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

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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 Inverness, Cawdor, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Blackness, Larbert, Skinflats, Falkirk, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Stirling.

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 Inverness, 1 night in Aberdeen, 1 night in Glasgow, and 3 nights in Edinburgh. 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 Inverness, 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 Inverness, Cawdor, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Blackness, Larbert, Skinflats, Falkirk, Glasgow, Edinburgh, 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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Day 1

Day 1 – Inverness - arrival day

  • Inverness - Arrival day
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  • Eden Court Inverness
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Say hello to Inverness! Your exciting road trip through Scotland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Inverness for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness 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 Inverness. 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 Inverness. 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.

Make sure to book a table at Kingsmills Hotel, a popular restaurant in Inverness. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Inverness at MacGregor's, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The White House. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Inverness tonight.

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

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Inverness, Cawdor, and Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • Inverness
  • Cawdor
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Drive 265 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • Urquhart Castle
  • Loch Ness
  • Clava cairns
  • Cawdor Castle
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On day 2 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 Inverness, and Cawdor. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aberdeen, where you will stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Clava Cairns, a remarkable group where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,316 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Aberdeen, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Savor the flavors at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mi Amore beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Foodstory. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aberdeen tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Northern Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Grill is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Old Blackfriars ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Blackness, Larbert, Skinflats, and Falkirk

  • Glasgow
  • Stonehaven
  • Blackness
  • Larbert
  • Skinflats
  • Falkirk
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Drive 280 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Blackness Castle
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • The Kelpies
  • Callendar Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Stonehaven, Blackness, Larbert, Skinflats, and Falkirk, 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 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Aberdeen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stonehaven. Your travel time is around 24 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Dunnottar Castle. This rock castle is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blackness. This car ride takes around 1 hour 59 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Blackness Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,186 visitors.

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 Glasgow. Glasgow 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 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Glasgow by securing a reservation at Ox and Finch. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Cail Bruich, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern british menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Glasgow, and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • Glasgow
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Drive 87 km, 2 hours 3 min

  • George Square
  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow. 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 3 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to George Square. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Glasgow, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,066 visitors.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,594 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Riverside Museum. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,799 reviews.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, boasting an annual visitor count of up to 1,037,594 people, is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an art museum rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,580 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Kelvingrove Park, perhaps the most famous park in Glasgow. This attraction is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 travelers.

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.

As you explore more of Edinburgh, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Kitchin, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Panda & Sons, known for its lively atmosphere. Cafe Royal is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 20 km, 1 hour 28 min

  • HMY Britannia
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Holyrood Park
  • More

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Hmy Britannia. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

Edinburgh is also the home of National Museum Of Scotland. Around 45,476 people have rated this national museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Holyrood Palace. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 17,746 reviews, a visit to this official residence is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Edinburgh is also your chance to admire Holyrood Park. This must-visit archaeological site enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 reviews.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafe Andaluz, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hoot The Redeemer. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Albanach, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Bow Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 7 km, 55 min

  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
  • Camera Obscura
  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Dean Village
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Day 6 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Edinburgh. You have 1 night left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Edinburgh Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 visitors.

When you’re finished at Edinburgh Castle, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Every year, approximately 238,542 travelers come here to experience the museum for themselves.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Camera Obscura. This visitor centre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Scottish National Gallery. This art museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors. Around 660,741 travelers visit Scottish National Gallery every year.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Dean Village. This famous village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 travelers.

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

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 7

Day 7 – Edinburgh, Stirling, and Inverness

  • Inverness
  • Edinburgh
  • Stirling
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Drive 299 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • The Royal Mile
  • The Real Mary King's Close
  • St Giles' Cathedral
  • Stirling Castle
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Edinburgh, and Stirling. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Inverness, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Make Royal Mile one of your first sightseeing stops in Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

The Real Mary King's Close is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,638 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,293 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Edinburgh, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stirling. Your travel time is around 1 hour.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Stirling Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Inverness, 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 Inverness. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Cafe V8, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Scotch & Rye? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Johnny Foxes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Inverness.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Hootananny, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Gellions Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Innes Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Inverness - departure day

  • Inverness - Departure day
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  • Whin Park
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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 Inverness before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Inverness’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland.

Make Whin Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,183 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Black Isle Bar & Rooms, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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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