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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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The Ultimate 10-Day Scotland Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes
Last Updated on December 4, 2023
by Maggie Turansky
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Mapping out the ideal route for a Scotland trip 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 bed and breakfast has several 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 options in the city. Aside from having multiple dorms of different sizes, they also have private rooms 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 has 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 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 budget option with a couple of dorms to choose from. It is located close to the Smoo Cave and several fantastic hiking routes.
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 charming guesthouse with a range of rooms to choose from including singles & doubles.
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!
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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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