Relaxed 9-Day Scotland Road Trip Starting from Dundee to Edinburgh

Your relaxed road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Dundee, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dundee and begin your adventure in Scotland.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dundee Contemporary Arts. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,269 visitors.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dundee. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Dundee.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at The Fort, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Porters Bar & Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dundee tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dundee and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The King of Islington, known for its lively atmosphere. The Bank Bar Dundee is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Salty Dog offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland. Enjoy your first taste of Dundee as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Dundee, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dundee, and meet locals along the way!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Camperdown Wildlife Centre. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,015 visitors.

When you’re finished at Camperdown Wildlife Centre, head to The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This one-of-a-kind museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,551 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Verdant Works. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 803 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Dundee Law. This mountain is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,396 visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Dundee, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Scotland.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dundee.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bird & Bear, a highly-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're eager to try something different, consider Don Michele Italian Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gidi Grill Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dundee’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

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

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dundee!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dundee. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Dundee!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Broughty Castle Museum. This extraordinary museum has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,351 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dawson Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 599 reviews.

While in Dundee, we also recommend a visit to Baxter Park. This park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,306 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to RRS Discovery. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,529 travelers, this barque is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Dundee.

Make your way to Magdalen Green railway station, perhaps the most famous former railway station in Dundee. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 855 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Scotland.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dundee has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

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

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Dundee and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Abandon Ship, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dynamo Dundee is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Falkland. This drive usually takes around 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Falkland Palace & Garden. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,711 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dunfermline, 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 Crosshill to Dunfermline may take around 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dunfermline, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Pittencrieff Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,956 reviews.

Set your GPS to Crosshill and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Crosshill beckons with new experiences!

Journey into the unknown at Lochore Meadows, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,003 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Edinburgh. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 1-star Michelin-awardee, Condita, known for its delicious modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Edinburgh is The Kitchin, a renowned restaurant , known for its delicious modern menu.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Edinburgh!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

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

Scottish National Gallery is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 travelers. Up to 660,741 people visit Scottish National Gallery every year.

Edinburgh is also the home of Camera Obscura. Around 13,536 people have rated this visitor centre an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, which hosts up to 238,542 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 8,926 reviews, a visit to this museum is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Edinburgh is also your chance to admire Edinburgh Castle. This must-visit castle enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafe Andaluz, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Hoot The Redeemer offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Albanach is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Bow Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Calton Hill. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,517 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Royal Mile. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to The Real Mary King's Close. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,638 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,293 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Museum of Scotland. This national museum is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 visitors.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Kitchin, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Witchery by the Castle offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Edinburgh!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 11,987 visitors.

Dean Village is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Visitors have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Holyrood Palace is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an official residence rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Holyrood Park, perhaps the most famous archaeological site in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 travelers.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Savor the flavors at Cold Town House, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Dome beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Edinburgh Larder. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Scotland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Scotland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Scotland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Scotland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Larbert, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cambuskenneth may take around 30 min. Upon your arrival in Cambuskenneth, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Wallace Monument your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this monument an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,772 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Cambuskenneth, 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 11 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stirling Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,922 reviews.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Kelpies. This sculpture is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Skinflats, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,904 visitors.

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

Exploring the food culture in Dundee offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Milas boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mozza Dundee. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dundee.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Dundee.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Dundee’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland. Take home a piece of Scotland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dundee or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tahini, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dundee and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.