Luxury 9-Day Relaxed Scotland Road Trip Vacation from Edinburgh to Glasgow

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Scotland begins when you reach Edinburgh, where you’ll stay for a total of 5 nights.

Edinburgh is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Dean Village. Around 13,727 visitors have rated this fascinating village and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Edinburgh offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is The Edinburgh Larder. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,804 customers.

The Kitchin serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Edinburgh has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,577 reviews.

Bramble Bar & Lounge is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 743 customers, Bramble Bar & Lounge is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Edinburgh looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,814 reviews.

Panda & Sons offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Edinburgh. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,617 customers.

Locals like unwinding at The Dome. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,433 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Scotland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you'll explore the best attractions in Edinburgh at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Edinburgh, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 4 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Arthur's Seat. This incredible mountain has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 3,238 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Scotland by seeing another popular site in Edinburgh, the wonderful Holyrood Park. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,238 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Holyrood Palace. This official residence has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,746 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This botanical garden is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Edinburgh itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Scotland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Edinburgh. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Dishoom Edinburgh. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,852 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by 2,950 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Cafe Andaluz. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,019 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Whiski Bar & Restaurant. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,669 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,238 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,314 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 3 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Scotland gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Edinburgh and visit more of its attractions.

Edinburgh has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 3 nights more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Scott Monument, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Scott Monument has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,370 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Camera Obscura. This city feature got an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from its 13,536 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Edinburgh is the notable Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. The popular Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is a highlight of many travel packages in Edinburgh. As a matter of fact, this remarkable museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 8,926 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Edinburgh, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous Edinburgh Castle. Take your time exploring this wonderful castle and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 90,949 visitors.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Edinburgh by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Edinburgh.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

The Witchery by the Castle is one of the top restaurants in the city. This Edinburgh-based food place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,766 guests.

If you’re looking for another option near your accommodation, Howies Restaurant is also one of the best restaurants you can try in the city. Howies Restaurant proved an excellent choice for around 1,817 visitors, who gave the restaurant an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another local favorite in Edinburgh is Howies Restaurant, which has an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 1,828 individuals’ reviews.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Edinburgh, Cafe Royal. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars given by 2,216 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is The Bow Bar. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.6 over 5 stars by 1,813 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, Tigerlily may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 2,369 customers have rated it an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Edinburgh and end day 3 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland on a great note!

Day 4 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Scotland gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Edinburgh and visit more of its attractions.

Edinburgh has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular HMY Britannia, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible HMY Britannia has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Royal Mile. This city feature got an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from its 14,405 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Edinburgh is the notable The Real Mary King's Close. The popular The Real Mary King's Close is a highlight of many travel packages in Edinburgh. As a matter of fact, this remarkable top-tier point of interest has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 10,638 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Edinburgh, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous St Giles' Cathedral. Take your time exploring this wonderful cathedral and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 9,293 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to the outstanding National Museum of Scotland. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 travelers, a trip to the spectacular National Museum of Scotland is something to look forward to in Edinburgh.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Edinburgh by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Edinburgh.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Edinburgh, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Edinburgh, Albanach. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars given by 2,018 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is The Ensign Ewart. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.5 over 5 stars by 1,604 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 1,474 customers have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Edinburgh and end day 4 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland on a great note!

On day 5 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit two remarkable areas in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.

You’ll spend 3 nights in Glasgow.

This castle and popular sightseeing spot has an average rating of 4.6 over 5 stars from 4,329 visitors.

Another top sight worth checking out is the amazing Beecraigs Country Park. This park and go-to attraction has an average rating of 4.7 over 5 stars from 2,456 travelers.

Joining a tour will allow you to better understand the local culture in Scotland, meet new people, and create memorable experiences, while you comfortably enjoy.

This is your opportunity to create more unforgettable memories in Scotland and discover the wonderful North Lanarkshire.

While in North Lanarkshire, take a break at one of its best attractions, the great Summerlee Museum of Scottish Industrial Life. This museum and popular site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,316 reviews.

Most travelers find that this park and travel destination lives up to its rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,543 reviews.

This travel spotis a go-to place in North Lanarkshire.

As this day of your laid-back exploration of the best attractions in Scotland comes to a close, continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Glasgow. Drive leisurely, enjoy the views, and listen to some good music. In Glasgow, you’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in the city and restore your energy.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, take it easy and have a wonderful dinner at one of the best restaurants in Glasgow. Check out Paesano Pizza, a top choice in Scotland due to its excellent meals and service.

Another Glasgow restaurant to try is a local favorite, The Willow Tea Rooms.

If you’re looking for another must-visit option, Mono is a perfect choice. This popular restaurant in Glasgow has a score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,446 people.

After dinner, many travelers enjoy hanging out and unwinding at some of the top bars in Glasgow. The popular Òran Mór has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,385 customers and is the perfect place to fully appreciate your unhurried and relaxed road trip vacation in Scotland.

You could also relax with a drink at another popular bar like Stereo. This hang-out has an average rating of 4.4 from 1,954 individuals.

If you want to visit another place, the locals of Glasgow recommend The Anchor Line. Due to its local reputation, this bar boasts an average rating of 4.5 over 5 stars from 1,659 individuals.

Celebrate another day of your relaxing road trip through Scotland with a toast at a top-rated bar in Glasgow!

Day 6 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Scotland serves as your introduction to Glasgow. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Scotland and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Glasgow, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 14,669 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,407 guests, Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Holiday Inn Express Glasgow - City Center Theatreland offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Holiday Inn Express Glasgow - City Center Theatreland is a top-rated budget hotel in Glasgow with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 7,196 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Glasgow. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Glasgow, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Glasgow. The fascinating Glasgow Botanic Gardens has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,594 travelers.

Glasgow is also home to the captivating Kelvingrove Park, a local park and another popular attraction in the city. About 13,336 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The extraordinary Riverside Museum is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Scotland. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,799 travelers, Riverside Museum proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible Pollok Country Park. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,112 reviews.

Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Glasgow, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Scotland.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Glasgow, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Glasgow is Elia Greek Restaurant. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,187 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Glasgow. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,179 customers.

Another alternative is La Lanterna. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,068 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Glasgow. At Mono, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,446 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at The Citizen Glasgow, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,260 reviews.

The Piper Whisky Bar is also one of the best places in Glasgow where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,323 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Scotland!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you'll explore the best attractions in Glasgow at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Glasgow, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 1 night will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Glasgow Science Centre. This incredible skyscraper has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,454 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Scotland by seeing another popular site in Glasgow, the wonderful Glasgow Green. This stadium is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,454 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible George Square. This square has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,066 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Glasgow Cathedral. This cathedral is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,737 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Seven Lochs Wetland Park. This amazing site is a wonderful park with more than 3,044 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 7 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Glasgow itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Scotland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Glasgow. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Chaophraya. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,386 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by 868 customers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Glasgow and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow. This vibrant bar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,179 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,038 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Alston Bar & Beef. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Alston Bar & Beef has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 785 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Callendar Park is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,686 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Callendar House. This unique building is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,815 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Falkirk Wheel. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,951 visitors, this boat lift is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding The Kelpies. This popular sculpture and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 27,904 people.

If you’re keen to continue your discovery, make your way to Blackness Castle. This attraction is a valued castle in the area that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,186 visitors.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Falkirk has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Scotland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Edinburgh. In Edinburgh, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Cold Town House. Cold Town House is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,486 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is The Newsroom Bar & Eatery. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,619 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Hoot The Redeemer. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Hoot The Redeemer is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 988 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Scotland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Edinburgh.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Edinburgh once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Scotland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Calton Hill is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Edinburgh. This top sight is a popular mountain, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,517 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Edinburgh or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Edinburgh and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.