Cheap 9-Day Scotland Road Trip from Edinburgh traveling west to Glasgow, Inverness, and Oban

Your exciting road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 1 night. 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Calton Hill. This extraordinary mountain has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,517 visitors.

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

Start your flavor-filled journey at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Chaophraya Thai Restaurant offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery is the perfect spot for you!

Panda & Sons offers various snacks and drinks at affordable prices. When you're in the mood for a classic drink or something more adventurous, Cafe Royal is the perfect place. For a unique experience, visit The Ensign Ewart, known for its vibrant atmosphere and offerings that suit every palate.

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

Day 2 of your self-drive vacation in Scotland will take you to the city of Glasgow, where you'll be staying for 4 nights. On your way to Glasgow, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Scotland, including Edinburgh.

After soaking in Edinburgh’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glasgow. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 5 min. When you arrive in Glasgow, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Scott Monument your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this monument an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 4,370 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Scottish National Gallery. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this art museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 660,741 annual visitors.

Camera Obscura is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors.

When you’re finished at Camera Obscura, the perfect next stop is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews. Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre attracts approximately 238,542 visitors annually.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Edinburgh Castle. This castle is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 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.

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.

Discover the heart of Glasgow through its culinary scene, starting with The Piper Whisky Bar. 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 Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Glaschu Restaurant & Bar, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Gallery Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bar 91, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Scotland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday 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 3 nights to stay in the area.

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.

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.

Alston Bar & Beef offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow. Or, try Elia Greek Restaurant, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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

Day 4 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Scotland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Edinburgh! You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh and conclude your journey with a lovely dinner, enjoying your remaining 2 nights in the area.

Make your vacation in Scotland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Scotland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to The Willow Tea Rooms, 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 Òran Mór - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Stereo 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!

On day 5 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,594 visitors.

Kelvingrove Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 13,336 visitors.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 1,037,594 people visit this top attraction every year. This art museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,580 visitors.

Riverside Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 16,799 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Pollok Country Park. This park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 7,112 travelers.

Touring the best attractions in Scotland offers you a glimpse of the country’s history and culture. But, you’ll be surprised to know that there’s more to Scotland you are yet to discover. Take part in an eye-opening experience to make the best of your affordable vacation in Scotland. Choose from all of the popular and budget-friendly tickets and activities available on this day of your cheap holiday in Scotland.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Glasgow has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Max's Bar & Grill, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is The Anchor Line, 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 Paesano Pizza, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cambuskenneth. This car ride takes around 41 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wallace Monument. This monument is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cambuskenneth, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 visitors.

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!

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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is George Square. This square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 20,066 reviews.

Continue your journey at Glasgow Green. This stadium is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,762 travelers from near and far.

Inverness 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.

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

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Gunsmiths Bar. Alternatively, go to The Malt Room, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, MacCallums Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Scotland!

Day 7 of your road trip across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Glenfinnan, Spean Bridge, and Inverness. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Oban, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Glenfinnan welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Glenfinnan Viaduct. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,217 visitors.

Glenfinnan Viewpoint is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,393 travelers.

Upon your arrival in Spean Bridge, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Commando Memorial. This extraordinary monument is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,656 visitors.

Upon reaching Inverness, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Eden Court Inverness. This extraordinary movie theater has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,725 visitors.

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

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, Oban 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 town's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Perle Oban Hotel & Spa stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

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

Day 8 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 3 wonderful destinations — Skinflats, Blackness, and Larbert. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Edinburgh, where you'll be spending 1 night.

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.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at The Kelpies. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,904 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Skinflats, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blackness. Your travel time is around 25 min.

Journey into the unknown at Blackness Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,186 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Oban, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Larbert. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 25 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Falkirk Wheel. Previous visitors have rated this boat lift an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,951 reviews.

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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Edinburgh, 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 filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Cafe Andaluz is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

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

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 Edinburgh.

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

As you prepare to bid farewell to Edinburgh, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at The Kitchin, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, The Witchery by the Castle features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Whiski Bar & Restaurant 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!