Cheap 12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Dundee traveling south to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dumfries and Galloway

Your exciting road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Dundee, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Dundee and begin your adventure in Scotland.

Dundee is a popular cheap holiday destination in Scotland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Scotland, Dundee 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.

When you're ready to see some sights, Dundee Contemporary Arts is a great place to start. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,269 visitors.

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 Dundee that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Fort, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, 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 Porters Bar & Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The King of Islington, considered one of the best bars in Dundee. You can also enjoy drinks at The Bank Bar Dundee, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to The Salty Dog, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Dundee.

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

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Edinburgh, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including Dundee.

Drop by the renowned The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This popular museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,551 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is RRS Discovery. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,529 visitors, this barque deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Dundee Law. This mountain has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,396 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Baxter Park. This park and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,306 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Magdalen Green railway station. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 855 travelers, this former railway station is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Dundee.

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.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, 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 Chaophraya Thai Restaurant - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Panda & Sons. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Cafe Royal offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Ensign Ewart, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 3 of your cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 1: Edinburgh. You'll stay in Glasgow for 7 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Kick off the day at Scottish National Gallery, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. Attracting approximately 660,741 visits every year, this attraction is a must-see. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,079 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Camera Obscura. Camera Obscura is a visitor centre with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 reviews.

Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors. In a single year, this museum hosts approximately 238,542 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Dean Village, a famous village in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 travelers.

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.

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

The Piper Whisky Bar offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow. Or, try Glaschu Restaurant & Bar, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gallery Bar. Alternatively, go to Bar 91, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

On day 4 of your affordable vacation in Scotland, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for another 6 nights. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Scotland, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

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 3 min.

Make National Museum of Scotland your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this national museum an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at St Giles' Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,293 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this cathedral every year.

The Real Mary King's Close is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

When you’re finished at The Real Mary King's Close, the perfect next stop is Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Calton Hill. This mountain is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,517 reviews.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Glasgow, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Alston Bar & Beef offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow. Or, try Elia Greek Restaurant, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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

Day 5 of your exciting road trip across Scotland is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Glasgow and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 5 nights left in Glasgow.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Edinburgh, 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 Glasgow to Edinburgh may take around 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edinburgh, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 11,987 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 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 Holyrood Palace. This official residence is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 visitors.

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

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

The Willow Tea Rooms 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, Òran Mór offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Stereo, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

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

Ready for day 6 of your road trip vacation in Scotland? Discover more of Glasgow 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 4 nights in this vibrant destination!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Springfield. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready to see some sights, The Scottish Deer Centre is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,673 visitors.

After soaking in Springfield’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Falkland. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 13 min. When you arrive in Falkland, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned Falkland Palace & Garden. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,711 visitors.

Crosshill’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Falkland behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Crosshill welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lochore Meadows. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,003 visitors.

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

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at Max's Bar & Grill, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? The Anchor Line offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Paesano Pizza is the perfect spot for you!

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

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Glasgow, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 3 nights left in Glasgow, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blackness. This car ride takes around 48 min.

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.

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

Make The Kelpies one of your first sightseeing stops in Skinflats. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,904 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Larbert, 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 Skinflats to Larbert may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Larbert, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Falkirk Wheel. This extraordinary boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,951 visitors.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Bothy Glasgow, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, The Social is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to The Citizen Glasgow, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Glasgow on day 8 of your affordable vacation in Scotland. You’ll continue your stay in Glasgow for an additional 2 nights. Explore more top attractions in Scotland, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

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 Glasgow Science Centre. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,454 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this skyscraper every year.

Riverside Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 visitors.

When you’re finished at Riverside Museum, the perfect next stop is Pollok Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glasgow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Balloch. This drive usually takes around 36 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Loch Lomond Shores, a remarkable shopping mall where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 8,718 reviews.

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

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 Alea Glasgow Casino, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to The Italian Kitchen, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Chaophraya, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

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

On day 9 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Scotland, you’ll go deep into Glasgow 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 Glasgow — 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Over 1,037,594 travelers visit this attraction every year. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 19,580 reviews.

Kelvingrove Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,336 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,737 reviews.

George Square is another outstanding experience in Glasgow. Around 20,066 travelers have rated this square an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Glasgow Green is not far away. This stadium is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,762 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Glasgow. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Glasgow offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Scotland worth remembering for a lifetime.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. La Lanterna is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow.

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

Day 10 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 4 wonderful destinations — Ferniegair, South Ayrshire, Dunure, and Alloway. You’ll explore along your route leading to the town of Dumfries and Galloway, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glasgow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ferniegair. This drive usually takes around 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take the opportunity to see Chatelherault Country Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,943 visitors.

Take the opportunity to see Culzean Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,080 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dunure, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Alloway may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Alloway, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at Dunure Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,547 reviews.

Dumfries and Galloway 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.

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Barrel is an excellent place to start.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Scotland!

Day 11 of your road trip across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Stirling, Cambuskenneth, and Doune. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Dundee, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Stirling, 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 Dumfries and Galloway to Stirling may take around 1 hour 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Stirling, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at King's Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,319 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Stirling Castle is a recommended place to visit. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Stirling is Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,922 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Stirling offers an experience you will remember.

Cambuskenneth’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Stirling behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Cambuskenneth welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Wallace Monument. This extraordinary monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Doune. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Kick off the day at Doune Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,505 reviews.

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

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

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

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

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

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 Dundee.

Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Dundee’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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dundee is the remarkable Slessor Gardens. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 864 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Dundee, consider a top-rated restaurant like Taza Restaurant, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Tickety Boo's is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Rancho Pancho, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Dundee.

You’ll then say farewell to Dundee. 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!