One-Week Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Dundee and Glasgow and surrounding area

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Edinburgh. 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 in Edinburgh. 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Heron in Edinburgh by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Heron offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Condita, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at The Kitchin, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Panda & Sons, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafe Royal, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Ensign Ewart likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Holyrood Park is a great place to start. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Holyrood Palace. This official residence has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Scottish National Gallery. This site gets more than 660,741 visitors annually. The art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Camera Obscura. This visitor centre is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 reviews.

Edinburgh Castle is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this castle, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,949 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

You can learn more about Edinburgh today by going on a tour. Edinburgh offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh.

Dine in style at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cafe Andaluz boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, 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 Dundee. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 visitors.

The Real Mary King's Close is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,638 visitors.

St Giles' Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. This cathedral has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 visitors.

National Museum of Scotland is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Dundee. Dundee offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Dundee. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Fort, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Porters Bar & Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dundee.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The King of Islington, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Bank Bar Dundee offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Salty Dog provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Dundee 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 St Cyrus, Stonehaven, and Aberdeen.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dundee and set your GPS to St Cyrus. 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 58 min. Upon reaching St Cyrus, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - viewpoint, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,219 reviews.

After soaking in St Cyrus’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 23 min. When you arrive in Stonehaven, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Dunnottar Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this rock castle an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,220 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Stonehaven War Memorial. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 598 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this landmark every year.

Stonehaven Harbour is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This harbor has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,510 visitors.

When you arrive in Aberdeen, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Muir of Dinnet National Nature Reserve. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 901 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Dundee, 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bird & Bear, a top-rated dining spot in Dundee. If you're in the mood for something new, try Don Michele Italian Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Gidi Grill Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dundee.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Doune, Stirling, Cambuskenneth, and Mugdock. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Glasgow, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dundee, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Doune. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Doune Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,505 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Doune, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stirling may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Stirling, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,922 visitors.

Next, make your way to Stirling Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Glasgow, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Glasgow's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cail Bruich is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice for modern british cuisine in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gallery Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar 91, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Glasgow for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,594 visitors.

Kelvingrove Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 visitors.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 1,037,594 people visit this top attraction every year. This art museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,580 visitors.

Riverside Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,799 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Pollok Country Park. This park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 Glasgow. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Alston Bar & Beef, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Elia Greek Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at George Square, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,737 travelers.

Glasgow Green is another must-visit attraction. This renowned stadium offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,762 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Larbert, 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 Glasgow to Larbert may take around 37 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Larbert, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Falkirk Wheel is a great place to start. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,951 visitors.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Kitchin, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Witchery by the Castle offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Whiski Bar & Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

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, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Edinburgh’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.

Journey into the unknown at Calton Hill, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable mountain has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,517 reviews.

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

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!