9-Day Relaxed Scotland Road Trip from Inverness to Edinburgh

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Scotland begins when you reach Inverness, where you’ll stay for a total of 3 nights.

Inverness is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Eden Court Inverness. Around 2,725 visitors have rated this fascinating movie theater and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Inverness offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is River House. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 691 customers.

The Mustard Seed Restaurant serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Inverness has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,671 reviews.

If you’re curious about what Inverness looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Rocpool, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 934 reviews.

Johnny Foxes offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Inverness. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,918 customers.

Locals like unwinding at Black Isle Bar & Rooms. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,982 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Scotland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you'll explore the best attractions in Inverness at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Inverness, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Urquhart Castle. This incredible castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,979 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Scotland by seeing another popular site in Inverness, the wonderful Commando Memorial. This monument is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,979 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Neptune's Staircase. This staircase locks has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,895 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This best-rated sightseeing destination is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,393 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct. This amazing site is a wonderful stone bridge with more than 6,217 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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 Inverness itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Scotland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Inverness. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, The Kitchen Brasserie. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,289 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at MacGregor's, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. MacGregor's is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by 870 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended The White House. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 642 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Inverness and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Hootananny. This vibrant bar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,802 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Scotch & Rye. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,381 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Gellions Bar. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Gellions Bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,317 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 5 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Falls of Bruar is waiting for you. This waterfall has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 871 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Blair Athol distillery. This unique whisky distillery is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 792 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible The Hermitage. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,918 visitors, this waterfall is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park. This popular park and attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,222 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to South Inch. This attraction is a valued urban park in the area that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,523 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Perth has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Scotland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Edinburgh. In Edinburgh, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,804 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing The Edinburgh Larder.

Locals also recommend The Kitchin as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at The Kitchin as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,577 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Bramble Bar & Lounge. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 743 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh). Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh) is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Panda & Sons. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,617 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to The Dome. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. The Dome is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,433 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Scotland!

Around 2,398 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing castle that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 398 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Scottish Mining Museum will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland more memorable. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 886 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Scotland is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Vogrie Country Park is a well-loved country park by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,816 visitors.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Edinburgh for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Scotland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,852 customers, the dining experience Dishoom Edinburgh offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Scotland.

Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre is another pleasant place to eat in Edinburgh. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,950 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Cafe Andaluz and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,019 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Whiski Bar & Restaurant, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Edinburgh is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,669 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another well-known bar in Edinburgh. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,238 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,314 customers, The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Edinburgh.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Scotland is all about!

Day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Scotland serves as your introduction to Edinburgh. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Scotland and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Edinburgh, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 14,149 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,367 guests, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Haymarket Hotel offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Haymarket Hotel is a top-rated budget hotel in Edinburgh with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 6,494 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Edinburgh. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Edinburgh, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding The Real Mary King's Close. This top-tier point of interest and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Edinburgh. The fascinating The Real Mary King's Close has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,638 travelers.

Edinburgh is also home to the captivating St Giles' Cathedral, a local cathedral and another popular attraction in the city. About 9,293 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary National Museum of Scotland is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Scotland. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers, National Museum of Scotland proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible Royal Mile. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing best-rated sightseeing destination and attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

When you’re in the mood to experience something amazing, we recommend you visit the fantastic Calton Hill. Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating mountain and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features. Around 4,517 visitors have rated the famous Calton Hill an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Edinburgh, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Scotland.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Edinburgh is The Witchery by the Castle. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,766 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Howies Restaurant for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Edinburgh. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,817 customers.

Another alternative is Howies Restaurant. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,828 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh. At Cafe Royal, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,216 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at The Bow Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,813 reviews.

Tigerlily is also one of the best places in Edinburgh where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,369 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Scotland!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you'll explore the best attractions in Edinburgh at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Edinburgh, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous HMY Britannia. This incredible royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Scotland by seeing another popular site in Edinburgh, the wonderful Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors. Up to 238,542 people visit this popular attraction each year.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Camera Obscura. This visitor centre is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 6 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. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Scotland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Albanach. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,018 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular The Ensign Ewart. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,604 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,474 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 7 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Scotland gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Edinburgh and visit more of its attractions.

Edinburgh has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 1 night more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Holyrood Park, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Holyrood Park has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Holyrood Palace. This city feature got an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from its 17,746 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Edinburgh is the notable Edinburgh Castle. The popular Edinburgh Castle is a highlight of many travel packages in Edinburgh. As a matter of fact, this remarkable castle has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 90,949 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Edinburgh, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous Dean Village. Take your time exploring this wonderful village and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 13,727 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Edinburgh by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Edinburgh.

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 below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Edinburgh, Cold Town House. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars given by 1,486 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is The Newsroom Bar & Eatery. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.3 over 5 stars by 1,619 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, Hoot The Redeemer may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 988 customers have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Edinburgh and end day 7 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland on a great note!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Inverness, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Blackness Castle is waiting for you. This castle has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,186 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is The Kelpies. This unique sculpture is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,904 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Callendar House. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,815 visitors, this building is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Falkirk Wheel. This popular boat lift and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,951 people.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Falkirk has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Scotland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Inverness. In Inverness, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,748 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Simpsons.

Locals also recommend Kingsmills Hotel as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Kingsmills Hotel as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,056 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Cafe V8. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,055 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like MacGregor's. MacGregor's is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 870 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is The White House. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 642 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to The Malt Room. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. The Malt Room is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 479 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Scotland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Inverness.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Inverness once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Scotland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Inverness or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness. Dining at Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness is one of the best food experiences you can have in Inverness. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,031 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Inverness and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.