One-Week Relaxed Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Aberdeen, 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 Aberdeen, and meet locals along the way!

David Welch Winter Gardens is must-visit botanical garden and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Duthie Park, an increasingly popular park, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a photogenic maritime museum, also available for your discovery today.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Foodstory, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ninety-Nine offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Miller & Carter Aberdeen. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Aberdeen.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Aberdeen. The bars in Aberdeen make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Glamis and drive in the direction of Dundee for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Edinburgh, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Glamis Castle leaves a lasting impression. This castle is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Aberdeen. Next, head to The Mcmanus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum, an underrated museum, known for its respected features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Slessor Gardens. This breathtaking park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Rrs Discovery Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Juniper Edinburgh, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Panda & Sons likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Scotland.

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!

Let Hmy Britannia set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect historic ship before continuing your journey. Royal Mile is your next stop. This locally renowned street 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 The Real Mary King's Close. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit St Giles' Cathedral and National Museum Of Scotland.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, 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 Novotel Edinburgh Centre, 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 Tigerlily, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Cafe Royal, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Ensign Ewart, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tonic likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without Holyrood Park. This interesting park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Holyrood Palace, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Edinburgh, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This captivating botanical garden is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Dean Village, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Edinburgh Zoo is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Scotland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Aberdeen. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Aberdeen 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!

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

Dine in style at Angels with Bagpipes, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Rabble Taphouse and Grill boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Black Ivy. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Scotland.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Hoot The Redeemer, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Albanach provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Thistle Street Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Scotland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Scotland, you’ll go deep into Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh, and meet locals along the way!

Edinburgh is brimming with adventures.

Your adventure in Edinburgh is only getting started when you visit Edinburgh Castle, an impressive local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This worthwhile distillery is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Edinburgh's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Camera Obscura. This breathtaking museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Scottish National Gallery is also worth visiting, along with Scott Monument. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

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

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

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Scotland.

Day 7 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 Dunfermline and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Crosshill and Glenrothes. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Pittencrieff Park has to offer. This is an often recommended park you should not miss. Another must-see is Dunfermline Abbey, an up-and-coming church in Edinburgh.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Lochore Meadows. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Lomond Hills Regional Park, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Falkland Palace & Garden, a history-steeped place of interest in the city.

In Aberdeen, 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 Aberdeen, 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 The City Bar and Diner, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Maggie's Grill is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Malmaison Aberdeen. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aberdeen tonight.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Prince Of Wales, a top-rated bar in the area.

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