6-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dundee to Edinburgh and Inverness and surrounding area
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Description
Explore the best of Scotland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Dundee, Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Luss, Pitlochry, Port na Craig, Blair Atholl, Aviemore, Inverness, and Lewiston. This road trip itinerary in Scotland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dundee, 2 nights in Edinburgh, and 1 night in Inverness. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Scotland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Dundee, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Scotland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Scotland. Edinburgh Castle and National Museum Of Scotland are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Stirling Castle, learn more about the unique Urquhart Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Holyrood Palace.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dundee, Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Luss, Pitlochry, Port na Craig, Blair Atholl, Aviemore, Inverness, and Lewiston, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Scotland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Scotland.
Throughout your road trip in Scotland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Scotland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Scotland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Scotland today!
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Day 1
- Dundee - Arrival day
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- Dundee Contemporary Arts
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Welcome to Dundee, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dundee's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Dundee is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Dundee Contemporary Arts, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Dundee. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dundee, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Daisy Tasker, a highly-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're eager to try something different, consider Premier Inn Dundee North hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Fort. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The King Of Islington after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Bank Bar Dundee, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Salty Dog also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Dundee
- Edinburgh
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Drive 107 km, 2 hours 41 min
- Edinburgh Castle
- National Museum of Scotland
- The Royal Mile
- Holyrood Palace
- Arthur's Seat
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On day 2 of your road trip in Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Edinburgh. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today’s agenda in Dundee includes a castle, a museum, a street, a palace, a hiking area and much more! Edinburgh Castle is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to National Museum Of Scotland, a captivating museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Royal Mile, a history-steeped street, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dundee. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the notable Holyrood Palace. If you’re looking for more, Arthur's Seat is also an intriguing attraction that is worthwhile a visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Edinburgh. Edinburgh offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Edinburgh's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Theatre Royal Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Nightcap - Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Juniper Edinburgh is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Panda & Sons is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
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Drive 261 km, 4 hours 18 min
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Stirling Old Town Jail
- Loch Lomond
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On day 3 of your road trip in Scotland, you’ll start and end your day in Edinburgh, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Edinburgh for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Luss to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a castle, a museum, a lake and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Wallace Monument and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Stirling Castle, an awe-inspiring castle that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Stirling Old Town Jail, one of the village’s most frequently visited spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Loch Lomond.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Edinburgh.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Don’t miss out on dining at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Novotel Edinburgh Centre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Tigerlily. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Cafe Royal stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Ensign Ewart offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Tonic is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- Inverness
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Drive 261 km, 3 hours 45 min
- Blair Athol Distillery
- Pitlochry Fish Ladder
- Blair Castle
- Strathspey Steam Railway
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Pitlochry, Port na Craig, Blair Atholl, and Aviemore, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Inverness. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Edinburgh allows for both. Start by heading to Blair Athol Distillery. This curiosity-inducing distillery provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Pitlochry Fish Ladder, a breathtaking historical landmark, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Blair Castle, Hercules Garden, Statue Of Hercules, an underrated castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Strathspey Railway - (aviemore, Station).
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you explore more of Inverness, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Simpsons, a top-rated dining spot in Inverness. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kingsmills Hotel, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Inverness.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Gunsmiths Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Malt Room offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Maccallums Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 5
- Inverness
- Dundee
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Drive 326 km, 4 hours 36 min
- Loch Ness
- Urquhart Castle
- Eden Court Inverness
- Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew
- Clava cairns
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - the Scottish Highlands, Lewiston, and Inverness. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dundee. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Inverness, including a lake, a castle, a performing arts theater, a church, an archeological site and much more! Start your day with a visit to Loch Ness. This beloved lake is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Urquhart Castle, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Inverness on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Eden Court Inverness, a curiosity-inducing performing arts theater in the region. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Inverness Cathedral, Dedicated To St Andrew and Clava Cairns.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dundee, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dundee's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Porters Bar & Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Premier Inn Dundee East hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dundee.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Trades House. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Speedwell Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Draffens, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 6
- Dundee - Departure day
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- Slessor Gardens
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Day 6 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dundee before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Slessor Gardens. This worthwhile park is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Dundee’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dundee.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bird & Bear, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Don Michele Italian Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Ciao Sorrento.
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!
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