Cheap 9-Day Scotland Road Trip from Aberdeen to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness

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.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Queens Links Leisure Park. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 2,883 reviews.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Aberdeen, 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.

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!

Visit Northern Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. The Grill serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Aberdeen. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Old Blackfriars.

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 offers you the chance to visit 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Aberdeen. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Aberdeen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Edinburgh. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 35 min. When you arrive in Edinburgh, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable maritime museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,270 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Seaton Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,950 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Aberdeen is Donmouth Local Nature Reserve. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,055 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Aberdeen offers an experience you will remember.

Westburn Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Aberdeen. This urban park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,016 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on Hazlehead Park. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,456 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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.

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.

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!

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Panda & Sons, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cafe Royal offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Ensign Ewart. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

A road trip vacation in Aberdeen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Scotland!

Day 3 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 — Edinburgh. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Glasgow, where you'll be spending 4 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Glasgow. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Royal Mile. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 visitors.

Next, make your way to The Real Mary King's Close. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 10,638 reviews.

While in Edinburgh, we also recommend a visit to St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 9,293 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Museum of Scotland. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers, this national museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Edinburgh.

Make your way to Edinburgh Castle, perhaps the most famous castle in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,949 reviews.

Glasgow 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.

A cheap, budget vacation in Glasgow should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Glasgow, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at The Piper Whisky Bar, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Glaschu Restaurant & Bar, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Gallery Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Bar 91 is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started.

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

Day 4 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 3 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Glasgow is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Alston Bar & Beef, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Sherbrooke Castle Hotel 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 Elia Greek Restaurant, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

On day 5 of your affordable vacation in Scotland, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Glasgow. You’ll stay in Glasgow for another 2 nights. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Scotland, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh may take around 1 hour 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Edinburgh, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at HMY Britannia, a remarkable royal yacht where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,023 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 travelers.

Dean Village is another must-visit attraction. This renowned village offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,727 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Larbert, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Skinflats may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Skinflats, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at The Kelpies, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sculpture has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,904 reviews.

Larbert’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Edinburgh behind. This drive usually takes around 47 min. Larbert welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Falkirk Wheel. This boat lift is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,951 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Glasgow and your accommodation.

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, Glasgow 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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular The Willow Tea Rooms, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Òran Mór is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Stereo.

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

On day 6 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Scotland, you’ll go deep into Glasgow and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Glasgow — 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,594 reviews.

Continue your journey at Kelvingrove Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 travelers from near and far.

Glasgow is also the home of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This art museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,580 visitors. Each year, around 1,037,594 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Riverside Museum. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Pollok Country Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Glasgow, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Glasgow and the culture of past or present-day 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 Glasgow that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Max's Bar & Grill, 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 The Anchor Line - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Paesano Pizza promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the city of Inverness, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Inverness, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Glasgow.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Glasgow, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cambuskenneth may take around 41 min. Upon your arrival in Cambuskenneth, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Wallace Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,772 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cambuskenneth, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stirling may take around 11 min. Upon your arrival in Stirling, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Stirling Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,922 travelers.

After soaking in Glasgow’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cambuskenneth. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 41 min. When you arrive in Cambuskenneth, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to George Square. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Glasgow, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,066 visitors.

Glasgow Green is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,762 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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.

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, Inverness 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.

Kingsmills Hotel offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to MacGregor's. Or, try The White House, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Gunsmiths Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Malt Room offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, MacCallums Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Scotland, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Inverness and Cawdor. 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Aberdeen, 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 Inverness to Aberdeen may take around 2 hours 12 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Aberdeen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Eden Court Inverness. This movie theater is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,725 visitors.

When you’re finished at Eden Court Inverness, head to Clava cairns. This one-of-a-kind group is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,316 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cawdor.

Make Cawdor Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,900 reviews.

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

Discovering the culinary wonders of Aberdeen is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots.

Discover the heart of Aberdeen through its culinary scene, starting with Miller & Carter Aberdeen. 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 Maggie's Grill, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Malmaison Aberdeen, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Keep the evening going at Krakatoa, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Prince Of Wales, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Scotland is about to end. Day 9 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Aberdeen.

As you approach the end of your journey in Scotland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Aberdeen’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 Aberdeen.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Aberdeen, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at BrewDog Aberdeen, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Aberdeen is a highly recommended spot.

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!