Cheap 13-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh traveling west to Glasgow, Stirling, Inverness, and Pitlochry

Your exciting road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible region of Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 4 nights. 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 region 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.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the region'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 a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), one of the top-rated restaurants in the region. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,814 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend The Edinburgh Larder, so you'll want to drop by this place. The Edinburgh Larder serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,804 customers.

Another must-try in the region of Edinburgh is Bramble Bar & Lounge. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 743 customers.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the region of Edinburgh, Panda & Sons. This bar offers a variety of liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,617 customers.

The Dome is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. This bar has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,433 customers.

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

Day 2’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary.

Your discovery of Edinburgh does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Edinburgh on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Scotland.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the region'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.

Eat at Dishoom Edinburgh. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,852 reviews.

You can also check out Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre. Offering appetizing foods and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices, this restaurant is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,950 diners.

Another great restaurant we recommend you go to after your activities is Cafe Andaluz. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,019 customers, this restaurant is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Edinburgh, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. This famous bar offers snacks and drinks at different price points and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,238 bar-goers.

The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh is a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. This bar is considered one of the best drinking spots in Edinburgh, with its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,314 customers.

Alternatively, you can drop by Cafe Royal, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,216 customers.

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!

On day 3 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, making the most of your 2 nights in the city. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

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.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Edinburgh, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the region's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is The Witchery by the Castle. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,766 customers.

Another dining option is The Kitchin. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. The Kitchin has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,577 reviews.

Make sure to stop by Tigerlily for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 2,369 customers have rated the irresistible Tigerlily an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into the top-rated The Bow Bar. This bar is considered one of the best in Edinburgh and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,813 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Albanach, rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,018 customers. Alternatively, go to The Ensign Ewart. This is one of the most frequently recommended bars in Edinburgh and boasts an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,604 reviews.

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

Day 4 means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Scotland, Edinburgh. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Edinburgh!

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 region's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Visit the popular Howies Restaurant. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,817 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Scotland is Howies Restaurant. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,828 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

One great example is Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. This bar offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices and has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,474 customers.

Cold Town House is another popular bar in Edinburgh. If you ask the 1,486 customers who have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars, Cold Town House is the perfect place to hang out for a drink or two.

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

Day 5 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 exploring 6 wonderful destinations — Motherwell, Coatbridge, Cumbernauld, Carfin, Kilsyth, and Glasgow.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Carfin, 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 Edinburgh to Carfin may take around 54 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Carfin Grotto. This shrine is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Carfin, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 495 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Carfin, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Motherwell may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Motherwell, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Strathclyde Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,543 reviews.

After soaking in Motherwell’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Coatbridge. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Coatbridge, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,316 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the region 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.

When it’s time to eat, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Glasgow has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Paesano Pizza is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,948 customers.

The Willow Tea Rooms is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,255 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Stereo, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,954 reviews.

If you're in the mood for an after-dinner drink, The Anchor Line is our number one recommendation. Around 1,659 customers have rated this bar 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Mono also has a great drinks menu. This bar is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,446 reviews.

The Citizen Glasgow is another popular place to spend the evening in Glasgow. This bar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,260 customers.

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

Day 6 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary.

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, treat yourself to a lovely meal without paying more than necessary. Glasgow has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended The Piper Whisky Bar. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,323 customers.

Elia Greek Restaurant is another local-favorite restaurant in Glasgow. Elia Greek Restaurant serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,187 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Glasgow. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 of 5 stars from around 1,179 customers.

Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow is an excellent example of a great bar in Glasgow offering drinks at reasonable prices. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,038 customers.

You can also hang out at Alston Bar & Beef, another of locals’ go-to bars in Glasgow. Alston Bar & Beef is among the best region bars offering various beverages at different price points, with around 785 customers having rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Max's Bar & Grill is for you if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Glasgow. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from more than 831 bar-goers.

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

Day 7 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Scotland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Glasgow!

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.

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 spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the region's best places to eat and drink.

La Lanterna is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,068 customers.

Chaophraya is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,386 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 868 reviews.

Bar 91 offers many snacks and liquors at different price points and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 611 customers.

If you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Glasgow, check out Òran Mór. This bar is an excellent place to hang out and relax after a busy day, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,385 customers.

To ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination, visit The Social. The Social offers affordable drinks and snacks and has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars in 2,394 reviews.

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

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Scotland, you’ll experience 5 charming destinations — Larbert, Blackness, Falkirk, and Stirling. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the region of Stirling.

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 36 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Falkirk, 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 Larbert to Falkirk may take around 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set your GPS to Blackness and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blackness beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Blackness Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,186 reviews.

Stirling 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 region.

A cheap, budget vacation in Stirling should not stop you from enjoying incredible food. When you’re ready to have the best dining experience in Stirling, try some of our top recommendations.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house, one of the top-rated restaurants in the region. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 660 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Brea - Scottish Restaurant, so you'll want to drop by this place. Brea - Scottish Restaurant serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 676 customers.

Another must-try in the region of Stirling is Nicky-Tams Bar & Bothy. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 626 customers.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend No 2 Baker Street, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,338 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the region is BrewDog Stirling. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 615 customers.

Monterey Jack's is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 730 customers.

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

Day 9 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the region of Inverness, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Inverness, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including Stirling, Cambuskenneth, Doune, and Inverness.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Stirling Old Town Jail. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 913 reviews.

Continue your journey at Stirling Castle. This castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 26,632 travelers from near and far.

Stirling is also the home of Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,922 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Stirling, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Inverness may take around 2 hours 36 min. Upon your arrival in Inverness, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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 region.

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, Inverness is also home to a variety of excellent dining spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the region's best places to eat and drink.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is Rocpool. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 934 customers.

River House is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 691 customers.

The Mustard Seed Restaurant has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,671 reviews.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the region, Johnny Foxes. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,918 reviews and guarantees you a great time.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to a popular bar like Black Isle Bar & Rooms. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,982 customers.

The options in Inverness don’t end there, you could also spend some time at the excellent Hootananny. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,802 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

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

Day 10’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Inverness, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary.

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.

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

One restaurant we recommend you try in Inverness is The Kitchen Brasserie. This restaurant provides good food and service and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,289 customers.

When talking about the best restaurants in Inverness, Scotch & Rye is a name locals often mention. This local favorite offers a variety of options, helping it earn an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,381 diners.

Visit Gellions Bar, an excellent place to enjoy a couple of drinks. This bar is one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,317 customers.

The White House serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Inverness. Customers have rated The White House an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 642 reviews.

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

Day 11 of your road trip across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Inverness, Glenfinnan, Spean Bridge, and Pitlochry. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Pitlochry.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Inverness and set your GPS to Perth. 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 2 hours. Upon reaching Perth, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Cafe Tabou. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 566 customers.

Paco's Restaurant is another local-favorite restaurant in Pitlochry. Paco's Restaurant serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,338 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Highland Safaris is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Inverness. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 of 5 stars from around 1,005 customers.

After dinner, visit The Old Ship Inn for a drink or two. This bar serves plenty of food and drink options and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 519 customers.

You can also enjoy your night at The Twa Tams. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 559 customers, it's safe to say that The Twa Tams promises an unforgettable bar experience.

Alternatively, locals recommend The Tavern. This bar, rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 536 customers, is a great place to meet new friends.

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

Day 12 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 exploring 4 wonderful destinations — Little Dunkeld, Perth, Pitlochry, and Edinburgh.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Blair Athol distillery. This whisky distillery is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 792 visitors.

When you’re finished at Blair Athol distillery, head to Faskally Forest. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 815 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Pitlochry, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Edinburgh. This drive usually takes around 59 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Edinburgh 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 region.

It's now time to discover the mouthwatering delights of Edinburgh, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the region's best dining options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate.

We recommend Hoot The Redeemer for many reasons. But most importantly, this bar serves a variety of food and beverages and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 988 reviews.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Scotland is about to end. Day 13 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Edinburgh.

Optimize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Edinburgh’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.

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

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!