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

On day 2 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!

Make Hmy Britannia one of your first sightseeing stops in Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Scottish National Gallery is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This art museum is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 reviews. Up to 660,741 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Edinburgh special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre and find out why 238,542 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular museum is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 8,926 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Edinburgh Castle. This castle enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 local and international travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Edinburgh itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful 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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Edinburgh by securing a reservation at Heron. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Condita, 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 The Kitchin, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Hoot The Redeemer, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Albanach, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Bow Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across 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!

When you're ready to see some sights, Arthur's Seat is a great place to start. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,238 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Holyrood Park. This archaeological site has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Holyrood Palace. The official residence has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 reviews.

Edinburgh Zoo is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this zoo, rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 11,987 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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.

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

Day 4 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Edinburgh. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Glasgow, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors.

The Edinburgh Dungeon is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,688 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to The Real Mary King's Close. Visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

St Giles' Cathedral is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a cathedral rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,293 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic National Museum Of Scotland, perhaps the most famous national museum in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers.

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

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 Glasgow, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Glasgow by securing a table at Ox and Finch. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional mediterranean menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Cail Bruich, 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 Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern british cuisine in Glasgow. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern british cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Gallery Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar 91 offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Glasgow and visit amazing attractions in Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Doune destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Glasgow. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

After soaking in Glasgow’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cambuskenneth. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Cambuskenneth, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Wallace Monument is a great place to start. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Stirling. This drive usually takes around 11 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Stirling Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

Continue your journey at Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park. This zoo is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,922 travelers from near and far.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stirling, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Doune may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in Doune, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Doune Castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,505 visitors.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Alston Bar & Beef, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Elia Greek Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow 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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Scotland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Balloch and beyond. With 2 nights left in Glasgow, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Glasgow Science Centre. Previous visitors have rated this skyscraper an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,454 reviews.

George Square is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,737 reviews.

Glasgow Green is another outstanding experience in Glasgow. Around 10,762 travelers have rated this stadium an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glasgow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Balloch. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Loch Lomond Shores. This extraordinary shopping mall has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 8,718 visitors.

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

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 Glasgow, 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 The Willow Tea Rooms, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Òran Mór, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Stereo. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Scotland.

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

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.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Glasgow. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Glasgow 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 Glasgow to find the best options for you!

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 Glasgow.

Don’t miss out on dining at Max's Bar & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Anchor Line, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Paesano Pizza. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow 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.

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