Affordable 6-Day Relaxed Scotland Road Trip Vacation in Edinburgh

Old town chambers Edinburgh, Scotland
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
6 days & 5 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
5 nights included
Car rental
6 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 6-day road trip in Scotland with this laid-back self-drive vacation.

This self-drive package allows you to immerse in the local culture as you travel through the picture-perfect landscapes in Scotland at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Edinburgh. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Edinburgh. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Scotland.

Experience an easy 6-day self-drive tour across Scotland with this carefully arranged travel plan. We’ll help you from the beginning to the end of your vacation in Scotland so you can leave with the best road trip memories.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Scotland. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Edinburgh, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 6-day journey across Scotland and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

You’ll choose among the best hotels and places to stay in Scotland. You could enjoy a lovely hotel experience at the popular 4-star Dakota Hotel in Airdenair Guest House. Or, you could have a first-class room with a magnificent view at the 5-star 21212. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the 3-star Airdenair Guest House is our top recommendation. We’ll always offer you the best places to stay in Scotland that fit your budget and needs.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Scotland. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating National Museum of Scotland.

Traveling leisurely through Scotland means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Edinburgh Castle. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Holyrood Palace. Get close to the spectacular Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the wonderful The Kelpies. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Scotland. Tours offer a special way of discovering what else Scotland has to offer.

This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Scotland's shopping hotspots. Here you can visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Check out all the souvenirs and gifts you can buy in the area and bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Scotland.

By the end of your 6-day road trip through Scotland, you’ll return home feeling refreshed and enriched by your experience. You’ll have many stories about your pleasant and relaxed road trip vacation in Scotland and memories to cherish forever.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Scotland. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 5 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best car rental you can use throughout the 6 days of your self-drive road trip in Scotland. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents. All taxes are included in your vacation package price.

Spend an amazing 6-day vacation in Scotland and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland today!

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Included

Hotel, 5 nights
Rental car, 6 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Photo of beautiful view of the old town city of Edinburgh from Calton Hill, United Kingdom.Edinburgh / 5 nights

Map

Attractions

Scenic view of Edinburgh Castle and Ross Fountain, Scotland travel photo. Edinburgh Castle is historic center of the city and most popular tourist attraction.Edinburgh Castle
 City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off bus in front of National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh city.National Museum of Scotland
Scotland kelpies on a sunny dayThe Kelpies
Glasshouse at the Royal Botanical Gardens in public park Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Landmark of Edinburgh - Holyrood Palace,Scotland,UK, EuropeHolyrood Palace
The Falkirk Wheel is a rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Scotland, United Kingdom.The Falkirk Wheel
Street view of Royal Miles.Royal Mile
"Camera Obscura" sign at the Royal Mile / Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
The scenic Dean Village in a sunny afternoon, in Edinburgh, Scotland.Dean Village
Holyrood Park and Holyrood Palace aerial view from Calton Hill in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK. Old town Edinburgh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.Holyrood Park
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art - Modern One, Edinburgh.National Galleries of Scotland: National
Photo of Red Panda at Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland, a Rare and Endangered Species .Edinburgh Zoo
Photo of Blackness Castle on the shores of the River Forth Scotland .Blackness Castle
Vogrie Country Park
Photo of Right side view of the back of Callendar House in Callendar Park, Falkirk, Central Scotland, UK.Callendar House
Callendar Park, R-1920842, R-58446, R-62149Callendar Park
Fort Douglas Adventure Park
National Mining Museum Scotland
Roslin Glen Country Park
Photo of The historic medieval ruins of Rosslyn Castle in the Midlothian village of Roslin, outside of Edinburgh, Scotland.Rosslyn Castle

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 – Edinburgh - arrival day

Day 1

Day 1 – Edinburgh - arrival day

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
  • More

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Scotland begins when you reach Edinburgh, where you’ll stay for a total of 5 nights.

Edinburgh is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

In the city of Edinburgh, nothing beats the comfort the incredible 21212 provides. This 5-star hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the area and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 199 guests.

The best 4-star hotel we recommend in Edinburgh is Dakota Hotel. This hotel offers many conveniences and is the perfect base for your relaxed road trip activities. Dakota Hotel has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,967 guests.

Budget travelers in Edinburgh can stay cozy at the 3-star Airdenair Guest House. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 941 guests, this cheap hotel is the number one budget hotel option in the city.

These excellent hotels ensure guests a safe and relaxing stay in Edinburgh. If these popular options are not available for your time in the city, our system will automatically help you find the best alternatives.

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh). This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers.

The Edinburgh Larder serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Edinburgh has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,804 reviews.

The Kitchin is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,577 customers, The Kitchin is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Edinburgh looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Panda & Sons, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,617 reviews.

Bramble Bar & Lounge offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Edinburgh. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 743 customers.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Scotland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland!

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Experiences

Day 2 – Edinburgh

Day 2

Day 2 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 6 km, 28 min

  • Royal Mile
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • National Galleries of Scotland: National
  • Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you'll explore the best attractions in Edinburgh at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Edinburgh, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 4 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Royal Mile. This incredible street has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,359 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Scotland by seeing another popular site in Edinburgh, the wonderful National Museum of Scotland. This national museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,359 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,133 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Edinburgh Castle. This castle is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 88,569 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Edinburgh itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Scotland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Edinburgh. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Bramble Bar & Lounge. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 743 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at The Dome, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. The Dome is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by 6,433 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Dishoom Edinburgh. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,852 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Whiski Bar & Restaurant. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,669 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,238 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

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Experiences

Day 3 – Edinburgh

Day 3

Day 3 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 11 min

  • Holyrood Park
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • Dean Village
  • Edinburgh Zoo
  • More

Day 3 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Scotland gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Edinburgh and visit more of its attractions.

Edinburgh has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Holyrood Park, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Holyrood Park has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,034 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Holyrood Palace. This city feature got an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from its 17,156 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Edinburgh is the notable Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The popular Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a highlight of many travel packages in Edinburgh. As a matter of fact, this remarkable botanical garden has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 20,341 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Edinburgh, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous Dean Village. Take your time exploring this wonderful village and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 13,065 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Edinburgh by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Edinburgh.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre is one of the top restaurants in the city. This Edinburgh-based food place has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,950 guests.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, Cafe Andaluz is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the city. Cafe Andaluz proved an excellent choice for around 3,019 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another local favorite in Edinburgh is Whiski Bar & Restaurant, which has an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 2,669 individuals’ reviews.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Edinburgh, The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars given by 2,314 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is Cafe Royal. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.4 over 5 stars by 2,216 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, The Bow Bar may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 1,813 customers have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Edinburgh and end day 3 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland on a great note!

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Experiences

Day 4 – Edinburgh

Day 4

Day 4 – Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 58 km, 1 hour 41 min

  • Roslin Glen Country Park
  • Rosslyn Castle
  • Fort Douglas Adventure Park
  • National Mining Museum Scotland
  • Vogrie Country Park
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights.

Around 677 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing top-tier point of interest that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,204 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Scottish Mining Museum will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland more memorable. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 864 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Scotland is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Vogrie Country Park is a well-loved country park by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,806 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Edinburgh and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Edinburgh for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Scotland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,238 customers, the dining experience Chaophraya Thai Restaurant offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Scotland.

The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh is another pleasant place to eat in Edinburgh. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,314 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Howies Restaurant and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,817 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Albanach, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Edinburgh is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,018 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at The Ensign Ewart, another well-known bar in Edinburgh. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,604 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,474 customers, Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Edinburgh.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Scotland is all about!

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Experiences

Day 5 – Falkirk and Edinburgh

Day 5

Day 5 – Falkirk and Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 110 km, 2 hours 27 min

  • The Kelpies
  • The Falkirk Wheel
  • Callendar House
  • Callendar Park
  • Blackness Castle
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night.

Around 27,191 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing building that has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,785 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Callendar Park will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland more memorable. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,628 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Scotland is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Blackness Castle is a well-loved castle by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,100 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Edinburgh and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Edinburgh for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Scotland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,828 customers, the dining experience Howies Restaurant offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Scotland.

City Restaurant is another pleasant place to eat in Edinburgh. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,705 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,474 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Cold Town House, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Edinburgh is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,486 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another well-known bar in Edinburgh. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,619 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Hoot The Redeemer. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 988 customers, Hoot The Redeemer is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Edinburgh.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Scotland is all about!

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Experiences

Day 6 – Edinburgh - departure day

Day 6

Day 6 – Edinburgh - departure day

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Edinburgh.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Edinburgh once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Scotland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Unwind and look back at the past 6 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Edinburgh or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Edinburgh and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 6-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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Experiences

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