Cheap 12-Day Scotland Road Trip from Glasgow to Inverness, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh

On day 2 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 — 2 nights.

Make Riverside Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Glasgow. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Seven Lochs Wetland Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,044 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Glasgow Science Centre. This skyscraper has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,454 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Centre For Contemporary Arts. A trip to this popular art gallery is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,082 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Pollok Country Park. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 local and international travelers.

Make your vacation in Scotland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Scotland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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.

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

Day 3 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 1 night left in Glasgow.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,737 visitors.

Kelvingrove Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 visitors.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 1,037,594 people visit this top attraction every year. This art museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,580 visitors.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Glasgow and set your GPS to Balloch. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Balloch, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Loch Lomond Shores your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this shopping mall an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 8,718 reviews.

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

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to The Willow Tea Rooms, 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 Òran Mór - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Stereo promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

Day 4 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 — Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Doune. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Inverness, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

After soaking in Glasgow’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 39 min. When you arrive in Cambuskenneth, it's time to take a break from the road.

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

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Stirling Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Stirling Old Town Jail. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 913 travelers.

Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park is another must-visit attraction. This renowned zoo offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 7,922 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking in Stirling’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Doune. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Doune, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Doune Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,505 visitors.

Inverness 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.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Inverness 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 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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gunsmiths Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Malt Room, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Maccallums Bar 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!

On day 5 of your affordable vacation in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Inverness, 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 Inverness, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Glenfinnan. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 59 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Glenfinnan Viaduct, a remarkable stone bridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,217 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,393 travelers.

Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,167 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking in Glenfinnan’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Banavie. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Banavie, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Neptune's Staircase, a remarkable staircase locks where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,895 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Spean Bridge, 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 Banavie to Spean Bridge may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Spean Bridge, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Commando Memorial. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,656 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Inverness 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 Inverness that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Cafe V8, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Scotch & Rye is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Johnny Foxes, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Visit Hootananny, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Gellions Bar serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Inverness. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Innes Bar.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Inverness, and Cawdor. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Eden Court Inverness, a remarkable movie theater where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,725 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Clava Cairns. This group has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,316 travelers.

Cawdor’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Inverness behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Cawdor welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cawdor Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,900 visitors.

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

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

Discover the heart of Aberdeen through its culinary scene, starting with Fierce Bar Aberdeen. 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 Mi Amore, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Foodstory, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Northern Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Grill, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Old Blackfriars provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be staying for 4 nights. On your way to Edinburgh, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including Stonehaven, Falkland, Crosshill, and Dunfermline.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberdeen and set your GPS to Stonehaven. 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 24 min. Upon reaching Stonehaven, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Stonehaven Harbour. This extraordinary harbor is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,510 visitors.

Next, make your way to Dunnottar Castle. This top attraction is a rock castle with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stonehaven, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Falkland may take around 1 hour 28 min. Upon your arrival in Falkland, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Falkland Palace & Garden. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,711 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Falkland, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Crosshill. Your travel time is around 26 min.

Journey into the unknown at Lochore Meadows, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,003 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.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Panda & Sons, known for its inviting atmosphere. Cafe Royal is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 8 means another chance to make the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Edinburgh Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,949 reviews.

Next up is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,926 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre welcomes 238,542 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

Scottish National Gallery is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 reviews. This popular attraction gets 660,741 visits every year.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Scott Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,370 reviews.

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

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

Discover the heart of Edinburgh through its culinary scene, starting with Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre. 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 Cafe Andaluz, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

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.

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 9 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Scotland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Edinburgh and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Hmy Britannia. This royal yacht is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

Royal Mile is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to The Real Mary King's Close. Visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

St Giles' Cathedral is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a cathedral rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,293 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic National Museum Of Scotland, perhaps the most famous national museum in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 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.

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.

The Kitchin 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, The Witchery by the Castle offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Whiski Bar & Restaurant, 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!

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.

Kick off the day at Edinburgh Zoo, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 11,987 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Dean Village. Dean Village is a village with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 reviews.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, 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.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Holyrood Park, a famous archaeological site in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 12,119 travelers.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Scotland. To have the best affordable travel experience in Scotland, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Scotland unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in Scotland.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Cold Town House, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. The Dome is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to The Edinburgh Larder.

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