One-Week Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Glasgow to Stirling, Edinburgh, and Inverness
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Description
Explore the best of Scotland on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Glasgow, Larbert, Cambuskenneth, Skinflats, Edinburgh, Inverness, Foyers, Lewiston, Glencoe, and Luss. 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 3 nights in Glasgow, 1 night in Stirling, 2 nights in Edinburgh, and 1 night in Inverness. 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 Glasgow, 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 Stirling Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Urquhart Castle.
As you hit the open road and drive through Glasgow, Larbert, Cambuskenneth, Skinflats, Edinburgh, Inverness, Foyers, Lewiston, Glencoe, and Luss, 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
- Glasgow - Arrival day
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- George Square
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Your road trip adventure in Scotland begins as soon as you reach Glasgow and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Glasgow 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.
Glasgow 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 George Square, 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 Glasgow. 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 Glasgow, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Piper Whisky Bar, a popular restaurant in Glasgow. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Glasgow at The National Piping 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 Pasha Glasgow. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Glasgow tonight.
Keep the evening going at The Gallery Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Steps Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar 91, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Scotland!
Day 2
- Glasgow
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Drive 17 km, 1 hour 7 min
- Glasgow Cathedral
- Riverside Museum
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Kelvingrove Park
- Buchanan Street
- Merchant City
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Glasgow has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Glasgow by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Set aside time today to explore Buchanan Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Merchant City, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.
Today's adventure in Glasgow promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Glasgow Cathedral. This respected church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Riverside Museum, another gorgeous attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its gorgeous features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Kelvingrove Park. This idyllic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Glasgow. 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.
Savor the flavors at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Novotel Glasgow Centre beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Glasgow tonight.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!
Day 3
- Glasgow
- Stirling
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Drive 106 km, 2 hours 14 min
- The Devil's Pulpit
- Stirling Castle
- Falkirk Wheel
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Scotland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Stirling and Larbert. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Stirling, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Glasgow, featuring fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at The Devil's Pulpit, an intriguing park in the region. Then, head to Stirling Castle and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Glasgow, and when you are ready for more, go to Falkirk Wheel. This is one of the region’s most notable noteworthy spots of interest.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Stirling, 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 Stirling. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Stirling. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hermanns, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Stirling this evening.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Curly Coo Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Settle Inn, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, No 2 Baker Street provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Scotland.
Day 4
- Stirling
- Edinburgh
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Drive 77 km, 1 hour 42 min
- The National Wallace Monument
- The Kelpies
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- The Royal Mile
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Cambuskenneth, Skinflats, and Edinburgh. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Edinburgh. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Stirling, including a monument, an art installation, a botanical garden, a street and much more! Start your day at Wallace Monument. This breathtaking monument is a well-known place to see in Stirling. Then, wander over to The Kelpies. If symbolic sites excite you, this art installation will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a favorite among visitors.
Stirling offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Royal Mile is a notable spot in the village 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 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Theatre Royal Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.
If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Nightcap - Cocktail Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Juniper Edinburgh is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Panda & Sons is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Scotland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Edinburgh
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 36 min
- National Monument of Scotland
- Edinburgh Castle
- National Museum of Scotland
- Holyrood Palace
- Arthur's Seat
- Leith
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Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Leith is a fantastic place you can explore today in Edinburgh. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Edinburgh-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Today’s itinerary in Edinburgh covers several incredible sights, including a monument, a castle, a museum, a palace, a hiking area and much more! Start your adventure at National Monument Of Scotland. This underrated monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Edinburgh Castle, a must-see castle in the city.
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 National Museum Of Scotland. This notable museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Holyrood Palace, where you can take in historic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Arthur's Seat. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Edinburgh's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tigerlily is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.
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.
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 6
- Edinburgh
- Inverness
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Drive 324 km, 4 hours 38 min
- Clava cairns
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
- Loch Ness
- Falls of Foyers
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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 Inverness, the Scottish Highlands, and Foyers. In the evening, you’ll end up in Inverness, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s agenda in Edinburgh includes an archeological site, a museum, a lake, a waterfall and much more! Clava Cairns is must-visit archeological site and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Inverness Museum And Art Gallery, a beloved museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Loch Ness, a romantic lake, also available for your discovery today.
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.
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.
Dine in style at Simpsons, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kingsmills Hotel boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Inverness.
Round off your dining experience by visiting The Gunsmiths Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Malt Room, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Maccallums Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Say good night to Inverness and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Scotland!
Day 7
- Inverness
- Glasgow
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Drive 284 km, 4 hours 30 min
- Urquhart Castle
- Glencoe War Memorial
- Loch Lomond
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On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Lewiston, Glencoe, and Luss. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Inverness. Begin your sightseeing with Urquhart Castle. This captivating castle is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Glencoe War Memorial, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Inverness, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Loch Lomond. This increasingly popular lake is a traveler-favorite.
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.
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.
Savor the flavors at Alston Bar & Beef, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Elia Greek Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Glasgow tonight.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!
Day 8
- Glasgow - Departure day
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- Glasgow Botanic Gardens
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Day 8 of your road trip in Scotland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Glasgow 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 Glasgow Botanic Gardens. This notable botanical garden is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Scotland and go on a shopping spree in Glasgow’s shopping center, the lively Merchant City. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Scotland. Discover boutiques with stylish fashion choices to upgrade your wardrobe.
Before you conclude your road trip in Scotland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Glasgow.
Dine in style at The Willow Tea Rooms, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Òran Mór boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Glasgow. 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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