Relaxed 7-Day Scotland Road Trip Starting from Dundee to Edinburgh

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Scotland begins when you reach Dundee, where you’ll stay for a total of 2 nights.

Dundee is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Dundee Contemporary Arts. Around 1,269 visitors have rated this fascinating movie theater and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Dundee 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.

An excellent example is Gidi Grill Restaurant. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 614 customers.

Taza Restaurant serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Dundee has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,747 reviews.

The Bach is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 985 customers, The Bach is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Dundee looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Trades House, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 1,466 reviews.

Tickety Boo's offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Dundee. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 990 customers.

Locals like unwinding at Bird & Bear. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 898 customers and is a perfect place for socializing.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Scotland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland!

Day 2 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Scotland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Dundee. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Edinburgh, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 4 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum is waiting for you. This museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,551 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Camperdown Wildlife Centre. This unique zoo is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,015 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Baxter Park. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,306 visitors, this park is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding RRS Discovery. This popular barque and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,529 people.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Dundee has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Scotland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Edinburgh. In Edinburgh, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,804 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing The Edinburgh Larder.

Locals also recommend The Kitchin as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at The Kitchin as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,577 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Bramble Bar & Lounge. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 743 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh). Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh) is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,814 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Panda & Sons. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,617 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to The Dome. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. The Dome is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,433 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Scotland!

Day 3 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip through Scotland serves as your introduction to Edinburgh. This is your chance to experience the very best of the city and appreciate Scotland and its distinct culture and people.

Upon arriving in Edinburgh, you can check in at the accommodation of your choice for a quick break. This 4-star hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 4,950 former guests.

You’ll enjoy restful days and nights at the 5-star Bonham Hotel. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,834 guests, Bonham Hotel is the best luxury hotel option we recommend while in the city.

The 3-star Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End offers comfort at an affordable price, perfect for practical travelers. Hampton by Hilton Edinburgh West End is a top-rated budget hotel in Edinburgh with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars from 8,449 guests.

These recommendations are among the most popular places to stay in Edinburgh. If any of these options are not available during your stay in the city, we’ll provide you with the best alternatives. Our flexible booking system will automatically offer you a selection of accommodations that fit your budget and needs.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Edinburgh, allowing you to explore the city at a relaxed pace. For example, you can take in the unique atmosphere of the city from the outstanding HMY Britannia. This royal yacht and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in Edinburgh. The fascinating HMY Britannia has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 travelers.

Edinburgh is also home to the captivating Scottish National Gallery, a local art museum and another popular attraction in the city. About 13,079 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.6 out of 5 stars. Each year, up to 660,741 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel plans.

The extraordinary Camera Obscura is another unforgettable place you can visit on your easy and relaxed road trip across Scotland. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 travelers, Camera Obscura proves to be one of the top sights in the area.

You’ll enjoy the time you’ll spend at the incredible Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. A trip to this wonderful site will inspire you as it does to more than 238,542 travelers every year. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing museum and attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,926 reviews.

When you’re in the mood to experience something amazing, we recommend you visit the fantastic Edinburgh Castle. Every year, travelers gather around this fascinating castle and sightseeing spot to appreciate its unique features. Around 90,949 visitors have rated the famous Edinburgh Castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Edinburgh, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available on this day of your relaxed road trip across Scotland.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Scotland. After a day of appreciating the best places to visit in Edinburgh, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Ranking high on our list of the best restaurants in Edinburgh is Dishoom Edinburgh. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,852 customers, you really have to try the savory dishes of this excellent restaurant.

Locals love Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre for its delicious meals, and we recommend you visit the restaurant at least once during your stay in Edinburgh. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,950 customers.

Another alternative is Cafe Andaluz. This restaurant serves a variety of comforting food and drinks and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,019 customers.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh. At Whiski Bar & Restaurant, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,669 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your relaxed road trip at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 2,238 reviews.

The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh is also one of the best places in Edinburgh where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,314 customers.

Sleep comfortably and prepare for another day of your laid-back adventure in Scotland!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you'll explore the best attractions in Edinburgh at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Edinburgh, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous National Museum of Scotland. This incredible national museum has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Scotland by seeing another popular site in Edinburgh, the wonderful St Giles' Cathedral. This cathedral is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible The Real Mary King's Close. This best-rated sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Royal Mile. This best-rated sightseeing destination is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Calton Hill. This amazing site is a wonderful mountain with more than 4,517 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Edinburgh itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Scotland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Edinburgh. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, The Witchery by the Castle. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,766 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Howies Restaurant, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Howies Restaurant is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by 1,817 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Howies Restaurant. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,828 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Edinburgh and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Cafe Royal. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,216 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular The Bow Bar. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,813 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Tigerlily. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Tigerlily has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,369 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 5 of your comfortable self-drive tour across Scotland gives you another chance to explore the magnificent city of Edinburgh and visit more of its attractions.

Edinburgh has plenty of activities and sights, so you won’t be short of things to do during your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Scotland. Fortunately, your accommodation, where you’ll be staying for 1 night more is conveniently located near several of the city’s best attractions.

One of the best stops on your hassle-free journey is the popular Edinburgh Zoo, one of the top attractions in the city. In fact, the incredible Edinburgh Zoo has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 11,987 visitors.

You could also spend some time relaxing at the amazing Dean Village. This city feature got an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from its 13,727 guests.

Another place of interest in the city of Edinburgh is the notable Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The popular Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a highlight of many travel packages in Edinburgh. As a matter of fact, this remarkable botanical garden has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 20,765 travelers.

Aside from the above-mentioned attractions in Edinburgh, you also have the opportunity to stop by the marvelous Holyrood Palace. Take your time exploring this wonderful official residence and one of the city’s most notable places. This magnificent site has a rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 17,746 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to the outstanding Holyrood Park. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 12,119 travelers, a trip to the spectacular Holyrood Park is something to look forward to in Edinburgh.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Edinburgh by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in Edinburgh.

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 below and treat yourself to a nice meal.

After your meal, consider getting a drink at one of the top bars in Edinburgh, Albanach. This bar enjoys an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars given by 2,018 customers.

Another drinking place in the city we recommend you try out is The Ensign Ewart. Check out its selection of liquors, and learn why it has been rated 4.5 over 5 stars by 1,604 customers.

If you prefer another place to unwind, Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House may be a more excellent choice for you. This bar offers a variety of drinks you can choose from. Around 1,474 customers have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Toast to an amazing time in Edinburgh and end day 5 of your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Scotland on a great note!

On day 6 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit two remarkable areas in Scotland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Scotland.

As the day progresses, you’ll continue your in-depth tour of the country in the city of Larbert. You’ll spend 1 night in Dundee.

Take the opportunity to relax while admiring what the city has to offer. While on a relaxed road trip, one of the best places to explore in the city is the remarkable The Kelpies. This sculpture and popular sightseeing spot has an average rating of 4.7 over 5 stars from 27,904 visitors.

Joining a tour will allow you to better understand the local culture in Scotland, meet new people, and create memorable experiences, while you comfortably enjoy.

This is your opportunity to create more unforgettable memories in Scotland and discover the wonderful Larbert.

While in Larbert, take a break at one of its best attractions, the great Falkirk Wheel. This boat lift and popular site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,951 reviews.

This travel spotis a go-to place in Larbert.

As this day of your laid-back exploration of the best attractions in Scotland comes to a close, continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Dundee. Drive leisurely, enjoy the views, and listen to some good music. In Dundee, you’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in the city and restore your energy.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, take it easy and have a wonderful dinner at one of the best restaurants in Dundee. Check out Rancho Pancho, a top choice in Scotland due to its excellent meals and service.

Another Dundee restaurant to try is a local favorite, Tailend Dundee.

If you’re looking for another must-visit option, Empire State Coffee Artisan Roasters is a perfect choice. This popular restaurant in Dundee has a score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 571 people.

After dinner, many travelers enjoy hanging out and unwinding at some of the top bars in Dundee. The popular The Fort has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 779 customers and is the perfect place to fully appreciate your unhurried and relaxed road trip vacation in Scotland.

You could also relax with a drink at another popular bar like Don Michele Italian Restaurant. This hang-out has an average rating of 4.5 from 522 individuals.

If you want to visit another place, the locals of Dundee recommend Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa. Due to its local reputation, this bar boasts an average rating of 4.4 over 5 stars from 2,104 individuals.

Celebrate another day of your relaxing road trip through Scotland with a toast at a top-rated bar in Dundee!

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Dundee.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Dundee once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Scotland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Dundee Law is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Dundee. This top sight is a popular mountain, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,396 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dundee or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at Porters Bar & Restaurant. Dining at Porters Bar & Restaurant is one of the best food experiences you can have in Dundee. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 534 customers.

Another top recommendation in Dundee is Premier Inn Dundee Centre hotel. If you go to Premier Inn Dundee Centre hotel, you can expect delicious food, a nice ambiance, and great service. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,161 customers.

Alternatively, you could also go to a place like Mozza Dundee. If you haven’t yet, a trip to Mozza Dundee is your opportunity to have a lovely meal before leaving the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,016 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dundee and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in Scotland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.