9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William

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Old town chambers Edinburgh, Scotland
Photo of the scenic Dean Village in a sunny afternoon, in Edinburgh, Scotland.
9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William
9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William
9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William
9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William
9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Inverness, Portree, and Fort William
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Explore the best of Scotland on a remarkable 9-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Pitlochry, Inverness, Lewiston, Kyleakin, Portree, Glenfinnan, Spean Bridge, Banavie, Fort William, Larbert, Skinflats, and Falkirk.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Scotland. You will spend 3 nights in Edinburgh, 2 nights in Inverness, 2 nights in Portree, and 1 night in Fort William. 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 you covered.

Upon arriving in Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Pitlochry, Inverness, Lewiston, Kyleakin, Portree, Glenfinnan, Spean Bridge, Banavie, Fort William, Larbert, Skinflats, and Falkirk, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Day1

Day 1

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
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  • Old Town
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Welcome to Edinburgh, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights discovering what to see in Edinburgh before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Edinburgh. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, 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 Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, 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 Theatre Royal Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Juniper Edinburgh is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Panda & Sons offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 3 km, 43 min

  • Scott Monument
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • St Giles' Cathedral
  • The Royal Mile
  • Princes Street
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Edinburgh. You have 1 night left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Princes Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Make a stop at Scott Monument. This locally appreciated monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Edinburgh Castle located in Edinburgh for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of National Museum Of Scotland. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to St Giles' Cathedral. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this church. Next up is Royal Mile, a highly recommended street.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Scotland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Edinburgh is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Novotel Edinburgh Centre, 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 Tigerlily. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day3

Day 3

  • Edinburgh
  • Cambuskenneth
  • Stirling
  • Pitlochry
  • Inverness
  • More

Drive 304 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • The National Wallace Monument
  • Stirling, Old Bridge
  • Stirling Castle
  • Blair Athol Distillery
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip in Scotland, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Pitlochry, and Inverness are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 2 nights.

After soaking in Edinburgh’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 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Cambuskenneth, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Wallace Monument, an interesting monument known for its instagrammable features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Stirling, Old Bridge, a frequently visited historical landmark.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stirling and set your GPS to Pitlochry. 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 5 min. Upon reaching Pitlochry, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stirling Castle. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Stirling’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Pitlochry. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 5 min. When you arrive in Pitlochry, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Blair Athol Distillery, a beloved distillery that everyone visiting Pitlochry should see.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Inverness is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Inverness.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Simpsons, a highly-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Scotland.

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Day4

Day 4

  • Inverness
  • Lewiston
  • More

Drive 94 km, 1 hour 50 min

  • Loch Ness
  • Blairbeg Park
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including the Scottish Highlands, Lewiston, and Inverness.

Let Inverness Cathedral, Dedicated To St Andrew set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this stunning church before continuing your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Inverness, you’ll hit the road in the direction of the Scottish Highlands. This drive usually takes around 27 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Loch Ness. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the lake before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of the Scottish Highlands, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Lewiston. Your travel time is around 41 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Blairbeg Park. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Urquhart Castle. This popular castle is a traveler-favorite in the region.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at MacGregor's, a highly-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're eager to try something different, consider The White House, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Kitchen Brasserie. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Hootananny. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Gellions Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Innes Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Inverness
  • Kyleakin
  • Portree
  • More

Drive 222 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Caisteal Maol
  • 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
  • Sligachan Waterfalls
  • Fairy Pools
  • More

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Scotland includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Kyleakin, Sligachan, the Scottish Highlands, and Portree. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Portree, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Inverness and set your GPS to Kyleakin. 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 57 min. Upon reaching Kyleakin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Caisteal Maol. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kyleakin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sligachan. This drive usually takes around 38 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to 슬리가찬 오래된 다리, an up-and-coming historical landmark in Sligachan. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — the Scottish Highlands, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Sligachan to the Scottish Highlands may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in the Scottish Highlands, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in the Scottish Highlands is Sligachan Waterfalls, a beloved waterfall that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Fairy Pools, an instagrammable waterfall that stands out in the village.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Portree. Portree offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Portree's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Head back to your accommodation in Portree and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland.

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Day6

Day 6

  • Portree
  • More

Drive 84 km, 1 hour 56 min

  • Rigg Viewpoint
  • Lealt Falls
  • An Corran Beach
  • The Quiraing
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience the Scottish Highlands, Lealt, Garafad, Duntulm, and Hungladder. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Portree, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in the Scottish Highlands. This drive usually takes around 22 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rigg Viewpoint and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to The Quiraing, another highlight in the Scottish Highlands.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lealt. This car ride takes around 4 min.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Lealt Falls, a locally appreciated waterfall that everyone visiting Lealt should see.

Set your GPS to Garafad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Garafad beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to A Corran Beach, an intriguing beach in Garafad. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Portree, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!

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Day7

Day 7

  • Portree
  • Glenfinnan
  • Spean Bridge
  • Banavie
  • Fort William
  • More

Drive 255 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Glenfinnan Viewpoint
  • Glenfinnan Viaduct
  • Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust for Scotland
  • Commando Memorial
  • Ben Nevis Viewpoint
  • Neptune's Staircase
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Glenfinnan, Spean Bridge, and Banavie. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Fort William, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Glenfinnan and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Glenfinnan beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Glenfinnan Viewpoint, a locally appreciated observation deck that everyone visiting Glenfinnan should see. Next, head to Glenfinnan Viaduct. This breathtaking heritage railway is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland, a culturally significant monument popular among locals as well as travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Spean Bridge. This car ride takes around 32 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Commando Memorial and explore the culturally significant features. Next, make your way to Ben Nevis Viewpoint, another highlight in Spean Bridge.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Banavie. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Savor the day by heading to Neptune's Staircase, a locally appreciated historical landmark that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Fort William, 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 Fort William's best restaurants.

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

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Day8

Day 8

  • Fort William
  • Larbert
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 250 km, 4 hours 13 min

  • The Meeting of Three Waters
  • Glencoe Viewpoint
  • Falls of Falloch
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 places, which are the Scottish Highlands, Stirling, Larbert, Skinflats, and Falkirk. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh, where will spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Fort William, you’ll hit the road in the direction of the Scottish Highlands. This drive usually takes around 33 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to The Meeting Of Three Waters, a frequently visited waterfall in the Scottish Highlands. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Glencoe Viewpoint. This locally appreciated observation deck is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’ve had your share of the Scottish Highlands, 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 39 min.

Falls Of Falloch is an up-and-coming waterfall we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Larbert may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Larbert, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Falkirk Wheel. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Edinburgh. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Rabble Taphouse and Grill, 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 Black Ivy. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Albanach is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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Day9

Day 9

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
  • More
  • Calton Hill
  • More

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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Calton Hill. This beloved park is a hotspot among locals.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Edinburgh, Grassmarket is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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 eager to try something different, consider The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another top spot with a tantalizing 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!

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Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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