7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to North Berwick and surrounding area
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Explore the best of Scotland on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Edinburgh, Penicuik, Dalkeith, Newtongrange, North Berwick, West Barns, Dirleton, and West Saltoun. This road trip itinerary in Scotland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Edinburgh and 2 nights in North Berwick. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Scotland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Edinburgh, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Scotland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Scotland. Edinburgh Castle and National Museum Of Scotland are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, learn more about the unique Holyrood Palace, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Royal Mile.
As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Penicuik, Dalkeith, Newtongrange, North Berwick, West Barns, Dirleton, and West Saltoun, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Scotland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Scotland.
Throughout your road trip in Scotland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Scotland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Scotland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Scotland today!
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Day 1
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
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- Dean Village
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Edinburgh and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Edinburgh is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Dean Village, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Edinburgh. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Theatre Royal Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Juniper Edinburgh. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Panda & Sons, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Edinburgh
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Drive 8 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Holyrood Park
- Holyrood Palace
- The Royal Mile
- The Real Mary King's Close
- National Museum of Scotland
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Edinburgh has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Edinburgh by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Edinburgh. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Holyrood Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most interesting places to visit in Edinburgh. Next, head to Holyrood Palace, a notable palace, known for its gorgeous features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Royal Mile. This history-steeped street is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find The Real Mary King's Close and National Museum Of Scotland. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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 an extraordinary dining experience at Heron, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Condita is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Edinburgh. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at The Kitchin. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Cafe Royal offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Ensign Ewart is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tonic is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
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Drive 10 km, 58 min
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- Scottish National Gallery
- Camera Obscura
- Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
- Edinburgh Castle
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Get ready for an exciting day in Edinburgh. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, an art gallery, a museum, a distillery, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This is a popular botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Scottish National Gallery, a notable art gallery in Edinburgh.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Camera Obscura. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, another of the city’s often recommended attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Edinburgh Castle, a historic place of interest 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.
Visit Princes Street in Edinburgh for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Princes Street has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Angels with Bagpipes, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rabble Taphouse and Grill, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Black Ivy, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Albanach is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Scotland.
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- North Berwick
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Drive 82 km, 1 hour 54 min
- Pentland Hills Regional Park
- Fort Douglas Adventure Park
- Scottish Mining Museum
- Vogrie Country Park
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Penicuik, Dalkeith, Newtongrange, and Dewartown. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in North Berwick, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Edinburgh today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Pentland Hills Regional Park. This eye-catching nature reserve will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Fort Douglas Adventure Park and learn what makes this breathtaking adventure park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the worthwhile Scottish Mining Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Vogrie Country Park. This underrated park is a highlight in Edinburgh.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in North Berwick. North Berwick offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in North Berwick. 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.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- North Berwick
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Drive 35 km, 55 min
- John Muir Alpacas
- East Links Family Park
- Tantallon Castle
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to North Berwick, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
North Berwick is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a farm, an adventure park, and a castle. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the beloved John Muir Alpacas and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, East Links Family Park, an instagrammable adventure park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Tantallon Castle, one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in North Berwick.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in North Berwick. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Say good night to North Berwick and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 6
- North Berwick
- Edinburgh
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Drive 55 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Lodge Grounds
- Dirleton Castle & Gardens
- Glenkinchie Distillery
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore North Berwick, Dirleton, and West Saltoun, 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 Edinburgh. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in North Berwick, including a park, a castle, and a distillery. Start your day at Lodge Grounds. This gorgeous park is a curiosity-inducing place to see in North Berwick. Then, wander over to Dirleton Castle & Gardens. If romantic sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Glenkinchie Distillery. This instagrammable distillery is a favorite among visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Waverley Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Royal Oak offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Oxford Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Head back to your accommodation in Edinburgh and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 7
- Edinburgh - Departure day
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- Calton Hill
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Day 7 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Edinburgh before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Calton Hill. This locally appreciated park is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Edinburgh.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Fishers In The City, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Amber Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu.
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!
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