Relaxed 11-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Aberdeen and Dundee

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Start your day at Arthur's Seat. This eye-catching hiking area is an underrated place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to Holyrood Park. If standout sites excite you, this park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Holyrood Palace. This respected palace is a favorite among visitors.

Edinburgh offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Dean Village is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the historical landmark, don’t forget to check out the breathtaking Edinburgh Zoo. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this well-known zoo.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Heron in Edinburgh by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Heron offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Condita, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at The Kitchin, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Edinburgh’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Scotland.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Edinburgh!

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Edinburgh is brimming with adventures.

Let Edinburgh Castle set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this standout castle before continuing your journey. Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is your next stop. This up-and-coming distillery is one of the best-rated sights in Edinburgh.

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 Camera Obscura. This awe-inspiring museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Scottish National Gallery and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Edinburgh. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Edinburgh that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Scotland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Edinburgh to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Continue your lively evening at Hoot The Redeemer, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Albanach is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Thistle Street Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Scotland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Scotland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Scotland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Edinburgh. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Edinburgh. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Edinburgh!

Whatever your travel style is, Royal Mile is an essential stop in Edinburgh. This popular street provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover The Edinburgh Dungeon, a respected haunted house, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to The Real Mary King's Close, a well-known museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the up-and-coming St Giles' Cathedral. Round off your day at National Museum Of Scotland, another gem in Edinburgh with heritage-rich features to discover.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Scotland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Edinburgh and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Waverley Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Royal Oak is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Oxford Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Edinburgh and visit amazing attractions in Melrose and Jedburgh, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Edinburgh, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy all that Melrose Abbey has to offer. This is an up-and-coming monastery you should not miss. Another must-see is Queen Mary's House, a frequently visited visitor center in Edinburgh.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Jedburgh Abbey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Edinburgh and your accommodation.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Fishers In The City, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Amber Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Ondine Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Alchemist Edinburgh after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Regent Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Bow Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Day 6 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Scotland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Dunfermline. By evening, drive toward the Aberdeen, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

Pittencrieff Park is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Lochore Meadows, which may be one of the most picturesque places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Edinburgh 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 Falkland Palace & Garden, an up-and-coming palace in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St Andrews Castle and Old Course Hotel.

You'll be staying in Aberdeen on this laid-back road trip through Scotland. You'll stay here for 2 nights.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Scotland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Aberdeen.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a highly-rated dining destination in Aberdeen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mi Amore, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Tippling House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Aberdeen this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Aberdeen and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Continue your lively evening at Slains Castle, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Northern Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Grill ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Aberdeen!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Aberdeen, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Union Street is a fantastic place you can explore today in Aberdeen. This street 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 Aberdeen-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Make a stop at Duthie Park. This beloved park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Aberdeen Maritime Museum located in Aberdeen for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Queens Links Leisure Park. After the amusement center, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Seaton Park. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this park.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Scotland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Aberdeen offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Aberdeen has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Savor the flavors at Foodstory, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ninety-Nine beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Miller & Carter Aberdeen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aberdeen tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Aberdeen.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at St. Machar Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Old Blackfriars. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Krakatoa, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Scotland offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Stonehaven and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in St Cyrus and Dundee. You’ll stay in Dundee for 2 nights.

Catch Stonehaven Harbour before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching marina is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Stonehaven War Memorial, a must-visit war memorial in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Dunnottar Castle, a popular castle. For a change of scene, check out St Cyrus National Nature Reserve - Viewpoint, known for its romantic features.

In Dundee, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Scotland.

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 Dundee, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Daisy Tasker, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Premier Inn Dundee North hotel is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Fort. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dundee tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dundee and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The King Of Islington, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Bank Bar Dundee is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Salty Dog also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 9 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Dundee, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dundee, and meet locals along the way!

Whether you decide to explore Dundee on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Check out the often recommended historical landmark, Dundee Law. Afterward, continue to Verdant Works, a museum every traveler should visit. As you explore Dundee’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Dundee Contemporary Arts. This underrated art gallery is an essential stop. Following that, head to Rrs Discovery, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Slessor Gardens, an intriguing park in the city.

Scotland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Scotland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters, a top-rated dining destination in Dundee. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Porters Bar & Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Dundee East hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dundee this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Trades House, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Speedwell Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Draffens likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 10 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Scotland, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Make a stop at The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum. This beloved museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Baxter Park located in Dundee for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Pentland Hills Regional Park. Its eye-catching features will captivate you.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Edinburgh. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Monteiths, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cafe Andaluz. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Edinburgh. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Scotland!