Cheap 6-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh traveling east to Dundee and 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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dean Village. This extraordinary village is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 visitors.

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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Panda & Sons and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Cafe Royal is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit The Ensign Ewart, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 2 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 1 night left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Journey into the unknown at Holyrood Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable archaeological site has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Holyrood Palace is a recommended place to visit. This official residence is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Edinburgh is Scottish National Gallery. This spectacular art museum gets over 660,741 visitors every year. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Edinburgh offers an experience you will remember.

Camera Obscura is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Edinburgh. This visitor centre promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Edinburgh Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Edinburgh, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Edinburgh and the culture of past or present-day Scotland.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Edinburgh. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is Cafe Andaluz - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

Hoot The Redeemer is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Albanach is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at The Bow Bar, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

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 cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 1: Edinburgh. You'll stay in Dundee for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Dundee’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Edinburgh behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 15 min. Dundee welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Kick off the day at Royal Mile, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit The Real Mary King's Close. The Real Mary King's Close is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,638 reviews.

National Museum of Scotland is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit HMY Britannia. This royal yacht is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a famous botanical garden in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

Dundee 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 Dundee, 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 The Fort, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Porters Bar & Restaurant, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The King of Islington, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Bank Bar Dundee offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dundee. The Salty Dog is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 4 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Scotland, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Stonehaven, Cruden Bay, and St Cyrus. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of St Cyrus, 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 23 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Dunnottar Castle. This extraordinary rock castle has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 10,220 visitors.

Next, make your way to Stonehaven War Memorial. This landmark is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 598 reviews.

While in Stonehaven, we also recommend a visit to Stonehaven Harbour. This harbor has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,510 reviews.

After soaking in Stonehaven’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cruden Bay. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Cruden Bay, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to New Slains Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cruden Bay, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,673 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dundee, you’ll hit the road in the direction of St Cyrus. This drive usually takes around 58 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - viewpoint, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,219 reviews.

While exploring Scotland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Aberdeen has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Aberdeen on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Mi Amore, 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 Foodstory, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Northern Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Grill provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Old Blackfriars offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Edinburgh, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including Aberdeen.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aberdeen and set your GPS to Edinburgh. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Edinburgh, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Aberdeen Maritime Museum is a great place to start. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,270 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Queens Links Leisure Park. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 2,883 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Seaton Park. The park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,950 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Hazlehead Park. This park is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,456 reviews.

Duthie Park is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this park, rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,959 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

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 offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to The Witchery by the Castle. Or, try Whiski Bar & Restaurant, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Scotland is about to end. Day 6 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Edinburgh.

As you approach the end of your journey in Scotland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Edinburgh’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Scotland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Scotland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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!