Cheap 9-Day Scotland Road Trip from Glasgow traveling east to Aberdeen, Elgin, and Edinburgh

Your exciting road trip through Scotland starts when you reach the incredible city of Glasgow, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Glasgow and begin your adventure in Scotland.

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

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at The Piper Whisky Bar, 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 Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow - 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 Glaschu Restaurant & Bar, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Glasgow, The Gallery Bar. Alternatively, visit Bar 91, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks.

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 Glasgow. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Glasgow 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!

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

Next, make your way to Kelvingrove Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 13,336 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Hosting 1,037,594 visitors every year, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Glasgow. This art museum is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,580 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Riverside Museum. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 16,799 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Pollok Country Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,112 travelers.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Scotland sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Scotland. Scotland has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Scotland that will fill you with new inspiration.

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 Alston Bar & Beef, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Elia Greek Restaurant, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

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

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Scotland, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. 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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Glasgow Cathedral. This extraordinary cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,737 visitors.

Next, make your way to Seven Lochs Wetland Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,044 reviews.

Set your GPS to Cambuskenneth and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 37 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cambuskenneth beckons with new experiences!

Make Wallace Monument one of your first sightseeing stops in Cambuskenneth. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 10,772 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cambuskenneth, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Stirling. This drive usually takes around 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Stirling Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 26,632 reviews.

Next up is Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. This zoo has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 7,922 visitors.

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.

Savor the culinary delights of Aberdeen, 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 flavor-filled journey at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? Mi Amore offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Foodstory is the perfect spot for you!

Continue your lively evening at Northern Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Grill is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Old Blackfriars ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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 across Scotland offers you the chance to visit 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Stonehaven, the Scottish Highlands, and Inverness. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Elgin, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Aberdeen, 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 24 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Dunnottar Castle is a great place to start. This rock castle is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,220 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Stonehaven Harbour. This harbor has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,510 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, the Scottish Highlands.

Make Urquhart Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,979 reviews.

After soaking in Inverness’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Elgin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 3 min. When you arrive in Elgin, it's time to take a break from the road.

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.

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

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

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

On day 5 of your cheap holiday travels in Scotland, you’ll tour 4: Cawdor, the Scottish Highlands, Inverness, and Glenmore. You'll stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cawdor, 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 Elgin to Cawdor may take around 38 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cawdor, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cawdor 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 2,900 reviews.

Kick off the day at Fort George, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This barracks is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,606 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Glenmore. This drive usually takes around 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Clava cairns. This group is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,316 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.

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

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Panda & Sons, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Cafe Royal, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Ensign Ewart provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 6’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, proving that cheap holidays in Scotland can be extraordinary. You have ample time, or 2 nights, to stay in Edinburgh. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the city.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Royal Mile. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

Continue your journey at National Museum of Scotland. This national museum is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers from near and far.

Edinburgh is also the home of The Real Mary King's Close. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,638 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Edinburgh Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

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.

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. Edinburgh has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Cafe Andaluz offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Hoot The Redeemer offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Edinburgh, check out Albanach. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at The Bow Bar.

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 7 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh — 1 night.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Scottish National Gallery. This extraordinary art museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors. Each year, around 660,741 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.

Next, make your way to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This museum welcomes around 238,542 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews.

While in Edinburgh, we also recommend a visit to Camera Obscura. This visitor centre has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,536 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Holyrood Palace. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 travelers, this official residence is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Edinburgh.

Make your way to Holyrood Park, perhaps the most famous archaeological site in Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

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.

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.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular The Kitchin, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. The Witchery by the Castle is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Whiski Bar & Restaurant.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday 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 — Edinburgh, Skinflats, and Larbert. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Glasgow, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Dean Village, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable village has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a recommended place to visit. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Edinburgh is HMY Britannia. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,023 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Edinburgh offers an experience you will remember.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Edinburgh, 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 52 min. Upon your arrival in Skinflats, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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.

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

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Falkirk Wheel. This extraordinary boat lift has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,951 visitors.

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.

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 fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Willow Tea Rooms, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Òran Mór, 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 Stereo, 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!

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 Glasgow.

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

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Glasgow is the remarkable Glasgow Green. This stadium and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,762 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Glasgow, consider a top-rated restaurant like Max's Bar & Grill, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. The Anchor Line is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Paesano Pizza, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Glasgow.

You’ll then say farewell to Glasgow. 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!