7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen

1 / 73
Old town chambers Edinburgh, Scotland
Photo of the scenic Dean Village in a sunny afternoon, in Edinburgh, Scotland.
7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen
7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen
7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen
7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen
7-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Edinburgh traveling north to Glasgow, Inverness, and Aberdeen
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of Scotland on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Inverness, Lewiston, Aberdeen, Blackness, Larbert, and Skinflats.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Scotland. You will spend 2 nights in Edinburgh, 2 nights in Glasgow, 1 night in Inverness, and 1 night in Aberdeen. 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 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.

As you hit the open road and drive through Edinburgh, Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Inverness, Lewiston, Aberdeen, Blackness, Larbert, and Skinflats, 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, accommodations, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Edinburgh

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
  • More
  • The Royal Mile
  • More

Say hello to Edinburgh! Your exciting road trip through Scotland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Edinburgh for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Theatre Royal Bar. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Juniper Edinburgh is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Panda & Sons also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Scotland!

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Edinburgh
  • Glasgow
  • More

Drive 91 km, 2 hours 1 min

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

Your itinerary for day 2 of your road trip in Scotland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Edinburgh. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Glasgow, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh makes a great addition to your morning plans. This well-known botanical garden is a romantic place to see in Edinburgh. Continue your discovery at Holyrood Park, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Edinburgh, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Holyrood Palace. This locally renowned palace offers a historic encounter with Edinburgh. Next, make your way to National Museum Of Scotland to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Edinburgh Castle, a spectacular castle that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Edinburgh.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Glasgow. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Glasgow's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Start your culinary exploration in Glasgow by securing a reservation at Ox and Finch. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of mediterranean cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Cail Bruich, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Unalome by Graeme Cheevers, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern british menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Scotland.

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Glasgow
  • More

Drive 33 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Glasgow Botanic Gardens
  • Kelvingrove Park
  • Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
  • Riverside Museum
  • Pollok Country Park
  • More

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Glasgow has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Glasgow.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens leaves a lasting impression. This botanical garden is one of the most captivating places to visit in Glasgow. Next, head to Kelvingrove Park, an interesting park, known for its noteworthy 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 Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This stunning museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Riverside Museum and Pollok Country Park Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Scotland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Glasgow is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Glasgow.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, 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 Novotel Glasgow 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 Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Glasgow tonight.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Scotland!

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Glasgow
  • Cambuskenneth
  • Stirling
  • Inverness
  • More

Drive 299 km, 4 hours

  • George Square
  • Glasgow Green
  • The National Wallace Monument
  • Stirling Castle
  • Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park
  • More

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, including Glasgow, Cambuskenneth, and Stirling. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Inverness, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Experience George Square, a locally renowned public square in the city. Then, head to Glasgow Green and soak in the ambiance of this standout park.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Cambuskenneth, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Glasgow to Cambuskenneth may take around 41 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cambuskenneth, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Cambuskenneth is Wallace Monument, a notable monument that draws attention for its culturally significant features.

After soaking in Cambuskenneth’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Stirling. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 11 min. When you arrive in Stirling, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Stirling Castle, an interesting castle in Stirling. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park. This frequently visited safari park is a top recommendation in the area.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Inverness, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Inverness is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Inverness.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Simpsons, a highly-rated dining destination in Inverness. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kingsmills Hotel, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Inverness this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Gunsmiths Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Malt Room, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Maccallums Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Scotland!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Inverness
  • Lewiston
  • Aberdeen
  • More

Drive 321 km, 5 hours 4 min

  • Urquhart Castle
  • Clava cairns
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Scotland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Lewiston, Inverness, and Glenmore. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Aberdeen, where will spend 1 night.

No visit to Inverness is complete without Clava Cairns. This beloved archeological site is one of the top attractions in the village.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lewiston.

Spend your afternoon discovering Urquhart Castle, a well-known castle known for its romantic features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Aberdeen. Aberdeen offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Aberdeen's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Fierce Bar Aberdeen, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mi Amore is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Tippling House. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Aberdeen tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Slains Castle. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Northern Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Grill provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Scotland!

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Aberdeen
  • Blackness
  • Larbert
  • Edinburgh
  • More

Drive 277 km, 4 hours 2 min

  • Duthie Park
  • Blackness Castle
  • Falkirk Wheel
  • More

On day 6 of your road trip in Scotland, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Aberdeen, Blackness, Larbert, and Skinflats are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Duthie Park. This instagrammable park will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Aberdeen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blackness. Your travel time is around 2 hours 14 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Blackness Castle, an often recommended castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Larbert’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Blackness behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Larbert welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Falkirk Wheel is a well-known monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Edinburgh. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Edinburgh by securing a table at Heron. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Condita, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Kitchin, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Scotland!

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
  • More
  • Dean Village
  • More

Day 7 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Dean Village. This notable historical landmark is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Edinburgh’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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!

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the United Kingdom

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.