5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen traveling south to Glasgow and Edinburgh

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Scotland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Scotland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Aberdeen, 1 night in Glasgow, and 1 night in Edinburgh. 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 Aberdeen, 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 The Kelpies, learn more about the unique Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum.

As you hit the open road and drive through Aberdeen, Glasgow, Larbert, Skinflats, and Edinburgh, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Queens Links Leisure Park
Aberdeen Maritime MuseumSeaton ParkHazlehead ParkJohnston GardensDuthie Park
George SquareKelvingrove Art Gallery and MuseumRiverside MuseumFalkirk WheelThe Kelpies
The Royal MileNational Museum of ScotlandEdinburgh CastleHolyrood PalaceRoyal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Donmouth Local Nature Reserve

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Aberdeen - Arrival day
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  • Queens Links Leisure Park
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Welcome to Aberdeen, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Scotland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Aberdeen's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Aberdeen 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 Queens Links Leisure Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Aberdeen. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Aberdeen, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Mi Amore beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Tippling House. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aberdeen tonight.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Scotland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Aberdeen
  • Glasgow
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Drive 250 km, 3 hours 21 min

  • Aberdeen Maritime Museum
  • Seaton Park
  • Hazlehead Park
  • Johnston Gardens
  • Duthie Park
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On day 2 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 Aberdeen. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Aberdeen includes a maritime museum and a park. Aberdeen Maritime Museum is must-visit maritime museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Seaton Park, a locally appreciated park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Hazlehead Park, a noteworthy park, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Aberdeen. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the frequently visited Johnston Gardens. If you’re looking for more, Duthie Park is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

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 the enjoyment post-dinner at The Gallery Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Steps Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bar 91. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Glasgow
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 97 km, 2 hours 20 min

  • George Square
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Riverside Museum
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • The Kelpies
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Glasgow, Larbert, and Skinflats. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Whether you decide to explore Glasgow on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. George Square is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this awe-inspiring public square before continuing your journey. Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum is your next stop. This popular museum is one of the best-rated sights in Glasgow.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Riverside Museum. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Edinburgh by reserving a table at Heron. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Condita, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Kitchin, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Juniper Edinburgh offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. Panda & Sons is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Edinburgh
  • Aberdeen
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Drive 210 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • The Royal Mile
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Aberdeen, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Edinburgh. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a street, a museum, a castle, a palace, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at Royal Mile. This is a notable street you should not miss. Another must-see is National Museum Of Scotland, a locally renowned museum in Edinburgh.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Edinburgh Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Holyrood Palace, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a romantic place of interest in the city.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Aberdeen. 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 dining experience at Foodstory, a popular restaurant in Aberdeen. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Aberdeen at Ninety-Nine, 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 Miller & Carter Aberdeen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Aberdeen tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at St. Machar Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Old Blackfriars provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Krakatoa offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Aberdeen - Departure day
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  • Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
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Day 5 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Aberdeen 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, we recommend visiting Donmouth Local Nature Reserve, a majestic nature reserve before you head out.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Aberdeen’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Aberdeen Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The City Bar and Diner, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Maggie's Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Aberdeen. 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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