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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Scotland as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Inverness, Dores, Cawdor, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, St Andrews, Crosshill, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Inverness, 1 night in Aberdeen, 1 night in Edinburgh, and 4 nights in Glasgow. 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 Inverness, 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 Inverness, Dores, Cawdor, Aberdeen, Stonehaven, St Andrews, Crosshill, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling, 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 – Inverness - arrival day

  • Inverness - Arrival day
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  • Eden Court Inverness
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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.

Find your way to your hotel in Inverness. 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 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.

Dine in style at Kingsmills Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, MacGregor's boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The White House. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Gunsmiths Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Malt Room for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Maccallums Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Inverness, Dores, Cawdor, and Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen
  • Dores
  • Inverness
  • Cawdor
  • More

Drive 266 km, 4 hours 21 min

  • Urquhart Castle
  • Loch Ness
  • NessieHunter-Steve Feltham
  • Clava cairns
  • Cawdor Castle
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Inverness, Dores, and Cawdor. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aberdeen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Clava Cairns is a great place to start. This group is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,316 visitors.

Set your GPS to Dores 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. Dores beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nessiehunter - Steve Feltham. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 146 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.

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

Savor the flavors at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mi Amore beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Foodstory. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aberdeen tonight.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Aberdeen, Stonehaven, St Andrews, Crosshill, Dunfermline, and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • Stonehaven
  • St Andrews
  • Crosshill
  • Dunfermline
  • More

Drive 231 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Stonehaven Harbour
  • Dunnottar Castle
  • St Andrews Castle
  • Pittencrieff Park
  • More

On day 3 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 Stonehaven, St Andrews, Crosshill, and Dunfermline. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Aberdeen, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stonehaven. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stonehaven Harbour. This extraordinary harbor is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,510 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dunnottar Castle. This top attraction is a rock castle with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, St Andrews. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at St Andrews Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,683 visitors.

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.

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.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Panda & Sons, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cafe Royal offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. The Ensign Ewart is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Head back to your accommodation in Edinburgh and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Edinburgh, and Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 77 km, 1 hour 41 min

  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Camera Obscura
  • Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Dean Village
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Edinburgh. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Glasgow. You will spend 4 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Scottish National Gallery one of your first sightseeing stops in Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This art museum attracts 660,741 visitors every year.

Camera Obscura is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This visitor centre is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors. Up to 238,542 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Edinburgh Castle. A trip to this popular castle is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 90,949 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Dean Village. This village enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 local and international travelers.

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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Glasgow by booking a table at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional mediterranean menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Cail Bruich, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a local gem known for its delightful modern british cuisine in Glasgow. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Gallery Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar 91, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Glasgow, and Edinburgh

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 157 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • HMY Britannia
  • The Royal Mile
  • The Real Mary King's Close
  • St Giles' Cathedral
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Glasgow, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glasgow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edinburgh. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Hmy Britannia. This extraordinary royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

Next, make your way to Royal Mile. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit St Giles' Cathedral. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at National Museum Of Scotland. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Alston Bar & Beef, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Elia Greek Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Glasgow tonight.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Glasgow, Edinburgh, Larbert, and Skinflats

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
  • Larbert
  • Skinflats
  • More

Drive 182 km, 3 hours 31 min

  • Holyrood Park
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • The Kelpies
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Edinburgh, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Glasgow for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Edinburgh, Larbert, and Skinflats to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

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 Edinburgh. Your travel time is around 1 hour 14 min.

Kick off the day at Holyrood Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Holyrood Palace. Holyrood Palace is an official residence with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 reviews.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Edinburgh, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Larbert. Your travel time is around 50 min.

Kick off the day at Falkirk Wheel, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,951 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Larbert, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Skinflats. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Kick off the day at The Kelpies, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at The Willow Tea Rooms, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Glasgow at Òran Mór, 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 Stereo. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Glasgow tonight.

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Glasgow

  • Glasgow
  • More

Drive 30 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Pollok Country Park
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Glasgow has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Glasgow by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This much-appreciated botanical garden is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Next up is Kelvingrove Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This art museum has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,580 reviews. Every year, 1,037,594 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Riverside Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Pollok Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Max's Bar & Grill, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Glasgow at The Anchor Line, 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 Paesano Pizza. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Glasgow tonight.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Inverness

  • Inverness
  • Glasgow
  • Cambuskenneth
  • Stirling
  • More

Drive 299 km, 4 hours 1 min

  • George Square
  • Glasgow Green
  • The National Wallace Monument
  • Stirling Castle
  • Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Inverness, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like George Square. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,066 visitors.

Next, make your way to Glasgow Green. This stadium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

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 rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,772 visitors.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Cafe V8, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Scotch & Rye, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Johnny Foxes. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hootananny after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gellions Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Innes Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

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Day 9

Day 9 – Inverness - departure day

  • Inverness - Departure day
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  • Whin Park
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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 Inverness before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Kick off the day at Whin Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,183 reviews.

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!

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