Cheap 12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow and Dundee and surrounding area

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

Edinburgh is a popular cheap holiday destination in Scotland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Scotland, Edinburgh 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 Dean Village. This village is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 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, Edinburgh 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, 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 Chaophraya Thai Restaurant - 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 The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Edinburgh, Panda & Sons. Cafe Royal 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 Ensign Ewart, 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 cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 1: Edinburgh. You'll stay in Glasgow for 8 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Scottish National Gallery, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 reviews. Every year, Scottish National Gallery welcomes more than 660,741 curious visitors.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Camera Obscura is a recommended place to visit. This visitor centre is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Edinburgh is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This spectacular museum gets over 238,542 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 8,926 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Edinburgh offers an experience you will remember.

Edinburgh Castle is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Edinburgh. This castle promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,949 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Holyrood Palace. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

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 The Piper Whisky Bar, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Glaschu Restaurant & Bar is the perfect spot for you!

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Gallery Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bar 91, a bar that offers unique local touches.

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

On day 3 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 7 nights. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Scotland, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Set your GPS to Edinburgh and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Edinburgh beckons with new experiences!

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 point of interest 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 The Edinburgh Dungeon. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,688 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Royal Mile. This point of interest is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 reviews.

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

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 of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Alston Bar & Beef, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, 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 Elia Greek Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Day 4 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 6 nights left in Glasgow.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glasgow and set your GPS to Edinburgh. 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 51 min. Upon reaching Edinburgh, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 11,987 reviews.

Continue your journey at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers from near and far.

Edinburgh is also the home of HMY Britannia. This royal yacht has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Holyrood Park. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Arthur's Seat. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,238 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this mountain.

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

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.

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!

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

Ready for day 5 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 5 nights in this vibrant destination!

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 Auldhame may take around 1 hour 28 min. Upon your arrival in Auldhame, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Tantallon Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,072 visitors. Attracting more than 30,879 yearly visitors, it’s a top sight you don’t want to miss.

Set your GPS to North Berwick and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. North Berwick beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lodge Grounds. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in North Berwick, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 425 visitors.

Yellowcraig is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 323 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dirleton. This drive usually takes around 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Dirleton Castle & Gardens, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,026 reviews.

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

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Max's Bar & Grill, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. The Anchor Line is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Paesano Pizza.

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

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Glasgow on day 6 of your affordable vacation in Scotland. You’ll continue your stay in Glasgow for an additional 4 nights. Explore more top attractions in Scotland, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Melrose’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Glasgow behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 43 min. Melrose welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Melrose Abbey. This extraordinary cistercian monastery has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,019 visitors.

Cove Farm’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Melrose behind. This drive usually takes around 58 min. Cove Farm welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Cove Harbour one of your first sightseeing stops in Cove Farm. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 762 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cove Farm, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to St. Abbs may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in St. Abbs, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to St Abb's Head National Nature Reserve. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,341 reviews.

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

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.

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 to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Glasgow!

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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Jedburgh. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 55 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jedburgh Abbey. This abbey is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Jedburgh, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,413 visitors.

Queen Mary's House is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 446 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 659 reviews.

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

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

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!

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

Day 8’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 2 nights, to stay in Glasgow. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

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 Riverside Museum. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this museum every year.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 visitors. Up to 1,037,594 travelers come to Glasgow every year to see Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum with their own eyes.

When you’re finished at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the perfect next stop is Kelvingrove Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 13,336 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to George Square. This square is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 20,066 reviews.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Glasgow. 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.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar, 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 La Lanterna - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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 affordable vacation in Scotland, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for another 1 night. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Scotland, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

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

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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Skinflats. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like The Kelpies. This extraordinary sculpture has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,904 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cambuskenneth, 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 Cambuskenneth may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cambuskenneth, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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

Savor the culinary delights of Glasgow, 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 Glasgow through its culinary scene, starting with Mono. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings.

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

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 Stonehaven. Your travel time is around 2 hours 22 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dunnottar Castle. This rock castle is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,220 visitors.

Stonehaven Harbour is another popular attraction you could visit today. This harbor has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,510 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Stonehaven and set your GPS to Aberdeen. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Aberdeen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hazlehead Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,456 visitors.

Duthie Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,959 visitors.

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.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular The Fort, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Porters Bar & Restaurant.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The King of Islington, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Bank Bar Dundee is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Salty Dog also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Scotland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a 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 5 wonderful destinations — St Andrews, Falkland, Kirkcaldy, Crosshill, and Dunfermline. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in St Andrews. This drive usually takes around 27 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

Set your GPS to Falkland and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 35 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Falkland beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Falkland Palace & Garden. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,711 visitors.

Kirkcaldy’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Falkland behind. This drive usually takes around 23 min. Kirkcaldy welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready to see some sights, Beveridge Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,038 visitors.

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 mouthwatering delights of Edinburgh, 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.

Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre 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, Cafe Andaluz offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Albanach is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, The Bow Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

A road trip vacation in St Andrews can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination 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 Edinburgh.

As you approach the end of your journey in Scotland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Edinburgh’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Scotland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Scotland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Edinburgh is the remarkable Calton Hill. This mountain and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,517 visitors.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Edinburgh, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at The Kitchin, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, The Witchery by the Castle features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Whiski Bar & Restaurant is a highly recommended spot.

You’ll then say farewell to Edinburgh. 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!