9-Day Scotland Road Trip from Inverness traveling south to Aberdeen, Edinburgh, and Glasgow

Welcome to Inverness, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Inverness's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Inverness 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 Eden Court Inverness 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 Inverness. 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 Inverness. 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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gunsmiths Bar. Alternatively, go to The Malt Room, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, MacCallums Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Inverness, Dores, and Cawdor. 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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Aberdeen. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Clava cairns. This group is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,316 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Foodstory. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Northern Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Grill provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Old Blackfriars offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Stonehaven, Dunfermline, Crosshill, and St Andrews, 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 Edinburgh. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stonehaven, 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 Stonehaven may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stonehaven, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Stonehaven Harbour. This extraordinary harbor has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,510 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dunnottar Castle. This rock castle is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,220 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Crosshill and set your GPS to Dunfermline. 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 25 min. Upon reaching Dunfermline, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Pittencrieff Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,956 visitors.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chaophraya Thai Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Newsroom Bar & Eatery as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

On day 4 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 Edinburgh. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 4 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Edinburgh, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Glasgow. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Scottish National Gallery. This much-appreciated art museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,079 reviews. Each year, 660,741 people visit this site to admire its unique features.

Next up is Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Every year, 238,542 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Edinburgh Castle is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Dean Village. This village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Glasgow, 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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Piper Whisky Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Glaschu Restaurant & Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Gallery Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar 91 offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two.

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

On day 5 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.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Alston Bar & Beef, a highly-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Elia Greek Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Glasgow, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Set your GPS to Edinburgh and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 14 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Edinburgh beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 visitors.

Holyrood Palace is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Visitors have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Larbert 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 15 min. Upon reaching Skinflats, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is The Kelpies. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 reviews.

Larbert’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Edinburgh behind. This drive usually takes around 50 min. Larbert welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Falkirk Wheel. This boat lift is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Larbert, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,951 visitors.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Willow Tea Rooms, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Òran Mór? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Stereo as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Glasgow.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Glasgow. You have 1 night left in Glasgow. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Make Glasgow Botanic Gardens your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this botanical garden an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Kelvingrove Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors. Up to 1,037,594 travelers come to Glasgow every year to see Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the perfect next stop is Riverside Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,799 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Pollok Country Park. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 reviews.

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

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 fantastic dining experience at Max's Bar & Grill, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Anchor Line offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Paesano Pizza is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Glasgow. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Inverness, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wallace Monument. This monument is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cambuskenneth, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cambuskenneth, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stirling may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Stirling, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Stirling Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

Continue your journey at Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This zoo is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,922 travelers from near and far.

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

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

Dine in style at Cafe V8, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Scotch & Rye boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Johnny Foxes. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hootananny, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Gellions Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Innes Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

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

Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Inverness’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Scotland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Scotland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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!