5-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling west to Glasgow

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Description

Explore the best of Scotland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Edinburgh, Larbert, Skinflats, Glasgow, and Stirling. 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 Edinburgh and 1 night in Glasgow. 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 The Kelpies, learn more about the unique Stirling Castle, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Larbert, Skinflats, Glasgow, and Stirling, 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
The Royal Mile
HMY BritanniaRoyal Botanic Garden EdinburghNational Museum of ScotlandHolyrood PalaceHolyrood Park
Camera ObscuraScottish National GalleryEdinburgh CastleFalkirk WheelThe Kelpies
George SquareRiverside MuseumKelvingrove Art Gallery and MuseumKelvingrove ParkStirling Castle
Dean Village

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
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  • The Royal Mile
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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 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.

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 Royal Mile or 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 Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Dine in style at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Theatre Royal Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

Continue your lively evening at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Juniper Edinburgh is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Panda & Sons ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 28 min

  • HMY Britannia
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Holyrood Park
  • More

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Edinburgh is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a historic ship, a botanical garden, a museum, a palace, a park and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Hmy Britannia. Just a short distance away is Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a romantic botanical garden that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to National Museum Of Scotland, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Holyrood Palace. Last up on today’s itinerary is a park. Make your way to Holyrood Park for some final sightseeing. Each attraction will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Edinburgh.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Edinburgh's bustling shopping hub, George Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, George Street offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Heron in Edinburgh by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Heron delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Condita, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at The Kitchin, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 1-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Royal, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Ensign Ewart, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tonic provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Edinburgh
  • Larbert
  • Skinflats
  • Glasgow
  • More

Drive 104 km, 2 hours 15 min

  • Camera Obscura
  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • The Kelpies
  • More

On day 3 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 Edinburgh, Larbert, and Skinflats. In the evening, you’ll end up in Glasgow, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting Camera Obscura, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Scottish National Gallery, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned art gallery renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Edinburgh by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Edinburgh Castle. This historic castle is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Edinburgh and set your GPS to Larbert. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 50 min. Upon reaching Larbert, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Falkirk Wheel and explore the breathtaking features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Skinflats, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Larbert to Skinflats may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Skinflats, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering The Kelpies, a notable art installation known for its noteworthy features.

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.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Glasgow by booking a table at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional mediterranean menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Cail Bruich, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a local gem known for its delightful modern british cuisine in Glasgow. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Gallery Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Steps Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bar 91 is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Head back to your accommodation in Glasgow and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Scotland!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Glasgow
  • Stirling
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 121 km, 2 hours 22 min

  • George Square
  • Riverside Museum
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Stirling Castle
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Scotland. Today you will explore Glasgow and Stirling, 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.

Glasgow is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a public square, a museum, and a park. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular George Square. Just a short distance away is Riverside Museum, a historic museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, one of the city’s most notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating Kelvingrove Park.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stirling. This car ride takes around 38 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Stirling Castle, an interesting castle that draws visitors from near and far.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Edinburgh. Edinburgh offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Black Ivy. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Hoot The Redeemer is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Albanach, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Thistle Street Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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 5

Day 5

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
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  • Dean Village
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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 Edinburgh before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Edinburgh's best shopping area, Grassmarket. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Edinburgh. Begin your sightseeing with Dean Village. This well-known historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Newsroom Bar & Eatery offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel.

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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