9-Day Scotland Road Trip from Aberdeen traveling west to Edinburgh, and Glasgow

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Explore the best of Scotland on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Doune, and Stonehaven. This road trip itinerary in Scotland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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 Aberdeen, 1 night in Edinburgh, and 5 nights in Glasgow. 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 Aberdeen, 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 Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Doune, and Stonehaven, 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 – Aberdeen - arrival day

  • Aberdeen - Arrival day
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Welcome to Aberdeen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Aberdeen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Aberdeen 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 Queens Links Leisure Park 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 Aberdeen. 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 Aberdeen. 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.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Northern Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Grill, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Old Blackfriars also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Scotland!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Aberdeen, and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • Aberdeen
  • More

Drive 223 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Aberdeen Maritime Museum
  • Seaton Park
  • Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
  • Hazlehead Park
  • Duthie Park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Aberdeen. 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 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable maritime museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,270 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Seaton Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,950 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Aberdeen is Donmouth Local Nature Reserve. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,055 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Aberdeen offers an experience you will remember.

Hazlehead Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Aberdeen. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,456 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Duthie Park. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,959 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Edinburgh, Condita shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, The Kitchin is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Edinburgh. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Panda & Sons, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Cafe Royal offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Edinburgh, and Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 78 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Calton Hill
  • National Galleries of Scotland: National
  • Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
  • The Scotch Whisky Experience
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • More

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 5 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Calton Hill. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,517 reviews.

Continue your journey at Scottish National Gallery. This art museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 travelers from near and far. Approximately 660,741 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh is also the home of Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. A total of 238,542 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Edinburgh Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this castle.

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.

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

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.

Keep the evening going at The Gallery Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar 91, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Glasgow, and Edinburgh

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 157 km, 2 hours 41 min

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 4 nights left in Glasgow, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glasgow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edinburgh. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Hmy Britannia is a great place to start. This royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at The Real Mary King's Close. The point of interest has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 reviews.

National Museum Of Scotland is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this national museum, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Alston Bar & Beef, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Elia Greek Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Glasgow.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Glasgow, and Edinburgh

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 165 km, 3 hours

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Glasgow, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Edinburgh’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Glasgow behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Edinburgh welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 visitors.

Dean Village is another popular attraction you could visit today. This village has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 visitors.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is also highly recommended by travelers. This botanical garden has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 visitors.

Holyrood Palace is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This official residence is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Holyrood Park. This archaeological site has received an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 travelers.

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

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.

Dine in style at The Willow Tea Rooms, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Òran Mór boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Stereo. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Glasgow.

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 6

Day 6 – Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • More

Drive 30 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Pollok Country Park
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,594 visitors.

When you’re finished at Glasgow Botanic Gardens, head to Kelvingrove Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,336 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors. Visiting Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum means you'll be one of 1,037,594 people who do so every year.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Riverside Museum. This museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Pollok Country Park. This famous park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,112 travelers.

Your discoveries in Glasgow do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Glasgow on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

As you explore more of Glasgow, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Max's Bar & Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Anchor Line? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Paesano Pizza as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Glasgow.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats

  • Glasgow
  • Larbert
  • Skinflats
  • More

Drive 95 km, 2 hours 1 min

  • Glasgow Green
  • George Square
  • Glasgow Cathedral
  • The Falkirk Wheel
  • The Kelpies
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Glasgow, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Glasgow for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Journey into the unknown at Glasgow Green, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable stadium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,762 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, George Square is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Glasgow is Glasgow Cathedral. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,737 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Glasgow offers an experience you will remember.

After soaking in Glasgow’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Larbert. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in Larbert, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Falkirk Wheel. This extraordinary boat lift has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,951 visitors.

After soaking in Larbert’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Skinflats. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Skinflats, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at The Kelpies, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sculpture has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,904 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Glasgow, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Bothy Glasgow, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Glasgow at The Social, 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 Citizen Glasgow. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Glasgow tonight.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Doune, Stonehaven, and Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • Cambuskenneth
  • Stirling
  • Doune
  • Stonehaven
  • More

Drive 258 km, 3 hours 41 min

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Doune, and Stonehaven, 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 Aberdeen. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cambuskenneth, 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 Cambuskenneth may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cambuskenneth, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wallace Monument. This monument is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cambuskenneth, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

Stirling’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cambuskenneth behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Stirling welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Stirling Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Stirling. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,632 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This zoo is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,922 reviews.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Maggie's Grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Malmaison Aberdeen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberdeen.

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

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Aberdeen - departure day

  • Aberdeen - Departure day
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  • Johnston Gardens
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Aberdeen before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Aberdeen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Johnston Gardens. This public garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 847 reviews.

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

Dine in style at BrewDog Aberdeen, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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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