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Scotland Road Trip: The ONLY itinerary you need (29 unmissable places)

Planning a Scotland road trip? Trying to figure out where to go and what to do during your visit? Here are the best Scotland itinerary ideas for variety of durations, including long weekends, 4-5 days, 7-10 days and 14+ days, although you can mix, match or extend as you wish!

Don’t forget to grab your free guide to the best places to see on a Scotland road trip below- to help you plan your perfect road trip.

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Scotland Road Trip- why visit?

Put simply- Scotland is just magical.

It’s one of those incredible places where you turn corner after corner and each is more breathtaking than the last! (Exactly the same as  Norway ) .

You can expect to say ‘wow’ a lot and stop frequently to take a million photos of the scenery. And the Highland cows. And sheep.

Did I mention the scenery?

The problem is there is SO MUCH to see.

Planning a Scotland road trip can be DAUNTING. Trying to squeeze a visit to a country into just a few days is tough, but it IS possible to plan a Scotland travel itinerary with the best places to visit, as well as some places off the ‘beaten track’.

In this post, we’ll show you the best scenic routes & driving roads in Scotland , lochs, castles, towns you definitely should visit, plus how to visit the Scottish Highlands .

Whether you’re touring Scotland by car on a self-drive holiday, motorhoming or campervanning in Scotland or exploring by motorbike (or any other vehicle!), our map of our Scotland road trip will help you plan your own adventure.

How to plan a Scotland Road Trip

So, how DO you narrow down all the ‘must-visit’ places into a reasonable itinerary, especially if you only have a few days for your Scottish road trip? 

Do you focus on visiting beautiful cities like Edinburgh, seeing the history of Scotland, like Culloden, visiting HARRY POTTER sites , hiking in the Highlands, driving the North Coast 500 ? Or a bit of everything??

In this blog post of Scotland Itinerary ideas , we’ve included a bit of everything to allow you to create your perfect Scottish Road Trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful country.  

The Wandering Bird Scotland Road Trip Planner

Feel overwhelmed? Wish someone could do all the hard work for you?

You’re in luck!

If you want to enjoy a Scotland road trip without the weeks of planning and struggling to figure out where to visit first, consider using our Scotland Road Trip Planner.

Planning a trip to Scotland?

We’ve done the hard work for you!

Grab our complete Scotland travel planner and get:

• 80+ ideas for places to visit
• Maps and itinerary suggestions
• Routes and things to see along the way
• Tips, customs and much much more!

Complied after years of experience touring and exploring Scotland, it contains all the best things to see and do, plus everything you need for incredible Scottish road trips for years to come.

It helps you compile a day-day plan for your trip, removing the stress whilst leaving you plenty of time to enjoy yourself, both before and during your trip!

Where should I go on a road trip in Scotland?

As you’ll see below, there are many (many!) beautiful places to visit in Scotland.

Your exact itinerary will be created from the things you enjoy. We plan our UK road trip itineraries like this and it’s not let us down yet!

For us, we prefer to stay away from big cities when we’re travelling in our motorhome and instead focus on areas like national parks, nature reserves, mountains, waterfalls… you get the idea.

‘Scenic Scotland’ does not disappoint- we’ve seen some of the most breathtaking places on our trips to Scotland, which I share with you in this itinerary.

Having said that, Edinburgh is an incredible city and well worth visiting if you can. So are several others. So don’t write off all towns and cities on your Scotland Road Trip itinerary just yet!

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What is the best road trip in Scotland?

The ‘best road trip in Scotland’ is going to be subjective based on what you enjoy and also what the weather is like!

Certainly, the most famous road trip in Scotland is now the NC500 (North Coast 500 route), which is 516 miles of pure magic around the north of Scotland.

I’ve driven the NC500 in my motorhome and it was fantastic- highly highly recommend it (although NOT in the school holidays as it gets very crowded.)

The NC500 also includes John o’Groats, which has to be one of the most famous points in Scotland. The 10 day Scotland road trip itinerary we’ve included below also includes this landmark.

However, there are several incredibly scenic roads in Scotland which we highly recommend you explore- some of them are perfect for just a few days, while some require a little more time to drive.

How long does it take to road trip Scotland?

Oh, that’s an open question! How long do you have?

Whether you have a weekend, 5 days, 7-10 days or longer, you can absolutely fill your time. I know people who’ve spent 3 months exploring the Scottish Highlands and STILL didn’t see everything they wanted to.

The Scotland road trip itinerary below took us 10 days, but there are some bits you can miss if you only have 7 days for your trip. See our alternative 7-10 day North Coast 500 itinerary here.

Likewise, if you have longer, you can either travel more scenic routes around Scotland (especially on the Highlands tourist route), see more incredible places,  do some more tours around Scotland, taste more whisky or just take your time and linger a while over your favourite places.

When I drove the North Coast 500, I took just under 14 days to do most of the loop. This was just the part in Scotland- it also took me a week to get up there!

TOP TIP for Scotland Road Trips: Be sure not to plan too much into your itinerary, as many of the roads are narrow and slower and you won’t be able to travel as far or as fast as you might expect.

How to travel around Scotland?

Scotland is very well connected to the rest of the UK; at least, the lowlands are. You can easily reach Glasgow and Edinburgh by road, train or air.

If you’re hiring a rental car or renting a motorhome , these are the two cities to aim for as there is so much choice.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

These might help:

• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
• Find the best deals for car rental

READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Of course, if you’re driving your own vehicle up via England, there are plenty of motorways near the border, so it’s easy to travel around.

Of course, you can use public transport or even a guided tour if you prefer not to drive yourself, but for the purposes of this blog post, we’ll assume you have your own vehicle.

When is the best time to visit Scotland?

If you want to road trip Scotland and would like to increased your chances of enjoying good weather, then the best time to go is either late Spring/ early Summer (May or June) or in early Autumn (September/ October).

This way, you avoid the high crowds AND the midges, which are mostly around in July and August.  

I did my NC500 tour in September/ October and the roads were fairly quiet, I had some fantastic weather (plus a couple of storms) and there were only a few patches with really bad midges. All in all, Autumn is usually a wonderful time for a Scottish adventure!

Want some more ideas for places to see in Autumn? Here are 27 of the best places to experience Autumn in Europe .

Scotland Road Trip Map and Itinerary

The map below shows our 10-day driving route for our tour of Scotland.

We travelled from the Isle of Skye to John o’Groats using the main driving roads (which are quicker), but otherwise, we tried to take scenic roads where possible (although that’s not always easy in a Motorhome!)

Because we only had 10 days, our itinerary missed out the beautiful west coast of Scotland. If you have extra time, I highly recommend doing this coastline (part of the NC500 route) as it contains some of the prettiest views in Scotland.

Our Scotland Itinerary is around 800 miles (1300km), with around 23 hours of actual driving over a 10 day trip.

The map starts on the west coast of Scotland, but, of course, you can do the drive in reverse if you prefer. 

Our Scotland Itinerary planner:

Scotland itinerary ideas- day one.

Start your Scotland tour in either Edinburgh or Glasgow. Of the two, I much prefer Edinburgh…

(That sound you hear is me being skinned alive… one of my best friends comes from Glasgow. Sorry hon xx) 

Edinburgh is the perfect city to dip in and out of. There’s always something going on.

If you’re looking for a relaxing long weekend in the UK, you could fly up to Edinburgh. Similarly, if you only have 3 or 4 days in Scotland, it’s a wonderful start to get a taste of the country.

Don’t miss visiting Edinburgh Castle, which has spectacular views over the rest of the city and Arthur’s Seat.

I also recommend a visit to George Street (grab a cocktail from the Dome) and enjoy the atmosphere, especially around Christamas.

Rose Street and Cockburn Street have wonderful independent boutiques where you can find great gifts (for others or yourself!)

Driving in Edinburgh

Before we go any further… DO NOT DRIVE YOUR MOTORHOME INTO THE MIDDLE OF EDINBURGH.

No. Really.

Let me repeat that so it sinks in.

DO NOT DRIVE YOUR MOTORHOME INTO THE MIDDLE OF EDINBURGH!!! 

We tried it. With a Motorbike trailer on the back.

It did not go well. There are NO Motorhome parking spaces near the City Centre. And the streets are narrow and not designed for lorries, let alone Motorhomes!

We stopped in Edinburgh for a few hours and, honestly, the only thing we did was see Edinburgh Castle- which is beautiful but left us wanting more. I was gutted as I’d already planned a self-guided Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh – yes, really. 

We’re already planning a trip back up sometime… just not with the motorhome!! But from what we saw, there are at least 3 days worth of activities in Edinburgh if you have the time.

If you enjoy food- you’re in for a real treat- Edinburgh has some FANTASTIC eating places. Here are 10 vegan-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh for everyone to enjoy.

Where to stay

There are plenty of places to stay in Edinburgh. If you’re in a motorhome, stay outside the city and get public transport in. I recommend the Edinburgh Caravan and Motorhome club site.

If you’re driving a car, book a hotel with parking, as it can be difficult to find in the city centre. The Sheraton Grand Hotel, which has rooms overlooking Edinburgh Castle, is a brilliant option if you want to treat yourself.

There is PLENTY of things to see and do in Glasgow and you can easily spend a couple of days enjoying the city before you set off on your driving holiday.

TOP TIP – If you’re not from the UK and you don’t really understand football (soccer!), don’t mention football in Glasgow.

The rivalry between Celtic and Rangers fans (both clubs are based in Glasgow) is HUGE and openly supporting the wrong one could end in tears- for you.  Different pubs support different teams and it frequently gets… heated!!

Scotland Road Trip DAY 2- LOCH LOMOND and the Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond National Park

Ok, now that you’ve enjoyed a couple of days in Glasgow or Edinburgh, let’s head up into the ‘real’ Scotland. Loch Lomond is one of my favourite spots,  and is definitely one of the must-visit places in Scotland.

Loch Lomond is actually part of the Trossachs National Park, which has 22 lochs! Loch Lomond is the biggest. You can kayak, paddleboard, canoe and even hire jet-skis in the summer. There are 30 islands on Loch Lomond alone to explore- plenty to keep you occupied if you want to stay for a few days.

The loch is absolutely breathtaking, especially if you’re lucky enough to see it on a sunny day.

Don’t believe me? See it for yourself:

WATCH VIDEO of us at Loch Lomond (and seeing the Harry Potter sites!)

Motorhome Tour Scotland - Wild Camping - Family tours Europe in a Motorhome

Wild camping in scotland.

Wild Camping is regulated within the Trossachs National Park, so be careful where you park up for the night if you’re in a camper. You need to have a permit between March and September and can only stay in approved areas.

Find out more about wild camping in Scotland here

Road Trip Scotland DAY 3- Oban and Fort William

If you have time while you’re touring Scotland, detour to Oban . I LOVE this town- it has the prettiest harbour and in Summer you can do a ferry tour out to some of the islands- well worth the trip on a calm day.

We stayed here in a log cabin a few years ago (before we got our motorhome) and the views were spectacular- especially at night.

I remember standing outside our log cabin and gazing up at the stars in absolute amazement- they were so bright and clear. Magical.

Another detour worth the effort is to Devil’s Pulpit – a hidden waterfall between the rocks. Full directions can be found here .

Fort William is known as ‘the gateway to Ben Nevis’ , which is the UK’s highest peak. It’s also close to Steall Falls – the second highest waterfall in Scotland at 120m and the waterfall in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, in case you’re wondering!! (Check out these other beautiful waterfalls in Europe)

Getting there is about a 2.5 miles walk and takes about 1.5-2 hours depending on how often you stop. It’s suitable for kids, as you can read here.

Scotland Itinerary DAY 4- Harry Potter Time!

Scotland is full of places used in the Harry Potter films. We visited a few of them, all on the way to Mallaig (where the ferry is for the Isle of Skye. In one day we saw:

Glenfinnan Viaduct

This is the viaduct made famous in the Harry Potter films. You can walk right up to the base of it.

You can also ride on the Jacobite Steam train, which is the one used for the film and which goes straight over the viaduct! The train goes from Fort William to Mallaig and does get booked up well in advance, so be sure to book early!

We got our favourite travel drone out and took some amazing shots of the viaduct and Loch Sheil, as you can see in the video above.

This is the loch used as Hogwarts Lake, along with Loch Morar. This is where Buckbeak dips a happy toe (claw?) in the waters in Prisoner of Azkaban.

We parked in the visitor centre on the shores of Loch Shiel, which also allowed a walk up the slope for incredible views of the viaduct, even in the rain!

Dumbledore’s Grave

Loch Eilt, along the same road as the viaduct and Loch Shiel, is where the little island of Eilean na Mòine lies, which played the starring role as the site of Dumbledore’s Grave.

We sent the drone up to get a picture of this beautiful island… but alas, Mr WB is NOT a die-hard Harry Potter fan (boo!) and therefore had no idea which island he was meant to be filming. Bless him, at least he tried!

It’s about an hour drive from the western end of Loch Ness to Mallaig, which is where the ferry to Skye goes from. You can also drive over the bridge to the Skye- but it’s much further north.

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary DAY 5 & 6- Isle of Skye

Search “Isle of Skye” on Google and you’ll get pages and pages of blog posts and itineraries, all waxing lyrical about the beauty of Skye. And they’re right- it is beautiful. And there is loads to see and do.

As long as it’s not raining!!

Our Isle of Skye itinerary contains things to do in the sunshine, but also things to do in the rain- as it rained for 48 hours when we visited!

We are not ‘hike whatever the weather’ people and we really don’t enjoy getting sopping wet climbing a mountain when there’s no view anyway, so you might find that itinerary useful if the weather is looking… unpleasant. 

Having said that, Skye is beautiful and well worth a trip if you’re touring the west coast of Scotland. 

Driving Scotland Day 7- Eilean Donan Castle, Loch Ness and up to Thurso

Eilean Donan

This was one of our longest driving days- about 5 hours and 350km. Leave Skye and head up towards Thurso, stopping at the incredible Eilean Donan Castle on the way.

We didn’t go inside, as we knew we had a long day ahead of us, but it’s beautiful from the outside. There’s also a little cafe at the carpark here which does a great coffee!

DECISION TIME

At Eilean Donan, you need to make a decision. Do you keep driving up to Loch Ness, or start on the NC500 route ? If you’re going up the western coast, this is where you turn off and start the slower (but probably prettier) roads. If you don’t have the extra time, stick to the faster roads via Loch Ness.

Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

You can’t come to Scotland and not stop to search for the Loch Ness monster-especially if you have young children.

Loch Ness village itself is VERY touristy. It’s ok for young kids, but it’s pretty expensive, so if you’re on a budget you might want to keep driving and stop at one of the many laybys alongside the loch.

You can also visit Urquhart castle , which are impressive ruins along the shore of Loch Ness. There is parking here, but it can be limited for Motorhomes, so be prepared to have to park some distance away in high season.

Alternatively, why not treat yourself to a boat trip on Loch Ness and be taken there in style!!

Driving Tips for Scotland

Be aware of your fuel levels on this part of the trip- we passed very few fuel stations.

We did debate going all around the western edge and completing the NC500 (there are some beautiful campsites on the North Coast 500 ), but we only had 10 days for touring Scotland, so we decided to cut across to save time, plus see Loch Ness and to escape the rain!

We used the A87, which passes down the side of Loch Clunie, a hydroelectric dam. It’s a beautiful place for a picnic if the weather is pleasant.

If you have time, Inverness is definitely worth a visit. Again, we made a compromise and chose to visit Orkney instead- we’ll get to that shortly!

Highlands Road Trip Day 8 – John o’Groats and Duncansby Stacks

John o’Groats

John o’Groats is one of those places which is a bit tacky but you need to go just to tick it off the list!

It was great to make it and see the famous post, but the place is a little underwhelming! There are a few tourist shops, a harbour and a snack shack- that’s about it!

We waited for the John o’Groats post to be empty so we could take photos with our motorbikes… and then we felt a little lost.

That’s the weirdest thing about travelling- when you finally get to your destination, it can sometimes feel a little hollow. But we were blessed with INCREDIBLE weather at John o’Groats- definitely made up for the misery of Skye!

Duncansby Stacks

Whilst we were at John o’Groats, we saw a postcard of the Duncansby stacks, which were apparently just down the road! We’d never heard of them before, but they looked pretty, so we decided to pay them a visit.

They’re a little tricky to find but well worth the effort! Basically, head for Duncansby lighthouse and park right next to the lighthouse. Then walk (with the lighthouse on your left) over the field and keep going- you’ll see them from the bottom of that field. PLEASE be careful with kids and dogs… it’s a sheer cliff and a long drop.

Here’s the first EVER video where we flew our drone over the sea… the views of the shoreline and the rocks are incredible.

NC500 - SCOTLAND road trip - Duncansby Stacks - DJI mavic pro drone

Dunnet head.

We stayed at Dunnet Bay campsite near John o’Groats for a couple of nights, which allowed us to ride our motorbikes and leave the motorhome somewhere safe. If you’re looking for a beautiful spot to stay, we highly recommend this campsite- lovely wardens, great little shop and stunning location right on the beach!! Just look at this view!!

Day 9 – One day trip to Orkney

We didn’t plan to visit Orkney during our Scotland road trip- and we definitely didn’t plan to visit Orkney on our motorbikes.

However, the day after we visited John o’Groats, the weather was still beautiful and we learnt we could get to Orkney by ferry for just the day- so we did! It is a beautiful place, although VERY busy in July and full of tourists.

Still, if you have the time, you should try to add Orkney into your itinerary. If you don’t want to drive, there are guided tours by coach which go all day, so book yourself onto one of them. 

Scotland Road Trip Itinerary Day 10- Dunrobin Castle and Aviemore

Dunrobin Castle

Dunrobin Castle is possibly one of our favourite castles . It’s about a 90-minute drive south from Thurso. It’s the largest castle in the Northern Highlands- and set in the most breathtaking scenery! You can pay to walk the gardens, but we decided to press on and head south before the rain closed in.

Aviemore & The Cairngorms

If you enjoy hiking and national parks, you need to put the Cairngorms onto your bucket list. It’s the largest National Park in the UK and was voted as one of the top 20 places to visit IN THE WORLD by National Geographic.

The park is 4500 square kms and contains a fantastic mixture of mountains, scenic views, castles, whiskey distilleries and outdoor pursuits.

One of the most popular reasons to visit is hiking.  There are multiple trails and walks within the park (you can purchase guidebooks at the tourist offices), or you can just turn up and wander wherever you fancy.

Dog walking is allowed, but the area is full of wildlife, so please be cautious and obey local signage. A word of caution – the weather can change VERY quickly in this area, so please carry appropriate equipment/ clothing.

If hiking isn’t for you, how about another sport? Within the Cairngorms you can enjoy cycling, skiing (in winter), golf, fishing, kayaking, rafting, swimming, windsurfing or gorgewalking. There are several watersports centres in the park and they offer lessons and gear hire.

Aviemore is in the Cairngorms National Park and is Scotland’s winter sports mecca, but there’s plenty to do in the summer too, including a visit to the famous Speyside Distilleries.

Restaurants and shops were open, as were many outdoor activities for all ages. The Aviemore website is a great place to find out more. 

If you’re not wild camping in Scotland in a motorhome or camper, there are plenty of places to stay within the park, including local B & Bs, hotels, hostels, campsites and log cabins.

The Perfect Scotland Itinerary idea

As you’ve seen, this Scotland driving itinerary can be adapted to suit all tastes, vehicles, abilities and durations.

If you’ve only got a few days in Scotland, don’t cram too much in- you’ll get overwhelmed and exhausted.

Conversely, if you’re retired and have no deadline, take your time to really explore the culture and heritage of this wonderful country.

Some things you need to know about Scotland before you go.

• Scotland is part of the UK, so they speak English * I really want to insert a bad Scottish joke here… but I’ll be good! ;)*
• British Pound is the currency. Don’t worry if you get notes saying ‘Bank of Scotland’ instead of Bank of England- they are all Pound Sterling (although some places in England get funny about taking Bank of Scotland notes- there’s no reason for this; it’s perfectly legal tender.) 
• There is another language in Scotland called Gaelic (pronounced GAH-LICK) which is technically the National language, but only 1% of the population speak it. You might see some signs in Gaelic around the country, but there will always be an English version too! (It’s the same in Wales- see our Wales road trip itinerary ideas here )
• Driving in Scotland isn’t any scarier than anywhere else with mountains. They drive on the left, just like the rest of the UK.
• There is no proper border between Scotland and England, so you can explore Scotland from England without taking a passport. We drove right up after our England Road Trip
• Scotland has an amazing law called Right to Roam. It allows you much more freedom to wild camp in your vehicle (with certain restrictions of course.)

Weather in Scotland- is it suitable for a driving holiday?

For us, it rained solidly for 3 days on the west coast- the Isle of Skye was a complete washout, even in July, but up at John o’Groats it was beautiful weather- so we detoured and went up there instead!

My suggestion is to plan your itinerary on Google Maps , and then be as flexible as possible to work around the weather. This is obviously easier if you are touring Scotland in a camper, instead of driving in a car and using hotels, but do the best you can.

The weather in Scotland can change very quickly, so please dress appropriately and take suitable clothing if hiking etc.

What is the best month to visit Scotland?

If you’re driving in Scotland, the best months to visit are April- October. Roads should be free of snow then and the temperature is warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities. Our favourite time to visit Scotland is June or October. (Want more ideas for October travel? Here are 15 of the best places to enjoy Europe in October )

When is peak tourist season in Scotland?

UK school holidays are July and August. I would try to avoid these if you possibly can.

Where is the most beautiful place in Scotland?

There are too many to pick just one and a lot will depend on the weather. Personally, I love Loch Lomond and Glen Coe, Loch Shiel and the Glenfinnan viaduct- but that was because I’m a Harry Potter nerd.

I also love the Cairngorms and the Scottish highlands are always breathtaking- you need to include them on your Scotland road trip!

But some of the most beautiful places on mainland Scotland have to be on the western coast- the beaches are stunning. So are the fairy pools on Skye if you get them on a sunny day.

Don’t forget to grab our free list of 57 best (and secret!) places in Scotland (which includes the pyramid in Scotland!

What is the best way to travel around Scotland?

In my opinion, a road trip holiday is the best way to see Scotland- and by that I mean a self-drive holiday, not a tour. Having your own vehicle allows you to set your own itinerary, plan your visits, pick the best roads in Scotland and generally be more in control.

Having a motorhome or campervan will further increase your flexibility and allow you to choose the scenic route based on weather or interest, not on hotels you’ve booked. 

How far are the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh?

Did you know there is actually a place called Highland in the Scottish Highlands?? Driving time from Edinburgh to Highland is 3 hours and 15 minutes (157 miles)

How long does it take to drive to Scotland?

Well, this obviously depends on where you’re starting from (!) but driving to Scotland (from London to Edinburgh) takes about 7 and a half hours.

If you’ve been road tripping in Cornwall and want to drive from Lands End to John o’Groats, it will take you about 15 hours non-stop.

How long does it take to tour Scotland?

As long as you have- or as long as you let it!! 🙂 If you are lucky enough to have longer than a couple of weeks to explore Scotland, there are LOADS of places to visit you can add into your itinerary. 

Have you visited Scotland? Where was your favourite place? If you haven’t, where would you like to go first?

How else can I help you today??

Planning a Scotland road trip? You might find these posts useful:

• How to get to Orkney (and what to do when you’re there!)
• The PERFECT Isle of Skye Itinerary
• How to plan the perfect UK road trip
• Scotland- complete Travel Guide

See all our Scotland tips and ideas

See all our UK travel itineraries and tips

Want to save this list for later? Here’s the pin.

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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28 comments.

Love love love this itinerary (and all the Harry Potter references). Scottland has been on my list for a while and this post just organizes everything beautifully. Love the pictures! That Isle of Skye does look amazing but I hear you, when it’s raining and miserable outside, just give me a hot bowl of soup or something and a cozy place to sit in and watch the rain… Great itinerary! hope I’ll get to explore Scottland soon.

Hi Maya- thanks for your lovely comments. And yes- having somewhere to hide away is so useful!! That’s why we love touring Scotland by motorhome or camper- you have your own cozy space to relax in. Hope you make it there soon! 🙂

Thanks for sharing an incredible amount of things to do and see in your Scotland driving itinerary. I would really love to get to the Isle of Skye, the Duncansby Stacks and Dunnet Head for those incredible coasts and views. Have added these to my list of “must-dos” for a future driving trip to Scotland!

Yes! Driving tours of Scotland are the best! 🙂 Let me know how it goes

Loved this post. A motorhome/motorbike combo sounds perfect for a trip like this. We keep meaning to go to Scotland (we only live in Manchester ? but never make it – this itinerary might just be the push we need to hire a camper and do it!

I know- we were the same!! It’s almost too close… but totally worth the effort.

Wow that’s a very comprehensive post! I’ve done a similar trip to Scotland so can relate. Thanks for sharing!

This is a wonderful itinerary— especially intrigued by Dunrabie Castle which I’ll aim to see next time I’m in scotland. Even though I don’t ride a motorcycle this itinerary is clearly one to keep.

Hope you get to see it- it’s a beautiful castle. And any form of transport works- car, motorhome, campervan, cycle! 🙂

This is an epic trip! Scotland has been on our list for too long, and this post may just be the thing that finally gets things moving.

Awesome! I hope you make it to Scotland one day 🙂

Wow I had no idea Scotland was this beautiful ! I am doing some Europe travel next year – I’ve never been ! Your pics are amazing ! Valetie

WOW. You have just skyrocketed Scotland up to the top of my bucket list! What a beautiful country and your photos are just divine. I’m now trying to see if I can squeeze it into my 2019 travel plans 🙂

I knew Scotland was gorgeous but WOW is it gorgeous. Sadly I’ve only ever been to Glasgow and Edinburgh (like you I prefer Edinburgh) but haven’t had the opportunity to explore the countryside. But, it’s something I would love very much to do. thank you for such a wonderful guide. I’ll certainly be referencing it when I finally have time to explore.

What would be an expected rental rate for a Motor home for two weeks?

What would be a rental rate for a Motor home for two weeks?

Hi Mike, that will depend on a lot of things, like time of year, destination, group size and driver experience.

So assume I would be there in the Summer months and would be there with a party of two. Little experience with an RV but have been driving for 40 + years. What would be a ball park number to use for the cost of the RV rental for a two week period?

That is easy enough to find on your own. Just search/google for “motor home rentals Scotland”. There are several vendors. Find one that will be near where you are arriving. Then search for the right size, etc, and enter your travel dates. You can easily get quotes.

I recently searched for the larger motor homes that sleep 5-6( or in my case, 4 adults/teens). For one week out of Edinburgh, it was going to run me about 1100 GBP before adding any extras (like insurance, bedding, etc).

I am seriously considering camping through Scotland. It would be one week out of a possible 3 week itinerary. Camping seemed like a great way to experience it.

Brilliant post! We’re off to Scotland in August so have already saved this pin to help us with our planning. Need to watch the Harry Potter films again I think! 🙂 Thanks for sharing Kat.

Fantastic! Have a wonderful time- let me know how it goes!

We drove much of the same itinerary and found Scotland to be more beautiful than any photos we have ever seen. I would like to go back and see more. One highlight of our tour was the Applecross Penninsula. No tourbuses fit onto those roads, so a large motor home would be a bit challenging. Bikers seemed to abound out at the Applecross Inn. We did spend a few days in Edinburgh. It is delightful. I returned for a few days the next year and spent all of my time without a car exploring the city centre. Warning. Parking spots are ridiculously difficult to find near Edinburgh Castle. Also, a mound is not like an ant hill as I thought. A mound is between the height of a hill and a mountain and steep for walking.

Really great Scotland itinerary covering all the highlights. We spent 7 days just covering the North, a kind of adapted NSC500. We had the most glorious weather. We even got sunburnt!! I have to say though, the photos just don’t look as good in bright sunlight! The only day we had a bit of mist and wain was the day we got the best photos. It actually looked like we were in Scotland!!

Thanks for sharing all the tips. We want to go back to continue adding to our Scottish photography portfolio and we’ve now got inspiration for extra places!

really awesome posts about Scotland travel

Thanks so much- glad you enjoyed it.

Brilliant Scotland guide!! If anyone ever gets the chance to pass through Gretna Green then the Famous Blacksmiths Shop is a brilliant stop-off point They’re a 5-star tourist attraction with a museum, shopping and food, plus their own hotels. Really handy to break up a journey if you’re travelling on the M6, especially with family. 🙂

Glad you liked it Lou. And thanks for the tip.

Great post! Thanks for the info, can’t wait to visit 🙂

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Scotland’s most scenic driving routes

If you’re looking for top scenic drives in Scotland for touring by car, these driving routes will take you through some of the country's most awe-inspiring landscapes, and you'll find plenty of fantastic attractions and charming towns and villages to visit along the way.

Each route varies in length and offers a scenic alternative to main trunk roads and motorways - ideal for a self-drive tour of Scotland. These driving tour routes are easy to follow and well signposted - simply look out for the distinctive brown and white signs.

Don't forget … all these scenic routes can also be done in reverse!

Moray Firth route Inverness to Loch Fleet

Covesea Lighthouse on the Moray Coast Trail

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

On the Moray Firth Route, journey through the north east corner of the Highlands on this scenic semi-circle from Inverness around the Beauly, Cromarty and Dornoch firths.

• Length of the route: 80 miles (128 km)
• Start and finish: Inverness/The Mound on Loch Fleet
• Time to drive: 1 hour 50 minutes

Deeside tourist route Perth to Aberdeen

Cyclists on the Deeside Way, Ballater

On the Deeside Tourist Route, travel along Britain's highest main road - the A93 - from Perth, via the Cairngorms National Park, to Aberdeen.

• Length of the route: 108 miles (174 km)
• Start and finish: Perth/Aberdeen
• Time to drive: 2 hours 55 minutes

Angus Coastal Route Dundee to Aberdeen

The beach at Lunan Bay

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Stretching from Dundee to Aberdeen, the Angus Coastal Route takes in the spectacular coastline and countryside of the east of Scotland.

• Length of the route: 68 miles (103 km)
• Start and finish: Dundee/Aberdeen
• Time to drive: 1 hour 40 minutes

The Snow Roads scenic route Blairgowrie to Grantown-on-Spey

The Watchers in the Cairngorms National Park

Admire the drama of The Snow Roads Scenic Route through  the eastern portion of the Cairngorms National Park. It gets its name by traversing the highest public roads in Britain which are the first to close due to snowfall.  

• Length of the route: 90 miles (144.8 km)
• Start and finish: Blairgowrie/Grantown-on-Spey
• Time to drive: 3 hours

Argyll coastal route Tarbert to Fort William

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden on Loch Fyne

© VisitScotland / Stuart Brunton

Absorb stunning mountain landscapes and glittering loch views as you travel through the majestic west coast of Scotland on a scenic drive through the Argyll Coastal Route.

• Length of the route: 129 miles (208 km)
• Start and finish: Tarbet/Fort William

Borders historic route Carlisle to Edinburgh

Melrose Abbey

Discover the lush scenery of the Scottish Borders on this historic route through the south of Scotland.

• Length of the route: 89 miles (143 km)
• Start and finish: Carlisle/Edinburgh
• Time to drive: 2 hours 20 minutes

Galloway tourist route Gretna to Ayr

The Mull of Galloway, Wigtownshire, Dumfries and Galloway

© VisitScotland / Visit South West Scotland / Damian Shields

Stretching from Gretna to Ayr in south west Scotland, the Galloway Tourist Route weaves through the picturesque landscapes that inspired Robert Burns.

• Length of the route: 92 miles (148 km)
• Start and finish: Gretna/Ayr
• Time to drive: 2 hours 10 minutes

The South West Coastal 300 South west

Culzean Castle and Country Park

© Barry Dawson / Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Group

The South West Coastal 300 is a wonderfully scenic route around one of Scotland's most picturesque coasts. If you want stunning scenery, pristine coastline and plenty of things to see and do, this is the road trip for you.

• Length of route: 300 miles (482.8 km)
• Start and finish: Ayr
• Time to drive: 5-6 hours

Fife coastal route Kincardine to Newport

West Sands, St Andrews

Enjoy views of the impressive Forth bridges as you drive along sparkling coastline on the Fife Coastal Route. You'll pass rolling farmland, picturesque seaside towns and beautiful beaches.

• Length of the route: 77 miles (124 km)
• Start and finish: Kincardine/Newport on Tay

Highland tourist route Aberdeen to Inverness

Cawdor Castle and Gardens

If you're looking for more good places to drive in Scotland, follow the Highland Tourist Route through the heart of the Highlands, passing through the rugged landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park and charming Highland towns.

• Length of the route: 116 miles (187 km)
• Start and finish: Aberdeen/Inverness
• Time to drive: 2 hours 50 minutes

Clyde Valley tourist route Abington to Hamilton

Falls of Clyde Wildlife Reserve

Follow the River Clyde on the Clyde Valley Tourist Route through lush farmland and rolling hills as you journey to the bustling town of Hamilton, close to Glasgow.

• Length of the route: 38 miles (61 km)
• Start and finish: Abington/Hamilton
• Time to drive: 30 minutes

North and west Highland route Ullapool to John o'Groats

You'll travel through some of the most magnificent scenery in Europe on the North and West Highland Route - wild mountains and lochs, foaming salmon rivers, rugged coastlines with mighty sea cliffs and secluded sandy bays.

• Length of the route: 158 miles (254 km)
• Start and finish: Ullapool/John o’Groats
• Time to drive: 3 hours 45 minutes

Forth Valley tourist route Edinburgh to Stirling

The Kelpies in Helix Park

The Forth Valley Tourist Route makes for a brilliant day out discovering some of Scotland's top attractions and historic towns.

• Length of the route: 43 miles (69 km)
• Start and finish: Edinburgh/Stirling
• Time to drive: 1 hour 30 minutes

Perthshire tourist route Greenloaning to Ballinluig

Den of Alyth, Perthshire

Enjoy views of lush, cultivated landscapes followed by the rugged splendour of the Sma' Glen, Aberfeldy and Grandtully on the Perthshire Tourist Route.

• Start and finish: Greenloaning/Ballinluig
• Time to drive: 1 hour 15 minutes

North Coast 500 North coast

Driving the Bealach na Ba

Widely regarded as one of the best driving roads in Scotland, the North Coast 500 route offers the ultimate Highlands road trip experience.

• Length of the route: 500 miles (805 km)
• Start and finish: Inverness
• Time to drive: 13 hours 35 minutes (note: this is without stopping. We recommend taking several days to complete the NC500)

Planning your trip

Please remember to plan your trip in advance. It is crucial for the wellbeing of Scotland's landscapes, as well as for local residents and businesses, that the areas around these routes are respected and looked after properly.

 A few things to keep in mind:

• Take all litter, waste and rubbish away with you to dispose of correctly.
• Book your accommodation in advance; don't park or stay outwith designated camping/caravan areas.
• Follow the  Scottish Outdoor Access Code  to ensure the landscape is left how you found it.

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Scotland Road Trip: 8 Incredible Routes for an Epic Trip

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The Best Scottish Road Trips

Scotland is a place made for road trips. Sweeping roads wind their way through dramatic and moody landscapes, past historic castles, gentle lochs, and wild seas. Ancient myths and rich history thread through Scotland’s fabric, making the country a wonderfully diverse and fascinating place to visit.

A road trip in Scotland showcases the dramatic landscapes, historic cities, lochs and glens, and beautiful coastlines, like no other way to travel does.

As you road trip through Scotland, you’ll find yourself stopping regularly for Insta-worthy images, and along the way, you’ll find fantastic adventures to try like hiking Munroes, wild swimming in Scotland’s lochs and seas, exploring Scotland’s turbulent history, and spotting amazing wildlife.

In this Scotland travel guide, you’ll find a round-up of all the best road trips in Scotland, with Scotland travel tips and information to help you plan and prepare. Come with us as we share eight unmissable Scotland road trip itineraries and highlights.

Scotland Road Trip Map

Is this your first time visiting Scotland and the UK? Get all the information you need in our United Kingdom Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Scotland’s Top Eight Road Trips

Whether you’re driving in Scotland in a car, motorhome , campervan, or riding a motorbike, our Scotland roadtrip itineraries give you a basic route to follow and highlights to visit.

The highlights for each Scotland driving route can be followed with the map – they are in the order in which you travel.  Scotland is packed full of bucket-list things to do  along these routes and it will help to use a navigational app to explore each area in more detail.

Whether you’re planning a quick 7 day Scotland road trip itinerary, or have extra time for a leisurely ramble around several of these routes, there’s a Scottish road trip here for you!

The North Coast 500

Inverness – wick – john o ‘groats – thurso – durness – lochinver – ullapool – gairloch – applecross – inverness.

• Distance: 516 miles
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Drive Time: 15 hours

Considered by many to be one of the best road trips in Scotland , the North Coast 500 really is the ultimate Scottish Highlands road trip, taking in windswept beaches, ancient ruins, beautiful views, and historic castles in stunning landscapes.

The Highland Tourist Route is one of the few road trips in Europe that is as much about the destination as the drive, Scotland’s very own Route 66. If you don’t have much time, it is possible to do the NC500 in seven days, but there wouldn’t be much opportunity to stop and explore the deep and closely held history and raw nature of this visceral place. 

This Scotland Highlands road trip itinerary could be a 10 day Scotland road trip, but 14, or even 21 days gives you plenty of time to fully appreciate this special part of the country. 

You can tackle this Scottish highlands itinerary either way by starting from Inverness. Our itinerary assumes you will head north up the east coast. Check your map regularly for Scottish attractions, natural wonders, glorious beaches, and historic points of interest, some of which will require a detour from the route.

If you’re visiting in late autumn or winter, Applecross, Lochinver, and Ullapool are all top places to see the Northern Lights.

Top 16 Highlights

• Spend your first day in Inverness, finding your feet and shopping for souvenirs. Highlights in the city center include Inverness Castle, the 19th century Inverness Cathedral, and the mostly 18th century Old High Church. There is also a popular indoor Victorian Market and the contemporary Inverness Museum and Art Gallery traces local and Highland history.
• Follow the age-old tradition of hunting the famous Loch Ness monster. Hire a boat and head out onto the water with a picnic and camera. You might not see Nessie, but you’ll enjoy stunning scenery, clear air, and space to unwind in one of  Scotland’s most beautiful places .
• Visit the haunting battlefield of Culloden, the site of the final and bloody confrontation of the Jacobite rising and defeat of Charles Stuart’s army in 1745. You can learn more about this seminal time in the history of Scotland at the nearby  Culloden Visitor Center .
• Explore the dramatic 15th century ruins of Castle Sinclair Girnigoe, perched high on a cliff above the steely North Sea.
• Love the challenge of bagging any of the 37 Munros (mountains over 914m) along the route. If they’re a little too high, try bagging one of the 43 Corbetts or 38 Grahams (mountains over 762m), or just enjoy viewing them from the winding roads.
• Admire the lofty grace of  Dunrobin Castle , the historic home of the Earls and Dukes of Sutherland, which dates from around 1275.
• See the mysterious Hill O’Many Stanes, where 200 thin stones were laid out in a radiating pattern over 4,000 years ago …and no one really knows why.
• Enjoy the sea air and a five mile hike from John o’Groats to Duncansby Head, the most north-easterly point on the British mainland, and continue along the spectacular coastal path to see the two dramatic pointed sea stacks.
• Visit the  Castle of Mey , which was restored by The Queen Mother when she bought it in 1952 and saved it from abandonment. A fascinating glimpse into a castle that served as a holiday retreat for the royal family, and with wonderful gardens, this is a truly beautiful place.
• Explore the various and fascinating brochs on the route. The broch is an imposing stone tower and ancient dwelling, built as early as 500 BCE, found only in Scotland. Dunbeath Broch and Nybster Broch are both excellent examples and are close to the  Caithness Broch Centre , where you can learn more.
• Take (another) bracing walk in the wild and untamed landscape of  Dunnet Head , the RSPB nature reserve and the most northerly point in mainland Britain. This is the perfect place to see puffins in this noisy sea-bird nature reserve, especially if you visit during the breeding season, from late spring to early summer.
• Enjoy visiting and tastings at the whisky distilleries on the route, including  Glenmorangie , famous for its single malt since 1843. You’ll find many more distilleries along the way, just one of the pleasures of touring the Scottish Highlands!
• Visit the beautiful beaches, bays, and coves of the north coast, including the most north-westerly point, the raw and wild Cape Wrath (only accessible  by ferry  or  minibus ) the Smoo Cave, a sea cave complete with its own waterfall, and  Sandwood Bay  (hike only, no vehicular access) for the incredible sight of the Am Buachaille sea stack, a remnant of when the Highlands and North America were connected, millions of years ago.
• Go whale watching from Gairloch, you might also see dolphins, porpoises, and sharks, as well as seals, otters, puffins, and perhaps even the white-tailed eagle. The best time to see whales on the west coast of Scotland is from mid-June to late September.
• Drive the legendary Applecross Pass, one of the best and highest roads in Scotland . Bealach na Bà is a narrow slip of a road, with hairpin sharp bends and steep gradients – not one for the faint-hearted, but absolutely worth it!
• Take to the sea in a canoe, in one of the many lochs and inlets along the route. Enjoy a different perspective and get up close with the local wildlife

RELATED POST: North Coast 500 Route Planner + Highlights, Map & Tips

2 Week Motorhome Itinerary Scotland

Let us do the planning for you and grab our Scotland motorhome itinerary, packed with campsites, off-grid spots, attractions, and insider tips.

Let us do the hard work for you! Get up every day knowing your trip is planned with driving routes, overnight stops, and attractions marked out for you on your interactive map.

The North East 250

Aberdeen – peterhead – fraserburgh – portsoy – spey bay – glenlivet – braemar – aberdeen.

• Distance: 259 miles
• Duration: 5-7 days
• Drive Time: 7 hours

If you have just one week in Scotland , the North East 250 is the perfect 7 day self-drive tour of Scotland for lovers of coastlines, mountains, and whisky.

Designed to be joined from Aberdeen Airport, you can go clockwise or anti-clockwise and wend your way through the dramatic countryside and towns of Speyside, Royal Deeside, Cairngorms, the east coast, and the Moray Firth coast. This route also picks up most of the major attractions from the  Deeside Tourist Route .

The most stunning bit of this route is the stretch from Tomintoul to Blairgowrie, which makes up a large part of the Snowroads scenic route . This stunning road through the eastern Cairngorms officially starts in Grantown-on-Spey, before traversing the highest public road in Britain, to Blairgowrie.

The Snowroads don’t need to be driven in a hurry. There are steep hills, blind summits, tight bends, and single-track roads with passing places – take extra care if you’re in a large motorhome.

This tourist route is fairly new, launched in 2017, and is not always signposted as such. As with all road trips, keep a close eye on whichever mapping and navigation tools you use to work out what’s on the route and what will require a little detour.

Our itinerary takes you north from Aberdeen towards Peterhead, but you can do the route whichever way you wish.  If you had a few more days, you could also pick up the Perthshire Tourist Route from the most southerly point of the NE250 and continue south for a short but spectacular drive.

Top 10 Highlights

• Admire the powerful architecture of the glittering city of Aberdeen and its rich maritime history.
• Enjoy the whisky distilleries along the NE250 route including Tomintoul, Glenlivet, Royal Lochnagar, and Strathisla.
• Partake in some dark tourism at the fascinating  Peterhead Prison Museum , which was an operational prison until 2013.
• Visit the truly brilliant  Museum of Scottish Lighthouses  at Fraserburgh, where you can tour Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, the very first lighthouse built on mainland Scotland in 1787.
• Love the bracing air and dolphin spotting from the clifftops near Portknockie, where you can also see the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock, and sometimes the Northern Lights.
• Enjoy Cullen Skink in Cullen! The thick Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions is a delicious local specialty.
• Visit the stunning ruins of  Elgin Cathedral . Built in 1224 and known as the ‘Lantern of the North’, it was one of the most spectacular medieval cathedrals in Scotland.
• Drive through the magnificent  Cairngorms National Park , home to deer, eagles, and atmospheric Corgarff Castle.
• Enjoy some of the best outdoor activities Scotland has to offer, including white water sports, climbing, hiking, cycling, and much more.
• Spend a day at the splendid royal  Balmoral Castle , home to the nation’s former Queen Elizabeth II and now King Charles III and their family since 1852.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Scotland . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

The South West Coastal 300

Prestwick – ballantrae – cairngaan – isle of whithorn – kirkudbright – dumfries – lockerbie – moffat – dalmellington – prestwick.

• Distance: 302 miles
• Drive Time: 8 hours

The South West Coastal 300 is a one week Scotland road trip for nature lovers and history buffs. With stunning coastlines, lush forests that stretch over rolling hills, and dramatic moorlands, this quiet corner of Scotland will woo you until you fall in love with its gentle charms.

This is a well-located road trip in Scotland for those driving north from the rest of the UK and can be joined at Lockerbie, within a 20 minute drive of the Scottish border. 

The route is also easily accessible from Glasgow Prestwick Airport, or from Glasgow International Airport if you fancy a few days in the cultural and welcoming city at the start or end of your visit to Scotland. 

Our itinerary assumes you will travel south from Prestwick along the coast, but this route can be driven either way – at times it also crosses the  Galloway Tourist Route  which runs through the middle of Galloway Forest Park

• Dip into  Galloway Forest Park , the only Dark Sky Park in Scotland, and a top spot to see the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.
• Our favorite beach on this road trip, the small but perfectly formed Dunure Beach has dark sand and shingle with great rock pooling and stunning views of Ailsa Craig from the ragged ruins of Dunure Castle.
• Admire the dramatic clifftop  Culzean Castle , designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century and full of treasures, opulence, and history.
• Climb to the Robert Louis Stevenson-designed  Mull of Galloway lighthouse , at the southernmost tip of Scotland on the wild Rhins of Galloway peninsula. Go at dusk for spectacular sunsets.
• Visit the charming Isle of Whithorn (no longer an island) to see the ruins of the chapel built by St Ninian, who founded the first Christian church in Britain around AD390.
• Spend a day in lively  Kirkcudbright  (pronounced kir–coo–bree) and follow the Arts and Crafts Trail. Home to generations of creatives, ‘the artist’s town’ has a flourishing community of painters and craftworkers. You might also hear bagpipes here as they have lots of parades.
• Head for Kirkbean to walk on the vast empty expanse of Southerness beach, with breathtaking views across Solway Firth to the Lake District. Visit Southerness Lighthouse at the western end of the beach, one of the oldest in Scotland.
• Find your inner child at  Moat Brae , the inspiration for JM Barrie’s famous character, Peter Pan. The author lived in Dumfries from 1873 to 1878 and called the gardens ‘enchanted lands’.
• Stop off in Moffat for a spot of hiking on the scenic Southern Upland Way or the most northerly point on the Annandale Way, both of which pass through this pretty and historic town.
• Visit the  Scottish Dark Sky Observatory  at Dalmellington to use their powerful telescopes to observe the night skies – stargazing without light pollution is an incredible experience.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts and road trip songs for the journey!

The Argyll Coastal Route & Loch Ness

Glasgow – tarbet – inverary – lochgilphead – oban – glencoe – fort william – glenfinnan – inverness.

• Distance: 263 miles
• Duration: 7-10 days

The official Argyll Coastal Route ends in Fort William, but we couldn’t leave you there, with the magnificent Glenfinnan to the west and the superb A82 to the east, waiting to take you to Inverness. 

From sea shores, loch-sides, and mountain tops, the ultimate west coast of Scotland road trip is for seafood gourmets, sunset lovers, and those who want to get under the skin of Scotland and feel its turbulent history in the air and glens of the incredible landscapes. 

Starting in Glasgow and finishing in Inverness allows you to make the most of this linear west coast Scotland route as you cross the Highland Boundary Fault and enjoy the gentle lowlands giving way to the dramatic and wild highlands.

• Be intrigued by the gritty, yet cultured, Victorian city of Glasgow. Must-sees include medieval Glasgow Cathedral and Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, for a dose of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Scottish artist and designer.
• Visit the viewpoint at  An Ceann Mor , in the  Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park , to get a sense of the sheer size and incredible beauty of Loch Lomond.
• Enjoy fresh seafood at some of the best restaurants in Scotland along this route. Of particular note, the original  Loch Fyne Oysters Ltd  have been selling fresh oysters at the roadside since 1978 and you can now enjoy them in the bar or to take away from their delicatessen.
• Stop off at Inveraray to visit the  Inveraray Jail  and  Inveraray Castle , home to the Duke of Argyll and Chief of Clan Campbell.
• Learn about Scotland and some of the Highland’s darkest hours at  Auchindrain , a living museum and Scotland’s last inhabited Highland farming township before the Highland Clearances, which took place between 1750 to 1860.
• Visit  Kilmartin Museum  to find out about the 800 cairns and monuments that dot the landscape of Kilmartin Glen and see fascinating 2,000-year-old artifacts from local archaeological digs. In the glen itself, you can enter some of the cairns, see carved gravestones, and reach the top of what remains of  Dunadd Hill Fort , where the first kings of Scotland were inaugurated.
• Spend a fantastic day wildlife watching from Easdale Island. With whale spotting trips, excursions to the Corryvreckan Whirlpool, and a tour of a local seal colony there’s lots to do, as well as keeping your eyes peeled for porpoises, dolphins, eagles, and otters along the way.
• Oban Distillery  is one of the smallest and oldest distilleries in Scotland and makes whisky that reflects the character of its coastal location – definitely worth a stop!
• Stopping to take photographs of  Castle Stalker , from the shores of Loch Linnhe. Located on a tidal island to the north of Port Appin, this iconic castle and its surroundings make for atmospheric and moody photographs.
• Explore  Glen Coe , the site of the Massacre of Glencoe in 1692, when members of the Campbell clan murdered members of the MacDonald clan on the orders of the English Crown. Or follow the Glen Coe Geotrail to learn more about the ancient volcanic history of this other-worldly place. Shaped by glaciers and fiery volcanic explosions millions of years ago, Glen Coe is a landscape full of natural wonders.
• Spend some time in the  Lochaber area , dominated by Ben Nevis and known as the outdoor capital of the UK. Activity lovers will be in their element here; you can mountain bike, hike, climb, abseil and enjoy all manner of water sports on the loch.
• Be in awe of  Neptune’s Staircase , the longest staircase lock flight in Scotland. This flight of eight locks on the Caledonian Canal is an amazing feat of engineering that raises the canal by 19m over 1/4 mile. It takes around 90 minutes for a boat to travel the locks. This is the perfect spot to practice your ‘gongoozaling’ – the activity of watching boats and activities on canals for pleasure!
• Visit the magical  Glenfinnan Viaduct . Made famous by the Harry Potter films, this railway viaduct has carried trains on the West Highland Line since 1897. Glenfinnan is also the spot in which Bonnie Prince Charlie called for the local clansmen to assemble in 1745, proclaiming the throne of Great Britain to be denounced and rightfully returned to his family, the Stuarts.
• Head east and pick up the legendary A82 road. Around the Bridge of Orchy, you’ll drive a section of the infamous Skyfall road, from the Bond film of the same name, and one of the most dramatic and scenic drives in Scotland. Time for a photo opportunity!
• Make a stop at the very pretty village of Fort Augustus, the gateway to Loch Ness and the most southerly tip of this famous body of water. It is also the point where the  Caledonian Canal  leaves Loch Ness, cutting through the small village on its way south.
• Visit Urquhart Castle at Drumnadrochit, halfway up Loch Ness. Once one of Scotland’s largest castles, Urquhart saw much conflict during its 500 years as a medieval fortress, especially during the Wars of Independence. 

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Isle of skye, ardelve – broadford – portree – trotternish – duntulm – dunvegan – armadale – mallaig.

• Distance: 276 miles
• Duration: 3-5 days
• Drive Time: 6 hours

Surrounded by sparkling seas where towering cliffs defend the island from crashing waves, Skye is a real balm for the soul and one of the best places to visit in Scotland by car.

This road trip surely has to be one of the most picturesque in Scotland, with jagged mountains, heather-carpeted moors, and myths and legends aplenty. There are lots of  things to do on Skye  too, so expect to be busy on this road trip, even though it’s a short route!

You can drive to Skye from Inverness in around two and a half hours. From Glasgow, it will take five to six hours. Just getting to Skye is an incredible trip in its own right, maximise your time by flying into Inverness and out of Glasgow (or vice versa). 

Check out the Argyll Coastal Route and North Coast 500 itinerary for ideas of what to do on the way to the Isle of Skye.

Use the  Skye Bridge  to cross Loch Alsh, or go over the sea to Skye the old-fashioned way and get a  CalMac ferry from Mallaig . Our itinerary assumes you will drive from Inverness over the bridge and get the ferry back to the mainland, but you can follow the route in either direction.

Skye has to be one of the busiest places in Scotland in summer, so go out of season or head out of the main tourist areas of Portree, Trotternish, and Dunvegan to find solitude and space.

Top 11 Highlights

• Not on Skye, but just a few miles before the Skye Bridge, is  Eilean Donan Castle , one of Scotland’s most iconic images and one of the most photographed castles in the country. Situated on an island at the point where the three great sea lochs of Alsh, Duish, and Long meet, the striking castle is surrounded by magnificent scenery and is full of history.
• The 2.3 mile hike up to the  Old Man of Storr  on the Trotternish peninsula is one of the must-dos on Syke. The ‘Old Man’ is a large spike of rock that stands high and can be seen for miles around. Created by an ancient landslide, the Storr is one of the most photographed places in Scotland.
• Off the beaten track and much less known, but no lesser for it, is Rubha nam Brathairean (Brothers’ Point), a dramatic headland that marks the easternmost point of Trotternish. Not far from here, you’ll also find Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls – epic views that you can get to within a few minutes of walking from the free parking.
• Visit  The Quiraing  for a great 4.5 mile hike with spectacular landscapes and beautiful views, or get a feel for this strangely named area from the car park.
• The Fairy Glen is a curious rock formation just inland from Uig. Formed by an ancient landslide and shaped by glaciers over thousands of years, the Fairy Glen is best photographed from above to fully appreciate the weird and wonderful shapes of the landscape.
• Visit Skye’s most famous historic building,  Dunvegan Castle , the seat of the chief of Clan MacLeod. In a beautiful position at the edge of Loch Dunvegan, the castle gardens are a hidden oasis of beautiful plants.
• Catch an amazing sunset from  Neist Point , where there is also a lighthouse of the same name. The most westerly point on Skye, this beautiful spot also affords fantastic views of the Outer Hebrides.
• Stop off at the world-famous Talisker Distillery for a tour that finishes with a wee dram of their peaty single malt.
• Try a spot of wild swimming (we would advise a wet suit!) in the bracing Fairy Pools, beautiful crystal clear pools, and waterfalls at the foot of the Cuillin mountains, on the river Brittle. Take the 1.5 mile walk from the small parking lot to find this series of magical pools, formed 50-70 million years ago!
• Take one of the most scenic Scotland roads from Broadford to the village of Elgol, for incredible views of the dark and brooding Cuillin mountains.
• Get out on the water in a canoe or take a boat trip to get acquainted with local wildlife. You’re likely to see seals, dolphins, porpoises, and lots of different species of sea birds, as well as find hidden coves, cliff waterfalls, and sea caves.

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Borders Historic Route

Edinburgh – dalkeith – galashiels – selkirk – hawick – langholm – gretna green.

• Distance: 88 miles
• Duration: 2-3 days
• Drive Time: 3 hours

This Scotland road trip from Edinburgh will take you through the lush and hilly countryside of the lowland Scottish Borders, through charming villages and small towns to famous Gretna Green, and the border with England. 

Learn about Scottish industrial heritage and the vibrant arts and crafts scene, still alive and kicking in this mostly rural region. 

This road trip is the best option if you plan on spending time in historic Edinburgh and want to see a bit of Scotland as part of your trip. If it’s a one-way drive, Newcastle Airport is an hour and a half away by car from Gretna Green, making this an ideal linear route. 

• Visit historic Edinburgh , the capital city of Scotland. With wonderful medieval and neoclassical architecture and a great vibe, this is a city in which to spend at least a full day. Take a city center guided tour to see Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, the National Museum of Scotland, and the famous Royal Mile, the main road through Edinburgh’s old town, where you can shop for tartan and enjoy locally made fudge.
• Harry Potter fans will want to visit Victoria Street. With its unusual shape and collection of quirky shops, it’s said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the J.K. Rowling books. 
• Enjoy a locally brewed craft beer at  Stewart Brewing , an independent craft brewery on the outskirts of Edinburgh. You might even see the team hard at work brewing while you enjoy your beer!
• Stop at  Dalkeith Country Park  for easy walks and bike rides on the trails through the natural beauty of the 1,000-acre estate and working farm. You might spot Roe deer, otters, buzzards, foxes, badgers, hares, and rabbits here.
• Visit Lady Victoria Colliery, one of the best and last surviving Victorian collieries in Europe, and now the  National Mining Museum of Scotland . Explore the machinery used to mine and take coal to the surface, imagine what a miner’s life was like, and experience the sights and sounds of a working pit on a fantastic tour of the pit head.
• Go back in time to Robert Smail’s Printing Works in the pretty village of Innerleithen. Try your hand at typesetting, and discover the origin of everyday phrases such as ‘mind your Ps and Qs’ as you discover how printing was carried out by highly skilled printers, with individual letters of type set by hand, presses operated with foot treadles and power generated by a waterwheel.
• If you love gardens, then  Harmony Garden  in Melrose is a horticultural delight and a tranquil escape from life on the road. With colorful borders, beautifully manicured lawns, and a thriving kitchen garden, Harmony is perfectly in tune with nature. An added bonus is the superb views of Melrose Abbey and the nearby Eildon Hills.
• Admire the creativity and skill of the glassblowers at work in  Lindean Mill Glass . This innovative glass studio was established in 1978 by David Kaplan and Annica Sandström, whose work has been exhibited at the National Museum Scotland in Edinburgh and the V&A in London.
• Take a mill tour, a great way to see Scottish tartan being woven from scratch, at Lochcarron of Scotland in Selkirk, one of the biggest names in the Scottish Borders’ textile industry, which has been weaving high-quality tartan for over 100 years. The Dress Act of 1746 attempted to bring the warrior clans under government control by banning the tartan along with other aspects of Gaelic culture.
• Continue your textiles education at the  Borders Textile Towerhouse  and discover more about the area’s role as a producer of sought-after fabrics. Designers such as Chanel, Dior, and Vivienne Westwood have used fabric produced in the Borders in their designs for many years. The gift shop here is perfect for finding a unique present or Scottish souvenir.
• Discover exciting and tumultuous borderlands history at  Gilnockie Tower , a fine example of a defensive peel tower that dates from the 16th century. Located on the River Esk, it’s home to the Clan Armstrong Centre, the ancestral home of the Armstrong Clan, and is packed with fascinating clan heritage.

RELATED POST: Edinburgh One Day Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide

Stirling – Trossachs Pier – Killin – Blair Athol – Pitlochry – Perth – Kinross – Crief – Stirling

• Distance: 232 miles

The new kid on the Scottish road trip map is Heart 200, a two-hundred-mile-plus romp around the center of Scotland. This route offers the best of all the other routes combined as you travel through Scotland’s iconic, ever-changing landscapes.

Chuck in the historic cities of Perth and Stirling, and you’ve got a road trip perfect for first-time visitors to Scotland, or those that want to see the best of this glorious country. 

Divided into six sections, this road trip covers the forests of the west, the Highlands to the north, the rivers of the east, and the historic south, along with Stirling and Perth.

Along the route are places of historical interest, world-class golf courses, ancient castles, loch and river-based water sports for adrenalin seekers, and a few whisky distilleries, of course!

You’ll explore the remarkable history and culture of the region, from antiquity to the modern day, and learn more than a few surprising insights along the way.

Over millennia, Scotland has made its mark on history thanks to famous figures ranging from the ancient Celts and the Roman Empire to King Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots, via Bonnie Prince Charlie, Rob Roy MacGregor, Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Queen Victoria, all of whom have connections to the heart of Scotland.

For a longer trip pick up the Fife Coastal Route, which follows the shore of the Firth of Forth from Kincardine to Dundee, where you can head back inland to Perth. This route takes in pretty fishing villages, historic golf courses, castles, and distilleries along 77 miles of meandering coast road – well worth adding to your itinerary

Top 13 Highlights

• If you fly into Edinburgh Airport, make a quick stop to see the magnificent Kelpies at Helix Park in Grangemouth. The Kelpies are 30-metre-high horse-head sculptures depicting kelpies, a mythical shape-changing aquatic spirit of Scottish legend, and will start your Heart of Scotland road trip off on the right note.
• Whilst in the area, explore the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift that connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal in a half-turn that takes only five minutes!
• Stirling is the first stop and at the heart of the old town is medieval Stirling Castle, dominating the city from its craggy volcanic rock. Other attractions not to be missed are the 19th century National Wallace Monument that overlooks the site of the 1297 Battle of Stirling Bridge, where William Wallace (famously played by Mel Gibson in the film Braveheart ) defeated the English, and the Battle of Bannockburn Experience has interactive 3D displays on the history of the 1314 conflict.
• Visit the imposing  Doune Castle , a popular film set. Used as a set for Monty Python and the Holy Grail, as Castle Leoch in Outlander, and as Winterfell in Game of Thrones, this medieval stronghold could tell a few stories!
• Find out everything you ever wanted to know about sheep and wool at The Scottish Wool Centre in Aberfoyle, with live sheep shows and hands-on demonstrations of spinning and working sheepdogs.
• Stop at Killin, a small village at the southern point of Loch Tay. Famous for the Falls of Dochart, a spectacular series of rapids where the River Dochart rushes towards the Loch at the confluence of the rivers Dochart and Lochay, the best view is from the Bridge of Dochart in the village. This is also a great place to base yourself for local hiking.
• Take in the iconic Queen’s View along Loch Tummel, which is named after Queen Victoria, who visited the region in 1866. The vantage point at the  Forestry Commission’s Visitor Centre  offers a breathtaking vista of Schielhallion, one of Scotland’s most famous mountains.
• Visit in August for the Kinloch Rannoch Highland Games, which always take place on the third Saturday of the month. Hosted by the local community, you can watch caber tossing, hill racing, and lots more traditional Highland games events, as well as listen to the bagpipes being played.
• Aberfeldy makes a good base for exploring local attractions including the Tay Bridge, Black Watch Monument, 16th century Castle Menzies, Cluny House Gardens, Lundin Farm Stone Circle, and Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery.
• A mecca for thrill-seekers, the white water rapids on the River Tay at Grandtully offer opportunities for kayaking, rafting, and canyoning, with lots of local companies providing access and equipment, whatever your level of skill or knowledge.
• Historians should stop at the Gorge of Killiecrankie, the site of one of the bloodiest battles during the Jacobite Risings in 1689. Take a walk up to the viewpoint at Soldier’s Leap, where a Redcoat soldier is said to have jumped 18 feet across the ravine to escape the pursuing Jacobites.  Salmon can often be seen jumping around the falls here and keep an eye out for red squirrels and woodpeckers which are quite prolific during fall , when the colors are spectacular.
• Admire the listed historic house of  Scone Palace , situated near the village of Scone and the city of Perth. Scone Palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings where Macbeth, Robert the Bruce, and Charles II were once crowned. Nowadays, this red sandstone palace is among the very finest surviving examples of the late Georgian Gothic style in the United Kingdom. 
• Visit the wildlife at Blair Drummond Safari Park, near Stirling. Widely acknowledged to be one of the  best safari parks in the UK  for breeding and conservation (and the only one in Scotland), the park is set across 120 acres and is home to 350 animals including lions and southern white rhinos.

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check our our favourite Europe road trips for ideas and inspiration!

Kennacraig – Tayinloan – Isle of Gigha – Machrihanish – Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse – Campbeltown – Carradale – Kennacraig

• Distance: 115 miles
• Drive Time: 5 hours

Another newcomer to the Scottish road trip scene is Kintyre 66, or K66, as it’s becoming known. If you’ve ever watched Paul McCartney and Wing’s video of the song ‘Mull of Kintyre’ and been inspired by the landscape, then this road trip in Scotland is for you.

An easy hop from Glasgow Airport, the K66 is perfect for a long weekend. Start in Tarbert, a pretty village at the top of Kintyre. Just a narrow strip of land a mile wide connects the peninsula to the mainland, making Kintyre Scotland’s only mainland island.

The landscape and beaches are pristine and unspoiled, the seas huge, the night sky clear and the wildlife abundant – this really is a trip for outdoor lovers. Kayaking in the turquoise waters is a popular pastime and hiking some of the incredible trails, with their spectacular views, is a must.

Local produce and food are also a highlight of this trip, with seafood at the top of the list. You’ll also find whisky and gin distilleries and several breweries in Kintyre, making sure that local food and drink sustain all your activity!

The official K66 is, unsurprisingly 66 miles long, but we’ve added on the far south of Kintyre to include the iconic Mull of Kintyre lighthouse.

The single-track route there meanders over the rolling moors before helter-skeltering down a steep cliff to the lighthouse – don’t be put off, it’s an amazing drive with breathtaking views right across to Ireland.

• A visit to the Beinn an Turc Distillery near Torrisdale to sample their Kintyre gin is a must! This sustainable distillery, which uses its own power generated by a hydroelectric plant, creates a delicious gin using botanicals and water from its own land.
• Head to Saddell Bay to see GRIP, a cast iron sculpture created by British artist Antony Gormley to mark the Landmark Trust’s 50th anniversary. The human form stares out over the Kilbrannan Sound to Arran from the rocks below Saddell Castle. Originally, the sculpture was placed for just a year, but thanks to a generous donation, it will remain indefinitely.
• Visiting the glorious beaches of the peninsula is a real treat. Unspoiled and often with no one else around, some of the best beaches in Scotland can be found here. Our favorites are Carradale Bay and close-by Torrisdale Bay.
• At the very north of Kintyre is the colorful and lively harbor town of Tarbert. With plenty to do, including Tarbert Castle, which sits high above the town, this is a great place to spend a day
• The enchanting Isle of Gigha can be reached in just 20 minutes on a ferry from Tayinloan and is a fantastic day trip destination. Kissed by the gulf stream, the beautiful Achamore Gardens feel exotic, whilst in contrast, a hike up Creag Bhan, the highest point on the island, showcases the best of the raw and wild landscape.
• Westport boasts a sandy beach, perfect for surfing. There is a surf school in the village where you can hire equipment and take lessons if this is your first time on a board. You’ll need a wet suit, whatever the weather – the water in these parts is pretty chilly!
• The next stop just down the coast is Machrihanish, a village most famous for its iconic beach-side golf course.
• An absolute must-do is a visit to the Mull of Kintyre Lighthouse, on the very far southwest tip of the peninsula. The views are pretty special and the drive there is dramatic, but not for the faint-hearted.
• The ruins of Skipness Castle lie at the far north of the peninsula. The castle was originally built in the early 1200s by the MacSweens. It later fell to Clan MacDonald and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
• The seafood caught, prepared, and served on Kintyre is out of this world. Fresh from the boat in the morning, you’ll find scallops, mussels, lobsters, crabs, langoustines, and clams on every menu. Another local taste is Gigha halibut, which you can enjoy in the West Loch Hotel, on the A83 out of Tarbert.

Scotland Practicalities

When to take a scottish road trip.

Scotland’s weather is generally moderate but changeable. As the topography of Scotland varies greatly, you’ll notice differences between highland and lowland weather, as well as coastal influences.

Late spring is a great time for planning a trip to Scotland. The countryside comes alive with wildflowers and baby animals as the warmer weather beats back winter.

With good weather and summer averages of around 20°c, this is one of the best times for touring Scotland. The downside is that popular routes, attractions, and hotels will be busy, so a road trip of Scotland in the summer months will require a little more advance planning. 

July and August are also the worst months for the infamous biting midges, especially if you’re planning on camping in a motorhome or tent on the West Coast, where they are generally at their worst.

A wonderful time for driving holidays in Scotland, the fall colors are some of the most dramatic in the world. Autumn is also deer rutting season, with lots of opportunities around the Highlands to see this mighty display.

Plan trips to Scotland during the colder months for winter sporting opportunities, dramatic scenery, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, or ‘Mirrie Dancers’ as they are sometimes called in Scotland.

There are an average of 15-20 snow days a year, rising to over 100 snow days in the Highlands – head to Aviemore in the Cairngorms if you’re looking for the white stuff, or just enjoy this fantastic winter destination for the scenery.

Scottish Outdoor Access Code

Whenever and however you visit Scotland, always follow the  Scottish Outdoor Access Code . The code helps you to get the best from your Scotland itinerary and ensures that the flora and fauna of this beautiful country are not harmed.

Getting to Scotland

Scotland has six main airports, and the good news is that one of them will be the perfect starting point for your ultimate Scottish road trip itinerary. We recommend booking through  Skyscanner  for live deals and the best prices.

• Edinburgh Airport (pronounced Ed-in-bruh if you want to sound like the locals!) for the Borders Historic Route  and Heart 200 .
• Glasgow International Airport for the South West Coastal 300 ,  Argyll Coastal Route , Isle of Skye and Kintyre 66 .
• Glasgow Prestwick Airport for the  South West Coastal 300 .
• Aberdeen Airport for the  North East 250 .
• Inverness Airport for the  North Coast 500 ,  Isle of Skye  and  Argyll Coastal Route .
• Dundee Airport for the  North East 250 .

You can hire a car  at any of these airports and be on your chosen Scotland driving tour route within a one hour drive. Book your rental car well in advance and use a car hire booker like Rentalcars.com  who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies.  How?  Because they have such a large market share, they’ve got way more buying power than individuals and can negotiate much harder on price.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in Scotland. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

For those planning a  Scottish staycation from the rest of the UK, get public transport like the train or even coach from  London  to Edinburgh and hire a car from there, or drive yourself to Scotland.

Driving in Scotland

Whether you roadtrip Scotland in a car, camper, or motorbike, make sure you’ve got all your documents handy and your spare tire is in good condition.

If your Scotland road trip itinerary is longer than a few weeks and you’re planning on using your own vehicle, you may want to consider a service before you go, and breakdown cover is probably a good idea. 

• Remember to drive on the left during your UK trip!
• Drivers from non-EU countries may require an International Driving Permit. The general rule is that if your license is not in English, then an IDP will be required. Check with your hire company or embassy if you’re in doubt.
• If you’re not a British citizen, you should carry your passport or ID card at all times as you road trip around Scotland.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle. Update August 2021 – you no longer require a green card to prove you have vehicle insurance cover when if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
• Your car must be considered legal and roadworthy in the country in which it is registered.
• Your headlights must be adapted for driving on the right if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
• Unlike France, the UK does not have laws that require you to carry certain equipment in your car, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. Being prepared in the event of an accident or a breakdown is invaluable. The best way is to carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.
• If you’re hiring a car, book well in advance and use a care hire booker like  Rentalcars.com  who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies. How? Because they have such a large market share, they’ve got way more buying power than individuals and can negotiate much harder on price.
• Understand insurance options, mileage limits, and fuel policies before booking.
• Check the car for damage on collection and make sure anything you spot is noted, and the same again when you drop it off.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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Best Scotland road trip itinerary (10, 14 & 18 day options)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 9, 2023

Planning a Scottish road trip? Our detailed Scotland road trip itinerary includes many of the most popular destinations, scenic routes , landmarks and sights when touring Scotland . Over 18 days explore cities, Highlands, islands and part of the popular North Coast 500 route. Options to reduce to a 10 day or 14 day Scotland road trip itinerary are also included.

As road trips go one destination you are sure of an epic road trip is Scotland! In this article, we have shared our own epic Scotland road trip itinerary which includes some of our favourite destinations across the country.

The itinerary starts and ends in Edinburgh and includes our recommended route, highlights to see every day plus where to stay and travel tips along the way.

If you are planning to visit Scotland our ultimate Scottish road trip itinerary is an off-the-peg plan which means you can use as-is or if you prefer simply adapt it to suit your own interests and needs. Although planned for 18 days it is possible to shorten the itinerary to 10 days, 14 days or whatever length you require.

If you are planning to hire a car in the UK we recommend reading our practical guide to car rental (and driving in the UK) which has essential information, tips and points to consider.

Prefer to travel by train? Check out our best of Scotland by rail itinerary ! Everything you need to know to plan your Scotland rail adventure.

📝 What to see in Edinburgh

🏨 where to stay in edinburgh, 🚗 day 4 – edinburgh to callander (via the kelpies and stirling), 🏞 day 5 – day trip to killin & pitlochry, 🚗 day 6 – callandar to oban via the trossachs and loch lomond, ⛴ day 7 – tour to mull, iona and staffa (day trip), 🚙 alternative itinerary for those prone to seasickness, 🚗 day 8 – oban to fort william, 🚂 day 9 – the jacobite, ⛴ day 10 – fort william to skye via mallaig, 🏞 days 11/12/13 – exploring skye, day 13/14 – ullapool (1 night), day 14/15 – durness & tongue (1 night), day 15/16 – orkneys (1 night), 🚗 day 17 – inverness, day 18 – edinburgh, where to next, what is the best road trip in scotland, how long is a road trip around scotland, how many days do you need to tour scotland, plan your trip to scotland, scotland road trip map & itinerary – overview.

Click for our Scotland road trip map (Google maps)

SCOTLAND ITINERARY AND ROAD TRIP ROUTE

• Days 1/2/3/4 – Edinburgh
• Days 4/5/6- Callander
• Days 6/7/8 – Oban & Islands
• Days 8/9/10 – Fort William
• Days 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye
• Days 13/14 – Ullapool (North Coast 500)
• Days 14/15 – Durness/Tongue/Skail (North Coast 500)
• Days 15/16 – Orkney
• Days 16/17/18 – Inverness

Days 1, 2, 3 & 4 – Edinburgh 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 (3 nights)

On Day 1 arrive in the capital city of Scotland, Edinburgh, via train. If you are staying in London and plan to take a road trip around Scotland it is quick and easy to take the train between the two capitals. Read more about how to get from London to Edinburgh .

👍 Good to know – Journey time is around 4½ to 5 hours so if you leave London at 9 am you should get into Edinburgh at around 1 pm – 1.30 pm which is the perfect time to head to your accommodation to check-in.

Arriving in Edinburgh early afternoon leaves a decent amount of the day for sightseeing, particularly in summer. Day 2/3 days to explore Edinburgh. Below are the main highlights we recommend including in your itinerary.

Read our guide to things to do in Edinburgh which also includes suggested itinerary ideas.

✅ The Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus stops at the main attractions and landmarks and is a great way to get around the city – book your tickets here .

✅ If your itinerary includes visiting Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Palace of Holyroodhouse we recommend purchasing a city card that includes entry to all 3 royal attractions plus the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour for 48 hours. (Note that Holyroodhouse is closed Tues/Wed).

• Edinburgh Castle – Tour and skip-the-line ticket
• Palace of Holyroodhouse (The Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays) – Buy your ticket here
• The Royal Mile – start at the Castle and walk down to Holyroodhouse
• Scott Monument
• The Real Mary King’s Close and Underground Vaults Tour – One of the most haunted places on earth apparently! 👻

• £ – Elder York Guest House – This is our choice of accommodation whenever we stay in Edinburgh – excellent breakfast, near the train station and nice rooms. * Note there are stairs to the accommodation so this is not suitable if you have any mobility issues.
• ££ – Ibis Syles Edinburgh St Andrews Square – With 24-hour reception, a bar and restaurant and free WiFi.
• £££ – The Balmoral Hotel – Edinburgh’s most famous luxury hotel offers guests a Michelin-starred restaurant, a pool and a gym.
• £££ – The Witchery – Lavishly furnished suites display gothic touches and 4-poster beds. Ideal location near Edinburgh Castle.

⭐️ Find more accommodation options in our guide to where to stay in Edinburgh

Days 4/5/6 – Callander (2 nights)

On day 4 travel from Edinburgh to Callandar. We recommend picking up your hire car at the point you are ready to leave the city to avoid any unnecessary parking expenses (or difficulties)

• Car hire options in Edinburgh include picking up at Waverley Train Station or Edinburgh Airport.
• The drive from the centre of Edinburgh to Callander takes just over 1 hour. Distance is 52 miles (83 km) via the M9. This route will take you past Falkirk and Stirling.
• The Kelpies
• The Falkirk Wheel
• Bannockburn
• National Wallace Monument
• Stirling Castle

🚗 Logistics

• Distance – 22 miles (35 km)
• Journey time – 35 mins
• Distance – 23 miles (36 km)
• Journey time – 38 mins (stop off to admire the views)
• Distance – 15 miles (24 km)
• Journey time – 25 mins
• Distance – 68 miles (109 km)
• Journey time – 1 hour 44 mins

⭐️ Highlights of the day

• Falls of Dochart
• Drive along the banks of Loch Tay
• The scenic beauty and picturesque views (don’t forget to charge your phone, pack memory cards for your cameras etc!)
• Blair Athol distillery
• Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder walk
• Afternoon tea at Crieff Hydro Hotel (Beautiful views)

Good to know – Highland cows can be seen in a field on the right-hand side of the road as you drive north out of Callendar .

🏨 Where to stay in Callander

• £ – Callander Hostel
• ££ – Highland Guest House
• £££ – Roman Camp Country House Hotel

🏞 Day 6/7/8 – Oban (2 nights)

Day 6 is a day spent exploring the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond National Park and Loch Katrine (Callander is located on the edge of the park) before heading for 2 nights in Oban.

Take a picnic and enjoy the views and scent of the forests. Head to the village of Balloch (a 45-minute drive from Callander) for a boat trip across Loch Lomond.

Oban is a 1 hour 45 mins drive from Balloch where you will check into your accommodation for the next 2 nights. If you wish to visit one of Scotland’s most beautiful castles at Inveraray it is possible to take a slightly different route via A83 and A819 which only adds around 10 minutes to the journey time.

• Mileage Callander to Balloch is 28 miles (45 km)
• Mileage from Balloch to Oban is 74 miles (119 km) on the A82
• The mileage from Balloch to Oban via Inverary Castle on the A83 is 77 miles (125 km).
• Loch Lomond (the Queen of Scottish lochs)
• Loch Katrine
• Scenic views
• Boat trip across Loch Lomond from Balloch ( Island Discovery 2-Hour Cruise )
• Inverary Castle

🏨 Where to stay in Oban

• £ – Oban Youth Hostel
• ££ – Greencourt Guest House
• ££ £ – No.26 By The Sea

Day 7 drive from your accommodation in Oban to join the 3 Isles tour of Mull, Iona and Staffa . This is an all-day tour departing from Oban at 9:55 and returning at 20:05.

Notes – If you are prone to seasickness this may not be for you as the trip from Mull to Staffa and then Staffa to Iona is in a small boat. There are no toilets on Staffa.

• Ferry to Mull and road trip of the island
• Duart Castle
• Iona and Iona Abbey
• Boat trip to the Isle of Staffa to see Fingal’s Cave

If one or more of your party decides they don’t want to do the day trip to the islands there is an alternative. As Doug gets seasick this is what he did when I was over exploring the islands.

Drive up the coast road A828 towards Ballachulish / Glencoe. This is an alternative route to the way you will drive to Glen Coe on day 8 but is an equally pretty drive.

Highlights along the way include

• Dunstaffnage Castle
• Castle Stalker
• Port Appin (tiny port)

Days 8/9/10 – Fort William (2 nights)

Today we drive from Oban to Fort William via Rannock Moor and Glen Coe on the A82. In our view, the drive through Glen Coe is one of the most spectacular drives in Scotland (if not the world) Rannock Moor is a barren and rugged landscape and is one of the most remote places in Britain.

Stop at the Rannock Moor viewpoint and enjoy the views over this incredible place.

Read – Fort William Travel Guide & Ultimate Guide to things to do in Fort William

• Distance – 83 miles (133 km)
• Journey time – 2 hours (but do plan to stop off and enjoy the views along the way)
• Rannock Moor Viewpoint at the Bridge or Orchy
• Glen Etive (James Bond Skyfall drive)
• Three sister’s car park
• Buachaille Etive Mòr car park
• Views of Ben Nevis (the UK’s highest peak)

Tip – Stop off at the Green Welly shop located between Tyndrum and Crianlarich.

🏨 Where to stay in Fort William

• £ – Garrison Cells
• ££ – The Garrison
• £££ – Victoria House B&B

Read – Area and accommodation guide for Fort William

🚂 Logistics

Riding the Harry Potter train (or the Jacobite to give it its muggle name) is every Harry Potter fan’s dream and is one of the most popular train journeys in the UK.

Read – How to ride the Harry Potter train in Scotland

⭐️ Highlights of the day 🪄

• Riding the train across the Glenfinnan Viaduct
• Observing the train from the Glenfinnan viewpoint crossing the viaduct later in the day
• Glenfinnan Church
• Neptune’s Staircase
• Read – Things to do in Fort William

Day 10/11/12/13 – Isle of Skye (3 nights)

Drive from Fort William to Mallaig which takes around 1 hour. Distance 43 miles (69 km) via A830. Cross over from Mallaig to Armadale on Skye via the CalMac ferry.

The ferry takes 30 mins. There are a number of departures per day. Book asap as this is a very popular route.

On arrival at Armadale, you will head to your accommodation. We recommend staying around Portree and exploring the island from there as your base.

Drive time from Armadale to Portree is around 1 hour via the A851 and A87. Distance is 42 miles (62 km)

• Scenic views on the drive from Fort William to Mallaig
• Ferry crossing
• Drive to Portree (depending on crossing time you can stop and enjoy the scenery along the way)

🏨 Where to stay in Skye

• £ – Sonas, Dundans
• ££ – Loch Eyre House
• £££ – Raasay House Hotel
• Guide to where to stay in Skye (areas and accommodation)

You have 2 full days to explore the Isle of Skye.

Drive the western driving loop on Day 10 and the northern driving loop on Day 11.

Many of the roads in Skye are narrow single-file lanes and you will need to pay attention to other road users (and animals!) as you drive.

Tip – Make reservations at restaurants prior to arrival as they can be busy and you may struggle especially during the summer months. We recommend the Edinbane Inn.

⭐️ Highlights of each day included

• Dunvegan Castle
• Neist Point Lighthouse
• Talisker Distillery
• The Fairy Pools
• Sligachan Old Bridge

• Old Man of Storr
• Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls
• The Fairy Glen

Read – One-day itinerary for the Isle of Skye

Read – How to get to the Isle of Skye from Edinburgh

Check out from accommodation today and drive across the Skye bridge to the mainland and the Kyle of Lochalsh. The distance from Portree to the Kyle of Lochalsh via A87 is 50 mins – 34 miles/55 km.

The destination for this evening is Ullapool but there are a couple of places worth exploring along the way.

1. Plockton – 14 minutes from Kyle of Lochalsh (6 miles/ 10 km)

2. Eilean Donan Castle – Drive from Plockton to Eilean Donan Castle is around 20 minutes via A87. (11 miles/18 km)

Tip – Manuela’s Wee Bakery is only a few minutes drive from Eilean Donan and is a must-visit for a tasty snack!

The last leg of the journey today is from Eilean Donan Castle to Ullapool. This takes around 3 hours via Poolewe on the A890 and A832.

Distance is 120 miles (193 km) You are now driving the famous North Coast Scotland route.

• Plockton – Beautiful village famously featured in the Hamish Macbeth TV series
• Eilean Donan Castle – £10 admission charge for adults
• Manuela’s Wee Bakery
• Driving over the famous Bealach Na Ba road from Kishorn to Applecross!

🏨 Where to stay in Ullapool

• £ – Dacama House
• ££ – Broomview Cottage B&B

• First leg – Ullapool to Durness via Scourie on the A835, A894 and A838. Distance – 67 miles/109 km. Time – 1 hour 45 mins.
• Second leg – Durness to Tongue on the A838 Distance – 29 miles/47 kms. Time – 1 hour

Accommodation for the night is in Skail (23 miles from Tongue) which adds another 30 mins to the day’s driving time but accommodation is available in Tongue too.

Plan longer for each leg due to stopping to enjoy scenic views, unscheduled delays such as traffic/wildlife/sheep and rest stops.

• Clachtoll Beach
• Clashnessie Beach
• Golden Eagle Zipline

🏨 Where to stay in Durness or Tongue

• £ – Wee Hoose Glamping Pod
• ££ – Farr Bay Inn
• £££ – Altnaharra Hotel

Drive from your accommodation to catch the ferry from Gills Bay to Mainland Orkney. The journey takes around an hour and arrives at St Margaret’s Hope.

There is enough time to explore some of the main highlights of the island. Make sure to book tickets for popular places such as Skara Brae and Maeshowe.

• Dunnet Head Lighthouse (the most northerly point of mainland Britain)
• Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar
• Maeshowe Chambered Cairn

Read – What to do and see on Mainland Orkney

Day 16/17/18 – Orkney to Inverness (2 nights) via John O’Groats

Catch the ferry from Orkney back to Gill’s Bay. Head south via John O’Groats to the last stop in the Scottish Highlands – the city of Inverness.

• Journey time from John O’Groats is 2 hours 40 mins via A99 and A9
• Distance from John O’Groats is 119 miles (192 km)

🏨 Where to stay in Inverness

• £ – Alba B&B
• ££ – Heathmount Hotel
• £££ – Bunchrew House Hotel

Read – Where to stay in Inverness (Area and accommodation guide)

Logistics of the day

Today is spent exploring the main sights and landmarks in and around Inverness. The itinerary for today includes visiting Culloden, the Clava Cairns, Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness.

Read – Day trips from Inverness

• Culloden Battlefield
• Loch Ness and cruise – there are a few companies that offer boat trips on Loch Ness or you can take a day tour from Inverness if you prefer
• Castle Urquart

Today drive back to Edinburgh from Inverness to return the rental car. The drive time is dependent on the option you choose. The 3 options are

• A9 3 hours – 156 miles (250 km)
• A9/M9 3 hours 30 mins – 179 miles (288 km) This goes via Stirling
• A93 4 hours – 171 miles (275 km) through the Cairngorms National Park and down via Perth to Edinburgh

If you have time we recommend option 3 through the Cairngorms as this is a beautifully scenic route.

Once back in Edinburgh you can connect with onward travel via the train station or airport.

For example, you could take the Caledonian Sleeper back to London which is a great way to get back to the UK capital and save time (as it is an overnight service) or you could take the train to York !

Frequently asked questions about planning a road trip in Scotland

The most famous road trip in Scotland is the North Coast 500 but there are many fantastic road trips in Scotland to choose from.

These include

• South West Coast 300 – Through Dumfries & Galloway and southern Ayrshire.
• North East 250 – Includes the Malt Whisky Trail, the Cairngorms National Park Aberdeen and the Moray Firth Coast
• The Borders Historic Route

As you can see from the above road trips they can vary. Some of Scotland’s road trips can be as little as 90 miles (the Snow Roads Scenic Route in the Cairngorms) to 500 kms for the North Coast 500.

We recommend planning at least a week for your road trip – longer if you can! There is so much to see from historic castles to stunning coastlines, fishing villages, lochs and Munros, to islands and more!

Take your time – stop and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way!

Read more in our extensive guides to Scotland

• Scotland Travel Guide
• UK road trip planner
• 7 UK road trip itineraries
• Guide to the different regions of Scotland
• 19 beautiful places to visit in Scotland
• Guide to Scottish Islands
• Books to read about Scotland (or best movies set in Scotland )
• Best Outlander Tours in Scotland 2022

How To Plan An Epic Scotland Road Trip (Map, Itinerary + Tips)

A detailed guide to help you plan an amazing Scotland road trip – including a map, 8 day itinerary, a free travel planner and a ton of helpful tips!

Have a dream of going on a Scotland road trip but have no idea where to start? In this comprehensive guide I will walk you through all of the important things you need to know to plan the best Scotland road trip. Let me help you figure out what to prepare, where to go, how to drive, what to see, things to do and what to pack! Also included is my Scotland road trip map and 8 day itinerary.

Doing a Scotland road trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life, I’m not even exaggerating  a little . This experience is one for the bucket lists, so if you’re even the slightest intrigued – DO IT. I promise you won’t regret it. Its about time you explore Glasgow , Edinburgh and the Scottish highlands on the most epic Scotland road trip of your life.

Now, keep reading for my best tips on making your Scotland road trip the best one ever!

Table Of Contents

What to prepare for a scotland road trip, what to pack for a scotland road trip.

• Tips On Driving In Scotland

Free Printable Scotland Road Trip Planner

• DAY 1-2: Glasgow
• DAY 3: Highlands Part I (The West)
• DAY 4: Highlands Part II (Isle of Skye)
• DAY 5: Highlands Part III (Loch Ness & Beyond)
• DAY 6-8: Edinburgh

This post contains affiliate links

Planning a Scotland road trip might seem overwhelming at first, but don’t worry. Let me break it all down for you and show you what and what to prepare for a Scotland road trip.

1. Research & Plan In Advance

There are an unlimited amount of beautiful things to see and do on a Scotland road trip, especially through the Scottish Highlands. Although driving around the highlands with no plan in mind sounds very zen, it’s not the best idea if your travel time or money is in any way limited – as it is for most people. The distances are big, and if you want to spend your time smart on your Scotland road trip you should have a plan.

Do proper research and figure out what things you and your travel companions want to prioritize, and plot it all into Google Maps. Play around with different driving routes and see what you can make time for on your Scotland road trip. Try not to stress, you’re already halfway there by reading this guide.

2. Rent A Car

Unless you’re doing a tour that includes transportation, getting around the outer parts of Scotland is hard without renting a car. There is honestly no way around it: Rent that car. As they may literally run out of cars, I recommend booking a rental car in advance, especially during peak season. I suggest making sure you’re booking one without a stick shift if you’re not used to it from before. Driving on narrow Scottish roads and on the left might be enough for most people, you shouldn’t have to worry about learning to clutch on top of it all.

3. Schedule In Extra Time

… in case something happens. You may get ill, have an accident of some sort, or your car may break down. Our itinerary was pretty full, but we were always within reach of our final destination (driving time wise). We also had an extra buffer since we were planning on s few days in Edinburgh before flying home. You should also get travel insurance , for the same reasons.

4. Book Accommodation In Advance

Although Scotland is a popular destination to visit, accommodation is still limited in the rural areas and I recommend you always book in advance. Not only to make sure you actually have a bed to sleep in, but for your wallets sake as well. It can get very expensive. With websites like Booking.com you can get free cancellation on a bunch of places, which makes it easy to change your mind and book another place if your plans change.

5. Take Prints & Prep Your Phone

Cell service can be very unstable in certain parts of the highlands. Even though there are hotels and restaurants with wifi every now and then, do yourself a favor and do some prep work instead of stressing with getting wifi every time you stop your car. Get prints or screenshots of your driving route, important addresses, hotel names & numbers, nearby restaurants, etc. I also recommend creating a travel map on Google Maps and downloading it on your phone so you can use it offline – game changer! You should also download some playlists on Spotify for the drive.

Deciding on what to pack for a Scotland road trip can be tricky. The content of your packing list will obviously vary with what season you’re traveling in and what activities you’ll be doing. I’ll leave the detailed packing list up to you, but here are some general tips on what to pack for a Scotland road trip to get you started:

• Pack a selection of everyday outfits depending on season, preferably layers. Beware that similar to Norway and Ireland, the temperatures in Scotland vary a lot even in summer. So make sure to bring some warm layers like a neutral wool cardigan or knitted sweater you can wear over most outfits. Comfort is key for driving and experiencing the highlands, but I would also include a few nicer outfits for city life in Glasgow and Edinburgh .
• Bring sportswear like tights and t-shirts if you’re hiking or doing other outdoor activities during summer. Hiking The Old Man of Storr we saw a young woman wearing a dress and the highest wedges I’ve ever seen.. Needless to say, she didn’t get far.
• A waterproof jacket is a must in all seasons. I brought my favorite yellow raincoat, but although it looks cure in pictures it wasn’t ideal for active days. The lack of ventilation made it unsuitable for hiking, so if I suggest you learn from my mistakes and bring a jacket in a more breathable and windproof material if you’re planning on being active like us. The Arc’teryx Beta SL Hybrid Jacket is a great option. If you’re traveling during winter you should consider bringing a warm parka as well, like the Fjällräven Barents Parka which is both wind- and waterproof.
• Comfortable outdoor trousers is also practical for outdoor activities. An elastic pair like the Fjällräven Abisko Trekking Tights are great for the warmer months, while the Fjällräven Vidda Pro Trousers are better for the colder months.
• Gloves, a scarf and a warm hat are a must for the colder seasons.
• Bring wool thermals in the colder months, or if its a cold summer.
• I recommend packing one pair of sneakers or other comfortable shoes that go with most of your outfits. The kind you would wear on a regular basis back home.
• If you like to dress up when in the city you can consider packing one fancier pair, but you could always just use your sneakers for that too.
• Pack one pair of hiking shoes depending on season, weather conditions and your personal preferences. Preferably ones in a breathable and waterproof material, and with a good grip. I know a lot of people prefer hiking boots due to their ankle support, like  these waterproof Timberland boots . I personally find hiking boots bulky and heavy to wear and if you’re anything like me I recommend trying lighter shoes, like these waterproof  Salomon X Ultra hiking shoes  with Gore-Tex.
• Consider bringing warm boots if you’re visiting Scotland in winter. It can be a real struggle to find winter boots which are both warm, waterproof  and  stylish. The nicest ones I’ve found so far are the Timberland Jayne Waterproof Boots and the Timberland Jayne Waterproof Teddy Fleece Boots .

Electronics & Misc.

• Don’t forget to pack a durable and travel sized umbrella. I mean, it’s Scotland after all.
• A powerful  Powerbank  is a must for charging your devices on the move.
• A power adapter for UK outlets is always clever to pack.
• Bring a reusable bottle for the road trip and your hiking adventures. Or even better, a Camelbak – my personal favorite hydration system. (PS: The tap water in Scotland is safe to drink).
• A daypack for hiking and day trips is a must. The ever-faithful Fjällräven Kånken  will do on day trips, but for hiking I suggest you get a more comfortable daypack like the Osprey Daylite Plus . Especially if you’re bringing heavy camera equipment. Don’t forget to pack a rain cover !
• A camera with extra batteries and memory cards. I recommend a light travel camera with interchangeable lenses and the option of shooting in RAW. My favorite is the  Sony a6500  camera with the  30mm 1.4 lens  for portraits and detail shots, and the  16mm 1.4 lens  for landscapes.
• Waterproof  dry bags  are great to pack in any season to protect clothes, electronics and other items. A must if you’re bringing camera equipment while hiking in the rain.

Also Read: How To Avoid Overpacking

6 Tips For Driving In Scotland

When our Scotland road trip was getting closer, I remember becoming more and more anxious about how I would handle driving in Scotland. Every travel blog I read warned me about narrow roads and low cell service, but none of that sounded unfamiliar to me. One of the perks of growing up in northern Norway, I guess? But the one thing that stressed the hell out of me about driving in Scotland was the fact that I knew I had to drive on the left. Sounds familiar? Keep reading for my best tips on how to succeed when driving in Scotland.

1. Don’t Stress About Driving On The Left

I’ll admit, driving on the left side was super weird at first. But I swear you get used to it pretty fast! I suggest doing a practice drive when picking up the rental car, it helps a lot. The thing is that the cars are adapted for driving on the left, so as a driver you’ll sit on the right and use your left hand to change the gear. In other words, everything is opposite ‘your normal’, making the process surprisingly logical. (The exception is the pedals, which are located in the same place as you’re used to). Focus a little extra when you have to make a right turn and in roundabouts, and you’ll be fine.

2. Be Attentive Of Your Surroundings

Remember to always be attentive of your surroundings when driving in Scotland. Keep in mind that the weather can change suddenly, and be aware of possible wildlife (I almost hit a deer, eeek). And whatever you do, do NOT hit the breaks and stop for photos in the middle of the road. You should also let other cars pass if you drive slowly.

3. Use The Passing Places

The roads are narrow in the Scottish highlands, which is part of its charm. Wherever the road get sparticularly narrow you’ll see designated passing places (see photo above). Make sure to use them if you meet a car on a narrow road. The general rule of thumb is that whoever is closest to a passing place stops and wait for the other car to pass. If someone stops for you, it’s polite to give them a little wave or turn on the emergency button for a few seconds as a sign of gratitude.

4. Stock Up On Gas & Food

Gas stations and other service stops are few and far between, especially in rural areas like the Isle of Skye. Keep an extra eye on your gas tank indicator and stop to refill waaay before you need to. It might be helpful to mark gas stations off in your offline maps as well. Also make sure you use the correct fuel. For the same reason I also highly recommend you stock up on food, snacks and drinks for the drive. Trust me, running out of food and drinks while driving in a foreign country is no fun at all.

5. Laws & Signs You Should Know About

Laws and signs in Scotland are similar to the ones you’ll find all over Europe. I recommend you have a look here if you’re not used to European or UK signs, it can be quite helpful. Unlike most of Europe, the UK operates with miles instead of kilometers and all speed limits are stated in miles per hour (mph). The speed limit is usually 30 mph (48 km/h) unless signs show otherwise, normally in built-up areas. The limit often increases to 60 or 70 mph once you get out of built-up areas and/or hit larger roads. You should also note that Scotland has a zero tolerance for drinking & driving.

6. Get Insured

In addition to your regular travel insurance, make sure your rental car is insured in the best possible way. I know car rental companies make some serious bucks on this, but for us it was worth it to not worry. Imagine your car breaking down in the highlands. Not only will it get expensive getting it towed and renting a new car, but your plans & schedule will take the hardest hit. NOT worth it. We paid extra so that in case out car broke down in the middle of nowhere, not only would someone pick us up and tow the car – they’d also bring us a new rental car so that we could continue with our road trip! Although this didn’t happen to us, it was still worth every penny. 

Places To See – Our 8 Day Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

Since we only 8 days to spend we wanted our Scotland road trip to be as efficient as possible, although without stressing around too much. There were so many places in Scotland we wanted to see, and in order to find a realistic driving route we could all be happy with, we adding everything from our wish list into Google Maps.

First, we set aside a few days each in our first and last locations, Glasgow and Edinburgh. We scheduled in an extra day in Edinburgh since we figured we’d be tired from all the driving in the highlands (we were right about that part), and as a precaution in case something were to happen during our trip (it didn’t, but it was still worth it). Second, we played around with different driving routes, while checking suitable accommodation options, until we found the perfect compromise:

DAY 1-2: Glasgow DAY 3: Highlands Part I – Doune Castle – Loch Lomond – Glencoe – Eilean Donan Castle DAY 4: Highlands Part II – Isle of Skye – Sligachan – Old Man of Storr – Kilt Rock Viewpoint – Fairy Glen – Neist Point Lighthouse – Loch Ness DAY 5: Highlands Part III – Loch Ness – Urquhart Castle – Inverness – Culloden Battlefield – Midhope Castle DAY 6-8: Edinburgh

Our 8 day Scotland road trip itinerary might be a bit hectic for some people, and I’ll admit, it were three eventful days. But it was AMAZING and I wouldn’t change this adventure for the world. We personally like this way of travel, and although we would all love more time in Scotland it wasn’t possible at this time. Our Scotland road trip itinerary never seemed rushed and we took our time at every stop along the way. If you want a more relaxed trip and have more time on your hands, you could also easily do this road trip in 4 or more days. Heck, not even a month would be enough!

CLICK TO SEE MY SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY MAP

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 1-2: GLASGOW

As mentioned previously, our Scotland road trip adventure started with two days in Glasgow. It rained pretty much the entire time, but it didn’t matter – we still loved every second of it. Impressive street art, delicious food, fun pubs, gorgeous architecture, lovely locals? Check x 6. So if you’re even considering skipping Glasgow on your Scotland trip, just cancel those plans right now.

Read: A Complete Guide To Glasgow

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 3: THE HIGHLANDS PART I

371 km | 5 hours, 21 minutes

Our alarms went off at 5AM our first day of the road trip. We went straight to the airport to pick up our rental car and by 7 AM we were already on our way to our first stop: Doune Castle. The first part of the drive was mainly highways, which don’t even exist in arctic Norway, so I’m sure even martians could hear the sighs of relief coming from Anette and I when native Detroiter Samantha volunteered to drive first. THANK YOU. Sam did great and the drive went surprisingly fast.

DOUNE CASTLE (A.K.A. WINTERFELL & CASTLE LEOCH)

We stopped at Blair Drummond Smiddy Farm Shop for a quick breakfast and some much needed coffee before heading to Doune Castle. Smiddy’s is this adorable café, butchery and farm shop all in one, and their selection of local produce and specialties from Scotland were great. The perfect place to enjoy a meal and get some souvenirs. A couple of minutes more on the road and we arrived Doune Castle. We were so excited – our very first Scottish castle experience!

Doune Castle may look familiar. It’s a famous castle in Scotland that’s been a popular filming location throughout the years. Most people might recognize it as Winterfell from the first season of Game of Thrones, or as Castle Leoch in Outlander. Monty Python and The Holy Grail was also filmed here. In reality, the castle was built as the home of Regent Albany in the 14th century. In other words, there is a lot of interesting history to take in while walking in the footsteps of both fictional and real rulers.

Since we were there when they opened it thankfully wasn’t too crowded. Included in the entrance ticket is an audio tour, which was a very comfortable way of learning about the castle since you get to walk around at your own pace. The audio tour helps you imagine how life must have been like back in medieval times. It was an added bonus that the tour was narrated by Outlander’s own Sam Heughan (aka Jamie Fraser). He must have the most comfortable voice in history. It didn’t take long until the castle started to get crowded, however, so I recommend getting there early in the morning to avoid the worst. Visit their official website for updated prices and opening hours.

LOCH LOMOND & THE TROSSACHS

From Doune we continued driving northwest towards Glencoe. It was my turn to drive and I was grateful our highway days were over and the huge roads were replaced with narrow, rural ones instead. It was just like driving back home in northern Norway. You know, except the part about driving on the left side and nearly peeing in my pants the first few miles. It was the fun type of challenging though, and I quickly adapted to the UK style of driving.

We shortly entered the outer parts of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and the nature was simply gorgeous. This was our first real encounter with the Scottish nature and we were shocked by how green and lush everything looked. It was a bit foggy but that only made the experience more magical. We pulled over by Loch Lubnaig to stretch our legs and it was so peaceful sitting by the water in complete silence. I wouldn’t mind seeing more of the national park, all the locals we talked to in Glasgow recommended it wholeheartedly.

After another hour in our cute little Ford, the beauty of Glencoe started to reveal itself. It was pouring rain, a little foggy, but we could still see the mountains and hilltops surrounding us. We couldn’t get over how green everything was! It sounds weird but it was like a different kind of green than we’ve ever seen while traveling. My favorite sights in Glencoe were The Three Sisters and the Skyfall location and I still get goosebumps whenever I think about those places. Once in a while, the sunlight would shine through the heavy clouds and turn the lush green a bit more yellow, before suddenly disappearing.. Leaving everything green and moody again. It felt a bit like magic.

We continued driving until we reached Glencoe Village, where we stopped to grab dinner at Glencoe Gathering . Their food was good and it was next door to cozy Glencoe Inn , which seemed like a great place to stay. The three of us all fell in love with Glencoe in our short stay, and if we had more time this is definitely a place we would spend a few days. There is so much to do in and around Glencoe, making it the perfect hub. We would love to hike The Three Sisters or even Ben Nevis – the highest mountain in the British Isles. Glencoe is a short drive form Fort William and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct from Harry Potter. You can even catch the Jacobite train, aka the Hogwarts Express! I’m definitely spending more time in Glencoe on my next Scotland trip, preferably staying at lovely Glencoe House – it looks incredible.

EILEAN DONAN CASTLE

Our drive continued a few hours until we arrived Eilean Donan Castle . This is one of the most famous castles in the highlands and have been featured in movies like James Bond – The World is Not Enough , Highlander , Elizabeth: The Golden Age , Made of Honor , and many more. Since we got there quite late in the afternoon we almost got the entire place all to ourselves. The only people around were a couple of newlyweds having a photo shoot by the loch, and another couple from Spain who we randomly ran into while hiking the following day (small world, huh). The 13th century castle was such a beauty and we had a lot of fun walking around exploring the area and learning about it’s vivid history .

Since we got there after opening hours we didn’t get the chance to see the inside of the castle or visit the gift shop & café, so make sure you check their opening hours before visiting. We still enjoyed it a lot though, so I would still recommend stopping by even if it’s after they close. The little island the castle is located will be open regardless of their hours, so it’s still a fun experience.

TIP: From Eiliean Donan Castle we drove directly to our hostel in Sligachan on the Isle of Skye, since we wanted to begin our hike to The Old Man of Storr early the next morning. It is also possible to find accommodation a bit closer to Eilean Donan Castle, like in Broadford on the Isle of Skye. Broadford is larger and has a larger selection of places to eat and places to sleep , which is perfect after a long day of driving and exploring.

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 4: HIGHLANDS PART II (Isle Of Skye)

314 km | 5 hours, 25 minutes

Day 2 of our roadtrip we woke up in Sligachan on the Isle of Skye. We stayed at Sligachan Bunkhouse which was right up our alley: Nothing fancy, you get a room with clean beds and shared bathrooms. But that was literally all we needed. The hostel has common areas which makes it social for those who would like to make new friends, and there is a kitchen on site as well.

The bunkhouse is located next to Sligachan Hotel , which has both a restaurant and bar, so we went there to enjoy a Scottish breakfast before heading out. The food was delicious, and they have a good selection og fluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. Sligachan Old Bridge and various hiking routes are right outside their doorstep, and the ultimate whisky legend Talisker Distillery is only 8 miles from the hotel. I would definitely stay here next time I’m in Sligachan.

TIP: If you would like to stay in an area of Skye with more dining options and things to do, you should consider Portree . Such a beautiful village! Broadford , as I mentioned previously, is also a great option.

THE OLD MAN OF STORR

Starting in Sligachan, we drove north on the beautiful Isle of Skye, enjoying the wonderful view until we reached the Old Man of Storr car park after about 30 minutes behind the wheel. There were a ton of parking spaces there, which indicates how popular this hike really is. We instantly recognized the magnificent rock formations that Storr is known for from the car park and it was very easy to spot the trail. The main trail quickly spreads into a large number of different pathways you can choose from, so we never felt like we were walking in a queue despite crowds growing with every hour.

The hike was incredible, and the rain and clouds didn’t hurt. Frankly, they set the perfect moody tone Scotland does better than any other place. We walked around exploring for hours, enjoying ourselves completely. The hike isn’t too hard and it should be within reach for people in any shape – just take your time if it gets hard. You can do it. Remember to bring water and some snacks or food if you plan on spending some time up there like us.

Wear suitable clothes for the weather and maybe bring an extra shift so that you can change at the top if you get sweaty, as it can get quite windy up there. Unless it’s super slippery there isn’t necessary to bring hiking boots for this trip in our opinion, if you have sneakers with a good grip you should be fine. However, if you’re an inexperienced hiker it might be a good idea to wear hiking boots for extra balance and grip. We ran into a few people that couldn’t make it up there due to wearing high heels, so please be smarter haha.

KILT ROCK VIEWPOINT

After our hike we continued driving north until we arrived Kilt Rock Viewpoint. From this observation point you get to see two major sights on the Isle of Skye: Beautiful Mealt waterfall and Kilt Rock (a rock that resemble a kilt). There were a lot of other tourists there when we visited so we didn’t stay long, but it was a wonderful sight nonetheless. Ohh and there was a man in a kilt playing the bagpipe when we were there, which was fun.

A short drive from the viewpoint we reached Staffin, a community with some restaurants and accommodation options. We were pretty hungry from our adventurous day, so we stopped at the first place we saw that served food. Turns out we got lucky – Columba 1400 is number one on TripAdvisor in this area. They had good and filling food, highly recommended after an active day outdoors.

TIP: There is a lot more to see & do in this area. For instance, you can check out real dinosaur foot prints not far from Kilt Rock Viewpoint (as long as you time it with the tide, which we did not). The Quiaraing , a popular hiking destination, is also in this area.

THE FAIRY GLEN | CASTLE EWAN

After dinner we continued driving north towards Uig. Although you can reach Uig by driving through The Quiaraing, we continued driving the A855 around the top of Isle of Skye. Although I hear the Quiaraing is supposed to be breathtaking, the drive around was insaaane as well. There’s just something about the rock formations by the Scottish coast, it’s so beautiful.

Once we reached the western side of Isle of Skye we headed towards The Fairy Glen – a strange and unique landscape in the middle of nowhere. It’s hard to explain exactly what it is. I would say it’s like a miniature Scotland within one area; you’ve got lush green grass, sheep, a glen, and loads of tiny hills you can climb and trails you can follow. We walked around there for an hour or so, climbing Castle Ewan (the most popular little top) and it was a really lovely place to visit. There weren’t too many other visitors at the time, but I hear it can get very busy at times. Maybe we did something right by arriving in late afternoon? Who knows.

NEIST POINT LIGHTHOUSE

After The Fairy Glen we continued further west on Skye until we arrived Neist Point Lighthouse. In addition to The Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse is probably the Scottish landmark I’ve seen the most on Instagram . And I completely get why. The landscape is incredible with it’s dramatic cliffs rising straight from the wavy turquoise ocean, with an iconic lighthouse at the very outer cliff. There is also loads of adorable sheep running around eating and playing.. YOU GUYS THERE WERE SO MANY CUTE SHEEP!

It’s approximately a 15 minute walk from the parking area to the lighthouse, but with all the wonderful sights around I can almost guarantee the walk will take a larger toll on your schedule. Be aware that there is a steep staircase down the first part of the trail, which can be a challenge for people with walking disabilities, FYI. You can still see quite a lot from ‘above’, though!

Although I wish we got to experience more of the western part of Skye, we had to drive straight to our hostel by Loch Ness after visiting Neist Point Lighthouse. But before we left Skye we had the most amaazing drive in the sunset along the B884 road towards Sligachan. I can’t even begin to describe how beautiful it was! The perfect end to our Isle of Skye visit.

TIP: The western part of Skye has a lot more to offer than we had time for, like loads of amazing nature and lovely villages. If you have more time than us you should consider visiting Dunvegan Castle & Gardens which looks amazing! Or the The Talisker Distillery which is also located here.

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 5: HIGHLANDS PART III (Loch Ness & Beyond)

308 km | 4 hours, 11 minutes

LOCH NESS & URQUHART CASTLE

Loch Ness was literally the first thing I saw when I opened my eyes the morning of day five. I had to enjoy the view for a while, try to take it all in. We stayed at The Lochside Hostel , which is the perfect option if you’re on a budget or if you want to socialize with other travelers on your trip. The common areas were super cozy, and you can even take a swim in Loch Ness if you want – the Lochside has it’s private beach. If you value more comfort and privacy, the Tigh Na Bruach B&B might be a better fit for you.

A short drive from our hostel was Urquhart Castle; One of Scotland’s largest castles once upon a time. It served as a medieval fortress for 500 years and played a vital role in many conflicts during this time . The government troops blew up the castle at the end of the Jacobite Risings, and only Urquhart’s ruins remains. The castle is still a beautiful sight, especially since it’s marvellous location – overlooking the Loch Ness. You have to purchase a ticket to enjoy the castle up close, but it is really worth every cent. The gift shop was also really cool! It’s a very popular destination so I recommend arriving slightly before they open to hopefully avoid the worst crowds.

If you want to really experience Loch Ness up close I suggest you take a cruise for the very best view of the loch and the castle. Who knows, maybe you’ll get to see Nessie? You can also combine a Loch Ness cruise with a visit to Urquhart Castle – the perfect combo.

From Urquhart Castle it only took us roughly 30 minutes in our tiny Ford to get to Inverness. It was the most charming town we’d seen in ages so we spent most of our day here exploring and wandering the lovely streets of the town.

Our first stop was Leakey’s Second-hand Bookshop in Church Street. Oh my gosh, I can’t even begin to describe how much we loved this place. The bookshop is enormous and is located in an old church, creating a special atmosphere not only book lovers like ourselves will appreciate. We browsed around and hung out in their comfortable couch before buying a few ones each. Worth a visit, even if you just want to have a quick look. Inverness has plenty of other stores too; something for everyone for sure.

Inverness also has a castle and we got a great view of it while crossing Ness Bridge, towards Columba Hotel. If you want the best view of River Ness and the town from above, you can visit Inverness Castle Viewpoint right by the castle. Check out The Castle Tavern for food when you’re in the area. We enjoyed some coffee and dessert at SO COCO , but they recently closed permanently, what a shame.

CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD

It’s impossible to visit Scotland without learning a little about the dark and interesting history of this beautiful country. One of the most important battles of Scottish history took place at Culloden Moor, a mere 20 minute drive outside of Inverness. The Battle of Culloden took place on April 16th 1746 and was the final confrontation of the Jacobite rising. Although the battle only lasted one hour, it was a violent and bloody one, leaving 1,500 – 2,000 Jacobites wounded or dead. The conflict was the end of the Jacobite rising, leaving Great Britain with the power, and was actually the last pitched battle that was fought on British soil.

Honestly, I probably would never have visited Culloden Battlefield if it wasn’t for Outlander’s role in making me interested in the history of Scotland. And I’m very grateful it did, because the history is really interesting. The battlefield itself is free of charge to visit, but if you want to put what you see into context there is an award winning visitor centre with both a museum, café and a shop at the grounds too. Tickets are only £11 and they include an audio tour (available in six languages).

TIP: We drove the A9 south from Culloden Battlefield towards Edinburgh, following the outer parts of Cairngorms National Park . And it was such a wonderful area! I recommend you explore more of this park if you have the chance.

MIDHOPE CASTLE (A.K.A. “LALLYBROCH”)

Any Outlander fans who regognize this castle?? That’s right, it’s Lallybroch! When we saw it was only a 40 minute drive from Edinburgh we had to stop by before returning our rental car in Edinburgh. It was late afternoon and we got the entire place to ourselves. It felt so surreal walking around the property with no one else around.

From Midhope Castle it’s only a 15 minute drive to Blackness Castle, another Outlander location. This 15th century fortress was used to represent Fort William in Outlander (remember where Jamie was punished by Black Jack Randall in season one?). 

It’s definitely possible to visit these Outlander locations without renting a car, but it’s significantly cheaper to book a tour than to order a taxi between the locations (and to/from Glasgow or Edinburgh). This one day tour offers visits to both Midhope Castle, Blackness Castle, Doune Castle (mentioned earlier in this post) and a few more. The price is really good, too! 

SCOTLAND ROAD TRIP DAY 6-8: EDINBURGH

After three amazing days on the road we returned our rental car and replaced nature life with city life in Edinburgh. We spent three lovely days here sightseeing, shopping, enjoying ourselves in wonderful Edinburgh before heading home. The city of Edinburgh was very different from Glasgow, and it was charming in a completely different way. There were a lot of beautiful buildings and fun things to do, and we truly enjoyed it. A perfect way to end our Scotland road trip adventure!

Read: The Ultimate Guide To Edinburgh

Pin For Later.

AAAAH what an epic trip we had!! Thank you, Scotland. I hope you found this Scotland road trip guide helpful, and that you’ll trip will be just as amazing as ours were. Don’t forget to enjoy the scenery while driving!

Other Posts You Might Enjoy

Enjoyed this Scotland road trip map & itinerary guide? Here are some other posts you might enjoy as well:

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Great detailed post for anyone planning a trip to Scotland. I lived in Scotland for close to three years and broke up my highlands visits into 4 trips over that time. I think the highlands are magical, I particularly love Glencoe and Isle of Skye. Definitely saving this one!

Thank you so much, Dee! Living in Scotland for 3 years sounds like a dream come true!

I’ve been obsessed with the Scottish Highlands as long as I can remember! The castles are a DREAM and I also love all the sheep haha. And your photos are STUNNING. Need to plan a trip back there ASAP…

Yaaay another sheep lover! 😁🐑 hahah. Thank you so much Kelsey, I truly recommend this trip, not to be missed ✈️ Hope you get to visit Scotland soon 🌼

Love your sheep obsession 😉 I really love sheep as well. Thank you for all these great tips. You’ve seen so many things in three days! We always love to take our time while traveling, but of course, if you don’t have much time you can see so many things if you just plan it out. I’m extra excited to make it to Scotland one day!

Thank you, Roxanne! And I’m glad to hear I’m not the only traveler with a sheep obsession hahah 😂🙈

Yeah I like to take my time while traveling as well, but with school & work it’s not always easy and I sometimes choose to take advantage of every minute ☺️ Really glad we did that on this trip as we got to see so much. The next trip was way more chill though 😄 I love the balance! Thanks for stopping by ❤️

Great post, very descriptive and your photos are stunning! Love all the fluffy sheep ❤️ I went trekking in the Scottish Highlands while back and even though it was raining and moody most of the time it was one of my favorite holidays. Thank you for reminding me!

Thank you so much, Helena! Yes the sheep are so darn cute 😍 Sounds like you had an amazing trip to Scotland too. I found the moodiness an added bonus really, it wouldn’t feel as ‘authentic’ if it was sunny the entire week in Scotland 😄

I am just in the process of planning my trip to Scotland, so glad to come across this post. I loved all the details you have mentioned, made it so easy to plan my trip! Thank you

That’s great, fun to hear its helpful! Hope you’lk have an amazing trip 😄❤️

I need to go back. I’ve only been into the highlands once and didn’t have nearly enough time there. I love Scotland and grew up right on the border but on the England side. Your pics inspired me to want to visit again, hopefully soon

Awe I hope you get to go back asap 😍 such a beautiful place

I want to cry because I want to go here so bad! Your photos look incredible and I’m loving all the nature. This is literally my dream place! Looks like you visited the best spots.

I think that is the nicest compliment I’ve ever heard! Thank you so much 😌🌼 it’s even prettier in person, hope you get to go soon!

I’ve been wanting to visit Scotland for the longest time! This area seems amazing. I really love all your photos :D. Thank you for sharing this post 😀

Thank you! It’s even more beautiful in real life 😍

My hubby and I want to do a road trip in Scottland in 2020 or 2010, I thought this post was very helpful in giving me some idea of what to look forward to!

Thats great, hope you get a great trip 😄😄

I love your blog! I cant wait to visit Scotland–its my #1 bucket list “to-do”

Thank you so much! Scotland was incredible, you’re gonna have such an amazing time!

Your pictures were amazing, my boyfriend and I are planning a trip to Scotland in March and I would love to know the camera and lens you shot these photos with?

Thank you so much Kaila! Most of these were taken with my Canon 6D camera and a Tamron 24-70mm f2.8 in RAW. Edited with my own presets in Lightroom 😊☺️

You’re gonna have so much fun! What are you planning on seeing? 😄

Oh Scotland! My dream location. I had a trip booked and had to cancel it due to illness. Need a redo stat! Loooove your photos! So dreamy!

Thank you so much 😄 ohh I’m so sorry you had to cancel, hope you get to go soon ☺️ it was an incredible trip, will never forget it!

Hey Tina! Great article and your photography is gorgeous. I recently came back from Scotland where I opted to do a tour because I was nervous about driving on the other side of the road. Some of the roads in the Isle of Skye seemed damn near impossible. Did you ever get in trouble over there? I really want to go back and explore at my own pace but the driving looks super iffy. Thanks so much,

Hi you! Thank you so much, that means the world to me! Honestly, the roads on the Isle of Skye were not that crazy to me due to growing up with similar ones in northern Norway. I was more nervous driving in the cities. But it all went super smooth, no trouble at all! Got used to driving on the left pretty fast, and on the iffy & narrow roads everyone drive pretty slowly and it never felt unsafe or anything like that. I would probably feel more stressed in the winter months, though. It was an incredible experience and you should try it! I’m 100% sure you can do it too 🙂

Thank you so much for taking the time to do this and for including such stunning shots! I am in the middle of planning a trip and your itinerary and advice have been helpful.

Thank you so much, Ariane, it means so much ☺️ I’m glad it could be helpful!

Love seeing people explore my home! Your photos are beautiful!

Awe thank you 🌸 You’re lucky to come from such a beautiful country 😍

Great post! Your pictures from your trip are great.

Thank you <3 <3

I’ve been meaning to visit Scotland for ages! Lovely pictures and lots of good info, will save this for when I actually start planning a Scotland trip!

Thanks Greta, glad you found it helpful 😄

I loved Scotland! It quickly became one of my favourite countries. I love your advice to leave extra time because there are always places you want to stop in at spontaneously during a Scottish road trip.

Right?? We wanted to pull over every other second 😂

I would love to visit Scotland one day although I’m a little bit intimidated by the potentially harsh weather! But the scenery looks just so incredible that it would probably be worth it regardless of the weather haha! PS your photos are amazing.

Ohh don’t be! I swear, it is so charming in any weather! 😄

Wow! This is such a useful guide! We want to go in the summer and will definitely save this for our trip!

Yayy! I hope your trip is amazing 😍😍

Seriously bookmarking this for my future trip there – really great post! You told us everything we need to know. My hubby and I have wanted to do this trip for a LONG time!

Happy to help, thanks for reading Andi 😄❤️ Can’t wait to hear about your take on Scotland once you go 😄

Wow I love how detailed this post is ! So much good information and the photos are gorgeous 🙂

Thank you so much Lauren 😄🌸

I did a Scotland road trip few years ago and I can’t tell you how many fond memories reading this has brought back. I love how detailed this guide is as there are definitely some spots that I overlooked and now feel like I need to go again to fully explore the region.

Thank you so much, Charu ☺️

I love both Scotland and reading your post on it especially with the beautiful photos! Great tips and an excellent road trip itinerary. I have driven about 1/3 of that and would love to go back and do this route! 🙂

Thanks Vanessa! I wanna go back too 😍🌸

This is such an awesome + comprehensive guide! I went to Scotland for the first time back in 2016 and we went to a number of the same places you did, but I’d love to go back again for a more in-depth visit someday. There was so much to explore there and it was so pretty! :] I love the fluffy sheep!

Awe thank you so much! Scotland is breathtaking, can’t wait to go back either 😍

Many years ago, I lived in Scotland for some time. Now a lot has changed! But still, this is the perfect place for me! I plan to be there after quarantine! Thanks for sharing!

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this! Amazing. Planning my trip now as I sit at home during quarantine!

Your comment made my day! So happy you found it helpful, I hope you have a wonderful trip once quarantine life is over 😀

Thank you!! Looking forward to your Edinburgh blog!!!

This is such a comprehensive guide. I never really had Scotland in my priority list of places to visit but your guide makes me want to visit it soon!

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, Jes. Glad you liked it & that it inspired you!

I stumbled upon this post when planning a road trip to Scotland myself this autumn. Your post was very elaborate and helpful 😊! Thanks so much! Also the photos are simply stunning! I can’t wait now!

Thank you so much, Marjolein! Glad it was helpful 🙂 I’m sure you’ll have an amaaazing trip to Scotland

At what month did you travel to Scotland? Great blog by the way! Will definitely visit Scotland soon

Thank you so much! We visited in June!

loved your trip! we plan to go this year too! may i ask what travel camera setup you use? I have a few lenses to choose from but can’t decide 😀 also, these colors :O did u use a preset for these?

Thank you so much, I’m glad you found my Scotland road trip guide helpful. If I remember correctly, I used a Canon 6D with a Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 lens on this trip. Since then I’ve made the switch to Sony and I find choosing lenses sooo difficult – so I feel you! I love a low aperture, and having a zoom lens while traveling is ace in my opinion. I shot the images in raw, and then used my own presets to edit them in Lightroom 🙂 I hope you have an amazing trip!!

we gaan in september naar schotland

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The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on December 4, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Mapping out the ideal Scotland itinerary can be a bit overwhelming at first glance, especially if you only have 10 days in Scotland to play around with. A destination that draws countless tourists each year. Scotland’s beautiful landscapes, fascinating history, and incredibly friendly people attract people from all around the globe to explore this beautiful country.

Despite its relatively small land area and sparse population, there are a myriad of places to visit in this gorgeous country. Because of this, it’s impossible to fit everything that you may want to see within the span of 10 days.

However, there are countless incredible areas to visit depending on the route you choose. Below, we’ve outlined three different options that can suit whatever kind of trip you’re looking for!

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Scotland

Known to be wet, grey, and chilly, Scotland isn’t famous for its nice weather, however, there are still some months that are better to visit than others.

It will come as no surprise that the best time to visit Scotland — that is if you want the best weather — is in the summer months of July and August. However, because the weather is at its warmest and the days are at their longest, these are also the most popular months for tourists, as well.

Especially during the month of August in Edinburgh (due to the famed Fringe Festival), expect there to be a LOT of tourist crowds in more popular areas – and expect prices to increase respectively.

However, there is a lot of Scotland that remains off of the typical tourist trail and these places are very much worth visiting. So, if you plan to visit in the summer, it is probably in your best interest to get a bit off the beaten path.

While July and August are the warmest months of the year, don’t expect very high temperatures. Further south, highs will be around 20°C (68°F) and, in the highlands and islands, expect highs to be closer to about 16-18° (60-64°F).

Spring and autumn can be attractive times to visit Scotland, as well, as the temperatures aren’t too low and the tourist crowds are unlikely to have arrived in hordes yet.

Late spring and early autumn are going to be the warmest months and the closer you get to winter on either end is going to be colder. Make sure that you bring a good waterproof jacket whatever the season, but especially in the chillier months.

Winters are cold and dark, the days can be short because of Scotland’s northern location and you may find some accommodation options and restaurants in more tourist-reliant towns and villages to be closed for the offseason.

This is, however, the most affordable time of year to visit. If you plan to head to Scotland in the months of December, you can also expect to have your pick of charming Christmas markets to explore and lots of decorations to look at, most notably in Edinburgh.

No matter when you plan your road trip in Scotland, you can also expect there to be a lot of rain. Along with good outerwear, you will also not regret finding a good pair of waterproof shoes for your Scotland trip.

Getting Around Scotland

Unless you’re taking an organised tour through Scotland, you are going to need to figure out how to get around the country independently and by far the easiest way to do this is by your own car.

Public transport does exist in Scotland and it can be a good option for those who are only interested in visiting major cities and towns, however, if you want to venture into the countryside or visit some far-flung areas, having your own vehicle is going to be necessary.

They drive on the left-hand side of the road in Scotland and the road conditions on the major motorways are good, however, they do tend to decline the more rural you go.

Some roads in the far north or on the islands, for instance, only have room for one car to get through and include small passing places for oncoming traffic every hundred metres or so.

This can seem overwhelming at first, however, these rural country roads aren’t ever too congested with traffic and people do tend to be apologetic to confused or stressed-out tourists. If you need to rent a car in Scotland, you can browse options here.

It can also be a good option to take out a third-party policy with iCarHireInsurance to be affordably covered for any excess. Don’t forget to buy a prepaid SIM card for the UK to ensure you can access your GPS at all times!

Finally, have you considered taking out travel insurance for your Scotland trip?  World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

10-Day Scotland Highlights Itinerary

One of the most classic Scotland itineraries, this route begins in the capital city of Edinburgh and ends in the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Inverness.

Day 1 – Edinburgh

Begin your trip to Scotland in the incredible capital city of Edinburgh, an absolutely lovely and historic city that is sure to instantly charm you. Though small, there are countless things to do in the Scottish capital that will ensure that you’re never bored while spending a couple of days in Edinburgh .

Take the time to explore Edinburgh’s main sites, stroll down the Royal Mile, enjoy the convivial atmosphere in a local pub and search for familiar names of Harry Potter characters in Greyfriars Cemetery.

On your first day in the city, it’s a great idea to head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle ( book a skip-the-line tour here ) that towers over the city or, if you want to put some context to the sites you’re seeing, consider taking a walking tour of the city centre.

Edinburgh is an incredibly beautiful city that is compact enough to explore entirely on foot but filled with interesting things that you’re sure never to be bored.

Where to Say in Edinburgh

Cityroomz Edinburgh – A centrally-located hotel situated within easy walking distance of all Edinburgh has to offer, they have several clean and comfortable rooms available and there is even an option to include breakfast.

Castle Rock Hostel   – A great, small hostel centrally located near all of Edinburgh’s top sites, this is a fantastic choice for budget or solo travellers. They have several dorm and private rooms available and good common areas for meeting other travellers.  

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Edinburgh!

Day 2 – Edinburgh

Plan to spend 2 full days in Edinburgh as the city has a lot to offer beyond the main sites you visited on the first day. For instance, begin your second day with an exhilarating hike up Arthur’s Seat. This hill in Holyrood Park is a bit of a trek to the top, but it provides excellent views of the city spanned out below.

You can also take the time to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Scottish Parliament. Take the time to wander through Edinburgh’s cosmopolitan New Town or maybe pop into one of the city’s many museums.

The Writer’s Museum is a great option, as is the National Museum of Scotland – what’s great is that most museums are free to enter!

End your day taking in some live music or, perhaps, a comedy show. There is a lot on offer in Edinburgh and it can be a great opportunity to experience the arts and culture of this city – even if you’re not visiting during the Fringe!

Day 3 – Edinburgh to Loch Lomond

From Edinburgh, it’s time to leave the big city (though Edinburgh does retain a lovely, pastoral charm) and head out into some of the incredible nature that Scotland is famed for. And one of the best places to do this is by paying a visit to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

While en route, however, consider making a pit stop in the city of Stirling to take in the gorgeous Stirling Castle. This is one of the most popular day trips from Edinburgh and it makes a lot of sense to include it while heading west.

Along with the castle, you can also see the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge where, in the 13th Century, William Wallace defeated the English (as depicted in Braveheart ). There is also a monument to William Wallace in the town.

There is a lot of history to experience in Stirling and it’s worth spending the better part of a day exploring the town. It’s located about an hour outside of Edinburgh and it’s roughly a further 1.5 hours to Loch Lomond – depending on where along the lake you choose to make as your base.

Where to Stay in Loch Lomond

Global B&B – Located in the village of Luss, this is the perfect bed and breakfast to rest your head in when visiting Loch Lomond. They have a handful of clean and comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast cooked fresh each morning.

The Loch Lomond Arms Hotel – A wonderful hotel located on the banks of Loch Lomond, this is a great option for those looking for a bit of luxury on your trip to Scotland. They have a number of great rooms available, and a great restaurant and bar on site.

Private Rental – Having a private place to stay is a great way to enjoy the serenity of Loch Lomond. There are a number of great options such as this delightful barn cottage.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Loch Lomond!

Day 4 – Loch Lomond & the Trossachs

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s most beautiful natural areas and it’s worth taking the time to enjoy the gorgeous scenery that lies within it.

The shores of Loch Lomond (Scotland’s largest loch) are absolutely gorgeous and the ample hiking opportunities are sure to keep you busy. There are also countless charming villages worth paying a visit to.

Spend your full day in the area by taking a boat cruise on the Loch – here you can get a beautiful panoramic view of the lake and of the surrounding Munros – including Ben Lomond. Of course, it’s also essential to visit the charming town of Luss that lies on the shores of the lake – there are plenty of charming stone cottages to take in.

You also could simply spend your day walking – there are several well-marked walking routes to take advantage of. You could do a bit of the Three Lochs Way or simply stroll from Tarbet to Arrochar – the world is really your oyster!

Day 5 – Oban

From Loch Lomond, it’s time to head further west until you meet the sea – with your final destination being the seafood capital of Scotland – Oban!

Oban is located about 1.5 hours from Loch Lomond (depending on where you’re staying) and, if you’d like, you could consider stopping the the charming town of Inverary along the way.

Once in Oban itself, there are a number of things to do. Though the town is known primarily for being a jumping-off point to the inner Hebridean islands (more on that later!), it’s worth exploring the town itself.

There’s a lovely little high street where you can browse some shops, a delightful waterfront and harbour to stroll along and, of course, the Oban Distillery is in the centre of town. You can pop into the visitor’s centre for a tasting or you can opt to go on a tour of the distillery if that suits.

It’s also worth walking up to McCaig’s Tower, a colosseum-like structure that looms over the town and provides excellent views of Oban and the surrounding islands.

Where to Stay in Oban

Adelphi Villa – This cosy guesthouse is a great option for mid-range visitors in Oban. They have a great location on a quiet, central street, free on-site parking, friendly owners and comfortable rooms.

The Manor House Hotel – A great luxury option in the town of Oban, this hotel is set in an old manor house. There are plenty of opulent rooms on offer along with countless plush amenities for guests.

Oban Backpackers – This backpacker’s hostel is perfect for budget travellers. They have a great location in the centre of Oban, good self-catering facilities and plenty of room types to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Oban hotels!

Day 6 – Isles of Mull & Iona

On you’re sixth day, it’s time to leave the Scottish mainland and go for a day trip to some of the country’s loveliest Hebridean islands – Mull and Iona! Though you could spend a number of days on Mull taking in all it has to offer, it is accessible as a day trip from Oban – provided you get an early start!

Car ferries from Oban to the town of Craignure on Mull take about 1 hour – make sure to get there at least half an hour in advance to sailing, though! Once you arrive on Mull, hit the road (they’re pretty small and narrow here!) and head south.

You’ll pass some of the island’s most incredible scenery by following this route along the Rodd of Mull before you reach the town of Fionnphort. Here, hop on another (passenger) ferry to the Isle of Iona. Tourists cannot bring a car to Iona so you must rely on your own two feet (or a bicycle) to get around.

Iona is absolutely charming, but it’s most notable for the Iona Abbey – which dates back to the 6th Century CE and is said to be the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland.

After exploring Iona, head back to Mull to take in more of this incredible island. There are plenty of natural sites to take in (the views along Loch Na Keal may be some of the most stunning in Scotland) as you drive up the west coast en route to Tobermory – the largest town on the island.

Of course, make sure to take the time to explore Tobermory (it’s home to its own whisky and gin distillery!) before hopping on the ferry back to Oban.

Day 7 – Glencoe & Fort William

From Oban, head a bit north to some of the most iconic places in the Scottish Highlands, the gorgeous and historic Glencoe and the lovely town of Fort William.

Like the destinations before this, Fort William and Glencoe boast some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Scotland and it is an area that is best seen by hitting the trails and doing some walking.

Glencoe lies about an hour’s drive north of Oban and a spectacular drive it is – it winds all along the west coast and you can even take in view of the old Castel Stalker while on your way. Do try to get an early start as Glencoe can get incredibly busyand the carparks at viewpoints and trailheads fill up quickly.

Make sure to stop at the Glencoe Viewpoint and at the Meeting of Three Waters. There are views just off the road here, but you can also embark on some longer hikes if that’s what you’d like to do.

In Glencoe Village, you can also learn about the infamous 17th Century Massacre of Glencoe and also stop for a bite to eat. You also could opt to walk a bit along lovely Loch Lochan for more views.

You can end your day in the nearby city of Fort William, which sits in the foothills of Ben Nevis – Scotland’s highest peak. Otherwise, there are also a handful of places to stay near Glencoe if you fancy something a bit more rural.

Where to Stay in Fort William & Glencoe

Gowan Brae Bed & Breakfast – A cosy bed and breakfast located in the centre of Fort William, this place makes for a perfect base for exploring the region. They have a number of great rooms available and a wonderful breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Loch Leven Hotel & Distillery – A lovely family-run hotel on the banks of Loch Levan, this place makes for the perfect place to stay in Glencoe. They have a number of great rooms available, a restaurant on site, and a bar serving locally distilled spirits including whisky and gin.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Fort William or Glencoe!

Day 8 – Fort William to Inverness

Day 8 of your Scotland road trip is a bit of a driving day – though it is less than 2 hours to your final destination (Inverness) so you can spend the morning exploring a bit of Fort William if you’d like.

Here, you can head to the West Highland Museum to learn about the history of the area or even take a detour to the Genfinnian Viaduct – known for being a shooting location for the Harry Potter movies.

Take the longer route from Fort William to Inverness and drive through Cairngorms National Park rather than along Loch Ness – you will be spending the whole next day there, so don’t fret about not getting views of Scotland’s most iconic lake!

Cairngorms is a gorgeous natural area and it’s also home to the Speyside whisky region, so there are plenty of different distilleries to top at if you’re interested. Just keep note that Scotland has a zero-tolerance drink driving limit so all samples and tastings should be reserved for those who are only passengers in the car.

End your day in the city of Inverness – which will be your final destination for this 10-day Scotland itinerary.

Where to Stay in Inverness

Torridon Guest House — This quaint guesthouse is one of the best places to stay in Inverness if your budget allows for a little bit more than a hostel. It is located within a short walking distance of the city centre, has great ratings, comfortable rooms, breakfast included, and free parking. 

Black Isle Hostel – This hostel is in a great location and is one of the best-rated hostels in Inverness. Aside from having multiple dorms of different sizes, they also have private rooms, a welcoming and friendly staff, and a bar serving local craft beers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Inverness!

Day 9 – Loch Ness

Inverness dons the nickname “The Gateway to the Highlands” for a reason – many of the Scottish Highland’s most iconic places to visit are within easy reach of this small city. And the most famous of which is Loch Ness .

Located only about 20 minutes from the centre of Inverness, you can easily get an early start and beat the crowds to this majestic and mysterious lake. Though you’re unlikely to glimpse Nessie in the depths of the loch, it’s still worth taking a cruise on the waters.

Of course, you should visit the ruined remains of Urquhart Castle and take in the gorgeous Falls of Foyers. The latter is located just a stone’s throw from the shore of the loch.

End your time in Loch Ness in the southernmost town on the lake, Fort Augustus. Here, there are lots of shops and amenities along with ample tranquil walks along the Caledonian Canal.

Day 10 – Inverness

Spend your final day in Scotland exploring the city of Inverness itself. Though small in size, this city packs a considerable amount of charm and is well worth spending the time to visit some of the sites here.

It is easy to get around the city on foot and take in the laid-back atmosphere. Stop by the Inverness Castle museum, enjoy some peace and quiet on the Ness Islands, and kick back with a pint at one of the many convivial pubs.

Inverness also has a great restaurant and craft beer scene, so there is something for everyone’s taste in this compact Scottish city.

If you’d like to head out on another day trip, then consider visiting the nearby Culloden Battlefield. This is a heartbreaking but excellent open-air museum where you can learn all about the Jacobite uprising in the 18th Century. Outlander fans will love it, but it’s just as interesting for those who’ve never read/seen the series.

Have More Time?

If you have more than ten days to devote to this Scotland itinerary, there are a number of different options you can make to extend your time.

If you would like to experience another big, Scottish city other than Edinburgh, you also to head over to Glasgow before venturing onto Loch Lomond. Though it has a gritty reputation, there are lots of things to do in Glasgow and it is very much worth visiting.

You could also opt to extend your time on the Isle of Mull – there is enough to do for several days. Especially if you’re visiting in the summer months, it can be worth taking a wildlife tour to the incredible isles of Staffa and Lunga – the latter is known for its massive puffin colony where you can view hundreds of these sea birds up close.

Alternatively, after visiting Glencoe, you could head north to the Isle of Skye and spend a few days there before driving all the way back to Inverness. As you can see, the possibilities are really endless.

10-Day Scottish Highlands & Islands Itinerary

If you’re more interested in exploring the highlights of Scotland’s incredible highlands and islands during your 10 days here, then this is the itinerary for you to follow!

Day 1 – Inverness

Start your Scotland road trip in the “Gateway to the Highlands,” Inverness. Well-poised to explore a lot of what this region has to offer, spend one day exploring the city itself and another two going on a number of day trips that are available.

Day 2 – Loch Ness

Spend your second day with Inverness as your base as an opportunity to visit the inimitable Loch Ness. Located only about 20 minutes from Inverness, we recommend getting an early start this day to avoid the inevitable large crowds that will descend upon the lake by midday.

Day 3 – Culloden Battlefield & Cawdor Castle

Still using Inverness as your base, spend your third day on a day trip to the Culloden Battlefield and to nearby Cawdor Castle.

The latter is one of Scotland’s lesser-known castles, but it’s within easy reach of Inverness and visitors can easily spend a few hours touring the castle and its extensive grounds. Still home to the Dowager Countess of Cawdor, this castle has been in the Campbell family since the 16th Century.

Day 4 – Cairngorms National Park

From Inverness, it’s time to head a bit south to the Cairngorms National Park. This sub-arctic plateau offers ample outdoor activities to delight even the most adrenaline-seeking of travellers. There are numerous hiking routes that range in difficulty, and also opportunities to go horseback riding, kayaking, and any other number of outdoor activities. 

The Cairngorms are really great for those who want to spend time hiking outside and taking in the wilderness. However, there are also a few charming little towns to visit and plenty of fun sites that aren’t necessarily all about being active outside.

Those who came to Scotland to see impressive royal castles, for instance, will swoon over the grand Balmoral Castle located in Cairngorms. And if you’re travelling with children, make sure to visit the Highland Wildlife Park. There are lots of things to do that’s it’s very much worth taking a day to explore this area, even if you don’t want to summit a Munro!

Plan to spend 2 nights in the area. If you want to get the most out of all of the beautiful nature in the Cairngorms, then camping is a great option. There are a number of lovely campsites scattered around the national park such as The Lazy Duck .

If you don’t plan on camping, I would suggest staying in the town of Aviemore, which has the most amenities and accommodation options for tourists.

Where to Stay in the Cairngorms

The Cairngorm Hotel – If you’re looking for a nice and romantic place to stay on Aviemore’s main street, then the Cairngorm Hotel is for you. This hotel has a range of rooms, great ratings, and has breakfast included in the rate.

Aviemore Youth Hostel – If you are on a budget and would prefer to stay closer to civilization, then Aviemore Youth Hostel is the place for you. They offer affordable dorm beds and come very highly rated.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Cairngorms!

Day 5 – Speyside Whisky Region

The Cairngorms also happens to be situated in the Speyside region – the largest Scotch whisky-producing region in the country.

There are over fifty distilleries that you could tour and learn a little more about how Scotch is made and how to taste it. If you’re interested, you could opt to drive some of the malt Whisky Trail, a heritage trail that takes you by some of the region’s most notable distilleries. Keep in mind that this is best with a hired driver or a designated sober driver!

Otherwise, the village of Dufftown is home to six working distilleries all of its own – this can be a great place to walk between different places and sample some single malts!

Some of the distilleries in this region include Macallan, Glenfiddich, Arberlour, Glen Moray, Glenlivit and countless more.

Whisky tasting is also possible as a day trip from Inverness and there are plenty of tours that also include parts of the Cairngorms that you can do if you want to avoid driving after all of that whisky!

Day 6 – Isle of Skye

From Cairngorms, it’s time to head to one of Scotland’s most well-known (and gorgeous!) islands — the Isle of Skye ! Known for its dramatic scenery and bucolic charm, Skye is really an essential stop on this Highlands route.

The drive from Cairngorms National Park will take around 3 hours, so make sure to et an early start to ensure that you don’t miss a thing. En route to Skye, you also can make a stop at the beautiful Eilean Donan Castle which is situated just before you reach the bridge to the island.

On your first day, visit some of the sites that make up the Trotternish Loop, beginning with the Old Man of Storr. Continue onto Lealt Falls, Mealt Falls and Kilt Rock and, of course, drive the iconic Quirang for absolutely stunning views.

End your day in Portree, the main town on the island. There are lots of shops to browse and pubs to relax in here.

Where to Stay on Skye

An-Airidh Bed & Breakfast Portree  – Located just south of central Portree on the eponymous loch, this cosy B&B is a great base on the island. There are several comfortable rooms and a great breakfast each morning.

Skyewalker Hostel – A great, family-run hostel perfect for budget and solo travellers. They have a range of both dorm and private rooms, good facilities and occasionally organise social events in the evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Skye!

Day 7 – Isle of Skye

On your second day on Skye, take even more time to explore the island. On this day, you can head to the lovely Talisker Beach before visiting the Talisker Distillery – yet another whisky distillery! Note that Talisker Beach is accessible via a footpath about a mile from the car park, so you will need to walk a bit to take in this gorgeous stretch of sand.

Continue on to visit another one of Skye’s most famous attractions – the Fairy Pools. Again, these are only accessible via a short walk, but it’s 100% worth it. These pools are majestic and worth spending some time enjoying – you can even swim here if you’re brave enough to enter the freezing cold water!

You can end your day exploring some of the island’s castles. You can visit Armadale Castle, which was only built in the 19th Century or venture on to the ruined Dunscaith Castle, which has a far older history. Both are interesting and worth a stop.

Day 8 – Isle of Skye

Your final day on Skye should be dedicated to exploring even more of the island’s most beautiful natural sites. Begin your day at the incredible Fairy Glen – you need to hike for about 30 minutes to reach here but it’s definitely worth it. The scenery is just breathtaking and it can be incredibly peaceful.

From here, take in the white sand and turquoise waters of Claigan Coral Beach before visiting the historic Dunvegan Castle. Originally built in the 13th Century, this is one of Skye’s most impressive castles – and it’s one of many!

And for more seaside views, venture over the Neist Point Lighthouse. Another point that is only accessible via a decent walk, you can get incredible sea views and take in some dramatic cliffside scenery here. You also may have the opportunity to see sea life like whales and basking sharks here!

Day 9 – Skye to Fort William

On your penultimate day in Scotland, it’s time to leave Skye and drive south to Fort William. Expect the drive to take about 2.5 hours without stopping and you will be treated to some truly gorgeous, bucolic scenery in rural highland Scotland.

If you’re up to it, this is a great opportunity to stop by some of the attractions outside of Fort William, such as the Glenfinnian Viaduct, before making your way to the town itself. This will be your final destination for this 10-day Scotland itinerary.

Day 10 – Glencoe

End this Scottish Highlands route in the incredible Glencoe, taking in all of the jaw-dropping scenery, going for a hike or two and learning a bit about the history of this beautiful area. No visit to the Scottish highlands is complete without spending time in Glencoe, and this itinerary is no different!

If you have more time to devote to this Scotland road trip itinerary, then there are a few options available to you. If you’re keen to explore more of island life, then consider hopping on a ferry to the Outer Hebridean island of Lewis and Harris.

Alternatively, if you want to explore just one more quaint town before you head back, then consider making a stop in Ullapool, a lovely fishing village with a lot to offer visitors.

10-Day North Coast & Orkney Itinerary

If you’d like to see some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland and a bit off the beaten path compared to the other itineraries listed here, then this is the route for you.

Roughly following the North Coast 500 route , this itinerary takes you to some of the most beautiful, sparsely populated and historic places in all of the country.

Days 1-3 – Inverness

Start your itinerary in Inverness and make sure to take the time to explore this lovely, compact city.

With three days in the highland capital, you will have ample time to explore the handful of sites in the city itself as well as embark on a number of day trips — including Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, the Speyside whisky region and even Cairngorms National Park.

Day 4 – Ullapool

From Inverness, hit the road and head northwest to the absolutely lovely town of Ullapool.

The town of Ullapool itself is absolutely charming, with many shops along the high street worth browsing, inviting pubs that are a great place to escape the rain in, and chippies that will serve some of the best fish and chips to be found on the Scottish seaside.

Visiting Ullapool is also a great way to get out on the water and take a little tour of the small islands that lie off the coast, and even see some marine life. It is not uncommon to see pods of dolphins and lazy sea lions just off of Ullapool harbour.

Ullapool is very small, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. While you don’t need to devote a tonne of time here, one full day is more than enough to so the town justice.

Where to Stay in Ullapool

Ladysmith Guesthouse – Located in the centre of town, this guesthouse is a wonderful place to rest your head in Ullapool. They have many cosy rooms available and a great, hearty breakfast on offer each morning.

Clachan Farmhouse B&B – Located just a bit outside of the central Ullapool, this bed and breakfast is perfect for those looking for a lovely, pastoral escape. They have a range of plush rooms available and a wonderful breakfast included.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Ullapool!

Day 5 – Scotland’s North Coast

This part of the journey will provide you with possibly the most scenic drive of this whole road trip. Make your way along the windy, one-lane roads of the Northwest Highlands to the small, sleepy town of Durness and make sure to pull over and take a lot of pictures — the scenery is truly spectacular.

Make sure to check out the Smoo Cave in Durness but, besides that, there isn’t much in this tiny town. However, it is a great place to spend the night and enjoy the beautiful, pristine coast.

Where to Stay on the North Coast

Bettyhill Hotel – This charming hotel located in the fishing village of Bettyhill is the perfect place to stop for the night on Scotland’s north coast. They have several clean and comfortable rooms available and a great restaurant to grab a bite to eat.

Durness Smoo Youth Hostel – This small hostel is a great place to rest your head in Durness. It is located close to the Smoo Cave and also some fantastic hiking routes. It has a couple of dorm rooms and comes very highly rated.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options on the North Coast!

Days 6 to 8 – Orkney

Your sixth day sees you leaving mainland Britain and heading to the wonderful, peaceful Orkney Islands. There is a comfortable car ferry that leaves from the town of Scrabster a few times per day and the journey takes about ninety minutes.

While very small, there are so many things to do in Orkney and one could easily spend more than the three nights I recommend for this itinerary.

These beautiful islands are packed to the gills with fascinating Neolithic sites, there is a very interesting Viking history here as well as breathtaking bucolic scenery and some very friendly locals. 

Spend your first day exploring the UNESCO-listed Heart of Neolithic Orkney. These sites include the Ring of Brodgar, Maeshowe Chambered Cairn and the Neolithic village of Skara Brae.

On your second day, take the time to explore the lovely town of Kirkwall, the capital of the islands. there’s a lot to do here and it’s a charming little town with plenty of cute shops and inviting pubs. You can also opt to visit the Highland Park Distillery.

And on your third day, you can spend it exploring the island of South Ronaldsay. Here, there are sites like the Italian Chapel and some more Neolithic wonders to take in.

Where to Stay on Orkney

Heatherlea – Also located in the biggest town on Orkney, Kirkwall, Heatherlea is a lovely bed and breakfast to stay at. They have a range of rooms available and also include a full Scottish breakfast available each morning.

Kirkwall Youth Hostel – Located in the biggest town on the Mainland island of Orkney, Kirkwall Youth Hostel is a great budget option on the islands.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Orkney!

Days 9 to 10 – Tain & Scotland’s Northeast Coast

After three nights in Orkney, it’s time to head back to the mainland and begin working your way south. Your stop for the evening will be the lovely town of Tain, the oldest of the royal burghs in Scotland and home to the Glenmorangie whisky distillery.

Tain is a lovely town to explore and doesn’t really see much tourism at all, so it’s very much worth exploring. The beautiful streets and landmarks are really something to enjoy and you’re sure to love the vibes of the city, especially as it’s a relatively “off the beaten path” destination to visit.

Where to Stay in Tain

Shandwick House – A lovely guesthouse in the heart of Tain, this is a perfect place to rest your head in the city. They have many clean and comfortable rooms available and a great full Scottish breakfast available each morning.

Carnegie Lodge Hotel – A fantastic hotel if you’re looking for something a bit more upmarket in Tain, this place has some lovely rooms available, room service on offer, and a full breakfast included in the morning.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in the Tain!

If you have more time to spare, then consider heading even further north from the incredible Orkney Islands all the way to Shetland! These islands have a fascinating history (lots of Viking invasions!) and a unique landscape that are sure to have you awe-struck.

As you can see planning the ideal itinerary through Scotland can be a bit complicated, with so many different routes available to you. However, no matter which route you decide to take, there is no denying that you will come back with countless amazing memories.

Are you planning to visit Scotland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect One Day in Inverness Itinerary

16 Things To Do In Mull: A 2 to 3-Day Itinerary

13 Things To Do In Orkney Islands: A 3-Day Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Thanks for the ideas. I’m working out my itenary for 10 days now I. late September – early October 2023. I really enjoyed your suggestions. I am more excited now.

Hope you have a great trip!

Can’t wait! Going to England, Ireland, Scotland and France in a few months Super excited Thanks for the information

Hope you have a lovely trip, Beth!

Thank you very much, very informative/

Went to Orkney & Highlands ‘75 in October when I was 23. Zero other tourists until Ben Nevis, there were dozens there, mostly from Europe. No one else at Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae. 45 years later, going back in 2020. I know will be vastly different. Ireland: no other tourists at Blarney Castle, no one but lighthouse keeper at Old Head of Kinsale. Only met Australians in both Scotland & Ireland. Loved quiet stay at Aviemore Youth Hostel. Advise go as Winter descends or very early Spring. Hitchhiked, trains, buses. Meet locals that way. Forget the car.

Thanks for your comment, Neil! I think that you’ll find just a few more tourists in Orkney and the Highlands in 2020 than you did in 1975 — probably a few more Aussies as well! Sounds like you’re gonna have a great time walking down memory lane, hope it’s as good as the first 🙂

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The Perfect 1-Week Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

A 1-week road trip to see all the best of Scotland!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

A Scotland Road Trip

Year visited: 2022

Time of year: May

I haven’t been to that many countries, but of all the ones I have visited, Scotland is definitely my favorite! I can’t wait to go back and see more castles and mountains, and eat more Biscoff flavored everything!

If you are planning a Scotland road trip, here is the perfect 1-week itinerary for you, including what to eat and where to stay, and bonus days if you have more time (lucky you!).

This road trip takes you through all of my favorite places in Scotland:

What’s in this article, scotland road trip route, tips for driving in scotland, what to eat in scotland, day 1-arrive in edinburgh, day 2-explore edinburgh, day 3-eilean donan castle, day 4-isle of skye, day 5-glenfinnan viaduct, day 6-glencoe & stirling, day 7-fly home, movies to watch, like this article share it on pinterest:.

Scotland Road Trip Route Map:

I was nervous about renting a car for our Scotland road trip, but there were so many places I wanted to see on our own time, and not at the mercy of the tour bus.

If you would rather not rent a car in Scotland, you can get tours (or usually even public transportation) to all of these places.

As an American driving in Scotland, here are some things to note:

They drive on the left-hand side of the road in Scotland.

There are no public restrooms along the highway. You will have to stop at a cafe, a visitor’s centre or a community centre.

There are one lane roads in Scotland, but only in the more remote places.

They do have roundabouts (traffic circles).

There are lots of pull-off areas along the road to let people pass you, or to stop to take a picture.

There are currently no tolls in Scotland.

Be sure to take your own pictures of your rental car before and after to avoid getting fraudulent damage charges.

What is Biscoff?? It’s the European alternative to peanut butter. At least that’s what my mom told me when I developed an allergy to peanut butter and starting eating Biscoff sandwiches instead.

Of course, peanut butter is high in protein, and Biscoff is high in… sugar. It’s actually crushed up cookies (those ones you get on the airplane). And it’s delicious!

Now, I do have an overly strong tolerance of sugar (and I am used to eating Biscoff sandwiches), so you may not agree with me on this. But I LOVED being able to eat Biscoff flavored everything on our Scotland road trip! I had Biscoff ice cream, Biscoff hot chocolate and a Biscoff Krispy Kreme.

What is Haggis??? It’s best not to ask, actually. I did try a (tiny!) bite of this off of Jason’s plate of his full breakfast. Actually… now that I think of it, I might have had black pudding, not haggis.

They are both similar, although this guide to traditional Scottish foods explains that the difference is that black pudding is held together with pig’s blood… which sounds much worse to me!

For the record, I thought it was pretty tasty, and if I had grown up eating it, I would probably like it. But coming at it as an adult with lots of preconceived prejudices against it in my head, it was hard to get past the thought of… um… pig’s blood.

Tunnocks Tea Cakes

This is nothing like what I would picture a tea cake to be. It’s more of something in between a candy bar and a s’more. And it’s delicious! It’s a big fluffy dollop of marshmallow creme on a graham cracker crust and coated in chocolate.

And honestly, I would much rather just eat a chocolate bar than an actual s’more, but these were SO good! I can’t believe I didn’t buy a package to bring home with me!!

Because Dom & Billy drank it ! It’s basically an orange-pop drink (or soda, if that’s what you call it…). I actually don’t like any carbonated drinks, so I never tried this. But Billy and Dom did (the actors who played Merry & Pippin), so that makes it a win in my book.

Fish & Chips

I’m not a huge fan of fish & chips, but I figured I had to get it at least once on our trip to the UK (Jason had it at least 5 times). I chose Portree Harbor on the Isle of Skye to get some (and Biscoff ice cream!). We got our fish and chips from a takeaway store, and sat on the poles at the harbor to eat it. Maybe not the most comfortable seat, but definitely a good view!

Scotland Road Trip Day 1 - Arrive in Edinburgh

Day 1 of our Scotland road trip! Today you will arrive at Edinburgh Airport. If you’re coming from the states, you will probably arrive early in the morning and have lots of time to explore the city!

Either way, there is not too much planned for today, so that you can recover from traveling and acclimate to the time zone.

How to Get to Edinburgh from the Airport:

Getting to the city of Edinburgh from the airport takes about 30 minutes and is very easy! When you arrive, follow the signs for the trams and rental cars and head out the main doors of the airport. There is a bright pink awning just to the left where you can get the tram to the city centre.

The rental car parking lot is also right in front of you, with the building at the far side of the parking lot. This is where you will come in a couple days to pick up your car.

Be sure to buy a tram ticket at the kiosk before you get on the tram! Hold onto it until you get off, because you never know when they will check. We took the tram from the city to the airport, and they didn’t check our tickets until we got off at the airport.

Check which stop is nearest to your hotel. If you’re staying in the city centre, get off at one of the last two stops:

Princes Street

St. Andrew Square

Where to Eat in Edinburgh:

There are so many great places to eat in Edinburgh! The city is very walkable, so it’s easy to walk out your door and just go exploring.

We ate at Nicolson’s Cafe, where J.K. Rowling used to hang out. The cafe is on a second floor of a building, and seems to have trouble keeping in business, as it has changed names/owners several times. We were there in May 2022, but according to Google, it’s kind of hard to tell if it’s still open or not!

If there is a cafe there (whatever its name), I highly recommend it, because it is a super cool space! The food at Nicolson’s was delicious as well.

J.K. also wrote at The Elephant House, but unfortunately they had a fire, and are still closed down. Everyone agrees, however, that the food was not that great. You only go there for the Harry Potter connection.

You can read all about our (FIVE!) attempts to eat at a place where my favorite writer’s hung out in the UK here .

We also ate at the Wanderlust Cafe, and this was a very cute and delicious cafe to visit. I got Biscoff hot chocolate here!

Where to Stay in Edinburgh:

We stayed at the Hub by Premier Inn on the Royal Mile. This was recommended to us by another travel blogging family. It is right behind Waverley Station, the main train station in Edinburgh.

This hotel was perfect! It was a great location, a very nice, good sized room, and a great price. I was very happy with this hotel!

Premier Inn is the UK’s largest hotel chain, and they have several different hotels around the city of Edinburgh, so you have lots of options.

Things to Do in Edinburgh:

I would suggest not having too much planned for your first day in Edinburgh. You never know if your flight will get delayed, or how tired you might feel. This would be a good day to just wander around the city and take in some of the sites:

Take a free walking tour of the city.

Wander through Princes St. Gardens (the best place to get a picture of the castle!).

Browse around some cozy bookshops. Armchair Books is a good one!

Look for a souvenir along the Royal Mile.

Hang out in a local cafe.

Get afternoon tea .

Catch a movie at a fancy “ picturehouse .”

Now it’s time to really explore Edinburgh!

Edinburgh Castle

The first stop of the day should be Edinburgh Castle . Try to go close to the opening time (9:30 am), before the castle gets too crowded. Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time.

The castle is on top of a hill. This means you will have a bit of a climb to reach the entrance.

Be sure to wear a coat or a sweater! It gets very windy and cold on top of the hill, even if the weather is nicer down in the city.

The castle is spread out through many different buildings; it’s not just one big building.

Other Things to Do in Edinburgh:

The Chocolatarium -chocolate shop and tour.

Camera-Obscura -Optical-illusion museum that also has a great view of the city.

So many great museums! Here are a few:

The Writer’s Museum

The Museum of Childhood

Museum of Edinburgh

Hike to Arthur’s Seat .

The Real Mary King’s Close -Underground tour of Edinburgh!

It’s now time to say goodbye to Edinburgh, pick up the rental car, and really get this Scotland road trip started!

Pick Up Your Rental Car:

Head back to Edinburgh Airport the same way that you came into the city a couple days ago. Take the tram from Princes Street or St. Andrew Square 30 minutes back to the airport.

Then walk across the parking lot to the rental car building. You’ll be able to see it from the tram stop.

Drive to Dornie:

It’s a 4 hour drive from Edinburgh Airport to the village of Dornie , home of Eilean Donan Castle. The first half of this drive will be on the carriageway (highway) through populated areas. Look out for three-lane traffic circles here!

You will not have to drive on any one-lane roads unless you make a pit stop somewhere like a dairy farm (we did!). We drove this route in the opposite direction, from Dornie to Edinburgh. These are the pit stops we made:

Stuart Tower Dairy Farm

Speen Bridge Woolen Mill

Chocolates of Glenshiel

We stopped here on our way to the Isle of Skye. It’s only 10 minutes from Dornie.

Downtown Dornie, Scotland.

Where to Eat in Dornie:

Dornie is a very small village, so there are not a lot of options for dinner. If you want to eat at The Dornie Hotel or The Clachan, make sure to book a table ahead of time.

Also be sure to check the opening hours of all the cafes, as they vary, and some are very limited.

Here are some places to eat in Dornie:

The Clachan

The Dornie Hotel

Pizza Jo’s & Manuela’s Wee Bakery

All the Goodness Coffee & Bake Shop

Eilean Donan Castle Coffee Shop

Where to Stay in Dornie:

There are a lot of great Airbnbs in the area, so be sure to check on there if that’s something you’re interested in.

We stayed at Schoolhouse Dornie, but unfortunately it looks like they are no longer open .

You can also stay at the Dornie Hotel .

Eilean Donan Castle

You should arrive in Dornie by early afternoon, depending on how early you decide to leave Edinburgh, and how slowly you decide to take your first day driving in Scotland.

If you want to tour inside Eilean Donan Castle , you should have plenty of time for that this afternoon. The castle’s last admission is at 3 pm in the winter, and 5 pm the rest of the year.

We did not tour the inside of the castle, but just took pictures from the outside. There are two good spots to get pictures of the castle:

The Eilean Donan Lookout point gives you a view of the castle from above. This is a good spot for sunset photos.

We took our photos at the Dornie Community Hall , just across the loch from the castle. You have to pay for parking during the day, but not after 8 pm. This is a good spot for sunrise photos.

Day 4-The Isle of Skye

Dornie is just 15 minutes from the Skye Bridge, that takes you over to the famous Isle of Skye. It’s an hour drive from Dornie to Portree, the main city on the Isle of Skye.

Today is all about exploring the Isle of Skye. You can choose to stay in Dornie for 2 nights, and just drive over to Skye and back for the day. Or you can stay in Portree.

There are no one-lane roads on the drive to Portree. If you are staying at a hotel in Portree, you should be able to park at your hotel without having to drive down a one-lane road. If you are not staying overnight, park at the Visitor Centre .

Note: There are no restrooms at the Visitor Centre. You will have to pay for a public toilet in Portree. There are some by the harbour and some in the town centre.

Where to Eat on the Isle of Skye:

While you might find some hidden gems all over the island, the main place to eat (and sleep) on the Isle of Skye is Portree.

We ate at the Harbour Fish & Chip Shop, a takeaway place right along the Portree Harbour. We also found a little ice cream shop down there with Biscoff ice cream syrup (although once I licked off all the syrup, it was just boring ice cream…)!

You can stop at the Visitor Centre for more information on where to eat in Portree.

Where to Stay on the Isle of Skye:

There are several good hotels and Airbnbs in Portree. We were originally intending to stay at an Airbnb here, but ended up just staying in Dornie.

If you do choose to stay in Portree, make sure to book your accommodations well in advance, as the island does fill up quickly.

This complete guide to the Isle of Skye will give you more information on where to stay, where to eat, when to visit and all the best things to do!

The Fairy Glen, Isle of Skye.

Things to do on the Isle of Skye:

It is good to have a car to drive yourself around to all of these places on the Isle of Skye. However, if you want to avoid driving on one-lane roads, you can book tours from Portree to all of these places, so you will not have to drive yourself.

Hike the magical Fairy Glen .

Hike the magical Fairy Pools .

Hike to the famous Old Man of Storr .

Explore Dunvegan Castle .

Day 5-Glenfinnan Viaduct & Fort William

Today is something really special—you’re going to see a working steam train (yes, the one they used in Harry Potter), cross a stunning viaduct. This was one of my favorite things in Scotland.

How to Get to Glenfinnan Viaduct:

If you are staying in Dornie, it is just an hour and 45 minute drive from Dornie to the Glenfinnan Viaduct Visitor Centre .

If you are staying in Portree, you can choose to drive an hour back across the bridge to Dornie, and from there the hour and 45 minutes to Glenfinnan, or you can take the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig. This route will only take 2 1/2 hours, but you will have to time it around the ferry schedule. Also be sure to book your ferry ahead of time.

You will have to pay for parking at the Visitor Centre, but they have free restrooms. They also have a cafe, gift shop, and lots of walking trails.

The Glenfinnan Viaduct

I think this imposing structure is impressive, even if you don’t see the train come by. It’s huge when you actually stand up next to it, plus the beautiful mountains make the perfect back drop!

Lots of trains cross the viaduct, but the Jacobite Steam Train is the one you want to see. It runs from April-October, with 2 trains a day from May-September. You want to be here for one of the first two trains, on the way from Fort William to Mallaig.

The times the trains cross are approximate and subject to change (our train was delayed 30 minutes on our way back to Fort William!), but the general times are:

Morning train crosses the viaduct around 10:45 am

Afternoon train crosses the viaduct around 1:30 pm

Be sure to get there early to make sure you don’t miss the train, and to claim your photo spot! The hillsides can get pretty crowded.

Where to Eat in Fort William:

We ended up just grabbing food at a local grocery store (which is always a good idea!), but here are some restaurant recommendations from our Airbnb hosts:

The Tavern Restaurant

The Old Deli

Crannog Seafood Restaurant

Spice Tandoori

The Grog and Gruel

Glen Nevis Restaurant

Where to Stay in Fort William:

We stay at an Airbnb in Fort William (there are lots to choose from!) called Solmar Bed & Breakfast . Our hosts were so friendly and welcoming, and cooked a delicious breakfast for us every morning. It was also fun because the Jacobite Steam Train goes right by the house!

If you’re looking for a chain hotel to stay in, I recommend trying a Premier Inn , which is where we stayed in Edinburgh.

Other Things to Do in Fort William:

You can take a cruise around Loch Linnhe .

Go hiking and “bag a munro” on one of the many peaks nearby.

Visit Steall Falls , a beautiful walk, and featured in the Harry Potter movies!

Explore Glen Coe! Glen Coe is the first stop on our road trip tomorrow, but you can also visit it this afternoon too (or instead of tomorrow morning). It’s a good idea to have some spare time, in case it’s pouring rain one of the days.

Day 6-Glen Coe & Stirling Castle

If you didn’t visit Glen Coe yesterday (or even if you did!!), now is the time to do it! It’s only a half hour drive from Fort William to the Glen Coe Valley area. This is famed as one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland, and I honestly was not disappointed!!

Drive/Hike Through Glen Coe

Start off by driving to the Glencoe Visitor Centre . You can get some maps and information about the hikes (there is even a trail and a viewpoint here), get a snack, explore the gift shop, and of course, use the restroom! The restrooms are free, but you will have to pay for parking here.

There are a lot of pull off spots as you drive through Glen Coe Valley. You can stop here and just take a picture from the viewpoints, or you can follow the paths down into the valley to walk around and explore for a while (and escape the buses that stop in the parking areas).

The best and most popular view is at Three Sisters Viewpoint .

Good to Know: Glencoe as one word refers to the village of Glencoe. Glen Coe as two words refers to the surrounding valley.

Drive to Stirling

It is just under a 2 hour drive from Glen Coe to Stirling. Spend as much time or as little as you like exploring Glen Coe. Then you have the rest of the afternoon to visit Stirling Castle and explore the area.

Where to Eat in Stirling:

We unfortunately were not able to fit Stirling into our final itinerary for Scotland, so I have no pictures or firsthand experience of this stop. So here are the ten best restaurants in Stirling , according to Trip Advisor. My personal pick is for the Lion & Unicorn Hotel !

Or you can always go with a quick trip to McDonald’s, because even though I would never (yes, Jim Gaffigan, never! ) eat at a McDonald’s in the US, they have different foods (and better service!) around the world, so it’s always fun to try them out.

Where to Stay in Stirling:

Premier Inn is always a good choice for where to stay.

Some others that look perfectly cute and cozy are:

Friars Wynd Hotel

King Robert Hotel

The Golden Lion Hotel

Rent an apartment in Menstrie Castle

Things to Do in Stirling:

Here are all the cool places in Stirling I was planning to visit:

Visit Stirling Castle , the city’s main attraction, on top of the hill!

Next to the castle—the beautiful Church of the Holy Rude .

See the William Wallace Monument .

Participate in an epic, immersive battle reenactment at the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre .

Day 7-Drive Back to Edinburgh

This is a sad day, because it is the day we are driving back to Edinburgh and ending our Scotland road trip (unless you have more time, in which case check out the bonus days below!).

It is a 1-hour drive from Stirling back to Edinburgh Airport, where you can return the rental car, pick up some last minute Biscoff flavored treats, and hop on your plane home.

Bonus Day Ideas

Mallaig Harbor, destination of the Jacobite Steam Train.

If you have more time for your Scotland road trip, consider adding some of these cities/activities to your itinerary:

Stay an extra day in Fort William and ride on the Jacobite Steam Train .

Before you get to Dornie, explore the highland city of Inverness , and take a cruise on nearby Loch Ness.

Explore Glasgow . The locals we met scolded us for skipping Glasgow on our trip. I promised to visit it next time… You can stop here before going to Stirling, or day trip here from Edinburgh (it’s a 1-hour train ride).

Go castle hunting through Aberdeenshire . There are over 260 castles in the area, including Dunnottar , the inspiration for the castle in “Brave.”

Feeling “brave” in Scotland!

Here are some movies to watch before your Scotland road trip to get you in the mood! Or you can check out my full list of what to watch (AND read) before going to the UK .

Harry Potter

Greyfriar’s Bobby

Outlaw/King

Secrets of Great British Castles

Season 1, Episode 5-Stirling Castle

Season 2, Episode 1-Edinburgh Castle

Red velvet cheesecake at Nicolsons Cafe in Edinburgh!

Now you are all set for your perfect 1-week Scotland road trip!

If you have any other ideas of great places to visit in Scotland, or any tips to share with your fellow travelers, be sure to add them in the comments below!

Any more questions?

If you have any questions about visiting Scotland, or driving in Scotland, feel free to email me or comment below.

Planning a trip?

Save the pin below for your Scotland road trip:

You might also like:

Renting a Car in Scotland

How to Get to the Fairy Glen on the Isle of Skye

A Guide to Dornie, Scotland & Eilean Donan Castle

The Jacobite Steam Train & Glenfinnan Viaduct

Harry Potter Places to Visit in the UK

What to Read & Watch Before Visiting the UK

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The Best 7 Day Scotland Road Trip For First-Timers (2024)

Interested in taking a 7 day Scotland road trip? You won’t be disappointed!

Scotland is my favorite place in the whole world.

I know that’s a pretty bold statement considering I haven’t seen the whole world, not even close.

But there’s just something about the country that makes me feel like I’m home and I never want to leave.

The fog and mist while driving through the Highlands, the friendly people, the wildlife, the history, and the folklore – all of it bundled together makes Scotland like nowhere else I’ve ever been.

Planning your trip? Use our favorite resources!

For accommodations –   Hotels.com  |  Expedia  |  VRBO ​ For car rentals –   Discover Cars ​ For tours & excursions –   Viator ​ For cheap flights – FareDrop ​ For travel insurance –   Safety Wing

While Scotland deserves as much time as you can manage, you can easily get a good feel for the country in just 7 days.

From the magical city of Edinburgh to the mysterious Loch Ness to the mesmerizing Isle of Skye , this self-drive tour of Scotland will get you around to a lot of the highlights and more!

Here’s the map and route and a breakdown of the best one-week Scotland road trip for first-timers:

• Day 1 – Edinburgh

Day 2 – Edinburgh to Stirling to Pitlochry

• Day 3 – Pitlochry to Cairngorms to Inverness

Day 4 – Inverness to Isle of Skye

Day 5 – isle of skye, day 6 – isle of skye to glencoe.

• Day 7 – Glencoe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh

Are you getting excited? Let’s dive in!

PPST! Looking for an easy way to reference all this great info? I’ve got a free, summarized version of this itinerary available to download so you can refer back to it at any time!

Best 7 day scotland road trip for first-timers.

Today you’ll be exploring my favorite city, Edinburgh. Ideally, you’ll either be able to arrive the night before or early this morning so you can make the most of your day here.

Edinburgh is insanely beautiful and has so much history and character. There is so much to explore, so you’ll have to pick and choose what to see based on your interests, but if you only have one day, this is what I’d recommend.

Arthur’s Seat

If you arrive the night before, I’d highly recommend getting up early and hiking up Arthur’s Seat for sunrise.

Arthur’s Seat is a grassy hill that is the remnants of an ancient volcano. It offers one of the best views of the city and is not to be missed if you enjoy hiking. It is the highest point in Holyrood Park.

The hike up to the top isn’t long, but it can be strenuous, so you should be prepared before you make the hike.

If the weather is very windy, foggy, or rainy, you should probably skip this as the views won’t be good and the rain will make the route very slippery. This is definitely a hike that should be done in decent weather to get the most out of the experience.

You can start and end the hike at various places within Holyrood Park, but I’d recommend beginning by St. Margaret’s Well in the northwest part of the park and taking the path by Saint Anthony’s Chapel Ruins before making your way up to the top. You can then hike back down the way you came or take another path to explore a different section of the park.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile lies in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This is where many of the attractions, museums, and shopping opportunities are located. It starts at the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the east and stretches to Edinburgh Castle to the west.

You should spend the majority of your day in this section of the city. There is so much to see and do in this part alone that you would need several days to really see it all.

Assuming you are coming from Arthur’s Seat, you’ll be starting your exploration of the Royal Mile from the eastern side by Dynamic Earth and Holyroodhouse , but if you skipped this, you could start anywhere you wish.

St Giles’ Cathedral

Take a few minutes to explore this stunning cathedral that predates most of the Old Town of Edinburgh. Step inside and appreciate the beautiful stained glass and architecture.

Victoria Street

Any other Harry Potter fans out there? If so, you probably know that Victoria Street is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, and you can definitely see why! There’s even a Harry Potter-themed store here, which is worth checking out!

Even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fanatic, this two-storied colorful street is fun to explore and do a bit of window shopping – or actual shopping!

Greyfriars Kirkyard & Greyfriars Bobby Statue

More Harry Potter trivia! It is said that J. K. Rowling spent time wandering around Greyfriars Kirkyard and came up with some of the characters’ names here, like McGonagall, Scrimgeour, and Thomas Riddell. Spend some time wandering around and see how many you can find!

A little ways away from the kirkyard is the statue of Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier who became famous for spending 14 years guarding the grave of his deceased owner.

National Museum of Scotland

There are so many museums to visit in Edinburgh, but if you only have time for one, I recommend the National Museum of Scotland .

It has a little bit of everything here, and the building itself is quite stunning. You could easily spend all day here, so I’d recommend finding the exhibitions you are most interested in and concentrating on those first.

I especially liked the Kingdom of the Scots and Scotland Transformed, as well as Dolly the sheep, who was the first cloned mammal.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

I didn’t get a chance to do this when I was in Edinburgh, but if you like scotch or are interested in learning more about the process, this would be a great option for you.

There are various tour options available, and I’d highly recommend booking your tour in advance as they do often sell out.

Edinburgh Castle

If you only have time for one activity, this is the one you should do. Edinburgh Castle is the highlight of the entire city , perched on top of a rocky hill and can be seen from just about everywhere.

Tickets must be bought in advance, so keep this in mind when planning.

Bonus: Calton Hill

If you aren’t too tired and want a nice location to watch the sunset, Calton Hill is a great choice.

Wander around the various monuments and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Other Options

For more options of things to do in Edinburgh if you have additional time or would like to swap out some of the previous suggestions, read this post:

Free and Cheap Things To Do In Edinburgh

Where to Stay

While it will be more expensive to stay near the Royal Mile, if you want to get the most out of your time in Edinburgh, it’s probably going to be your best option.

We actually opted to stay at an apartment at Tytler Gardens which is near Holyroodhouse and it worked out really well for us. It no longer is available, but this apartment is similar and in the same location.

Some other highly rated budget options include CoDE Pod – The CoURT , ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge , and Aparthotel Adagio .

Total Distance: 102 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Pick up your car this morning and head out of Edinburgh towards Stirling. Your first stop will be Linlithgow Palace.

Linlithgow Palace

Linlithgow Palace is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots and was the residence of the Stewarts for centuries. While now in ruins, it’s a fascinating place to explore and learn more about the Stewarts.

Spent an hour or two here and then continue to the Kelpies.

The Kelpies

The world’s largest horse sculptures are impressive and well worth a quick stop for a few pictures.

If you are interested, there are also tours that go inside the statue heads. We were content just walking around them and snapping a few photos.

This would also be a nice place to take a break and have a picnic if you packed a lunch. There is a cafe on-site as well if you want to get a quick bite to eat here.

Stirling Castle

I almost think I liked this castle better than Edinburgh’s…gasp! It’s hard to compare the two really, but Stirling Castle is a must-see regardless.

With its imposing position on the hill and sprawling grounds, you can spend a lot of time here exploring the castle inside and out.

Continue driving to Pitlochry where you will stay for the night.

Places to Stay

When we went to Scotland in 2017, we went during my 30th birthday. As my birthday treat, we stayed at Fonab Castle Hotel which was a highlight of our trip. It was luxurious and it was there I had the best meal of our entire trip.

If you want to splurge on a castle stay during your Scotland 7 day itinerary, I can’t recommend Fonab Castle enough. Or at least eat at the restaurant. It’s pricey but it’s worth it.

For budget stays, I’d recommend McKays Hotel Bar & Restaurant or Fisher’s Hotel .

Day 3 – Pitlochry to Inverness

Total Distance: 106 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

Start off your morning with a visit to the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre.

I had a blast here. We took a hill trip, which basically means we walked out to where the reindeer were and got to walk with them, feed them, and pet them while learning all about reindeer and the herd.

I felt like a little kid and had so much fun feeding them and snapping a bazillion photos. This was one of my favorite things during our entire trip.

If this doesn’t sound like something you’d like, I’d recommend taking some time to drive around  Cairngorms National Park . I wish we would have had more time to do so when we visited. The area is beyond beautiful.

Old Pack Horse Bridge, Carrbridge

This is a fun little attraction on your way out of the area. This post-medieval bridge over the River Dulnain is intriguing and worth a quick stop to take a few photos.

Clava Cairns

The Clava Cairns are bronze-age cairns, which are basically prehistoric burial grounds that consist of standing stones and rings of rocks.

It’s pretty fascinating to see something so old that is so well preserved. We wandered around the grounds for a while, taking photos and just marveling.

Culloden Battlefield

For any of you Outlander fans out there, the Culloden Battlefield is a must-see. The tragic end of the Jacobite uprising occurred here in 1745, and you can walk in the footsteps of the soldiers who fought.

Check out the visitor center first to get the lay of the land and see artifacts and a reenactment of the battle, and then wander the grounds, viewing the monuments and the clans.

Wrap up your day by checking into your accommodations in Inverness and then heading downtown for dinner and some shopping.

Where to stay

Your best bet is to find a place in Inverness or nearby. THE KEMPS Guesthouse and Darroch View B&B are highly rated budget options.

Total Distance: 113 miles Length of Drive: 2.5 hours

Urquhart Castle / Loch Ness

Drive along Loch Ness from Inverness to Urquhart Castle.

Urquhart Castle was my favorite castle ruin to explore. It sits right along the shores of Loch Ness and is incredibly picturesque. I loved climbing around the ruins and getting fantastic views from just about every angle.

Take some time to walk along the loch and see if you can spot Nessie!

Afterward, jump back in the car and head toward the west coast of Scotland and the Isle of Skye. You’ll probably want to stop and take loads of photos on the way, so go for it!

Eilean Donan Castle

Right before you cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye, you’ll come across Eilean Donan Castle. This is another highly photographed castle that you’ve probably seen loads of times.

It’s not a very big castle, but I thought it was worth taking the time to tour. The surroundings are what makes this castle so special, so even if you don’t want to go inside, take a few minutes to take some pictures.

If you want the best view of the castle, head up to the Eilean Donan Lookout. You’ll find it by taking a left out of the castle parking lot, and then taking the first right, and then the first right again. The road will take you up to an amazing viewpoint where you can see the castle and the stunning lochs and hills around it.

Once you’re finished at Eilean Donan, continue to the Isle of Skye and Portree. Take your time and stop at anything that strikes your fancy along the way.

If you’ve got some extra time once you reach Portee, take a walk around the town to see the colorful houses by the harbor.

If you’re up for a walk, hike the Scorrybreac Trail near the boathouse for some beautiful views of the boats and the loch.

Get to bed early tonight – you’ve got an early morning and a long day tomorrow!

Portree may be the main town on the Isle of Skye, but it’s still small and places to stay fill up fast, especially in the summer. Prices are a lot more expensive here too for that reason.

A few budget options include Tongadale Hotel and The Bosville . Renting a place with VRBO is also a great option.

Total Distance: 151 miles Length of Drive: 4.5 hours

Today is going to be the longest driving day, simply because if you only have one day to explore the Isle of Skye in your itinerary for Scotland, you will want to see as much as possible. You’ll want to get a very early start and will probably be out late.

I mean, if you’re going to tour Scotland, see everything you can, right?

But if this sounds like too much driving for you, feel free to cut out any of my suggestions that don’t strike your fancy. This is your trip, after all! But if you want to see as much of the Isle of Skye as you can in one day, this route should do the trick.

Fairy Pools

Aim to arrive at the Fairy Pools right around sunrise. We went first thing in the morning and had the place to ourselves for almost an hour!

The Fairy Pools are made up of blue, crystal-clear rock pools of mountain water that are fed by streams and waterfalls from the River Brittle.

It is an incredibly beautiful area to take a walk and maybe take a dip if you are brave enough – the water is frigid, even in the summer!

NOTE: If you have the time on Day 4, you could go to the Fairy Pools before heading to Portree for the evening. This would cut off about an hour of driving on Day 5 and might be a better option if you’d rather do the Fairy Pools than walk around Portree.

The Fairy Glen is a unique hilly landscape with various rock circles and outcroppings. It’s a beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy the scenery.

You will see lots of cairns and rock circles in the area. Please don’t add to them or create more…the locals try to keep the area clear of them and maintain the natural beauty.

The Quiraing is a famous landslip that is a great place to take a hike. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding area.

The 3.9-mile circuit hike will take you about 2 hours to complete. Since this itinerary is pretty packed, I’d recommend only doing one hike on this day, either the Quiraing or Old Man of Storr (see below).

The day we did this drive, it was very rainy and cloudy, so we did not do any hiking. This hike would only really be worth it on a clear day since you won’t get the views otherwise.

If you aren’t interested in hiking, you can skip the Quiraing and continue to Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls.

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Kilt Rock is a pleated rock formation along the cliffs, and Mealt Falls is the waterfall that plunges into the ocean over Kilt Rock.

It’s a neat location along the cliffs that’s worth a quick stop and a few photos.

Old Man of Storr

The Old Man of Storr is a famous rock formation on the Isle of Skye that you can either hike up to or simply admire from below (if it’s not too cloudy!).

As I mentioned earlier, your itinerary is pretty packed today, so if you’d like to hike, I would choose only one, either this one or the Quiraing.

The Old Man of Storr hike is 3 miles and will take about 1.5 hours to complete. As with the Quiraing, if it’s too rainy or cloudy, you might want to skip the hike since you won’t be able to see much. Also make sure you have good, sturdy shoes since the rocks and the incline can be slippery.

Neist Point

After admiring the Old Man of Storr, drive about 1.5 hours and head to the westernmost point of the Isle of Skye to Neist Point and its lighthouse.

Neist Point is a wonderful location to catch the sunset , so if you are able to make it here around that time, all the better.

Take the trail down to the lighthouse first, wandering among the sheep and exploring the area around the lighthouse. Be careful of the wind – the day we went it was insanely windy and we got blown around like crazy!

After, head up to the lighthouse viewpoint and admire the scene. It’s located up the hill to the right of the car park. Somehow I missed this spot on our trip and am kicking myself! Oh well, there is always next time!

You can either head back to Portree tonight or you can book a place closer to Neist Point so you don’t have as long of a drive.

We ended up staying at an Airbnb in Dunvegan (which is unfortunately no longer available) and thought the location and the room were nice. There aren’t many options though, so keep that in mind. Your best bet is probably Airbnb or VRBO .

Total Distance: 152 miles Length of Drive: 5 hours

Take the ferry from Armadale to Mallaig

The best way to get to Glenfinnan and Glencoe today is to drive to Armadale and take the ferry to Mallaig.

CalMac is the company that operates this ferry and many of the other ferries in the country.

Depending on the time of year you visit, there may only be one or two ferries a day, so check the ferry timetable to determine if this option will work for you.

We went in early December and had to take the 9:25 am ferry because the only other ferry was in the late afternoon. There are more options in the summer months (late March to late October) but just check ahead of time.

We enjoyed taking the ferry across the loch, even if the water was choppy and it was raining. It was still a great experience! You can buy ferry tickets on the CalMac website.

Once you get off the ferry, it’s only a short drive to Glenfinnan.

NOTE: If you cannot or do not want to take the ferry, it will take you approximately 2 hours 45 minutes to drive from Portee to Glenfinnan, so take that into consideration when planning.

St Mary & St Finnan Church

Take a few minutes to stop and peek into this tiny and beautiful church located just down the road from the Glenfinnan Visitor Center.

Glenfinnan Viaduct

Made famous by the Harry Potter movies, the Glenfinnan Viaduct is an amazing railroad structure that carries the famous Jacobite steam train and other trains from Fort William to Mallaig.

While the Jacobite steam train only runs in the summer months, if you are visiting at another time of year, you can try to catch another train crossing as we did, or just hike along the trail and enjoy the viaduct from several viewpoints.

Glenfinnan Monument

Take a quick walk across the street from the visitor center to see the Glenfinnan Monument, which was erected as a tribute to those who lost their lives fighting during the Jacobite cause.

I don’t think I could pick between Isle of Skye or Glencoe which is more beautiful and breathtaking.

This national nature reserve is the epitome of the Scottish Highlands. Dramatic scenery, loads of wildlife, and wonderful hiking all combine into one of my favorite places in Scotland.

Take your time here. Drive slow, soak up the beauty, and take lots of photos.

Our favorite place in Glencoe is Glen Etive , a stunning area that has been featured in several movies and is home to curious red deer.

There are also multiple hikes in the area if you have the time and want to get out and stretch your legs. A few options include Lost Valley, Buachaille Etive Beag, and Signal Rock.

You’ll have the best luck finding accommodations in the Fort William area. A few good choices include Loch Leven Hotel , The Garrison , and Highland Croft .

Day 7 – Glen Coe to Loch Lomond to Edinburgh

Total Distance: 140 miles Length of Drive: 3 hours 15 minutes

On your last day in Scotland, take it easy and explore Loch Lomond .

Walk along the loch and breathe in the fresh air. Pack along a picnic and eat along the banks. Soak up your last day in Scotland.

Stop by the adorable village of Luss and walk around. If you haven’t gotten to visit a distillery yet, check out Glen Luss Distillery.

In the mood for some hiking? Consider Devil’s Pulpit, a stunning gorge with a waterfall.

Rather spend the day in Glasgow? There are plenty of things to do there as well. We only had a few hours when we went and only had time to see the Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis , but it was beautiful and well worth it.

If you love museums, there are plenty of great ones in Glasgow. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a popular one as well as the Gallery of Modern Art.

I know you don’t want to, but you’ll have to eventually head back to Edinburgh to drop off your car and catch your plane. If you can, try to catch a flight for the next morning so you don’t have to rush, but a late evening flight tonight could work as well.

If you plan to drop off your car at the airport, pick a place near there to make it easier. If you are returning the car to a location in the city, you might want to stay downtown and then catch a bus or taxi in the morning to take you to the airport.

Want a downloadable version of this itinerary? I’ll send it right to your inbox!

If you have less than 7 days for a road trip in scotland….

If you don’t have a full week to road trip in Scotland, here are a couple of alternative itineraries so you can still make the most of your time.

3 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

With 3 days, I’d recommend you stay based in Edinburgh and spend more time in the city. There is so much to see here that you won’t run out of things to do!

If you don’t want to spend all 3 days in Edinburgh, you could take a bus or train to Glasgow and spend one day there to see how different the two cities are.

I like to use Rome2Rio to find the best options when using public transportation.

If you want to get out and see the Highlands , consider a day trip with a group tour. It will be the easiest and most relaxing way to experience the wilds of Scotland.

I highly recommend finding your tour on Get Your Guide . You can find the highest-rated options for good prices, and I’ve had nothing but good experiences with them.

4 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

If you have 4 days, use the first 3 days of the 7 day Scotland itinerary, and then on the fourth day, drive from Inverness back to Edinburgh via Glencoe.

5 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

With a five-day itinerary, I would do something like this:

• Day 2 – Edinburgh to Isle of Skye (It’s about a 5.5-hour drive so stop and see a few things along the way if you’d like, such as the Kelpies and Eilean Donan Castle , or head directly there and spend more time on the Isle of Skye.)
• Day 3 – Isle of Skye (use the Day 5 itinerary)
• Day 4 – Isle of Skye to Glencoe (use the Day 6 itinerary)
• Day 5 – Glencoe to Edinburgh (use the Day 7 itinerary)

6 Day Scotland road trip Itinerary

If you have 6 days, skip Day 3 and drive directly from Edinburgh to Inverness. I’d recommend trying to see Stirling Castle and Culloden Battlefield along the way.

If you have more than 7 days for a road trip in Scotland…

Woo hoo! You’ve got more than a week for your epic road trip! There are so many ways you can extend this itinerary to explore some of these areas even deeper.

• With one extra day, you could choose to add an additional day in Edinburgh or the Isle of Skye, whichever one sounds more enjoyable to you.
• With 2 or 3 extra days , I’d do additional days in both Edinburgh and the Isle of Skye.
• St. Andrews (if you love golf)
• Glasgow (if you love cities)
• Oban & The Isle of Mull (if you love scotch or want to explore another isle)
• The North Coast 500 (This could be a whole separate trip, but if you have the time, I’d add this drive! This is on our list for our next visit!)

You can also check out this 10-Day Scotland Highlands road trip itinerary that includes time in Oban & The Isle of Mull plus two full days in Skye. Or, if you want to see more of the UK, here are 11 fantastic UK road trip itineraries for you to explore.

Best time to road trip in Scotland

In my opinion, there is never a bad time for Scotland travel! Each season has its pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider in order to pick the season that’s best for you.

Summer (July to August) is by far the most popular season to visit Scotland. The weather is the warmest, most attractions will be open, and you have really long days (the sun doesn’t set until after 9:30 pm for most of the season!). There are also lots of festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games .

The downside is that things can get CROWDED. Everyone wants to take road trips to experience the beauty of a Scotland summer, so attractions will be packed and you’ll have lots of cars on the narrow country roads. Accommodations will be more expensive and harder to come by unless you book out months in advance. You also will have to deal with a higher chance of rain and the pesky midges (biting insects).

Spring (May-June) and Fall (September-October) are the shoulder seasons and are a fantastic time to experience Scotland. There are fewer crowds, prices are reasonable, and many attractions are open. There is also a lesser chance of rain.

There aren’t many downsides to visiting this time of year, other than the fact that the days are shorter than the summer and the weather can be a bit chilly and unpredictable. If you wanted to do any swimming, you probably wouldn’t want to come during these seasons.

Winter (November-April) is the low season for Scotland. Many attractions and accommodations are closed, it can be cold and snowy, and the days are quite short.

However, there are definitely some advantages to traveling to Scotland in the winter. You can experience the wonder of the Christmas markets in Glasgow and Edinburgh and see the country covered in the beautiful snow .

There is also the opportunity for skiing in the Highlands, and there are hardly any people at the attractions.

We went to Scotland in late November / early December and loved it so much. While we couldn’t see everything we wanted because certain things were closed, the places we did get to see were practically void of people. We got to experience so many things without another person in sight!

Plus I fell in love with Edinburgh and its Christmas market. It was one of my favorite things to do in the city and I tried to make it there every night to enjoy the hot food and drinks and walk the stalls.

No matter when you visit Scotland, you are bound to have an amazing time!

How to get to Scotland

Most likely you will either arrive in Scotland by plane, train, or bus.

The two major airports in Scotland are Glasgow (GLA) and Edinburgh (EDI) . If you are flying, you will probably arrive at either one of these. Depending on where you are coming from, it may be cheaper to fly in/out of one versus the other.

When we went, it was cheaper to fly into Glasgow and then take a bus to Edinburgh, so that’s what we did. Check both options to see which works best for you.

I use Google Flights to check flight prices and track them so I can get the best deal.

If you are already in Europe, you can also arrive in Scotland by bus or train. I like Rome2Rio to help me find the best, cheapest public transportation options.

If you have your own car, you can also drive to Scotland, although if you are coming from mainland Europe, remember that in the UK, they drive on the left side of the road.

It may be better to rent a car in this instance as you will be sitting on the wrong side of the car for this kind of driving.

How to get around Scotland

Personal vehicle.

In my opinion, taking a road trip around Scotland is the best way to see the country.

You can stop and look at whatever beautiful landmark you want.

You can eat at that cute cafe.

You can stay an extra hour or 5 if you fall in love with a particular place.

Being able to control your own schedule is fantastic.

But there are definitely some things to consider before you decide to rent a car and drive yourself.

The biggest thing is that if you are from the Americas, mainland Europe, and many other places in the world, you will be driving on the opposite side of the road than you are used to.

That’s right: you’ll be driving on the left instead of the right.

If you are not a confident driver, this is something you should definitely think about before deciding if you should rent a car.

related: the best car for a road trip in Europe

However, don’t let it freak you out too much. I found that after the first day (which was, honestly, a little nerve-wracking) it wasn’t too bad. Since you are sitting on the other side of the car, I found myself almost automatically being drawn to the left side of the road.

Just take it slow and you’ll get the hang of it.

I use Discover Cars to find and book my rentals. They search all the rental companies for the best prices and you always get free cancellation.

NOTE: most cars in the UK have manual transmissions. If you do not drive a manual car as a daily driver, I’d highly recommend spending the extra money to rent an automatic. You don’t want to be trying to learn to drive on the other side of the road AND remembering how to shift (with your other hand, I might add).

Public transportation

If you would rather not drive yourself around Scotland, you can rely on public transportation. You’ll be more restricted on where you can go and your timetable, but it’s definitely doable.

There is a pretty well-connected bus and train system in Scotland that you can use to get around. You’ll have a harder time getting out to some of the more rural attractions and towns, but public transportation can still get you to a lot of places if you’d rather not drive yourself.

I use the website and app Rome2Rio for all my public transportation planning and to purchase tickets.

If driving your own vehicle and taking public transportation sounds like too much stress for you, then a tour will be more up your alley.

There are plenty of great tour companies out there that will cover every option.

If you want to piece together your own plans and take a day trip or two, consider a site like Get Your Guide or Viator to find day tours that suit your budget and desired itinerary. You can also find multi-day tours too that may work for you.

However, if you want a complete package where you don’t have to plan a thing, check out Tour Radar . You can search all the tour companies that offer trips to Scotland and compare prices and destinations.

What to pack for your Scotland road trip

No matter when you decide to visit Scotland, your packing list will be pretty similar. The weather is always changing there and it can go from being windy and rainy one moment to sunny the next.

Here are some items and travel tips you should consider when packing for your trip .

Plug adapter/converter

Scotland uses a type G power plug. If you aren’t from the UK, you might need an adapter. I’d definitely recommend a plug adapter that is also a power converter so you don’t fry any of your electronics.

This is a given, but you are going to be so amazed by all the beauty around you, you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t have a good camera to capture it all.

A good phone camera would work well for most landscapes, but if you want to get some awesome closeup shots, you might want something with a zoom lens.

Hiking shoes & good socks

If you plan on doing any kind of hiking, I’d recommend hiking shoes or boots rather than sneakers. The socks you wear with your boots will also make a huge difference in how your feet feel. I like Cloudline wool socks, but there are lots of great brands out there.

Rain jacket

I guarantee you it will rain at some point while you are in Scotland. Don’t let the weather ruin your trip – pack along a good rain jacket so you can still enjoy your activities.

No matter what season you travel to Scotland, you are going to need to be prepared for all kinds of weather and temperatures. Pack a variety of options, ideally items that can be layered. That way you’ll be comfortable no matter the conditions.

It’s always a good idea to have a day pack with you when you travel. Whether it’s to throw all your kids’ stuff into it or to pack along lunches for a hike, it makes it so much easier to have a designated bag that is used exclusively for your day excursions.

Laundry detergent sheets

I never travel anywhere without laundry detergent sheets . They are so nice to throw into your bag in case you need to do laundry. I always keep a few of these in my suitcase so I don’t have to remember to bring them – they are always on hand.

A power bank is practically a necessity for travel these days. You always want to make sure your phone is charged so you can take photos, navigate, and double-check your Airbnb reservation address.

How many days do you need for a Scotland road trip?

The short answer? As many as possible!

But since the majority of us have a time limit for these sorts of things, spending months in Scotland is probably out of the question.

I’d say at the very least, if you want to get out of the cities and get a decent glimpse of the countryside, you would need a minimum of 4-5 days. This would give you the ability to spend a day or two in Edinburgh and/or Glasgow and then a couple of days in the Highlands.

However, if you can swing at least a whole week, you’ll be able to take full advantage of this itinerary and see a lot more of the Highlands and what makes Scotland so magical.

When we went to Scotland, we had two weeks and got to see so much, but it still felt too short. There is SO much more I want to see that I cannot wait until I get back!

Conclusion: The Best 7-Day Scotland Road Trip for First-Timers

And there you have it! A fantastic 7-day Scotland road trip for anyone wanting to see the best of Scotland for the first time.

Ready to book your trip right now? I know I’m itching to go back!

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Stefanie Henne is an experienced road trip travel blogger who specializes in helping others plan their dream vacation, no matter their budget or time restraints. Go here to read more about Stef's story. If you want to send Stef a message, visit her contact page here.

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7 Day Scotland Road Trip Route & Itinerary (2023)

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking for a 7-day Scotland road trip route and itinerary? I’ve got you covered! Our Scotland road trip was one of the best trips we’ve ever taken – so much so we are currently planning out next!

Finding a simple route to travel around Scotland is tough. If you’re someone who needs it mapped out for you, this blog post has it all.

Whatever happens on your Scotland road trip, I dare you not to fall in love with this country. With its culture, tradition, history, and beauty, it has everything a travel lover could ever need!

In the following post, I’ve highlighted the best things to do on a Scotland road trip, as well as the perfect stops to make your trip extra special. From the mountains of the Cairngorm National Park , to the famous NC500 , the mystery of Loch Ness and chasing fairies on the Isle of Skye, this Scotland road trip itinerary has it all.

Travelling around Scotland? You might also like…

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (+ Travel Guide!)
• Where to Find Highland Cows in Scotland: Highland Cattle
• Fairy Pools Skye Walk: Everything You Need to Know
• Old Man of Storr Walk Guide: Isle of Skye, Scotland

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

7-Day Scotland Road Trip : A Summary

A good thing to know about driving in Scotland is there are very few roads the more north you travel.  There aren’t many routes you can take, and if you’ve got the plan of seeing the highlands or the NC500, it’s impossible to get lost.

This makes it easy to get around, and we found so many unplanned viewpoints, detours, and surprises en route.

🍖 Good news – you can have a BBQ anywhere in Scotland, as long as it isn’t a forest area or exceptionally dry. Your best bet is a beach or roadside.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The visitor centres in Scotland are brilliant – they’re full of information about the area, with 3D sculptures of the mountains and forests, cute cafes and most importantly, clean toilets! A welcome relief when living the van life, trust me!

🦟 The midges and mosquitoes are in abundance during the summer months in Scotland, especially in the highlands. Be prepared!

Related post: Want to take your pet on your 7-day Scotland road trip? Check out this complete guide to taking your pet on holiday here!

7-day Scotland Road Trip: Route

⏰ Duration:  7 days

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Locations in Scotland: Glasgow > Loch Lomond > Glencoe > Traigh Beach > Isle of Skye > Applecross > Inverness > Aviemore > Glasgow

🗺️ NOTE: This is roughly 500 miles and 11 hours of driving time (part of the map below is a ferry to the Isle of Skye).

Here is the 7-day Scotland road trip route, map and itinerary, with a clear breakdown of the best one-week Scotland road trip for first-timers:

• Day 1  – Glasgow + Loch Lomond
• Day 2  – Glencoe + Traigh Beach
• Day 3  – Isle of Skye
• Day 4  – Isle of Skye + Applecross
• Day 5  – Inverness + Loch Ness
• Day 6  – Cairngorms (Aviemore)
• Day 7  – Cairngorms > Glasgow or Edinburgh

7-day Scotland road trip map:

This entire trip will take you up past Loch Lomond, along the Harry Potter trail, and through scenic mountain ranges. Not forgetting the West Coast beaches and to the magical myths of the Isle of Skye.

You’ll then drive along part of the iconic NC500 (the UK’s version of Route 66) , down to Applecross coastal town, across to Inverness and Loch Ness and finally, into Cairngorms National Park. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it!

However, if this is too much driving for you, cut out one or two of the locations. Do as you wish with the route, but if you follow it exactly, it will take you around 7 days.

This route is to be completed by car/van . We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!

Scotland Road Trip: Itinerary

Day 1: glasgow & loch lomond.

If you’re starting your Scotland road trip in Glasgow, but sure to set aside some time to explore. Glasgow is known as the ‘world’s friendliest city’, so be sure to check it out!

As you leave Glasgow, you’ll head north on the A82 for around an hour to reach Loch Lomond. I’d recommend spending as long as you can at Loch Lomond. 

As the loch is the largest in Scotland,  there is so much to see, walks to go on, hikes to be experienced, numerous viewpoints, and of course, lots of water activities (although the water is freezing, so be prepared!)

That evening, if you have a van or a tent, you can find a spot to camp around Loch Lomond, or follow in our footsteps and continue driving to knock off a few more miles. Continue north on the A82, past the loch, and head to the Bridge of Orchy for some amazing wild camping spots.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Bridge of Orchy

🛌 Or book a night at: Queen of the Loch

Day 2: Glencoe & Traigh Beach

Glencoe and glenfinnan viaduct.

After sleeping at the Bridge of Orchy or in a hotel at Loch Lomond, begin your day by driving further along the A82 towards Glencoe.

Glencoe is one of the most well-known mountainous areas in Scotland. Its landscape has been used in films such as Harry Potter and James Bond.

Depending on what type of Scotland road trip you’re looking for, you could spend days in Glencoe. If you’re short on time, I recommend doing a short walk such as the Invercoe Loop, and the Glencoe visitors centre.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan,  your next stop is going to be the Glenfinnan Viaduct. This famous Jacobite steam train is the iconic Hogwarts Express train and track.

Unfortunately, the famous Jacobite steam train only runs a couple of times a day, but it’s still cool to see the viaduct alone!

🦉 TOP TIP:   Ignore the main Glenfinnan car park  and head around 100m further uphill. Here you will reach a church, with a small 5/6 car park outside. It’s completely free to park here, and as most people have rushed into the first one, usually pretty empty.

Continue along the A82 for quite some time, but be sure to pull over at the northern tip of Loch Eilt,  where Dumbledore’s final resting place is. You will see it situated right in the middle of the loch.

Traigh Beach

That evening, depending on how tired you are of driving, you could find a wild camping spot around Loch Eilt or head to one of my favourite places – Traigh beach. Traigh is such a hidden gem in Scotland, and not many routes include it.

It’s a stretch of white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, surrounded by green fields. It’s the perfect spot to wild camp and have a BBQ!

As Traigh Beach is situated directly on the west coast, the sun setting over the ocean is just incredible. Honestly, you wouldn’t believe it’s Scotland!

⛺️ Wild camp at: Traigh Beach

🛌 Or book a night at: The Arisaig Pods (Shepherd’s Huts)

Day 3: Isle of Skye

After you’ve enjoyed a morning on the beach,  head to Mallaig to catch the ferry to the Isle of Skye . If you don’t want to visit the Isle of Skye, skip Day 4 and go straight onto Day 5.

Pre-book your £15 ferry to the Isle of Skye a few days previous to wanting to visit. If it’s fully booked, there is a bridge you can drive over to reach the island.

There are so many things to do on the Isle of Skye. Swim in the fairy pools and hike the Old Man of Storr , or visit the small town of Portree and eat fish and chips. Walk around the famous Fairy Glen, or spot highland cows all over the island!

I recommend staying at least 1 night on the Isle of Skye to explore it properly.

⛺️ Wild camp on: the Isle of Skye

🛌 Or book a night at: Rasaay House Hotel

Related posts: The magic of the fairy pools on the Isle of Skye | Hiking the Old Man of Storr Guide

Day 4: Isle of Skye & Applecross

A big day of driving today, including the legendary drive along Bealach na Ba into Applecross. After a busy day of exploring Skye, today you’ll head further north of Scotland and join the iconic NC500!

Begin your drive on the A890 heading towards Applecross,  a small coastal town known for its locally-caught fish and traditional pubs.

During your journey to Applecross, you will drive on one of the highest and best-known roads in Scotland. Bealach na Ba isn’t for unsteady drivers!  It’s full of twists, turns and winding corners.

It’s a single track with a few passing places en route for oncoming cars. As you reach the top of the road, there’s a small layby to stop off and admire the view, 2054ft above sea level.

Applecross is then the next town. As you would have spent a few hours driving, it’s a great place to stop for a seafood lunch. Later in the afternoon, or the following morning, you’ll be back behind the wheel to drive through the Torridon Mountains.

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Torridon Mountains (anywhere along the route)

🛌 Or book a night at: Hartford House Hotel

Day 6: Inverness & Aviemore

Another incredible location en route for all nature and mountain lovers is the historic nature reserve of Beinn Eighe.  It’s a cluster of mountains, wildlife, and ancient pinewoods, it’s no wonder that it was chosen as Britain’s first nature reserve spot!

Spend your morning doing the mountain trail loop, or a simple woodland walk, before jumping back in the van to your next destination on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Have lunch either in your van, in the trees of Bein Eigh or in a nearby pub, before you make the sad move of heading off the NC500.

You can stop in Inverness en route to the Cairngorms. We went straight to the legendary Loch Ness to find the iconic monster that lives here (but had no luck, unfortunately).

Sadly the Ness is too cold to swim in, and if you jump in, the only thing you’ll be catching is hypothermia! Only a quick visit is needed before you can jump back in the van to your final (in my opinion, best) location.

Aviemore (The Cairngorms National Park)

Around 50 minutes down the A9,  you’ll reach the small town of  Aviemore , known as the heart of the Cairngorm National Park .

The Cairngorms is the largest national park in the UK, and is twice the size of the  Lake District ! It’s by far one of the prettiest places on your Scotland road trip.

Aviemore is a small town in the Cairngorms, known for its ancient woodlands, large lochs and ski resorts. Set up with a Tesco, Starbucks, tons of mountain and ski shops to top up on supplies, and other outdoor-type stores, it just has a real ‘adventure’ vibe to it.

I recommend staying in the  Rothiemurchus campsite  on your first night in the Cairngorms to recharge your electricity.

We parked up in the middle of the forest, hooked up our electricity, and just soaked up every little bit of the forest atmosphere. It’s beautiful.

The camp has small wood cabins for their toilets which are cleaned regularly, with individual showers and toilet cubicles for complete privacy.

At only £30 a night for a van, you get everything you need from a campsite, plus the experience of staying in the middle of an ancient forest, away from the real world. I highly recommend adding it to your Scotland 7 day itinerary!

⛺️ Wild camp at: the Rothiemurchus campsite

🛌 Or book a night at: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Related posts: The best things to do in Aviemore, the Cairngorms

Day 7: The Cairngorms

Whether you head deeper into the park, or hike up the surrounding mountains, a day in the Cairngorms is for every nature lover.

If you stayed at the campsite, you would have been given a small map to show you the different areas of the park.

This will outline various hikes and walks and their difficulties, and show you some of the best areas to visit during your time there.

I’d recommend a morning at Loch Eilen, then an afternoon/evening at Loch Morlich. Loch Eilen is around a 5-minute drive from Aviemore town centre and is in the forest area further in the park. You’ll pay a small fee on arrival which counts as parking and entrance.

Loch Eilen has a historical castle situated on a little island right in the middle, and if you’re a competent swimmer, it’s a great place to swim out to and explore!

Spend your morning here, then head onto Loch Morlich in the afternoon. This loch has a large stretch of ‘beach’ and sand to sit on, with a few cafes and watersport shops if you’re feeling adventurous.

You can also take some hiking and walking routes around the loch.

Loch Morlich was one of the highlights of our trip, and I highly recommend visiting whilst you’re in the Cairngorms!

If you have time, a little further north of Loch Morlich is the only  reindeer reserve   in the whole of the UK. Just remember to book a ticket in advance !

Driving in Scotland Tips

• Drivers from non-EU countries  need a valid International Driving permit.  and you must have at least  3rd-party insurance on your vehicle.
• Scotland drives on the  left-hand side. 
• The speed limit on single-track roads is 60mph, and on dual carriageways, it’s 70mph.
• If you’re not familiar with driving in the UK,  be sure to check out some general road rules before you set off.
• Stay safe whilst following GPS by using a  phone holder  for your car. The phone holder will ensure you can follow directions hands-free.
• Your signal may dip in and out in the Scottish countryside, especially in the Highlands.  I recommend getting an  eSIM  (if you’re from overseas) to get mobile data across the country.
• Most drivers in the UK are sensible and follow the rules.  Seatbelts are mandatory  and you will be stopped and fined for not using one. Traffic lights are followed religiously.
• Lost or need directions? Scotland is home to some of the most friendly, genuine people in the world, so don’t be afraid to stop and ask for directions . We did this and it was a great way to meet some of the locals.
• Remember that Scotland is a rural country, and you can go from being in a busy town centre to a remote area in minutes. Make sure you have plenty of petrol and food with you before embarking on your journey!
• Petrol is more expensive the more remote you go (plus major city centres). If you see a petrol station in a cheaper area, be sure to top up then rather than leaving it until you’re half empty – especially if you have a van with a large fuel tank.

➡  Need to hire a car in Scotland?   We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Things to do on your Scotland Road Trip

Things to do in glasgow.

Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and Glasgow is its largest city. There’s plenty to see and do in Glasgow, from exploring its history and architecture to enjoying its food and nightlife. Scotland is also a great place for a road trip, with plenty of scenic routes to take in all of its natural beauty.

Here are some of the things you can do in Glasgow:

• Visit Glasgow Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s well worth a visit for its historical significance and cool architecture.
• Take a walk along the River Clyde: The River Clyde runs through the heart of Glasgow, and there are many scenic walking routes along its banks. stop and enjoy the views, or go for a swim if it’s summertime!
• Explore Glasgow’s museums and art galleries: With over 20 museums and 40 art galleries, Glasgow has one of the best collections of cultural attractions in Scotland.
• Go on a shopping spree: Glasgow is home to some of Scotland’s best shopping!

🛌 Where to stay in Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City (City Centre)

Where to eat in Glasgow

Glasgow is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a casual bite, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Glasgow! For a truly Scottish experience, be sure to try haggis, Glasgow’s national dish.

Other Glasgow specialities include Cullen skink (a hearty soup made with smoked haddock), seafood chowder, and tattie scones (potato flatbreads). For dessert, why not try Glasgow’s famous deep-fried Mars bars?

Since this road trip, we have returned to Glasgow and found these were our favourite restaurants:

• Ranjit’s Kitchen (Indian)
• Two Fat Ladies in the City
• The Red Onion
• Ox and Finch

Things to do in Glencoe

Hopefully, Glencoe doesn’t get skipped on your road trip, as it is simply stunning. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and here are just a few of the things you can do in Glencoe:

• Explore the ruins of Castle Ewen, a 16th-century stronghold that was destroyed in a clan battle.
• Hike to the top of Buchaille Etive Mor, one of the most popular trails in Scotland. The views from the summit are simply incredible.
• Visit Glencoe Folk Museum to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
• Take a scenic drive along the Road to the Isles, which winds its way through some of the most beautiful parts of Scotland!

Things to do on the Isle of Skye

This small island off the west coast of Scotland is home to some of the most stunning scenery you’ll ever see . From towering sea cliffs and rugged coastline to misty valleys and rolling hills, there’s something for everyone on Skye.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at Scotland’s notorious ‘ single tracks ’ – narrow roads with sheer drops that are not for the faint-hearted!

There are also plenty of walks and hikes to enjoy on Skye. Quiraing is a popular choice, a 2-hour hike that takes you through an otherworldly landscape of jagged peaks and atmospheric mist. For something shorter, take a stroll around Loch Coruisk. It’s a must-do when you visit Scotland!

Where to eat on the Isle of Skye

Skye is famous for its food. The Isle of Skye has some of the best seafood in Scotland and is also home to many restaurants that serve traditional Scottish food. When visiting, be sure to check out:

• The Three Chimneys is one of the most popular Isle of Skye restaurants. It is located in the village of Dunvegan on the Isle of Skye, and serves traditional Scottish food. The menu includes dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties (yes, you have to try haggis!), plus lots of seafood.
• The Old Inn is a popular Isle of Skye restaurant . Located in the village of Carbost on the Isle of Skye, it again serves traditional Scottish food and is known for its whisky menu, sourcing it from all over Scotland.
• The Skeabost Country House Hotel is located in the village of Portree on the Isle Of Skye, and is another popular place to eat.

Things to do in Inverness

Inverness is located in the heart of the Highlands, and it offers a wide variety of things to see and do. From visiting medieval castles to exploring world-famous whisky distilleries, there is something for everyone in Inverness!

🦕 Don’t forget it’s the home of the famous Loch Ness, so make sure you stop off to look for Nessie! Loch Ness is freezing but beautiful and is definitely worth a stop on your 7-day Scotland road trip.

Additional locations to visit on your Scotland Road Trip

If you have a few extra days to spare, make a stop in Edinburgh! This charming city is full of historical landmarks, great restaurants, and fun activities. Make sure in Edinburgh you visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. You can also take a stroll through one of the many green spaces or go shopping in trendy boutiques.

And no visit to Edinburgh would be complete without sampling some of the local whisky!

🦉 TOP TIP: The sunset from Edinburgh Castle is stunning!

🛌 Where to stay in Edinburgh: Market Street Hotel (Old Town)

Fort William

Although we drove through Fort William, we didn’t have a chance to spend any time here. Nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, Fort William is a small town with lots to do.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are so many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. William Wordsworth even penned a poem about the area’s beauty!

🛌 Where to stay in Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

What to Pack for a Scotland Road Trip

Whether you’re planning to camp under the stars or stay in your van, here are a few things you’ll need to pack for your 7-day Scotland road trip.

• Layers! Scotland can have four seasons in one day, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Pack a mix of light and heavy clothing, including rain gear and sturdy shoes.
• A lightweight  waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots  (that won’t slip) – these are my favourites for any kind of weather
• An  umbrella
• A  waterproof day bag
• A  waterproof phone case  (which can also be used for  wild swimming  when it’s sunnier)
• A  portable charger
• Lots of layers
• A GoPro  for waterproof camera footage
• A  waterproof backpack cover
• A chilly bottle  to keep your water at a drinkable temperature
• A  Dry Robe , as it helps to keep you warm when entering and leaving the water (even if it’s raining!)
• As well as using bug  spray , we have midge  repellent wristbands .

Check out my travel shop here!

Where to stay on your Scotland road trip

If you are not hiring a van or camping , you need to pre-book accommodation for your Scotland road trip in advance. Stays in the UK sell out fast, and prices will increase nearer to the time of your trip.

Here are some of my recommendations, or check the button at the end of the paragraph for more exciting Scotland stays.

Glasgow: Maldron Hotel Glasgow City

Loch Lomond: Queen of the Loch

Traigh Beach: The Arisaig Pods

Isle of Skye: Rasaay House Hotel

Applecross: Hartford House Hotel

Aviemore: Macdonald Highlands Hotel

Fort William: Victoria House Bed and Breakfast

Getting around Scotland

This 7-day Scotland road trip has been planned with a rental car in mind. Public transport in the highlands is non-existent, and I wouldn’t recommend relying on it for your Scotland itinerary (even if you have to do some public transport in the city centre or for a day trip).

The roads in Scotland are easy to follow and for most of the year, the roads are quiet.

Renting a car for a Scotland road trip

If you can, take a car to get around Scotland. If you only have a short amount of time, you don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport.  Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world.  Be sure to pre-book your car rental before arriving in the country to avoid disappointment!

➡  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Wild camping in Scotland

When it comes to wild camping, you can park your van anywhere in Scotland . This is apart from the obvious, like someone’s property, a layby, on a corner and so on; just use common sense.

There are a lot of hidden gems and remote areas around, but it just takes a while to find them!

Best time to take a Scotland Road Trip

Scotland is a 365-day-year-round holiday destination, and knowing when to visit depends on your personal preferences.

☀️ If you want sunshine and blue skies , visit during the summer months of June-August. These are generally Scotland’s hottest months, but there’s no guarantee. Temperatures in these months can still drop and of course, we will still have some rain (it is the UK!) It can also get crowded and busy during the summer peak time. Make sure you pre-book any accommodation.

❄️ If you’d like to experience Scotland for its moody weather and clouds, head there for the colder months, like November and January. You’re also likely to see snow at this time in Scotland.

🌸  Spring in Scotland usually begins in late March and is until May.  Temperatures are beginning to rise and there is less rain than in the winter months. Pink blossom trees are blooming and the fields are coated in daffodils. 

🍂  Autumn temperatures in Scotland fall between September-early November.  If you’re looking for those aesthetic autumnal colours, your best bet is to take a Scotland road trip during these months. 

🎶 Don’t forget to check out local events when planning your trip, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Highland Games.

Scotland Road Trip: FAQs

1) how many days do i need for a scotland road trip.

Whether you have a week, a fortnight, or even just a few days, you can tailor your entire Scottish road trip to suit your needs!

If you’re coming from further away, I would recommend at least 7 days for a Scotland road trip. But you can add or remove certain places to shorten or lengthen your trip.

2) Is 7 days in Scotland enough?

Seven days in Scotland is a great amount of time to get a real feel for the country. Of course, if you have longer, you can visit more places and explore new areas.

But if you only have seven days, this is a great amount of time to experience some of the things Scotland has to offer!

3) What is the best of Scotland in 1 week?

If you only have one week to visit Scotland, I recommend visiting at least one of the major cities (Glasgow or Edinburgh), heading to at least one or two of the lochs (Loch Lomond, Loch Morlich) and experiencing some of the Scottish Highlands.

Hiring a car and driving into the countryside is a great option for experiencing Scotland in just one week.

4) What is the prettiest part of Scotland to visit?

There are so many locations in Scotland that are beyond beautiful. When you first visit, there will be a number of moments when the scenery leaves you speechless.

The ‘prettiest’ part of Scotland will always be a personal choice, but some of the best views include: Loch Morlich (Cairngorms), Glencoe and the Isle of Skye.

5) What month is best for Scotland?

If you want warmer weather and long, dry days, head to Scotland in the summer months (June-August). For misty mountains and dramatic landscapes, visit Scotland in the winter (November-February).

6) What is the best time to go to Scotland to avoid midges?

Midges in Scotland are at their worst during the warmer months. If you want to avoid the midges, plan your Scotland road trip between the months of late September and May, when the weather is considerably cooler.

When we visited Scotland in August, we unknowingly pulled up to a loch at dusk for a bit of a walk.

As soon as I stepped out of the van, we were swamped by thousands, if not millions, of midges. I have never seen anything like it in my life! But, when we were away from the water, the midges were not as bad – we just had to use a lot of bug spray!

7) What is the cheapest time of year to visit Scotland?

The best times to visit Scotland on a budget will be during shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).

Straight after Christmas (January and Feburary time) are some of the cheapest and quietest months in Scotland – however, expect freezing cold temperatures, thick snow and a lot of rain!

8) What are the rainiest months in Scotland?

You can expect rain all year round in Scotland. However, the wettest months are from November to January.

9)  Do I need a car to visit  Scotland?

If you’re visiting Scotland and are short on time, I strongly recommend hiring a car.  If you’re looking to hire a car in Scotland, we rent our cars from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!  ➡  You can check out the  prices for car hire  in the UK now!

8)  Do I need a SIM card to visit Scotland? 

If you’re not from the UK, it’s worth  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are  eSIMs  available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here!

A 7-Day Scotland Road Trip: In a Nutshell

If you’re looking for an epic road trip adventure, I highly recommend a 7 day Scotland road trip.

The scenery is stunning and there’s so much to see and do. Just make sure you give yourself enough time – it would be a shame to rush through this beautiful country!

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Have you been on a road trip in Scotland? What was your favourite part? Let me know on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you!

Happy travelling!

Other Scotland posts:

• 13 BEST Things to do in Aviemore (Updated Guide!)

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Ultimate Scotland Road Trip: Route From Edinburgh

• Post last modified: March 31, 2020
• Post author: Nicole

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Road trips are our favorite way to travel, and there’s no better way to see Scotland. The roads are good quality, with little traffic, except for the occasional sheep on the road. Above else, the countryside is stunningly beautiful. So beautiful in fact, we’ve done two Scotland road trips. Once in April and again in August. With so many places on our bucket list, it’s rare for us to revisit a destination. Let us show you why Scotland is worth seeing again and again.

Combining our favorite areas from our two road trips, this route will help you plan your ultimate Scotland road trip route in minutes . 

When we say ultimate, we mean it. You’ll need at least two weeks to follow the route in its entirety. However, we do provide suggestions on alternative shorter routes. In addition, if you have 10 days or less in Scotland , check out our Scotland Itinerary: 7 Days of Adventure which just focuses on Scotland’s highlights.  

Table of Contents

When Is The Best Time To Do A Scotland Road Trip?

Before we get into the route, let’s talk about when to go. As mentioned, we took road trips through Scotland in both spring (April) and late summer (August). You can’t go wrong with either, here are some of the main differences.

Scotland Road Trip In Spring

• Many tourist attractions close for winter and typically reopen for April 1 st , or with the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.
• Snow covered peaks make the scenery even more dramatic.
• Some areas in the north still have heavy snow.
• Except for Easter weekend, there are fewer tourists and it’s typically cheaper than summer.
• Weather is changeable year-round, but April is one of the drier months.

Scotland Road Trip in Summer

• Summer marks the height of Scotland’s event and festival season.
• Significantly longer daylight hours.
• Weather is typically warmer. Though, I still wore a jacket the whole time.
• Midges! These nasty, tiny, biting bugs are definitely a negative, but not impossible to mitigate.
• Popular attractions are busier and accommodation costs higher.

In Summary:

• Go in August to catch events like Edinburgh’s Fringe Festival and Military Tattoo, and the Highland Games. 
• Otherwise, April provides the best views at the best value.
• September is also worth considering. The weather is typically very nice, prices are reasonable, but you will miss the events and the snow-capped mountains.

Going between May and mid-September? Check the  Scottish Highland Games Association website  to see if there are any highland games during your trip. About 60 different areas hold a version of the games so you have a good chance of catching one.

These cultural festivals are well worth seeking out. We were lucky to catch the  Crieff Highland Gathering , one of the country’s largest games.

Scotland Road Trip: Start In Edinburgh

Often mispronounced (it’s  Edin-bruhh ), Scotland’s capital has a regal medieval feel to it. Its defining feature, Edinburgh Castle, perched high on a hill stands watch over the city below. 

It’s worth spending two days visiting the city.

Going in August? Be sure to get tickets to one of the Fringe Festival comedy shows and the Edinburgh Military Tattoo at the castle. 

Scotland Road Trip: Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

One of the most beautiful areas in Scotland is also one of the easiest to reach. About an hour and a half away from Edinburgh, the Trossachs National Park is a destination in its own right. There’s lots of hiking and things to do around the lochs. Give the area at least a full day, if not two. 

To Oban Or Straight To Glencoe?

For longer Scottish road trips, keep reading as we follow the A85 to Oban .

If you’re short on time, follow the A82 north to Glencoe . It’s a gorgeous road with plenty of viewpoint stops. Feel free to skip ahead to our section on Glencoe .  

Pit Stop At Kilchurn Castle

Stop on your way to Oban for a perfect panoramic shot of the 15 th century Kilchurn Castle . The area is quite boggy, but rest assured there is a mostly dry pathway to the viewpoint.

Drive a little further for the castle carpark if you want a closer look. Kilchurn Castle is free to access.

Less than five minutes beyond that, you’ll find the magnificent St. Conan’s Kirk Church .

Scotland Road Trip: Oban & The Isle of Kerrera

Oban is a small town with a lot of charm. Sample whiskey from one of Scotland’s oldest and smallest distilleries , and get a lovely view of the harbor from McCraig’s Tower above the town.

We adored the luxurious  Ardtorna Bed and Breakfast . It’s modern, comfortable, and the attention to detail is like no other. Sound proof rooms, complimentary whiskey and scones. Plus, possibly the best breakfast we’ve had at an accommodation. Felt so pampered!

Oban is known as the Gateway to the Isles. Many visitors ferry their vehicles to the Isle of Mull. However, a bit closer, the Isle of Kerrera makes a perfect day trip. No car required.

Follow the 6-mile (3-4 hour) circular trail around the southern side of the island.  Grand vistas, encounters with the local wildlife, and a wander around the ruins of Gylen Castle await you.

Plan on getting to the only food stop on the trail before 12:30. The little tea house makes everything fresh. They only had cake left when we arrived. Good cake though! Note that it’s also the only public toilet , and don’t forget to pack for changeable weather.

Pit Stop At Castle Stalker

From Oban, head north to Glencoe. Along the route, on the A828, Castle Stalker makes another great classic Scottish photo opportunity. 

Scotland Road Trip: Glencoe

Outstanding natural beauty awaits you in Glencoe . From Castle Stalker, turn on the A82 towards the Trossachs until the Glencoe Mountain Resort (16 miles east of the Ballachulish Bridge).

Plan plenty of time for stops, such as  Etive Mor Waterfall , Buachaille Etive Mor Car Park , Glencoe Valley ViewPoint , Glencoe Waterfall , and  Three Sisters Viewpoint . If you are a keen hiker, you may want a couple of days in the area to do some of the longer hikes. However, the quick pull offs and viewpoints give a phenomenal sampling of the area. 

Coming to Glencoe directly from the Trossachs will deliver stunning views, especially around Loch Tulla. 

Scotland Road Trip: Fort William & Glen Nevis

Fort William lies at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain. If you have clear weather, it’s worth taking the tiny road C1162 around the base of the mountain and into Glen Nevis .

Though climbing Ben Nevis is possible most of the year, summer is the best and most accessible time to make the trek. It’s about an 8 hour return trip starting from the Ben Nevis Visitor Center. 

Pit Stop At Eilean Donan Castle

From Fort William head north on the A82, then west on the A87 towards the Isle of Sky.  One of the most iconic castle’s in Scotland, Eilean Donan , sits in a strategic location on three different lochs, Loch Long, Loch Alsh, and Loch Duich. 

Scotland Road Trip: Isle of Skye

If you have time on your Scottish road trip, continue with the A87 onto the Isle of Sky . The isle rewards visitors with some of the most jaw dropping views in Scotland, and that says a lot.

The island is only about 60 miles long, so you could drive most of it in a day. However, it’s packed with beautiful sights like Dunvegan Castle , The Old Man of Storr rock formation, and a dozen or so waterfalls . Plus, be sure to make it to The Quiraing area if you are an avid hiker. 

At the very least, give the Isle of Skye two full days.

The Long Way To Loch Maree: Road To Applecross

From the Isle of Skye, or from Eilean Donan Castle, follow the A890 north and wind around Loch Carron on the A896.

You’ll meet up with the road to Applecross around Tornapress. Not for large vehicles or nervous drivers, this single lane mountainous track is full of fun but dangerous hairpin turns, steep gradients, but fantastic views.

Once at Applecross, head north. Follow the road around the peninsula, for lovely red beaches,  cliff top views and gorgeous little harbors.

Detour To Lower Diabaig

Whether you go to Applecross or not, follow the A896 past Shieldaig and along the shore of Upper Loch Torridon. 

At the town of Torridon there’s a short detour to Lower Diabaig , if you have the time.  The viewpoint from Bealach na Gaoithe is stunning.  At the bottom, the Lower Diabaig has an interesting shipwreck of an old fishing trawler washed up on the rocky beach. 

The road ends at Diabaig. You’ll need to turn around and get back on the A896 and continue north to Loch Maree.

Scotland Road Trip: Loch Maree

We based ourselves at the Loch Maree Hotel for a few days and explored the area. The rooms were simple, but the views of the loch were gorgeous. 

Along Loch Maree on the A832, the dominating Slioch mountain watches over the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve . A little further, in the Slattadale Forest, the small, but pretty Victoria Waterfall  is only a short walk from the carpark. 

About 30 minutes away, Red Point has one of the prettiest soft red sand beaches. 

The Long Way To Inverness

From Loch Maree there are two ways to get to Inverness and the famous Loch Ness. Both are stunning drives, so it depends what you want from your Scotland road trip. 

The long way, follows the A832 along the coast until it meets with the A835 at the Corrieshalloch Gorge National Nature Reserve . This free area has a short, but lovely walk to the Falls of Measach . 

Other favorite stops along the route include Gruinard Bay View Point , and the pull off across from the Dundonnell Hotel on Little Loch Broom .    

Both the short and long routes go past Rogie Falls , another free waterfall area with a short walk.  

The Short Way to Inverness

Following the A832 south east is the fastest way to Inverness.  Though you will miss out on the coast, there are still plenty of jaw dropping views to enjoy, like Glen Docherty Viewpoint .

Scotland Road Trip: Inverness

Sitting on the River Ness is the cute little city of Inverness .  Not really a tourist city, there are few attractions in the city itself. Even Inverness Castle, currently used as a court house, is not open to the public.

However, just outside of Inverness is Clava Cairns , a very well preserved sacred burial ground from the Bronze age. The historically significant, Culloden Battlefield  also makes an interesting outing.

Directly south of Inverness is the infamous and beautiful  Loch Ness . If you’re looking for that touristy feeling, and want all things Nessie , head to Drumnadrochit on the A82. On the southern point of Loch Ness is Fort Augustus . A great spot to catch a cruise on Loch Ness, or to just watch the boats move through the canal lock . 

Scotland Road Trip: Cairngorms National Park

The impressive Cairngorms National Park is a must stop for any Scotland road trip. With literally countless attractions on offer, you’ll want to reserve at least two full days in the area.

Views of the surrounding mountains made the Glenmore Forest Park one of our favorite spots. Nearby, the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre offers up close meets with the area’s cutest residents.

Follow the road up Cairnform Mountain for aerial views of the area. In April, snow continued to cover most of the ground. Strangely, the ducks seemed to enjoy their ice baths. 

Head to the other side of the park for Balmoral Castle . Straight out of a fairy tale, this Royal Residence is the summer retreat of the Queen. Check before going, as the castle closes most of the winter and when the royals are in residence. 

Scotland Road Trip: Aberfeldy

About half-way between the Cairngorms and Edinburgh is the town of Aberfeldy . The name may sound familiar. It is home to one of the most famous Scottish whisky brands, Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery . In general, there are several distilleries in the area. 

Also, nearby stops include the Queen’s View Visitor Centre , and Castle Menzies . The Scottish Crannog Centre is also interesting if you’d like to step back in time to the Iron Age. 

Pit Stop in Falkirk

Our final stop on the way back to Edinburgh is the Falkirk Wheel. The worlds only rotating boat lift transports canal boats 35 meters (about 115 feet) in the air to connect two water canals. This amazing engineering feat is fascinating to watch, and even better, you can take a boat tour ride on the wheel.

We hope you have an amazing Scotland road trip!

Did we miss out anything you would include on your Ultimate Scotland Road Trip? If so, leave a message in the comments to help out other readers. 

Other resources that may be helpful include:

• Crieff Highland Gathering: A Guide to the Scottish Highland Games
• Scotland Itinerary: 7 Days of Adventure

Planning a trip to Scotland? Pin this guide so you can find us later.

We recommend and use these companies to arrange our travel plans; they make travel planning easy and affordable. If you have questions on our experiences, feel free to ask us !

• Book Flights: Skyscanner
• Book Accommodation: Booking.com
• Book Rental Cars: Rentalcars.com
• Buy Travel Gear: Amazon

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Though we aim for accuracy, travel is an ever-changing world. Please check information with the facility you plan to visit. 

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5 of the best road trips in Scotland

Mar 6, 2024 • 7 min read

Be inspired by these stunning road trip routes in Scotland © iaminut / Shutterstock

The cities of  Scotland  may be full to the brim with history and atmosphere, but it's the countryside in between that captures most visitors' hearts.

Quintessentially Scottish landscapes of lochs, glens and mountains begin right on the limits of Edinburgh, Glasgow and other major cities, setting the scene for road trips to rival James Bond's flight across the Highlands in Skyfall (2012).

Scottish roads are generally well-maintained, and driving is a great way to get off the beaten track and escape the crowds who mob the most famous sights. En route, you can stop off in charming country pubs, drop into ruined castles and ancient kirks (churches), wander on windswept beaches and find solace in silent glens far from the maddening crowds. 

These five road trip itineraries take in the epic grandeur of Skye, culture-packed Edinburgh and the whisky distilleries of Speyside, amongst other classic Scottish experiences. Along the way, you'll pass rolling farmland, heather-burnished hillsides, ruined castles and eerie lochs, as the stories of Scotland unfold right in front of you.

1. An Isle of Skye driving loop

Best for making family memories Fort William–Fort William; 310 miles (498km); allow 4 days

So long as you’re not after guaranteed sunshine, Skye has it all. This atmospheric island off the west coast is a riot of craggy peaks, towering sea stacks and waterlogged shorelines, famed for its Gaelic culture and vibrant food scene. This round-trip route from Fort William allows you to take the bridge to the island in one direction (passing grand Eilean Donan Castle en route), returning to the mainland via the ferry to Mallaig.

Once you’re on the island, a classic counterclockwise loop starts with a visit to Skye’s largest town, Portree , with its pretty harbor, before roaming over the volcanic cliffs of the Trotternish Peninsula . Next, the Duirinish Peninsula offers wild hiking country and some excellent restaurants, while the jagged ridges of the Cuillin Hills are a destination in themselves for hikers and photographers.

In between, there are castles , almost Caribbean-looking beaches and some of Britain’s best wild swimming spots, plus side trips by ferry to the surrounding Small Isles, which offer great bird-watching, particularly in spring and autumn.

2. North Coast 500

Best for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure Inverness Castle–Inverness Castle; 516 miles (830km); allow 7 days

Scotland’s wild northern coastline is the star of the country’s most famous driving route. The North Coast 500 begins and ends in Inverness , the likable capital of the Highlands , making a giant loop around the north end of Scotland along the deeply indented coast.

If you follow the route counterclockwise (saving the best scenery till last), you’ll head past the moors and sandy beaches of the east coast before hitting John O’Groats and nearby Dunnet Head – mainland Britain’s northernmost point. The north coast has a windswept beauty that gets increasingly rugged as you continue west past bogs, cliffs and crofting villages. The views as you head down the loch-strewn west coast are perhaps Britain’s finest, with sweeping vistas of mountains and islands.

Taking the route at a more leisurely pace will give you the chance to seek out fine local foodstuffs such as venison, smoked fish and craft beer, while activities such as sea kayaking on the west coast or scrambling up the lonely peaks of Assynt are a great way to throw yourself into Northern Scotland’s epic landscapes.

Planning tip:  When planning a road trip in Scotland, be aware that many places to stay on popular routes, such as the North Coast 500, will only accept bookings for two or more nights in the summer peak season. Book accommodations well ahead of time.

3. North East 250

Best for whisky distillery touring Spittal of Glenshee–Spittal of Glenshee; 257 miles (414km); allow 4 days

Northeast Scotland is famous for its whisky distilleries, Braemar (the home of the Highland Games ) and Balmoral Castle (the Scottish home of the British Royal Family) – so yes, it's as Scottish as it gets. The North East 250, a route inspired by the success of the North Coast 500, takes in these big-ticket attractions, but also shines a light on an often-overlooked region of photogenic glens, farmland and wave-lashed shorelines.

The village of Spittal of Glenshee (a popular base for skiing in winter) is a good starting point and easily accessible from Edinburgh and Dundee. Taking the route clockwise, you’ll head through the Cairngorms National Park , the biggest national park in Britain, which includes some of the UK’s highest peaks and offers phenomenal hiking opportunities.

The North East 250 then cuts through Speyside before hitting the Moray Firth coastline and the oil-rich city of Aberdeen . It’s a route lined with castles, beaches, small villages and historic estates; stop along the way to sample local delicacies such as Cullen skink (a thick, warming fish soup) and sweet, peaty whiskies.

Local tip:  Do your research when choosing which whisky distilleries to tour – if you try to hit them all, you’ll be here for months.  Balvenie in Dufftown is a good choice: its small-group tours visit one of Scotland’s last remaining malting floors.

4. Borders Historic Route

Best for a short route through moorlands Carlisle–Edinburgh; 97 miles (156km); allow one day

There are more famous road trips than this easy itinerary that follows the A7 north from the English border past Hawick and Galashiels to Edinburgh , but there is plenty to engage body and spirit along the way. This rolling landscape of villages and farmlands was once a battlefield for cross-border raids, and it finishes at Edinburgh’s hulking castle .

The area’s industrial history is showcased by educational centers celebrating tweed, tartan and glasswork, as well as an interesting mining museum . The landscape provides opportunities for varied activities – anglers can cast flies in the hope of snagging salmon along the Tweed’s wooded banks, while mountain bikers can hit the trails at Glentress and Innerleithen.

Ruined abbeys and author Walter Scott’s fabulous country house, Abbotsford , are more cerebral highlights, although the undulating moorlands of the Scottish Borders are arguably the star of the show.

5. Clyde Sea Lochs and the Argyll Coast

Best for mountains and lochs Glasgow–Fort William; 240 miles (386km); allow 3 days

Visitors to Scotland are often surprised by how close the country’s most populous city is to the rugged terrain of the Highlands. Glasgow’s high culture and lively pubs are worth an overnight on any trip to the region, but don’t stay up too late – you'll want to be clear of the suburbs by mid-morning to see the hills turn to mountains and lochs eat into an increasingly rugged coastline.

This route (combining two official tourist trails ) winds north and west, taking in the popular walking country of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. En route, you can enjoy majestic views, excellent seafood, ancient standing stones, historic towns, kayaking on the lochs and whale-watching offshore.

But the biggest hitters come at the end: Glen Coe has aching natural beauty and a tragic backstory of Highland betrayal, while Fort William is the striking point for ascents of 4413ft (1345m) Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest peak – a challenging climb of seven to eight hours from the visitors center.

Tips for driving in Scotland

Note that while some of the road trips follow major "M" or "A" roads, others rely on smaller roads for long stretches. These are often tight and hedge-lined, with few places to overtake, and they can be blocked by snow in winter (read our tips for getting around in Scotland ). The police in Scotland take speeding and drunk driving seriously, so stay below the limits. Petrol stations can be widely spaced in the Highlands and on the islands – fill up when you get the chance.

Be ready to take your time, pausing for a day or two to explore the local area at each overnight stop. Our route durations assume you'll be taking diversions to see more of the region and making regular stopovers, so the distances provided are not direct between the start and end points.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated March 2024

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