Relaxed 13-Day Scotland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Aberdeen to Edinburgh and Glasgow

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!

Aberdeen is brimming with adventures.

Hazlehead Park makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally appreciated park is a picturesque place to see in Aberdeen. Continue your discovery at David Welch Winter Gardens, an eye-catching botanical garden with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Aberdeen, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Duthie Park. This often recommended park offers a mesmerizing encounter with Aberdeen. Next, make your way to Aberdeen Maritime Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Seaton Park, an often recommended park 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 Aberdeen.

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.

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.

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.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, St. Machar Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Old Blackfriars offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Krakatoa is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Aberdeen can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Scotland!

Day 3 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 St Andrews and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Falkland and Crosshill. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 4 nights.

Falkland’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of St Andrews behind. This drive usually takes around 34 min. Falkland welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit St Andrews Castle, an up-and-coming 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. Next, head to Old Course Hotel and admire its gorgeous features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Falkland. This car ride takes around 34 min.

Savor the day by heading to Falkland Palace & Garden, an underrated palace that draws visitors from near and far.

Crosshill’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Falkland behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. Crosshill welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lochore Meadows, an often recommended park known for its visually striking features.

You'll be staying in Edinburgh on this laid-back road trip through Scotland. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Edinburgh by reserving a table at Heron. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Condita, recognized for its delicious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit The Kitchin, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 1 Michelin star is an ideal choice for modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Juniper Edinburgh offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. Panda & Sons is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Edinburgh, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Awaiting your discovery is the captivating Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a romantic botanical garden in Edinburgh. Next, go to Scottish National Gallery.

After visiting Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and Scottish National Gallery, have a stroll along Edinburgh's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Camera Obscura. This stunning museum offers a unique experience. Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Edinburgh.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Tigerlily is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh.

Keep the evening going at Cafe Royal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Ensign Ewart, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tonic, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Scotland!

Day 5 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!

One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is National Museum Of Scotland. This photogenic museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to St Giles' Cathedral and learn what makes this stunning church unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known The Real Mary King's Close. After exploring the museum, head to The Edinburgh Dungeon. This underrated haunted house is a highlight in Edinburgh. As your day continues, stop by Royal Mile, known for its romantic features.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Black Ivy. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

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 Edinburgh. The bars in Edinburgh make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across 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!

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without Hmy Britannia. This worthwhile historic ship 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 Holyrood Park. This well-known park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Arthur's Seat, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Royal Commonwealth Pool is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Waverley Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Royal Oak offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Edinburgh. The Oxford Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 7 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.

Catch Calton Hill before the crowds roll in. This majestic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Dean Village, a must-visit historical landmark in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Edinburgh Zoo, a captivating zoo.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Edinburgh, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Larbert. This drive usually takes around 39 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Falkirk Wheel, a locally renowned monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Larbert’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Skinflats. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in Skinflats, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in Skinflats is The Kelpies, a well-known art installation that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Scotland as you make your way to Glasgow. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Ox and Finch, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible mediterranean menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cail Bruich is one of the best restaurants for modern cuisine in Glasgow. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Unalome by Graeme Cheevers. As a top-rated establishment with 1 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern british cuisine in the city.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Gallery Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Steps Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bar 91 also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Scotland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Glasgow and visit amazing attractions in Balloch and Glasgow, just outside the city. You still have 4 nights left in Glasgow, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Experience Glasgow Science Centre, an up-and-coming science center in the town. Then, head to George Square and soak in the ambiance of this historic public square.

There are many interesting places to see in Glasgow, and when you are ready for more, go to Glasgow Cathedral. This is one of the town’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the notable Glasgow Green.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Glasgow.

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 Glasgow.

Dine in style at Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Novotel Glasgow Centre boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Glaschu Restaurant & Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Glasgow.

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.

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

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Glasgow, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Scotland are extraordinary.

Experience Glasgow Botanic Gardens, a captivating botanical garden in the city. Then, head to Kelvingrove Park and soak in the ambiance of this romantic park.

There are many interesting places to see in Glasgow, and when you are ready for more, go to Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum. This is one of the city’s most popular picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the interesting Riverside Museum. Not far away, you'll also find Pollok Country Park. This park is a mesmerizing highlight in Glasgow.

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 Glasgow 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Alston Bar & Beef, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Glasgow? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Elia Greek Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Glasgow.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Glasgow as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Scotland!

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Scotland, you’ll explore the area around Glasgow, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Glasgow will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Scotland.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Motherwell may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Motherwell, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Summerlee Museum Of Scottish Industrial Life is a locally appreciated museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its photogenic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Set your GPS to Motherwell and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Motherwell beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Strathclyde Country Park and explore the gorgeous features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Motherwell and set your GPS to New Lanark. 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 33 min. Upon reaching New Lanark, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering New Lanark, a curiosity-inducing museum known for its breathtaking features.

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

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 Glasgow, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Willow Tea Rooms, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Òran Mór offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Stereo is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Glasgow.

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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Scotland!

Your relaxed road trip in Scotland continues on day 11 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Scotland better by exploring the top attractions of Glasgow and beyond. With 1 night left in Glasgow, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Stirling. This car ride takes around 11 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Wallace Monument, a well-known monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Cambuskenneth, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Stirling. Your travel time is around 11 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Stirling Castle. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Blair Drummond Safari And Adventure Park. This frequently visited safari park is a traveler-favorite in the village.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Doune.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Doune Castle. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Glasgow.

Exploring the food culture in Glasgow 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Max's Bar & Grill, an iconic dining spot in Glasgow. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of ibis Glasgow City Centre - Sauchiehall St. , a popular restaurant in Glasgow. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre South hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Glasgow. 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 Glasgow.

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 12 of your self-drive tour in Scotland offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Little Dunkeld and end it in Aberdeen. You’ll stay in Aberdeen for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Scotland.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Stonehaven may take around 1 hour 29 min. Upon your arrival in Stonehaven, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Little Dunkeld is The Hermitage, a frequently visited hiking area that draws attention for its serene features.

Stonehaven’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Little Dunkeld behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 29 min. Stonehaven welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Dunnottar Castle is a well-known castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Stonehaven War Memorial, a breathtaking war memorial that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Stonehaven Harbour, an enchanting marina.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Catterline.

Rspb Scotland Fowlsheugh is an often recommended bird watching area we recommend visiting today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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 Aberdeen, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Savor the flavors at The City Bar and Diner, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Maggie's Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Malmaison Aberdeen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Aberdeen tonight.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Prince Of Wales, a prime location for a drink.

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