
- Holyrood Palace
- Holyrood Park
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. Start at Scottish National Gallery, a notable art gallery in the city. Then, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching distillery.
There are many interesting places to see in Edinburgh and when you are ready for more, go to Camera Obscura. This is one of the city’s most popular spots. After exploring the museum, visit the locally renowned Holyrood Palace. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the interesting Holyrood Park, an interesting park in the city.
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.
Bring home unique finds from Edinburgh's bustling shopping hub, George Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, George Street offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Edinburgh's best restaurants.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Cafe Royal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Ensign Ewart, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tonic also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Say good night to Edinburgh and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
- Inverness
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Drive 255 km, 3 hours 25 min
- The Royal Mile
- National Museum of Scotland
- The Real Mary King's Close
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Inverness, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic 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. Royal Mile is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic street before continuing your journey. National Museum Of Scotland is your next stop. This well-known museum 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 Real Mary King's Close. This heritage-rich museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Edinburgh Castle and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
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 Inverness. Inverness 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.
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.
Don’t miss out on dining 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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Gunsmiths Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Malt Room is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Maccallums Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 4
- Inverness
- Spean Bridge
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Drive 255 km, 4 hours 5 min
- Eden Court Inverness
- Urquhart Castle
- Commando Memorial
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Inverness for your remaining 1 night in the city 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 Inverness, Lewiston, Spean Bridge, Banavie, and Glenfinnan.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and picturesque spots in Inverness. Begin your sightseeing with Eden Court Inverness. This frequently visited performing arts theater is one of the top attractions in the city.
Set your GPS to Lewiston and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 25 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lewiston beckons with new experiences!
Take your self-guided tour to Urquhart Castle, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Lewiston should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lewiston, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Spean Bridge. This drive usually takes around 55 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Commando Memorial, an intriguing war memorial that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Inverness.
As you explore more of Inverness, 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 lovely dining experience at MacGregor's, a popular restaurant in Inverness. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Inverness at The White House, 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 Kitchen Brasserie. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Inverness tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hootananny. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gellions Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Innes Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 5
- Inverness
- Doune
- Cambuskenneth
- Stirling
- Glasgow
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Drive 303 km, 4 hours 4 min
- Doune Castle
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling, Old Bridge
- Stirling Castle
- Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Doune, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling, 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 Glasgow. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Doune today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Inverness, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Doune. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 34 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Your self-guided tour starts at Doune Castle, an increasingly popular castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
After soaking in Doune’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cambuskenneth. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Cambuskenneth, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Wallace Monument, a well-known monument known for its breathtaking features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Stirling, Old Bridge, an intriguing historical landmark that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stirling. This car ride takes around 7 min.
Begin your journey at Stirling Castle and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park, another highlight in the village.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Glasgow. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Glasgow by reserving a table at Ox and Finch. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of mediterranean cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Cail Bruich, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern british menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Glasgow.
Keep the evening going at The Gallery Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Steps Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar 91, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Head back to your accommodation in Glasgow and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 6
- Glasgow
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 9 min
- Glasgow Botanic Gardens
- Kelvingrove Park
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Riverside Museum
- Pollok Country Park
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Glasgow today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This serene botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Kelvingrove Park and learn what makes this detailed park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Riverside Museum. This popular museum is a highlight in Glasgow. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the curiosity-inducing Pollok Country Park. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Glasgow. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, a top-rated dining spot in Glasgow. If you're in the mood for something new, try Novotel Glasgow Centre, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Glasgow.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Scotland.
Day 7
- Glasgow
- Larbert
- Skinflats
- Edinburgh
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Drive 92 km, 2 hours
- George Square
- Glasgow Green
- Glasgow Cathedral
- 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 Edinburgh, 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 Green, one of the city’s most promising highlights.
Next, check out Glasgow Cathedral, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Glasgow. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Larbert’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Glasgow behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Larbert welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Head to Falkirk Wheel, a popular monument in Larbert. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’ve had your share of Larbert, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Skinflats. Your travel time is around 15 min.
Spend your afternoon discovering The Kelpies, a captivating art installation known for its symbolic features.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Edinburgh, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day'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.
Continue your lively evening at Hoot The Redeemer, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Albanach is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Thistle Street Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 8
- Edinburgh - Departure day
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- Calton Hill
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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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh's best shopping area, George Street. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
Today's adventure in Edinburgh promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Calton Hill. This enchanting park is a highlight of any visit in the city.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Edinburgh.
Savor the flavors at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery beckons with its unique menu offerings.
You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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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