12-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen traveling west to Edinburgh, Oban, Glasgow, and Inverness

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Aberdeen. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the frequently visited Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a heritage-rich maritime museum in Aberdeen. Next, go to Westburn Park.

After visiting Aberdeen Maritime Museum and Westburn Park, take time to explore Aberdeen's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Hazlehead Park. This visually striking park offers a unique experience. Johnston Gardens is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Duthie Park, one of the most serene places to visit in Aberdeen.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Edinburgh. Edinburgh offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Edinburgh's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Begin your culinary exploration in Edinburgh by securing a reservation at Heron. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Kitchin, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Juniper Edinburgh for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Panda & Sons is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Head back to your accommodation in Edinburgh and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

Day 3 of your road trip across Scotland promises a magnificent time exploring Edinburgh. You have 2 nights left in Edinburgh. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Edinburgh is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Scott Monument, a frequently visited monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Scottish National Gallery, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Camera Obscura. This museum is one of the city’s most notable spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Edinburgh at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. After exploring the distillery, head to the astonishing Edinburgh Castle. This castle will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Edinburgh, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Novotel Edinburgh Centre, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Tigerlily. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Cafe Royal, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Ensign Ewart offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tonic provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Edinburgh, including a historic ship, a street, a museum, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Hmy Britannia. This curiosity-inducing historic ship is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Royal Mile, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Edinburgh on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to The Real Mary King's Close, an interesting museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St Giles' Cathedral and National Museum Of Scotland.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Edinburgh. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Angels with Bagpipes, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Rabble Taphouse and Grill? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Black Ivy as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Edinburgh and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Edinburgh, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Oban. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Edinburgh, including a park, a palace, a botanical garden, a historical landmark and much more! Start your adventure at Calton Hill. This underrated park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Holyrood Palace located in Edinburgh for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Holyrood Park. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden has a romantic appeal. For a change of pace, head to Dean Village. As one of the most captivating attractions in Edinburgh, this historical landmark is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Oban. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Oban. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Perle Oban Hotel & Spa, a top-rated dining destination in Oban.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.

On day 6 of your road trip in Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Oban, Inveraray, Luss, and Motherwell. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Oban is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a castle, a lake, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Mccaig's Tower & Battery Hill. Just a short distance away is Inveraray Castle, a stunning castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Loch Lomond, one of the town’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Strathclyde Country Park. Last up on today’s itinerary is a park. Make your way to Duchess Of Hamilton Park for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Oban.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Glasgow, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Glasgow. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cail Bruich is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern british cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Gallery Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Steps Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bar 91 provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Glasgow for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the notable Glasgow Botanic Gardens, an eye-catching botanical garden in Glasgow. Next, go to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum.

After visiting Glasgow Botanic Gardens and Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, take time to explore Glasgow's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kelvingrove Park. This eye-catching park offers a unique experience. Glasgow Cathedral is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to George Square, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Glasgow.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Scotland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Glasgow's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, a highly-rated dining destination in Glasgow. If you're eager to try something different, consider Novotel Glasgow Centre, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Glasgow this evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Glasgow, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Glasgow, including a park, a science center, a museum, a monument, an art installation and much more! Start your day with a visit to Glasgow Green. This locally renowned park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Glasgow Science Centre, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Glasgow on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Riverside Museum, an interesting museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Glasgow. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Alston Bar & Beef, an iconic dining spot in Glasgow. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Elia Greek Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Glasgow. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Head back to your accommodation in Glasgow and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cambuskenneth, Stirling, and Doune. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Inverness, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Glasgow on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular monument, Wallace Monument. Afterward, continue to Stirling Castle.

As you explore Glasgow’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Stirling Old Town Jail. This locally appreciated museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Doune Castle and learn why this castle is renowned as one of the village's most worthwhile attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Inverness. Inverness offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Inverness, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Simpsons, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Kingsmills Hotel offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Inverness.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Gunsmiths Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Malt Room is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Maccallums Bar provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Inverness, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Start by visiting Urquhart Castle, a prime spot to begin your journey. This romantic castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Commando Memorial, another must-visit landmark and intriguing war memorial renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Inverness by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This romantic observation deck is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Glenfinnan Monument - National Trust For Scotland also adds charm to your journey, and Glenfinnan Viaduct wraps up your day with its history-steeped appeal.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Inverness.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Inverness. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at MacGregor's, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The White House is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Kitchen Brasserie. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Inverness tonight.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 11 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Inverness, Stonehaven, and Balmedie. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberdeen. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Inverness today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Clava Cairns. This culturally significant archeological site will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Dunnottar Castle and learn what makes this romantic castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Stonehaven War Memorial. After exploring the war memorial, head to Stonehaven Harbour. This beloved marina is a highlight in Inverness. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the intriguing Balmedie Country Park. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Aberdeen. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Aberdeen. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Foodstory, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ninety-Nine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at St. Machar Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Old Blackfriars. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Krakatoa, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!