9-Day Road Trip in Scotland, England, and Wales from Edinburgh to Glasgow, Preston, Cardiff, London, and Leeds

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Scotland, England, and Wales begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Edinburgh in Scotland. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Edinburgh for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to Scotland to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Edinburgh before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A tour of Edinburgh is not complete without a visit to the famous Royal Mile. This incredible sightseeing destination and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 travelers.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Edinburgh. 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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Edinburgh’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Scotland, England, and Wales.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Edinburgh by securing a table at Heron. Esteemed as a much-enjoyed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Condita, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Kitchin, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Panda & Sons after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Cafe Royal, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Your multi-country road trip in Scotland, England, and Wales has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Scotland, England, and Wales, 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 to see in Edinburgh in Scotland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 1 night.

In Edinburgh, the extraordinary Holyrood Palace awaits. This attraction is a valued official residence that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Edinburgh is the spectacular National Museum of Scotland. This attraction is a national museum that is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Edinburgh Castle. This local castle and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Scottish National Gallery is another attraction you might want to add to your Edinburgh exploration itinerary. This art museum is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,079 reviews and annual visitor count of approximately 660,741 people.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. More than a popular botanical garden and attraction, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Edinburgh. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 traveler reviews.

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 Glasgow. Your travel time is around 1 hour 7 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Glasgow’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Glasgow's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Scotland to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Glasgow has them.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Glasgow by reserving a table at Ox and Finch. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional mediterranean menu. For a different taste experience, head to Cail Bruich, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a local favorite known for its delightful modern british cuisine in Glasgow. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern british foodies seeking culinary excellence.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Gallery Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Bar 91 for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across Scotland, England, and Wales. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Glasgow in Scotland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Preston where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Glasgow, including the outstanding George Square. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews, this fascinating square and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Glasgow is also home to the captivating Riverside Museum, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the city. About 16,799 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Kelvingrove Park is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Glasgow. This extraordinary park and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum will inspire you as it does to more than 1,037,594 travelers every year. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing art museum and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,580 reviews.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Preston. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Scotland, England, and Wales by rewarding yourself with a taste of Preston’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at We Don't Give a Fork, a highly-rated dining destination in Preston. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Tea House, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turtle Bay Preston. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Preston this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Ships and Giggles, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Black Horse is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Plug & Taps is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Preston, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Raglan in Wales. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cardiff, your home for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Preston, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Raglan, Wales. Your travel time is around 3 hours 9 min.

Raglan Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Raglan, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,420 visitors.

Blaenavon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Raglan behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Blaenavon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Blaenavon today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Big Pit National Coal Museum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,280 visitors and attracts around 155,631 curious travelers annually.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cwmbran. This car ride takes around 27 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Cwmbran today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Greenmeadow Community Farm. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 753 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Cardiff. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Cardiff. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Scotland, England, and Wales.

Dine in style at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Cardiff, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Elevens Bar And Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Old Arcade. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Pennyroyal, known for its lively atmosphere. The Borough Arms is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Libertine Cocktail Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5, you will wake up in Cardiff with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Cardiff before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Scotland, England, and Wales.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable National Museum Cardiff. This outstanding museum building and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year, with over 373,191 people visiting it annually. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 8,980 travelers, a visit to the remarkable National Museum Cardiff is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Cardiff Castle is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 19,549 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing park, Bute Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,575 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Scotland, England, and Wales, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Cardiff. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Dine in style at Cafe Citta, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Clayton Hotel Cardiff boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cardiff.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Great Western - JD Wetherspoon, known for its inviting atmosphere. Rum & Fizz is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Kongs Cardiff provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Scotland, England, and Wales. Today's main destinations are Westminster in England, 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 London. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

After soaking in Cardiff’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Westminster, England. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 47 min. When you arrive in Westminster, it's time to take a break from the road.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Westminster — Hyde Park. About 128,167 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in London.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in London is the fantastic Tower Bridge. As an appreciated bascule bridge and local gem in the area, Tower Bridge has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 156,250 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Borough Market. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 99,307 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of London.

In London, the extraordinary Tower of London awaits. This attraction is a valued castle that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 104,392 travelers' reviews. Hosting around 2,741,126 visitors every year, the amazing Tower of London is undoubtedly one of the top sights of the area.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in London. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in London. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at The American Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cahoots London is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bill's Soho Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

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

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Scotland, England, and Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Westminster in England. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Leeds, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A tour of London is not complete without a visit to the famous British Museum. This incredible national museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,665 travelers, and is visited by 5,906,716 people every year.

Westminster welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Westminster is the magnificent St James's Park. Around 56,264 visitors have rated this excellent park and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Buckingham Palace on this leg of your adventure in England. This attraction is a well-known royal palace that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 168,513 travelers.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to London, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Leeds. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Something that makes London the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding ferris wheel, London Eye. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,315 visitors.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Leeds.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of England's delectable cuisine at one of Leeds's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Experience a taste of Prashad in Leeds by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Prashad delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious indian vegetarian cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cosy Club, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pixel Bar Leeds. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, North Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Brudenell Social Club, another top-rated bar in the area.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Scotland, England, and Wales, 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 to see in York in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 1 night.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in York. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in York today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding National Railway Museum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,938 visitors and attracts around 807,591 curious travelers annually.

Next, discover the charms of the popular York Museum Gardens. This incredible attraction and botanical garden holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 8,052 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Wigginton. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Wigginton — Moorlands Woodland Nature Reserve. About 304 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Edinburgh of your choice.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Edinburgh boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Scotland.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Hoot The Redeemer stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Albanach offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Bow Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Scotland, England, and Wales! Enjoy your evening in Edinburgh to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Edinburgh before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Scotland, England, and Wales. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

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

In Edinburgh, the extraordinary Dean Village awaits. This attraction is a valued village that boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 travelers' reviews.

Get a last taste of Scotland’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Edinburgh and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Scotland, England, and Wales.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

The time has come to say farewell to Edinburgh for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Scotland, England, and Wales with fond memories. Safe travels!