9-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Inverness to Fort Augustus, Portree, and Fort William
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-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 3 nights in Inverness, 1 night in Fort Augustus, 2 nights in Portree, and 2 nights in Fort William. 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 Inverness, 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. Urquhart Castle and Glenfinnan Viaduct are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dunvegan Castle, learn more about the unique Fairy Pools, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Loch Ness.
As you hit the open road and drive through Inverness, Lewiston, Fort Augustus, Portree, Dunvegan, Glenfinnan, Fort William, Banavie, Glencoe, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, and North Kessock, 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!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Inverness - Arrival day
- More
- Bellfield Park
- More
Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Inverness and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Inverness for 2 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.
Inverness 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 Bellfield 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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Inverness. 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 Inverness, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Simpsons, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kingsmills Hotel offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Inverness.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Gunsmiths Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Malt Room. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Maccallums Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Inverness
- More
Drive 25 km, 1 hour 1 min
- Eden Court Inverness
- Inverness Cathedral, dedicated to St Andrew
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
- Clava cairns
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Inverness. You’ll stay in Inverness for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Inverness, including a performing arts theater, a church, a museum, an archeological site and much more! Start your adventure at Eden Court Inverness. This increasingly popular performing arts theater is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Inverness Cathedral, Dedicated To St Andrew located in Inverness for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Inverness Museum And Art Gallery. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Clava Cairns. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this archeological site.
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 Inverness Victorian Market in Inverness for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home, including artisan crafts. After shopping, explore what Inverness Victorian Market has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Inverness. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Dine in style at MacGregor's, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The White House boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Kitchen Brasserie. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Hootananny, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Gellions Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Innes Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 3
- Inverness
- Fort Augustus
- More
Drive 103 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Urquhart Castle
- Loch Ness
- The Clansman Centre
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Lewiston, Inverness, and Fort Augustus. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Fort Augustus. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the locally renowned Urquhart Castle, a visually striking castle in Inverness. Next, go to Loch Ness.
After visiting Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness, have a stroll along Inverness's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to The Clansman Centre. This historic museum offers a unique experience.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Fort Augustus. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the village.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Fort Augustus's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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
- Fort Augustus
- Portree
- More
Drive 249 km, 4 hours 20 min
- 슬리가찬 오래된 다리
- Fairy Pools
- Isle of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre
- Talisker Bay Beach
- More
On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Sligachan, Inverness, and Portree. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Portree, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Fort Augustus, including a historical landmark, a waterfall, a visitor center, a beach and much more! Start your day at 슬리가찬 오래된 다리. This romantic historical landmark is a beloved place to see in Fort Augustus. Then, wander over to Fairy Pools. If romantic sites excite you, this waterfall will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Isle Of Skye Candle Co. Visitor Centre.
Fort Augustus offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Talisker Bay Beach is an intriguing spot in the hamlet that will captivate you with its unique charm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Portree. Portree 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 Portree. 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 recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!
Day 5
- Portree
- More
Drive 181 km, 3 hours 57 min
- Neist Point Lighthouse
- Dunvegan Castle
- The Quiraing
- Skye Museum of Island Life
- More
On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Portree, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Inverness, Dunvegan, and Hungladder. You still have 1 night left in Portree.
Today's adventure in Portree promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Neist Point Lighthouse. This history-steeped lighthouse is a highlight of any visit in the region. Then, enjoy Dunvegan Castle, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to The Quiraing, one of the region’s most underrated attractions, known for its peaceful features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Skye Museum Of Island Life. This awe-inspiring museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Portree.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Portree's best restaurants.
Head back to your accommodation in Portree and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 6
- Portree
- Fort William
- More
Drive 234 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Glenfinnan Viewpoint
- Glenfinnan Viaduct
- West Highland Museum
- Neptune's Staircase
- More
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 Glenfinnan, Fort William, and Banavie. In the evening, you’ll end up in Fort William, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Portree, including an observation deck, a heritage railway, a museum, a historical landmark and much more! Start your day with a visit to Glenfinnan Viewpoint. This frequently visited observation deck is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Glenfinnan Viaduct, which may be one of the most gorgeous places you will experience today.
One of the best things about exploring Portree 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 West Highland Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Neptune's Staircase.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Fort William, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Fort William, 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.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 7
- Fort William
- More
Drive 52 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Glencoe Lochan Trail
- Glencoe War Memorial
- Glencoe Folk Museum
- Crafts & Things
- More
On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Fort William, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Fort William, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Glencoe Lochan Trail, a frequently visited hiking area in the village. Then, head to Glencoe War Memorial and soak in the ambiance of this picture-perfect war memorial.
There are many interesting places to see in Fort William, and when you are ready for more, go to Glencoe Folk Museum. This is one of the village’s most intriguing instagrammable spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the up-and-coming Crafts & Things.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Fort William and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Fort William. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Fort William
- Inverness
- More
Drive 256 km, 3 hours 24 min
- Blair Castle
- Faskally Forest
- The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
- More
Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Blair Atholl and Pitlochry, 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 Inverness. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Fort William covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a hiking area, and an art installation. Start your adventure at Blair Castle, Hercules Garden, Statue Of Hercules. This often recommended castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing wonders of Faskally Forest, a must-see hiking area in the village.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry. This worthwhile art installation offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Inverness. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Inverness's best restaurants.
Don’t miss out on dining at Cafe V8, a top-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Scotch & Rye, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Johnny Foxes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Market Bar, a prime location for a drink.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Scotland!
Day 9
- Inverness - Departure day
- More
- Dolphin Spirit Inverness
- More
Day 9 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Inverness 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 Dolphin Spirit Inverness. This increasingly popular sightseeing destination is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Inverness’s shopping center, the lively Inverness Victorian Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Inverness.
You’ll then say farewell to Inverness. 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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.