One-Week Scotland Road Trip from Glasgow traveling east to Edinburgh, and Aberdeen

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 8-day road trip through Scotland. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Doune, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. 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 3 nights in Glasgow, 3 nights in Edinburgh, and 1 night in Aberdeen. 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 Glasgow, 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Doune, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling, 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!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
George Square
Pollok Country ParkGlasgow Science CentreGlasgow Botanic Gardens
Kelvingrove ParkKelvingrove Art Gallery and MuseumGlasgow CathedralFalkirk WheelThe Kelpies
HMY BritanniaScottish National GalleryCamera ObscuraScotch Whisky Heritage CentreEdinburgh Castle
Edinburgh ZooDean VillageRoyal Botanic Garden EdinburghHolyrood PalaceHolyrood Park
The Royal MileThe Edinburgh DungeonThe Real Mary King's CloseSt Giles' CathedralNational Museum of Scotland
Dunnottar CastleDoune CastleThe National Wallace MonumentStirling CastleBlair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
Glasgow Green

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Day 1

Day 1 – Glasgow - arrival day

  • Glasgow - Arrival day
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  • George Square
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Welcome to Glasgow, 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 Glasgow's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Glasgow 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 George Square or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Glasgow. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Piper Whisky Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Gallery Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Bar 91 is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Glasgow

  • Glasgow
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Drive 32 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Pollok Country Park
  • Glasgow Science Centre
  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Glasgow for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kick off the day at Pollok Country Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Glasgow Science Centre. Glasgow Science Centre is a skyscraper with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,454 reviews.

Riverside Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,594 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Seven Lochs Wetland Park, a famous park in Glasgow. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,044 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Glasgow on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Glasgow's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • Glasgow
  • Larbert
  • Skinflats
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Drive 95 km, 2 hours 15 min

  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Glasgow Cathedral
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • The Kelpies
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Make Kelvingrove Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,336 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 1,037,594 annual visitors.

Glasgow Cathedral is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,737 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glasgow and set your GPS to Larbert. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Larbert, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Falkirk Wheel. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,951 visitors.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Edinburgh's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Edinburgh by reserving a table at Heron. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Condita, 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 The Kitchin, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern 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 Edinburgh.

Keep the evening going at Panda & Sons, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Cafe Royal, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Ensign Ewart, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • HMY Britannia
  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Camera Obscura
  • Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hmy Britannia. This royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

Scottish National Gallery is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors. Scottish National Gallery attracts up to 660,741 visitors every year.

Camera Obscura is also highly recommended by travelers. This visitor centre has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 238,542 people visit this place every year. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Edinburgh Castle. This castle has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Edinburgh has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Edinburgh offers and add your favorites to your Scotland travel package below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, 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 Cafe Andaluz, 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 Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Hoot The Redeemer, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Albanach, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Bow Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 24 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Edinburgh Zoo
  • Dean Village
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Holyrood Park
  • More

On day 5 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.

Drop by the renowned Edinburgh Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 11,987 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Dean Village. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 visitors, this village deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Holyrood Palace. This official residence and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Holyrood Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 travelers, this archaeological site is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Edinburgh.

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.

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.

Dine in style at The Kitchin, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Witchery by the Castle boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Whiski Bar & Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Edinburgh, and Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 205 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • The Royal Mile
  • The Edinburgh Dungeon
  • The Real Mary King's Close
  • St Giles' Cathedral
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Edinburgh. 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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

Continue your journey at The Edinburgh Dungeon. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,688 travelers from near and far.

Edinburgh is also the home of The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,638 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at St Giles' Cathedral. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,293 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on National Museum Of Scotland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this national museum.

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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, an iconic dining spot in Aberdeen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mi Amore, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Foodstory, a hidden gem nestled in Aberdeen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Doune, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • Stonehaven
  • Doune
  • Cambuskenneth
  • Stirling
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Drive 270 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Doune Castle
  • The National Wallace Monument
  • Stirling Castle
  • Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Stonehaven, Doune, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. 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 1 night.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dunnottar Castle. This much-appreciated rock castle is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,220 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Doune, 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 Stonehaven to Doune may take around 1 hour 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Doune, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Doune Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,505 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Glasgow, 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 Glasgow. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Willow Tea Rooms, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Òran Mór offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Stereo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Glasgow - departure day

  • Glasgow - Departure day
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  • Glasgow Green
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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 Glasgow 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.

Kick off the day at Glasgow Green, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This stadium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Glasgow. 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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