Relaxed 9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Edinburgh

Your relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 2 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Scotland better by exploring the top attractions of Inverness and beyond. With 1 night left in Inverness, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Inverness, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lewiston. This drive usually takes around 30 min.

Urquhart Castle is a notable castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Spean Bridge’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lewiston behind. This drive usually takes around 55 min. Spean Bridge welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Commando Memorial, a curiosity-inducing war memorial that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Spean Bridge, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Banavie. This drive usually takes around 15 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Banavie is Neptune's Staircase, a worthwhile historical landmark that draws attention for its instagrammable features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at MacGregor's, a top-rated dining spot in Inverness. If you're in the mood for something new, try The White House, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Kitchen Brasserie. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Inverness.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Hootananny, known for its inviting atmosphere. Gellions Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Innes Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Edinburgh will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Scotland.

Penicuik is brimming with adventures.

After soaking in Penicuik’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Roslin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Roslin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Pentland Hills Regional Park and explore the eye-catching features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Roslin. This drive usually takes around 8 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Roslin Glen Country Park, an underrated park that everyone visiting Roslin should see. Next, head to Roslin Castle. This standout castle is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

Set your GPS to Newtongrange and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 9 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Newtongrange 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 Scottish Mining Museum, an up-and-coming museum that everyone visiting Newtongrange should see.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tigerlily is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Royal, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Ensign Ewart, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tonic likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Start your day at The Real Mary King's Close. This eye-catching museum is an interesting place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to St Giles' Cathedral. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find National Museum Of Scotland. This history-steeped museum is a favorite among visitors.

Edinburgh offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Royal Mile is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the street, don’t forget to check out the history-steeped Calton Hill. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular park.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Edinburgh’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

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.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Scotland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Scotland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Awaiting your discovery is the up-and-coming Hmy Britannia, a standout historic ship in Edinburgh. Next, go to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

After visiting Hmy Britannia and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, have a stroll along Edinburgh's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Scottish National Gallery. This visually striking art gallery offers a unique experience. Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Camera Obscura, one of the most mesmerizing places to visit in Edinburgh.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Edinburgh has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

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

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Catch Holyrood Park before the crowds roll in. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Holyrood Palace, a must-visit palace in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Edinburgh Castle, an impressive castle. For a change of scene, check out Dean Village, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Inverness. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Inverness that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Edinburgh to find the best options for you!

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Fishers In The City, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try Amber Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Ondine Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the evening going at The Alchemist Edinburgh, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Regent Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Bow Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Edinburgh as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!