Cheap 12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Dundee to Elgin, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh and surrounding area

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Dundee, Aberdeen, and Crathie. You'll stay in Elgin for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Desperate Dan Statue. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 249 reviews.

Next up is The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,551 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Dundee, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aberdeen. Your travel time is around 1 hour 33 min.

Make Muir Of Dinnet National Nature Reserve your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 901 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Aberdeen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Crathie may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Crathie, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Balmoral Castle is a great place to start. This estate is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,662 visitors.

Elgin 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.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Scotland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Elgin that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Scotland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the town of Elgin!

Ready for day 6 of your road trip vacation in Scotland? Discover more of Aberdeen and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 1 night in this vibrant destination!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to The Gordon Highlanders Museum. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 596 reviews.

Next up is Johnston Gardens. This public garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 847 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Hazlehead Park. This park has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,456 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberdeen and set your GPS to Peterhead. 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 43 min. Upon reaching Peterhead, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Hm Prison Peterhead. This extraordinary prison has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,684 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cruden Bay. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to New Slains Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,673 reviews.

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

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at BrewDog Aberdeen, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Aberdeen, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Aberdeen. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 4 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,270 reviews.

Continue your journey at Seaton Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,950 travelers from near and far.

Aberdeen is also the home of Donmouth Local Nature Reserve. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,055 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Queens Links Leisure Park. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 2,883 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Duthie Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,959 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

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.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Panda & Sons, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Cafe Royal. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Ensign Ewart, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 8’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 3 nights left in Edinburgh. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Arthur's Seat. This mountain has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,238 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Hmy Britannia. This royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 visitors.

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.

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. Edinburgh has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

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.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Edinburgh, Hoot The Redeemer. Albanach is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend The Bow Bar, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 9 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh, with 2 nights to stay in the area.

Kick off the day at National Museum Of Scotland, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit St Giles' Cathedral. St Giles' Cathedral is a cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 reviews.

The Real Mary King's Close is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit The Edinburgh Dungeon. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,688 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Royal Mile, a famous point of interest in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 travelers.

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.

A cheap, budget vacation in Edinburgh should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Edinburgh, try some of our top recommendations.

Start your flavor-filled journey at The Kitchin, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? The Witchery by the Castle offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

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

On day 10 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 — 1 night.

Make Craigmillar Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,301 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Scottish National Gallery. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 660,741 annual visitors.

Camera Obscura is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

When you’re finished at Camera Obscura, the perfect next stop is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre attracts approximately 238,542 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Castle. This castle is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews.

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.

Cold Town House offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to The Dome. Or, try The Edinburgh Larder, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday 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 1 wonderful destinations — Edinburgh. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Dundee, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Calton Hill. This mountain is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,517 visitors.

Museum Of Edinburgh is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,741 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Holyrood Palace. Visitors have rated this official residence an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 reviews.

Dean Village is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a village rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic National Galleries Of Scotland: Modern One, perhaps the most famous art gallery in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,727 travelers.

Dundee 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 city.

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

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Abandon Ship, known for its inviting atmosphere. Dynamo Dundee is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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