Cheap 7-Day Scotland Road Trip from Aberdeen traveling south to Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow

Your exciting road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Aberdeen and begin your adventure in Scotland.

Aberdeen is a popular cheap holiday destination in Scotland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Scotland, Aberdeen 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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Westburn Park. This much-appreciated urban park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,016 reviews.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Mi Amore is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Foodstory, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Aberdeen, Northern Bar. The Grill is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Old Blackfriars, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 2 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 1 wonderful destinations — Aberdeen. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be spending 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Aberdeen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Edinburgh may take around 2 hours 30 min. Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This maritime museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,270 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Donmouth Local Nature Reserve. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,055 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Seaton Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,950 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Hazlehead Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,456 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Duthie Park. This park is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,959 visitors.

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 city.

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

Start your foodie adventure at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, 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 Panda & Sons, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Cafe Royal offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. The Ensign Ewart 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!

Day 3 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Edinburgh, with 1 night to stay in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dean Village. This much-appreciated village is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

Next up is Scottish National Gallery. This art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Scottish National Gallery welcomes 660,741 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

Holyrood Palace is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This official residence has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

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.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Cafe Andaluz - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Edinburgh, Hoot The Redeemer. Alternatively, visit Albanach, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by The Bow Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

On day 4 of your cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 1: Edinburgh. You'll stay in Inverness for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’ve had your share of Edinburgh, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Inverness. Your travel time is around 2 hours 57 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Royal Mile. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 14,405 visitors.

Next, make your way to National Museum of Scotland. This top attraction is a national museum with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Edinburgh Castle. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

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 city.

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

Discover the heart of Inverness through its culinary scene, starting with Kingsmills Hotel. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try MacGregor's, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore The White House, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Gunsmiths Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Malt Room is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, MacCallums Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 5 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Scotland, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Cambuskenneth, Inverness, and Stirling. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Glasgow, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Stirling and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Stirling beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Wallace Monument. This popular monument has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Inverness, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Inverness. Your travel time is around 6 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eden Court Inverness. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,725 reviews.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Glasgow, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Piper Whisky Bar, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, 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 Glaschu Restaurant & Bar, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Gallery Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar 91 provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

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

Day 6 of your road trip across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Glasgow, Skinflats, and Larbert. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Aberdeen, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Glasgow’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Larbert. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Larbert, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at George Square, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Glasgow Botanic Gardens is a botanical garden with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,594 reviews.

Kelvingrove Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Skinflats, 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 Skinflats may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Skinflats, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at The Kelpies, a remarkable sculpture where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 27,904 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Larbert, 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 Glasgow to Larbert may take around 36 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Larbert, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Journey into the unknown at Falkirk Wheel, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable boat lift has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,951 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.

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

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Miller & Carter Aberdeen, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Maggie's Grill is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Malmaison Aberdeen.

Continue your lively evening at Krakatoa, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Prince Of Wales is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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 7 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Aberdeen.

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Aberdeen’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.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Aberdeen, consider a top-rated restaurant like BrewDog Aberdeen, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Aberdeen, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Aberdeen.

You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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!