One-Week Relaxed Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

On day 2 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!

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Edinburgh, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Edinburgh Castle, an extraordinary castle in the city. Then, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking 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 interesting spots. After exploring the museum, visit the locally renowned Scottish National Gallery. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the interesting Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, an interesting botanical garden in the city.

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.

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 an extraordinary dining experience at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Condita is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Edinburgh. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Kitchin. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Royal, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Ensign Ewart offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. Tonic is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a palace, a street, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the captivating Holyrood Park. Just a short distance away is Holyrood Palace, an awe-inspiring palace that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Royal Mile, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating The Real Mary King's Close. Last up on today’s itinerary is a museum. Make your way to National Museum Of Scotland for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Edinburgh.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Angels with Bagpipes, 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 Rabble Taphouse and Grill, 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 Black Ivy, 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’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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Hoot The Redeemer, known for its inviting atmosphere. Albanach is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 4 of your self-drive tour in Scotland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the city of Dunfermline and end it in the town of St Andrews. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Scotland.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Edinburgh on today’s itinerary. First up is the intriguing park, Pittencrieff Park. Afterward, continue to Lochore Meadows.

As you explore Edinburgh’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Falkland Palace & Garden. This up-and-coming palace is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to St Andrews Castle, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Old Course Hotel and learn why this golf course is renowned as one of the city's most curiosity-inducing attractions.

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

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 Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Tippling House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect 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 evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Slains Castle, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Northern Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Grill provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Scotland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Aberdeen and beyond. With 2 nights left in Aberdeen, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - Viewpoint. This beloved nature reserve is a romantic place to see in Aberdeen. Continue your discovery at Dunnottar Castle, a romantic castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Aberdeen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Stonehaven War Memorial. This often recommended war memorial offers a historic encounter with Aberdeen. Stonehaven Harbour is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Aberdeen.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Aberdeen, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Foodstory, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aberdeen at Ninety-Nine, 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 Miller & Carter Aberdeen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Aberdeen tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Aberdeen.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Aberdeen as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Aberdeen. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Aberdeen. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Aberdeen!

A top thing to do today is to explore Union Street, a must-see street in Aberdeen. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Aberdeen. Begin your sightseeing with Hazlehead Park. This often recommended park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Duthie Park, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Aberdeen, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This worthwhile maritime museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Seaton Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Aberdeen. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Aberdeen that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Aberdeen to find the best options for you!

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 The City Bar and Diner, 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 satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Aberdeen.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Prince Of Wales is an excellent place to start.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 7 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This worthwhile museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Slessor Gardens, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Rrs Discovery, one of the most curiosity-inducing places to see in Aberdeen. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

In the city of Edinburgh, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Scotland.

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.

Dine in style at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Waverley Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Royal Oak is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Oxford Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!