The Perfect Road Trip Through Scotland – A 6 Day Itinerary
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If you’re looking to take a road trip through Scotland and are overwhelmed with the plans, read on!
I have been known to plan too much when we travel. So, when we set out on a 6 day road trip through Scotland, I tried very hard to not over schedule! That meant paring down and making some tough choices. There’s a lot to see in Scotland, but being in a car all day defeats the purpose of the trip.
This itinerary begins in Edinburgh on day 1, heads to the Highlands, and ends back in Edinburgh on day 5, with departure on day 6. It does not include some popular destinations like The Isle of Skye or Glasgow, but it does include plenty of bucket list destinations.
Renting a car saved us time and money. It also meant that our schedule was our own and we could see the countryside at our own pace. The round trip loop from and back to Edinburgh meant avoiding extra car rental fees and allowed us to fly in and out of Scotland’s major airport.
Remember that visitors from the US, Canada, Australia, and the EU do not need a visa for short trips to Scotland (up to 6 months) but you have to have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to Scotland!
This post will give you info about where to go, where to stay, where to eat, and how to enjoy one of the most beautiful countries on the planet!
Notes About Driving in Scotland:
- Book your car rental for pick up and drop off either at the Edinburgh Airport or one of the city center car rental locations.
- Some of the roads are wide highways, some are country roads and are more narrow.
- If you’re not comfortable with driving on the left side, then be sure to watch some videos and do some research in advance!
Click on the Map for all the places on this Scotland Road Trip Itinerary
Carrie’s Quick & Easy Links
🌍 Flights & Hotels: I recommend Expedia
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🚘 Car Rental: I recommend Hertz
🌐 Tours: I recommend Viator
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Your 6 Day Road Trip Through Scotland
This 6 Day Scotland Road Trip begins in Edinburgh, takes you north through beautiful countryside into Scotland’s Highlands and back to Edinburgh. In spite of an initial challenge with GPS, we felt like this trip allowed us to get to know Edinburgh and see the beauty of Scotland without being in the car too much.
We enjoy combing the big cities, like Dublin, London, and Edinburgh with the countryside. A road trip is the perfect way to do that!
Day 1 & 2 Scotland Itinerary – Edinburgh
Edinburgh is as magical a city as everyone says it is. It has been the capital city of Scotland since the 15th century. Edinburgh is gorgeous, built on hills, complete with castles, bridges over a river, monuments, a university, and a thriving arts, food, and cultural scene.
Depending on what time you arrive, you’ll have nearly 2 full days at the beginning of the trip and 1 day at the end to spend in Edinburgh. We walked everywhere and thoroughly loved it.
Pro Tip: Book Tours Before You Go!
Schedule these 3 tours in advance so you can organize your days around them:
1. A Royal Mile Walking Tour that includes entrance to the Edinburgh Castle, or choose a “Free” Walking Tour for which you pay what you can at the end of the tour, but won’t have entrance to the castle or any of the sites.
Book This Popular Royal Mile Walking Tour & Edinburgh Castle Visit
2. The Real Mary King’s Close
2 Warriston’s Close, High Street
The Real Mary’s Close (alleyway) was one of our most favorite tours in Edinburgh. Edinburgh was built on hills and narrow alleyways and passages developed below the main streets above. The result is that there are 17th century living quarters underground. It’s a fascinating look at how people barely survived in tiny rooms with no light, carrying their food and water into the streets below the Royal Mile. I highly recommend you get tickets in advance as it’s super popular. (Not for those who feel claustrophobic!)
3. The Edinburgh Castle Tour for those who choose a free walking tour but want a more thorough look at the castle, then this 2 hour tour is highly rated.
What to see on Days 1 & 2 in Edinburgh
(A lot of these places are likely to be covered in most basic Edinburgh walking tours.)
• The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the historic and beautiful cobblestone road which connects the Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. This 900 year old thoroughfare is the main feature of this medieval city. For good reason – it’s packed with closes, (they are ancient tiny alleys), street performers, whisky shops, and buildings that are centuries old. We’ve all seen photos of the Royal Mile being miserably crowded with visitors, however, when we visited in September, it was busy, but nothing like the summer crowds.
• Calton Hill
Calton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s most famous and steepest hills and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s home to 6 important monuments, including an observatory, and is the headquarters of the Scottish government. The most recognizable monument is the unfinished copy of Athens’ Parthenon. You can’t miss it, picture Greece, but Scotland! A friend told us to climb up the hill in time for sunset. Fabulous advice! It’s simply the spot with the best views in the city. You’ll often find musicians up there, students celebrating, and tourists just soaking in the panoramic views of the city.
• Arthur’s Seat Hike
Arthur’s Seat is an odd site in the midst of a medieval city – a 350 year old extinct volcano near the Holyroodhouse Palace and park. There are incredible views from the top which can make the hike worth it. You can take the very steep hike of about 3 miles round trip on a rocky path from the Holyroodhouse Palace which can take about 2 hours. Or, you can take an uber to the south side of the volcano to Dunsalie Loch parking lot to find another easier trailhead. We enjoyed the Calton Hill views and said no to the Arthur’s Seat hike.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse
While the Edinburgh Castle is the most popular castle to see in Edinburgh, the Holyroodhouse Palace is the Official residence of the King of Scotland, where Mary Queen of Scots lived. This is the 16th century palace filled with lots of history and drama that sits at the bottom end of the Royal Mile. Take the walk down there, see the gardens, the Abbey from 1128, and the Royal Art Collection. Watch your timing if you want to tour inside. The Palace closes at 6PM, but the last entry is at 4:30.
• The Vennel Viewpoint
The Vennel Viewpoint is a special spot at the top of a hidden staircase along the Royal Mile.
Walk through Grassmarket, look for Mary’s Milk Market, look for the sign “The Vennel” and climb the stairs for the view. From this spot, you can see a view of the castle, Arthur’s Seat, the Scott Monument, the museum, and the St.Gile’s Cathedral.
• Victoria Street
The most popular street in Old Edinburgh is the charming Victoria Street. Victoria street connects the Grassmarket to the George IV Bridge and is layered with arches below and fun boutiques above. Victoria Street is not just historic and beautifully preserved, but it’s believed to have inspired Diagon Alley of Harry Potter fame.
• Greyfriars Kirkyard
This is VERY cool! Don’t miss seeing this historic 16th century cemetery. You’ll immediately see the ornate headstones, and many names that influenced Harry Potter characters. Look for Thomas Riddle, William McGonagall, Elizabeth Moodie, Daniel Scrymgeour, and Robert Potter. Be sure to ask your guide to tell you the tale of Greyfriars Bobby, the terrier who guarded his owner’s grave for 14 years. A statue of the dog is placed by the entrance of the cemetery.
• Princes Street Gardens
You’ll learn that their once was a lake, Nor Loch, in the heart of Edinburgh. When it was drained, the Princess Street Gardens were created in its place. It’s a popular picnic spot, has colorful flower beds, has great views of the castle, and is home to Edinburgh’s Christmas Market.
• Scott Monument in Princes Street Gardens
The Sir Walter Scott Monument is the Princess Street Garden’s famous monument with Gothic spires that loom over the city. Feel free to climb the 287 steps to the viewing platforms to catch some more great views of Edinburgh.
• St. Giles’ Cathedral
The ornate St. Giles’ Cathedral, on High Street and the Royal Mile was built in the 12th century and has always been an important part of Scotland’s religious history. Inside are gorgeous stained glass windows and the Thistle Chapel. “The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle,” is Scotland’s recognition of knights and ladies who have contributed to Scottish society in some chivalrous manner.
• The Writers’ Museum
Lady Stair’s Close, 523 Lawnmarket
The Writer’s Museum is another lovely museum to consider if you have time. You’ll find the 17th century building tucked in the Lady Stair’s Close off the Royal Mile. The museum celebrates three of Scotland’s most famous literary giants: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Where to Eat in Edinburgh
Breakfast/Lunch
Larder Café
15 Blackfriars Street
Seasonal Scottish breakfast & brunch
Urban Angel
121 Hanover St
Healthy brunch favorite
Lunch/Dinner
Dishoom
3a St Andrew Square
Indian cuisine, iconic meals. Requires a reservation! OUR FAVORITE dinner in Edinburgh!
The Witchery
Castlehill, Royal Mile
Luxury dining in ahold world setting. Requires a reservation! Pricey, but a unique and special experience.
Piper’s Rest
3 Hunter Square
Hearty Scottish comfort food – charming and very good pub food.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh Days 1 & 2 & 5
The Motel One Edinburgh was the perfect choice for us because the location was so ideal. The room we had on the first 2 nights was great, on our return stay, the room was much smaller and less convenient to the elevator for luggage, however, both beds were very comfortable and the bathrooms were well appointed. Staff were lovely and helpful.
The Edinburgh Grand is an exceptionally rated luxury hotel right on the Royal Mile, known for its views and beautiful rooms and suites.
The Hotel Indigo Edinburgh is a highly rated hotel in New Town, just a 9 minute walk from the Royal Mile. Reviews say this hotel is very convenient, has excellent breakfast, and great staff.
Day 3 Scotland Itinerary – Edinburgh to Inverness
Today begins your road trip adventure! Have breakfast and then pick up your rental car early in the day. Try to leave by 9AM and you should have enough time to enjoy several stops along the way before dinner at the Kingsmill Hotel in Inverness.
What to see on Day 3 en route to Inverness
• Ancient Stone Circles in Pitlochry
1.5 hours north from Edinburgh
Pitlochry is known as a great stop on the way to Loch Ness and Inverness. It’s a charming Victorian village that is a pretty active tourist attraction. The region is full of ancient stone sites, monoliths, and stone circles. The most famous stone is the Dunfallandy Stone (Clach an Deòir). This slab was carved with human figures and animals in the 8th century! Pitlochry is also known for scenery, hiking and whisky distilleries.
• Urquhart Castle in Loch Ness
2 hours north from Pitlochry
As you continue north into the Highlands, you’ll drive alongside Scotland’s famous lake Loch Ness. Did you know that Loch Ness holds more water than all lakes in England & Wales combined? While you’re not likely to see the Loch Ness Monster, AKA “Nessie” you will see beautiful countryside. You’ll drive through Inverness and pass up the Loch Ness Monster Museum, then head out further to the Urquhart Castle alongside Loch Ness. Spend a few minutes looking at the castle from the outside, unless you want to tour the grounds and castle.
Consider This Top Rated Loch Ness Cruise With Castle Views
PRO TIP: Get advanced tickets for parking at the Castle!!!! The parking lot is free for castle ticket holders and tickets can only be purchased online! Parking attendants will turn you away without tickets, even if there are spots in the parking lot! Some say you can find parking along the road, this was not the case! It’s a narrow road with a few scenic lookouts on the lake side. However, you’ll be arriving on the opposite side of the road and cannot make a left turn into those scenic lookouts.
• Quila Cridhe Tearoom in Drumnadrochit
The tearoom in Drumnadrochit is about 20 mins from Inverness, which is a charming spot to stop for tea and to pet a Hairy Coo, one of Scotland’s beloved Red Highland Cows. Not to worry, if you don’t have time for the cow cafe, then it’s likely that you’ll be able to see Hairy Coos at the Culloden Battlefield site the next day.
Where to Eat in Inverness
Kingsmills Hotel
Culcabock Rd, Inverness
We had an excellent meal here, with great service in a lovely atmosphere!
27 Bar & Kitchen
27 Castle St, Inverness
Contemporary Scottish menu.
The Mustard Seed
16 Fraser St, Inverness
Fine dining in a converted church.
Highlander Bar
40 Church St, Inverness
Traditional pub vibe.
Where to Stay in Inverness Day 3
The Kingsmilll Hotel in Inverness was the best choice for us! After a long travel day, we had our own cottage, access to the hot tub and pool, and a dinner reservation at the excellent on site restaurant. I can highly recommend this location.
The Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa has excellent reviews that speak about the great location close to the palace and city center.
The Culloden House Hotel is a beautiful mansion near the Culloden Battlefield, the Castle Stuart, and Inverness with outstanding reviews.
Day 4 Scotland Itinerary – Inverness to Stirling
Today is another road trip day – you’ll explore a little of Inverness, see Culloden, the Clava Cairns Stones, and then drive about 2.45 hours to Stirling. Have an early breakfast at one of Inverness’ many cute cafes near the famous Leaky’s Bookshop, then stop by to see Culloden and the Clava Cairns Stones before driving south.
What to see on Day 4 in Inverness
• Leaky’s Bookstore
Church St. Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
A beloved, atmospheric second-hand bookstore housed in a converted Gaelic church, known for its towering shelves filled with books, antique prints, maps and rare finds — a truly magical stop for bibliophiles.
• Inverness Castle
City Centre, near the river
This is the historic castle overlooking Loch Ness in the center of Inverness. The 19th century, red sandstone castle is fortified as far back as the 11th century. The castle itself has been transformed into The Inverness Castle Experience, and booking tickets and checking times in advance is necessary. If you have the time and energy to see another castle, check it out!
• Culloden Battlefield
10 minutes from Inverness is the site of Scotland’s most significant battle. Culloden is the site of the 1746 final Jacobite uprising battle, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s forces were defeated by the British army. It was a devastating loss that completely changed Highland clan culture. Kind of crazy to learn how quickly the Scottish soldiers were wiped out by the army. Historically, it’s fascinating, but visually, don’t expect more than a giant field and a huge visitor center. Of course snacks and souvenirs are available, but also is a grazing area for a small herd of Hairy Coos. If it’s not obvious, ask in the Visitor Center how to find them.
Have More Time? Consider This Full Day Tour of
Urquhart, Culloden, Clava Cairns, & Loch Ness
• Clava Cairns Stones
A few more minutes away is the ancient burial site of Clava Cairns. Over 4000 years ago, in the Bronze Age, these graves were placed with stones in a circle and are thought to have been used for ceremonial and astronomical purposes. How cool is that?
• Drive to Stirling
Drive about 2.45 hours south to Stirling
Stirling is a very pretty and historic city just about an hour from Edinburgh. We chose to stop here, on our way back to Edinburgh to experience a small and quaint town before going back to the big city.
What to See on Day 4 & 5 in Stirling
There is a lot to see and do here! And if you’re into Whisky, then you might not want to leave!
• Stirling Castle
Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most important stone castles. Located on top of a volcanic hill, it sits above the sweet town of Stirling. It was the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots and has beautiful designs and rooms dating back to the 1500’s. Tickets and tours are available on line and walk-up. You will save some $ if you buy tix ahead of time, on line here.
• Wallace Monument at Abbey Craig
Hillfoots Road
The Wallace Monument is a striking 220-foot Victorian tower perched atop Abbey Craig overlooking Stirling. Built in 1869, it honors Sir William Wallace, the Scottish hero of the Wars of Independence. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase to the crown for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
Check Out This Top Rated Stirling Castle & Wallace Monument Tour
• Stirling Old Bridge
Bridgehaugh Road
A 15th-century stone bridge over the River Forth, close to the site of William Wallace’s 1297 victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.
• Argyll’s Lodging
Castle Wynd
A beautifully restored 17th-century townhouse showcasing grand Renaissance interiors and period furnishings.
• Mercat Cross
Broad Street
Dating to 1705, this ornate market cross marks Stirling’s historic marketplace in the heart of the Old Town.
• Old Town Jail
St John Street
A former Victorian prison offering guided tours and panoramic views from its rooftop tower.
Book This Excellent Private Stirling Tour & Whisky Tasting Here!
• Church of the Holy Rude
St John Street
Founded in 1129, this historic church hosted the coronation of James VI in 1567 and remains an active parish church.
• Cowane’s Hospital
St John Street
A 17th-century almshouse founded in 1637 to provide accommodation for elderly residents.
• Cambuskenneth Abbey
Abbey Road
The ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian abbey where Robert the Bruce is buried. Its surviving bell tower is a striking landmark.
Where to eat in Stirling
Brea
5 Baker Street
If you only have one meal in Stirling, then this place is worth it! Award winning. One of our most memorable and delicious meals of the trip! Lovely atmosphere, great service, and fabulous menu!
Friars Wynd
17 Friars Street
Family owned guest house with a great pub.
The Book Nook
12 Upper Craigs
Cute bookstore and cafe.
Where to Stay in Stirling
The King Street Aparthotel is a newly renovated historic building in a great location in Stirling. Guest reviews are excellent
Victoria Square & The Orangery is a luxurious accommodation in a renovated historic mansion in Stirling. The reviews say that the rooms, restaurant, and location are fantastic.
St Johns Jailhouse by the Castle is a renovated historic building with a spacious, 3 bedroom apartment with garden and mountain views. The reviews are exceptional.
Day 5 Scotland Itinerary – Stirling to Edinburgh
The drive from Stirling to Edinburgh is about 1 hour. This means you have time for an early breakfast in Stirling and to see a few things before you leave. You can even save your castle visitfor this morning if you choose.
What to see on Day 5 in Edinburgh
Return the car, check back into the hotel, and drop off your stuff. It’s time for a walk to the hidden gems of Edinburgh in the West End. This is your last day in Scotland, so leave time for packing up and saying a sad goodbye tomorrow.
• Princes Street Gardens
Between the Old Town (Royal Mile) and New Town, is a long, central park that you can walk through to get to New Town, There once was a lake, Nor Loch, in the heart of Edinburgh. When it was drained, the Princess Street Gardens were created in its place. It’s a popular picnic spot, has colorful flower beds, has great views of the castle, and is home to Edinburgh’s Christmas Market.
Book A Local’s Walking Tour Of Dean Village Here!
• Dean Village
Dean Path, Edinburgh
Just about a mile from Princes Street and the city center is the storybook part of Edinburgh, called Dean’s Village. It’s an 800 year old, former grain milling village along the Water of Leith river. It’s incredibly picturesque, so I don’t want you to miss out! You’ll wander through narrow streets with stone cottages and quaint bridges. Just go for the calm experience and maybe a few photos.
• Water of Leith Walkway
Dean Path, Edinburgh
From Dean’s Village, you’ll easily find the path along the river called the Water of Leith Walkway. It’s a wooded path that connects the city center to the coast at Leith. The whole walkway is about 13 miles long, however, you can just walk the short distance from Dean’s Village back to the areas of Stockbridge and New Town.
• Stockbridge Market
When you emerge from the walkway by the river, you’ll be in the great neighborhood of Stockbridge which has adorable cafes, shops, and charming streets. On Sundays, you’ll find the Stockbridge Market open from 10 AM – 4 PM filled with food vendors.
• Circus Lane
Tucked into the lovely Stockbridge neighborhood is the 18th century Circus Lane, famous for its curved cobblestone street, flower boxes, vintage street lamps,and ivy covered cottages. All of Stockbridge is worth a wander, but Circus Lane is everyone’s favorite spot. We had a great late lunch at The Pantry.
Where to Eat in Edinburgh
Ivy on the Square
6 St Andrew Square
We love eating at the Ivy restaurants when in Europe! We tried London, Dublin, and of course Edinburgh. It did not disappoint!
The Royal Oak
1 Infirmary Street
Traditional Scottish folk music pub
Fudge House
161 Canongate
Making handmade fudge and sweets since 1949.
When is the Best Time to Visit Scotland?
The best time to visit Scotland depends on what you care about most – weather, crowds, prices, or scenery. Here’s all the info you need to know for what to pack for Scotland! (The weather is similar to that in Ireland, in case you’re planning a trip to both countries.
May – June
Springtime in Scotland is considered the best time to visit according to most people.
- Mild weather (cool, but pleasant)
- Longer daylight hours
- Fewer crowds than peak summer
- Great for road trips and walking
July – August
Summer is a very popular time to visit Scotland because the weather is ideal and warm.
- Warmest temperatures for Ireland
- Long summer days
- Lots of festivals and events
- More crowds, higher prices
September – October (this is when we visited)
Fall was a great time to visit because of the misty scenery, lush greenery, and fewer crowds. We had many days of mild rain, but it didn’t slow us down at all.
- Potentially fewer visitors
- Cozy pubs, misty landscapes
- Shorter days and more rain
November – March
Winter months are great if you want lower costs and don’t mind the dark and the cold! Great for Christmas markets.
- Cold and rainy
- Least amount of daylight
- Fewer tourists
- Lower prices
Book Your 6 Day Road Trip Through Scotland Today!
In a nutshell…
Six days in Scotland is not enough. I’m just going to say that right up front. But it’s enough to experience the beauty of it.
This itinerary gave us a wonderful mix of city, countryside, history, and the stunning Highland views. We wandered the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh, stood on ancient battlefields, explored castles, and drove through some of the most beautiful scenery we’ve ever seen.
Could we have seen more? Of course. Scotland is much bigger than you think. But we were careful not to spend the entire trip in the car, and that made all the difference. There was time to walk, sit in cozy cafés, linger over dinner, and actually take it all in.
If you’re planning your own 6 day Scotland road trip, don’t try to do everything. Choose thoughtfully. Build in breathing room. And accept that Scotland will leave you wanting more.
Which, honestly, is the best reason to return.
xx,
Carrie
