Cheap 5-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh traveling east to Aberdeen

Your exciting road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 2 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 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.

Take the opportunity to see Dean Village. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 visitors.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Scotland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Edinburgh that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Start your flavor-filled journey at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Chaophraya Thai Restaurant offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery is the perfect spot for you!

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Panda & Sons, considered one of the best bars in Edinburgh. You can also enjoy drinks at Cafe Royal, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to The Ensign Ewart, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Edinburgh.

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. You have ample time, or 1 night, to stay in Edinburgh. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

Continue your journey at Holyrood Palace. This official residence is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 travelers from near and far.

Edinburgh is also the home of Scottish National Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors. Each year, around 660,741 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Camera Obscura. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Edinburgh Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this castle.

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.

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Cafe Andaluz, 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 Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into Hoot The Redeemer, considered one of the best bars in Edinburgh. You can also enjoy drinks at Albanach, known for its fun atmosphere. Alternatively, go to The Bow Bar, a favorite spot for both tourists and residents of Edinburgh.

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

Day 3 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 Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Royal Mile. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

The Real Mary King's Close is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is National Museum of Scotland. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews.

HMY Britannia is another outstanding experience in Edinburgh. Around 9,023 travelers have rated this royal yacht an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is not far away. This botanical garden is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Aberdeen 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.

Savor the culinary delights of Aberdeen, 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 Fierce Bar Aberdeen, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Mi Amore, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Foodstory, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Northern Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Grill offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Old Blackfriars is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

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 2 wonderful destinations — Stonehaven and Dundee. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be spending 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Aberdeen, 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 24 min.

Make Stonehaven Harbour your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this harbor an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,510 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Dunnottar Castle. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this rock castle every year.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dundee, 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 Stonehaven to Dundee may take around 55 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dundee, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Baxter Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,306 reviews.

Next up, make your way to The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,551 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to RRS Discovery. This barque has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,529 visitors.

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

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

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.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Scotland is about to end. Day 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Edinburgh.

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Edinburgh’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 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 Cold Town House, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, The Dome features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, The Edinburgh Larder 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!