Cheap 12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Dundee traveling west to Inverness, Oban, Glasgow, and Edinburgh

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dundee Contemporary Arts. This movie theater is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dundee, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,269 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, Dundee 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.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at The Fort, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Porters Bar & Restaurant, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Dundee, The King of Islington. The Bank Bar Dundee 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 Salty Dog, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

On day 2 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Scotland, you’ll experience 1 charming destinations — Dundee. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Inverness, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This extraordinary museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,551 visitors.

Next, make your way to Desperate Dan Statue. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 249 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to RRS Discovery. This barque is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,529 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Verdant Works. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 803 travelers.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Inverness, 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 a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Kingsmills Hotel, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is MacGregor's, 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 The White House, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Gunsmiths Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. The Malt Room is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, MacCallums Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Ready for day 3 of your road trip vacation in Scotland? Discover more of Inverness 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!

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Glenmore, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Glenmore, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cairngorm Reindeer Herd. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,784 reviews.

Next up is Glenmore Forest Park. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,393 visitors.

Upon your arrival in Newtonmore, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Highland Folk Museum. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,600 visitors.

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

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Inverness, 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 a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Cafe V8, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Scotch & Rye is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Johnny Foxes.

Hootananny is an excellent example of a great bar in Inverness offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at Gellions Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in Inverness. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Inverness, Innes Bar is for you.

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

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the town of Oban, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Oban, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including Inverness, Spean Bridge, Banavie, and Glenfinnan.

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

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Commando Memorial. Previous visitors have rated this monument an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,656 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Banavie.

Journey into the unknown at Neptune's Staircase, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable staircase locks has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,895 reviews.

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

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Perle Oban Hotel & Spa, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices.

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 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 4: Oban, Inveraray, Luss, and Motherwell. You'll stay in Glasgow for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like McCaig's Tower & Battery Hill. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,619 visitors.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Inveraray Castle. This country house is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,604 visitors.

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

Make Loch Lomond one of your first sightseeing stops in Luss. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,731 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Glasgow 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.

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.

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

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

On day 6 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 2 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glasgow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Doune. This drive usually takes around 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Doune Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,505 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Doune, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stirling. This drive usually takes around 13 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 7,922 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Stirling Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,632 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this castle every year.

Stirling Old Town Jail is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 913 visitors.

After soaking in Stirling’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cambuskenneth. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 8 min. When you arrive in Cambuskenneth, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

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

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

Discover the heart of Glasgow through its culinary scene, starting with Alston Bar & Beef. 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 Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Elia Greek Restaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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

Day 7 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 Glasgow! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Glasgow and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 1 night in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Glasgow Botanic Gardens, a remarkable botanical garden where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Kelvingrove Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 travelers.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is another must-visit attraction. This renowned art museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 travelers and attracting 1,037,594 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Riverside Museum. This well-loved museum boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 16,799 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Pollok Country Park awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,112 previous visitors.

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.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at The Willow Tea Rooms, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Òran Mór offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Stereo 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 8 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 3 wonderful destinations — Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be spending 3 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at George Square, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,737 travelers.

Glasgow Green is another must-visit attraction. This renowned stadium offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,762 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Larbert’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Glasgow behind. This drive usually takes around 37 min. Larbert welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

Set your GPS to Skinflats and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Skinflats beckons with new experiences!

Your sightseeing of the day begins at The Kelpies, a remarkable sculpture where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 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 of exploring, unwind at the popular The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Chaophraya Thai Restaurant is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to The Newsroom Bar & Eatery.

Continue your lively evening at Panda & Sons, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Cafe Royal is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Ensign Ewart ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 9’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.

Kick off the day at HMY Britannia, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,023 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Scottish National Gallery. Scottish National Gallery is an art museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 reviews. Attracting more than 660,741 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Camera Obscura is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This visitor centre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 visitors. Visiting Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre means you'll be one of 238,542 people who do so every year.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Edinburgh Castle, a famous castle in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 travelers.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Cafe Andaluz - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Hoot The Redeemer, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Albanach, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is The Bow Bar, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 10 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 1 night to stay in the area.

Journey into the unknown at Edinburgh Zoo, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Dean Village is a recommended place to visit. This village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Edinburgh is Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Edinburgh offers an experience you will remember.

Holyrood Palace is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Edinburgh. This official residence promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Holyrood Park. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Edinburgh. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

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.

Start your foodie adventure at The Kitchin, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to The Witchery by the Castle, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Whiski Bar & Restaurant, 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 Edinburgh!

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

When you're ready to see some sights, Calton Hill is a great place to start. This mountain is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,517 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Royal Mile. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at The Real Mary King's Close. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 reviews.

National Museum of Scotland is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this national museum, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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

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

Discover the heart of Dundee through its culinary scene, starting with Bird & Bear. 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 Don Michele Italian Restaurant, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Gidi Grill Restaurant, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Trades House, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Speedwell Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Draffens provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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.

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Dundee’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Scotland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Scotland forever.

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.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Dundee, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Taza Restaurant, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Tickety Boo's features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Rancho Pancho is a highly recommended spot.

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!