9-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh traveling north to Aberdeen and Dundee

Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Edinburgh and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Edinburgh 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 Dean Village or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Edinburgh. 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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Edinburgh by booking a table at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Condita, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit The Kitchin, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Panda & Sons. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe Royal offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Ensign Ewart, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at National Museum of Scotland. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 visitors.

When you’re finished at National Museum of Scotland, head to St Giles' Cathedral. This one-of-a-kind cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,293 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit The Real Mary King's Close. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to The Edinburgh Dungeon. This sightseeing destination is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,688 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Royal Mile. This famous sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 travelers.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Edinburgh on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cafe Andaluz is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Hoot The Redeemer, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Albanach offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Bow Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Edinburgh. You have 2 nights left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Arthur's Seat. This mountain is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,238 visitors.

Holyrood Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Holyrood Palace. Visitors have rated this official residence an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 reviews.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a botanical garden rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Edinburgh Zoo, perhaps the most famous zoo in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 11,987 travelers.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Edinburgh's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at The Kitchin, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Witchery by the Castle beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Whiski Bar & Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.

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.

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make HMY Britannia your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this royal yacht an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,023 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Scottish National Gallery. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 660,741 annual visitors.

Camera Obscura is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

When you’re finished at Camera Obscura, the perfect next stop is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre attracts approximately 238,542 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Castle. This castle is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews.

You can learn more about Edinburgh today by going on a tour. Edinburgh offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Cold Town House, 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 The Dome, 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 The Edinburgh Larder, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Say good night to Edinburgh and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!

On day 5 of your road trip in Scotland, 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 in Dunfermline, Crosshill, Falkland, and St Andrews. In the evening, you’ll end up in Aberdeen, where you will stay for 2 nights.

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 Edinburgh to Dunfermline may take around 44 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dunfermline, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Pittencrieff Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,956 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dunfermline, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Crosshill may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Crosshill, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Lochore Meadows one of your first sightseeing stops in Crosshill. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,003 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Aberdeen, 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 Aberdeen's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, an iconic dining spot in Aberdeen. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Mi Amore, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Foodstory, a hidden gem nestled in Aberdeen. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Northern Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Grill. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Old Blackfriars, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Scotland. With 1 night left in Aberdeen, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. St Cyrus, 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 Aberdeen to St Cyrus may take around 45 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in St Cyrus, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - viewpoint. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,219 visitors.

After soaking in St Cyrus’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stonehaven. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 23 min. When you arrive in Stonehaven, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Dunnottar Castle. This extraordinary rock castle has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,220 visitors.

Next, make your way to Stonehaven War Memorial. This landmark is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 598 reviews.

While in Stonehaven, we also recommend a visit to Stonehaven Harbour. This harbor has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,510 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Aberdeen, 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 delicious dinner at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Maggie's Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Malmaison Aberdeen. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Krakatoa, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Prince Of Wales, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Aberdeen and Glamis. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dundee. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This extraordinary maritime museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,270 visitors.

Next, make your way to Seaton Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,950 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Queens Links Leisure Park. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,883 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Duthie Park. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,959 travelers.

Glamis’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aberdeen behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 2 min. Glamis welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Glamis Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,669 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dundee, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dundee's best restaurants.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Fort, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Porters Bar & Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dundee.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The King of Islington, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Bank Bar Dundee, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Salty Dog likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dundee and Penicuik. 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.

Make The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,551 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Slessor Gardens. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 864 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

RRS Discovery is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This barque has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,529 visitors.

When you’re finished at RRS Discovery, the perfect next stop is Dundee Contemporary Arts. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,269 reviews.

After soaking in Dundee’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Penicuik. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive in Penicuik, it's time to take a break from the road.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Pentland Hills Regional Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,398 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Edinburgh. Edinburgh offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and 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 Edinburgh. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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.

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

As you approach the end of your journey in Scotland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Edinburgh’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Scotland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Scotland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

Make Calton Hill your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this mountain an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,517 reviews.

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

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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!