9-Day Scotland Road Trip from Glasgow traveling east to Aberdeen, Elgin, and Edinburgh

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Scotland. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Inverness, Elgin, Cawdor, Edinburgh, Skinflats, and Larbert. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Glasgow, 1 night in Aberdeen, 1 night in Elgin, and 3 nights in Edinburgh. 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 got you covered.

Upon arriving in Glasgow, 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 Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, Inverness, Elgin, Cawdor, Edinburgh, Skinflats, and Larbert, 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, accommodation, 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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Day 1

Day 1 – Glasgow - arrival day

  • Glasgow - Arrival day
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  • George Square
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Welcome to Glasgow, 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 immersing yourself in Glasgow's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Glasgow 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 George Square or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Glasgow. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Piper Whisky Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Glaschu Restaurant & Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Glasgow.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gallery Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bar 91, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Glasgow

  • Glasgow
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Drive 33 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Pollok Country Park
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Kick off the day at Glasgow Botanic Gardens, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Kelvingrove Park. Kelvingrove Park is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 reviews.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This art museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors. In a single year, this art museum hosts approximately 1,037,594 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Riverside Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Pollok Country Park, a famous park in Glasgow. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,112 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Glasgow. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in Glasgow by booking a table at Ox and Finch, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional mediterranean menu. For a different culinary experience in Glasgow, Cail Bruich shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Unalome by Graeme Cheevers is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern british cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • Glasgow
  • Cambuskenneth
  • Stirling
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Drive 259 km, 3 hours 34 min

  • Glasgow Cathedral
  • The National Wallace Monument
  • Stirling Castle
  • Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberdeen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Glasgow, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,737 visitors.

Seven Lochs Wetland Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,044 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cambuskenneth. This car ride takes around 37 min.

Journey into the unknown at Wallace Monument, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable monument has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,772 reviews.

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.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mi Amore? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Foodstory as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Aberdeen.

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

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Aberdeen, Stonehaven, the Scottish Highlands, Inverness, and Elgin

  • Moray
  • Stonehaven
  • Inverness
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Drive 336 km, 5 hours 9 min

  • Dunnottar Castle
  • Stonehaven Harbour
  • Urquhart Castle
  • Eden Court Inverness
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Stonehaven, the Scottish Highlands, and Inverness. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Elgin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stonehaven. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dunnottar Castle. This rock castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Stonehaven, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors.

Stonehaven Harbour is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,510 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Set your GPS to the Scottish Highlands and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. The Scottish Highlands beckons with new experiences!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Urquhart Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,979 reviews.

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

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Elgin, Cawdor, the Scottish Highlands, Inverness, Glenmore, and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • Cawdor
  • Inverness
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Drive 345 km, 4 hours 45 min

  • Cawdor Castle and Gardens
  • Fort George
  • Clava Cairns
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Cawdor, the Scottish Highlands, Inverness, and Glenmore. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Elgin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cawdor. This drive usually takes around 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, Cawdor Castle is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,900 visitors.

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 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Fort George, a remarkable barracks where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,606 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Edinburgh. Edinburgh offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Start 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Panda & Sons, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Cafe Royal provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Ensign Ewart offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 6 km, 29 min

  • Royal Mile
  • The Royal Mile
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • The Real Mary King's Close
  • Edinburgh Castle
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Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see Royal Mile. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 visitors.

National Museum Of Scotland is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This national museum has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers.

Edinburgh is also the home of The Real Mary King's Close. Around 10,638 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Edinburgh Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 90,949 reviews, a visit to this castle is a great idea.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Edinburgh has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Edinburgh offers and add your favorites to your Scotland travel package below.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Cafe Andaluz, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Edinburgh tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Albanach offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Bow Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 11 km, 43 min

  • National Galleries of Scotland: National
  • The Scotch Whisky Experience
  • Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
  • Palace of Holyroodhouse
  • Holyrood Park
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Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Scottish National Gallery. This extraordinary art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors. Each year, around 660,741 people visit this site to learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This top attraction is a museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors. Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre welcomes 238,542 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Camera Obscura. This visitor centre is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Holyrood Palace. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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.

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

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Edinburgh, Skinflats, Larbert, and Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • Skinflats
  • Larbert
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 21 min

  • Dean Village
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • The Royal Yacht Britannia
  • The Kelpies
  • The Falkirk Wheel
  • More

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, Skinflats, and Larbert, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Glasgow. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Dean Village. This village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

Continue your journey at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers from near and far.

Edinburgh is also the home of Hmy Britannia. This royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Edinburgh and set your GPS to Skinflats. 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 52 min. Upon reaching Skinflats, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, The Kelpies is a great place to start. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,904 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Glasgow, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Glasgow, 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Willow Tea Rooms, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Òran Mór is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Stereo. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Glasgow tonight.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Glasgow - departure day

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

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Glasgow’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Drop by the renowned Glasgow Green. This popular stadium has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,762 visitors.

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

Dine in style at Max's Bar & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Anchor Line boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

You’ll then say farewell to Glasgow. 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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