Cheap 12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Aberdeen traveling south to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Pitlochry

Your exciting road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Aberdeen and begin your adventure in Scotland.

Aberdeen is a popular cheap holiday destination in Scotland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Scotland, Aberdeen is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Queens Links Leisure Park. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Aberdeen, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,883 visitors.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Scotland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Aberdeen is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Start your foodie adventure at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Mi Amore, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Foodstory, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Aberdeen, Northern Bar. Alternatively, visit The Grill, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Old Blackfriars, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Scotland!

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in Aberdeen. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Aberdeen and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Make St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this church an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 397 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Aberdeen Maritime Museum. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,270 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this maritime museum every year.

Duthie Park is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,959 visitors.

When you’re finished at Duthie Park, the perfect next stop is David Welch Winter Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 575 reviews.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Scotland sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Scotland. Scotland has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Scotland that will fill you with new inspiration.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Aberdeen, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Miller & Carter Aberdeen stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Maggie's Grill offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Malmaison Aberdeen, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Krakatoa and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Prince Of Wales is another great place to hang out and unwind.

A road trip vacation in Aberdeen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Scotland!

Day 3 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be staying for 4 nights. On your way to Edinburgh, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including St Andrews, Falkland, Dunfermline, and Crosshill.

After soaking in Aberdeen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: St Andrews. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in St Andrews, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St Andrews Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,683 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Old Course Hotel. This hotel has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,449 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to St Andrews and set your GPS to Falkland. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Falkland, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Falkland Palace & Garden, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,711 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Crosshill, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dunfermline. Your travel time is around 25 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Pittencrieff Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,956 reviews.

While exploring Scotland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Edinburgh has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Edinburgh on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Edinburgh. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Panda & Sons, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Cafe Royal is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Scotland!

On day 4 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Edinburgh — 3 nights.

Drop by the renowned Edinburgh Zoo. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 11,987 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Dean Village. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 visitors, this village deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Holyrood Palace. This official residence and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Holyrood Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 travelers, this archaeological site is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Edinburgh.

Touring the best attractions in Scotland offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Scotland you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Scotland. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Scotland.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Edinburgh is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Cafe Andaluz is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Hoot The Redeemer, considered one of the best bars in Edinburgh. You can also enjoy drinks at Albanach, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to The Bow Bar, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Edinburgh.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Scotland!

Day 5’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 2 nights, to stay in Edinburgh. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Scott Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,370 visitors.

Scottish National Gallery is another popular attraction you could visit today. This art museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors. Scottish National Gallery attracts up to 660,741 visitors every year.

Camera Obscura is also highly recommended by travelers. This visitor centre has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 238,542 people visit this place every year. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews.

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

Your discovery of Edinburgh does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Edinburgh on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Scotland.

Savor the culinary delights of Edinburgh, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Discover the heart of Edinburgh through its culinary scene, starting with The Kitchin. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try The Witchery by the Castle, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Whiski Bar & Restaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Edinburgh!

Day 6 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Scotland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Edinburgh! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

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 sightseeing destination 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.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Edinburgh, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Edinburgh and the culture of past or present-day Scotland.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Edinburgh offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Scotland.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Cold Town House, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by The Dome - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, The Edinburgh Larder promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Scotland!

On day 7 of your cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 5: Coatbridge, Skinflats, Blackness, Larbert, and Motherwell. You'll stay in Glasgow for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Larbert and set your GPS to Coatbridge. 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 35 min. Upon reaching Coatbridge, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,316 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Blackness, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Skinflats may take around 25 min. Upon your arrival in Skinflats, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to The Kelpies. This much-appreciated sculpture is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Blackness. This drive usually takes around 42 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Blackness Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,186 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Glasgow. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Glasgow, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Glasgow offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Scotland.

Discover the heart of Glasgow through its culinary scene, starting with The Piper Whisky Bar. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Glaschu Restaurant & Bar, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Keep the evening going at The Gallery Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar 91, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Scotland!

Day 8 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Glasgow, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Journey into the unknown at Glasgow Science Centre, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable skyscraper has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,454 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, George Square is a recommended place to visit. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Glasgow is Glasgow Cathedral. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,737 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Glasgow offers an experience you will remember.

Glasgow Green is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Glasgow. This stadium promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Scotland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Glasgow is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Alston Bar & Beef, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Elia Greek Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Scotland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Scotland!

Day 9 means another chance to make the best memories in Glasgow. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Glasgow and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

When you're ready to see some sights, Glasgow Botanic Gardens is a great place to start. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,594 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Kelvingrove Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This site gets more than 1,037,594 visitors annually. The art museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Riverside Museum. This museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 reviews.

Pollok Country Park is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Scotland is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Scotland, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Scotland. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Scotland that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Glasgow has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Start your foodie adventure at The Willow Tea Rooms, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Òran Mór, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Stereo, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Scotland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Scotland!

Day 10 of your road trip across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Doune. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Pitlochry, where you'll stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Glasgow, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cambuskenneth may take around 39 min. Upon your arrival in Cambuskenneth, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Wallace Monument. This extraordinary monument has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,772 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cambuskenneth, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stirling. This drive usually takes around 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Stirling Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 26,632 visitors.

Next, make your way to Stirling Old Town Jail. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 913 reviews.

While in Stirling, we also recommend a visit to Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,922 reviews.

Set your GPS to Doune and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Doune beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Doune Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,505 reviews.

Pitlochry offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Scotland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Pitlochry is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

A road trip vacation in Cambuskenneth can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Scotland!

Day 11 of your road trip across Scotland is another proof that cheap holidays in Scotland can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 2 wonderful destinations — Stonehaven and Little Dunkeld. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Aberdeen, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stonehaven. This car ride takes around 1 hour 29 min.

Make Dunnottar Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this rock castle an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 10,220 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Stonehaven War Memorial. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 598 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this landmark every year.

Stonehaven Harbour is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This harbor has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,510 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Little Dunkeld.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Hermitage. This waterfall is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Little Dunkeld, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,918 visitors.

While exploring Scotland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Aberdeen has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Aberdeen on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Aberdeen, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Start your foodie adventure at BrewDog Aberdeen, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Aberdeen, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Aberdeen!

Your budget road trip vacation in Scotland is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Aberdeen.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Aberdeen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland. Take home a piece of Scotland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Aberdeen, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at The Silver Darling, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Cafe Harmony features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Rustico is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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!