Relaxed 9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Scott Monument brings Edinburgh's character to life. This standout monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Scottish National Gallery, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Camera Obscura, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This eye-catching distillery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Edinburgh Castle, a spectacular castle, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Heron in Edinburgh by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Heron delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Condita, 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 The Kitchin, 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 cuisine in the city.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Royal, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Ensign Ewart is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tonic is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Visiting Craigmillar Castle is always a good idea. This locally appreciated castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Royal Mile, a must-see street in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This captivating museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to St Giles' Cathedral, where you can take in culturally significant features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Museum Of Scotland These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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!

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 a delicious meal at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Black Ivy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

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.

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

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

On day 4 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!

One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Arthur's Seat. This mesmerizing hiking area will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Holyrood Park and learn what makes this eye-catching park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the notable Holyrood Palace. After exploring the palace, head to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This notable botanical garden is a highlight in Edinburgh. As your day continues, stop by Edinburgh Zoo, known for its picture-perfect features.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Waverley Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Royal Oak, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Oxford Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Edinburgh can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!

On day 6 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dunfermline.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Crosshill. This car ride takes around 25 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Pittencrieff Park, an intriguing park in Dunfermline. Explore its remarkable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Crosshill. This drive usually takes around 25 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Lochore Meadows, a locally appreciated park in Crosshill. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Falkland. This car ride takes around 26 min.

Falkland Palace & Garden is a beloved palace we recommend visiting today. Discover its enchanting features before continuing your self-guided tour.

You'll be staying in Aberdeen on this laid-back road trip through Scotland. You'll stay here for 2 nights.

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.

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

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Aberdeen. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

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

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Aberdeen and visit amazing attractions in Stonehaven and Crathie, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Aberdeen, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

As you explore Stonehaven’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Crathie. This car ride takes around 1 hour 16 min.

Savor the day by heading to Dunnottar Castle, a well-known castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Stonehaven War Memorial, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

Next, explore Stonehaven Harbour, yet another increasingly popular place to see in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Stonehaven, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Crathie. Your travel time is around 1 hour 16 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Balmoral Castle, an often recommended castle known for its visually striking features.

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

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 Aberdeen.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Foodstory, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aberdeen at Ninety-Nine, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Miller & Carter Aberdeen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Aberdeen tonight.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting St. Machar Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Old Blackfriars, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Krakatoa likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 8 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Scotland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Aberdeen. By evening, drive toward the Edinburgh, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Westburn Park. This visually striking park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Duthie Park and learn what makes this eye-catching park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberdeen and set your GPS to Dundee. 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 1 hour 12 min. Upon reaching Dundee, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dundee is The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum, an often recommended museum that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rrs Discovery, an eye-catching museum that stands out in the city.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Scotland as you make your way to Edinburgh. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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 Edinburgh.

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 Monteiths, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Andaluz. With a reputation for consistently satisfying 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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Aberdeen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!