Scotland Self-Drive Tours & Itineraries

Explore 22 self-drive trips designed by local kimkim specialists to get ideas for your trip to Scotland.
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Durations: 6 days · 8 days · 10 days · 14 days
Etive Mor waterfall, Glencoe
Map of Scottish Highlands Self-Drive Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness & Loch Ness - 8 Days
Scottish Highlands Self-Drive Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness & Loch Ness - 8 Days

Discover the enchanting history and dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands with this 8-day self-drive itinerary. Starting in Edinburgh,  drive north to the rugged highlands, where you’ll explore ancient castles, visit important battle sites, sail Loch Ness, and ride the world’s most scenic railway.

The ruins of Castle Urquhart at Loch Ness
Map of Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness & Skye - 7 Days
Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Inverness & Skye - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary perfectly introduces Scotland's most scenic locales—blending a self-drive adventure with unforgettable guided excursions and experiences. Beginning and ending in the charming capital of Edinburgh, you'll set off into the rugged Highlands for a road trip to remember. Step back in time at the Culloden Battlefield, cruise the legendary waters of Loch Ness, and tour whisky distilleries on the Isle of Skye.

Driving toward Ben Stack on the NC500
Map of The North Coast 500: Road Trip through the Scottish Highlands  - 5 Days
The North Coast 500: Road Trip through the Scottish Highlands - 5 Days

Experience one of the world's most scenic driving routes on this 5-day journey along Scotland's North Coast 500. Beginning and ending in the Highland capital of Inverness, you'll follow the loop counterclockwise as you wind your way past mist-shrouded mountains, hidden lochs, and rugged coastlines. A relaxed pace allows you to take your time and explore plenty of sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and unspoiled nature.

Sunset over the village of Portree on the Isle of Skye
Map of Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Highlands & Islands - 10 Days
Scenic Scotland: Edinburgh, Highlands & Islands - 10 Days

Taste your way through the Highlands and islands of Scotland on this 10-day self-drive itinerary that combines stunning scenery with unforgettable culinary excursions. Start in the capital of Edinburgh, where you'll visit local markets and artisan shops on a foodie's walking tour. Learn about the history and culture of the Highlands in Inverness, then head to the Hebrides to hop between the islands of Skye and Islay—where you'll savor local seafood and sample smoky single malts at the islands' famed distilleries.

Views across the Isle of Skye
Map of Self-Drive Scotland: Inverness, Isle of Skye, the Trossachs & Edinburgh - 5 Days
Self-Drive Scotland: Inverness, Isle of Skye, the Trossachs & Edinburgh - 5 Days

Walk in the footsteps of royalty with this five-day highlights tour of Scotland's spectacular scenery. Discover "paradise in the Highlands" at Balmoral Castle as you pass through the sweeping plateaus of the Cairngorms. Cruise the mysterious Loch Ness and explore Scotland's most photographed castle at Eilean Donan before hiking rugged peaks on the Isle of Skye. A delve into the history and atmospheric backstreets of enchanting Edinburgh rounds off this small but perfectly formed itinerary.

Golfing with a view in St Andrews
Map of Ultimate Scotland: Golf, Whisky & Trekking in the Highlands - 14 Days
Ultimate Scotland: Golf, Whisky & Trekking in the Highlands - 14 Days

This epic two-week adventure brings together some of Scotland's most iconic experiences, from golfing at St Andrews to whisky tasting on the Isle of Skye. Explore the hidden corners of Edinburgh's Old Town, take a three-day trek along the famed West Highland Way, discover the wild beauty of Cairngorms National Park, and hop over to the Hebrides Islands to sample world-class cuisine and tour whisky distilleries.

Spend a day driving around the Isle of Skye with a private guide
Map of Ultimate Scotland Road Trip: Cities, Castles & Countryside - 8 Days
Ultimate Scotland Road Trip: Cities, Castles & Countryside - 8 Days

Combine Scotland's most famous cities, national parks, and castles on this relaxed eight-day road trip. Start in the country's largest city, Glasgow, before heading north to Fort William to visit the rugged Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle. Next, see Loch Ness and the ruins of Urquhart Castle on your way to charming Pitlochry. Finish in the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, with a walking tour of its hilly Old Town. Of course, there will be free time for hikes and whisky distilleries along the way if you so choose.

 Stop as often as you'd like on Scotland's scenic North Coast 500 route
Map of Scotland North Coast 500 Road Trip - 10 Days
Scotland North Coast 500 Road Trip - 10 Days

The NC500 is Scotland's greatest road trip, and with this 10-day self-drive itinerary, you'll complete the full loop, reaching the northernmost tip of mainland Great Britain. When you're not soaking up the wild, untamed landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, you might be stomping through the halls of great castles, learning about the Jacobite uprising at real battlefields, or enjoying a dram or two at a top distillery. This 10-day trip combines the best of Scotland into a fun self-drive adventure.

Explore Urquhart Castle following a private cruise in Loch Ness
Map of Historic Highlights of Scotland Self-Drive Tour - 6 Days
Historic Highlights of Scotland Self-Drive Tour - 6 Days

Experience Scotland's rich history and stunning landscapes during this six-day road trip. Start with a walking tour in Edinburgh, where you'll dip your toes into the cobbled streets and distinctive architecture. Then learn about the nation's most courageous figures—including William Wallace—at Stirling Castle, followed by a lesson in the Bronze Age at Clava Cairns. Next, get private tours of both Culloden Battlefields and Loch Ness before making your way to world-class Glasgow to finish the adventure.

Uncover Edinburgh's past with a local guide
Map of Scotland's Cities, Lochs & Castles: Glasgow to Edinburgh Road Trip -  6 Days
Scotland's Cities, Lochs & Castles: Glasgow to Edinburgh Road Trip - 6 Days

From medieval cities to historic castles, you'll get the perfect taster of Scotland's culture and scenery on this six-day, self-drive tour. Start in Glasgow, a hub of live music and Victorian architecture, and visit a whisky distillery to kick off your trip. In Fort William, explore national parks, castles, and picturesque Isle of Skye. Hunt for Nessie on Loch Ness, uncover the mysteries of the hilly capital, Edinburgh, and even glimpse the country's lavish crown jewels.

Drive to key monuments including the Eileen Donan Castle
Map of Scotland's Major Historical Landmarks Self-Drive Tour - 8 Days
Scotland's Major Historical Landmarks Self-Drive Tour - 8 Days

This scenic eight-day tour combines Scotland's major historical landmarks for the ultimate road trip. Begin by learning about the Great Siege at Stirling Castle and relive the clan feuds that shaped the picturesque Eilean Donan. Continue making a loop for more castles and monuments, plus a PhD-level guided tour of Bannockburn Battlefield—the site that changed the trajectory of Scotland's history forever. Finish with two nights in Edinburgh and a whisky tasting at one of Scotland's smallest distilleries.

Stacked whisky barrels in Speyside
Map of Scottish Whisky Tour Road Trip - 6 Days
Scottish Whisky Tour Road Trip - 6 Days

Dive into the world of Scotch whisky on this six-day, self-drive adventure. Begin and end in Edinburgh, where you'll step into the Scotch Whisky Experience for an immersive look at Scotland's famous spirit. Take a scenic drive north to Stirling to surround yourself with Scottish history and sample single malts at a local distillery, then it's on to Inverness to learn about the ancient art of coopering and take a memorable journey along the famous Speyside Whisky Trail.

Drive through the geological formations on the Scottish Isle of Skye
Map of Fast-Paced Scotland Highlights Tour - 10 Days
Fast-Paced Scotland Highlights Tour - 10 Days

This fast-paced 10-day jaunt through Scotland takes you from Edinburgh to Glasgow, crossing through the Scottish Highlands and out to the Isle of Skye. With just one night in nine different destinations, you'll rip across the country, taking in famous sights and spectacular nature, enjoying a whisky tasting, folk music night, and hot-air balloon ride. If you only have 10 days and want to see Scotland's highlights, this is the trip for you.

An amazing sunset at the Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
Map of Ultimate Scotland & Ireland Road Trip - 14 Days
Ultimate Scotland & Ireland Road Trip - 14 Days

This 14-day road trip takes you across the enchanting landscapes of Scotland and Ireland. Start in the historic city of Edinburgh, and journey across the country from Cairngorms National Park to the mystical Isle of Skye. Then fly over to Dublin, where you'll drive south to lap the Ring of Kerry. With two weeks to spare, you can tick off castles, whisky tasting, hikes, wildlife cruises, and rich cultural experiences that reveal the best of both countries.

Hit the trails in Cairngorms National Park during a wildlife safari
Map of Scotland Outdoor Adventure: Pitlochry, Fort William, Glencoe & Edinburgh -  6 Days
Scotland Outdoor Adventure: Pitlochry, Fort William, Glencoe & Edinburgh - 6 Days

Explore Scotland's lochs, mountains, and forests on this six-day road trip adventure. Starting at Stirling Castle, you'll hike up to the top of Ben Vrackie Mountain's peak in Pitlochry and safari in Cairngorms National Park. Then, cycle through Ben Nevis mountain, steer a kayak through the Great Glen, dip into the water with snorkel gear on the shores of Ganavan Sands, and end the tour in the charming capital, Edinburgh.

Explore Scottish highlights on an active tour
Map of Active Scotland Road Trip  - 8 Days
Active Scotland Road Trip - 8 Days

Combine sightseeing with outdoor adventures on this eight-day active tour of Scotland. Start in the capital of Edinburgh, hiking to the top of the ancient volcano of Arthur's Seat before driving north for canyoning at Bruar Falls. Next, spot wildlife in Cairngorms National Park, and explore the rugged countryside around Inverness by mountain bike. Take to the water for the final days of your trip in a sea kayak off the coast of Skye and on a paddleboard on Loch Leven. End in the vibrant city of Glasgow.

Machrie Moor Standing Stones circle on the Isle of Arran
Map of Island Hopping Scotland's Inner Hebrides - 10 Days
Island Hopping Scotland's Inner Hebrides - 10 Days

This thrilling 10-day Scotland adventure dives into the country's natural wonders, coastal beauty, and diverse islands. Pick up a car in vibrant Glasgow and cross to the Isle of Arran for a whisky tasting. Explore coastal Oban, the gateway to the Inner Hebrides, and cross to the Isle of Mull to meet wild eagles. Experience the rugged Isle of Skye and the verdant landscapes of Glen Coe and Glen Nevis. Across the 10 days, you'll be hiking, snorkeling, kayaking, and sipping Scotland's finest single malts.

 Visit a number of castles in Aberdeenshire on this fun and fast-paced itinerary
Map of Fast-Paced Scotland Highlights - 14 Days
Fast-Paced Scotland Highlights - 14 Days

This two-week journey across Scotland keeps a rapid pace as you travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow, crossing through the Scottish Highlands and out to the Isle of Skye. Take in famous sights, spectacular green countryside, and explore the top whisky distilleries as you dash across Scotland, spending just one or two nights in nine different destinations. This trip is crammed with castles, history, and epic landscapes—perfect if you only have 14 days in Scotland and want to pack in all the highlights.

Wander along the colorful architecture in Tobermory, on the Isle of Mull
Map of Island Hopping in Scotland - 14 Days
Island Hopping in Scotland - 14 Days

Scotland is home to 790 islands, and with this two-week trip, you'll hop between a handful of the best. Along the way, you'll taste whisky on both Arran and Raasay, spot sea eagles on Mull, admire the natural beauty of Skye, and wander around Eilean Donan Castle. Then, on the mainland, you'll eat seafood and join a ceilidh in Oban, tour the best of Glasgow, and hike through Glen Nevis and Glen Coe.

Spend three nights on the Isle of Skye with time for sea kayaking and self-guided hikes
Map of Active Scotland Adventure: Cairngorms, the NC500 & the Isle of Skye - 14 Days
Active Scotland Adventure: Cairngorms, the NC500 & the Isle of Skye - 14 Days

Experience the best of Scotland's natural beauty with this two-week itinerary that includes hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife cruises. Your active adventures take you on a road trip from the Scottish Highlands to the Lowlands, featuring the best of Edinburgh, the Isle of Skye, national parks, and Glasgow. Along the way, you'll have plenty of free time built in so you can relax, add extra hikes, or seek out a whisky distillery or two.

Take in the sights of Inverness, gateway to the Scottish Highlands
Map of Scotland Culture Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness, Fort William & Glasgow - 6 Days
Scotland Culture Tour: Edinburgh, Inverness, Fort William & Glasgow - 6 Days

Unearth the essence of Scotland with this six-day culture-packed adventure. Start in Edinburgh with a musical Old Town tour, then drive to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, exploring Stirling, the Bannockburn Battlefield, and Dalwhinnie Distillery en route. Witness a thrilling sheepdog demonstration, explore historic Cawdor Castle, cruise Loch Ness, and tour Urquhart Castle. Pop into Fort William then finally reach Glasgow for a food tour and night with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra.

Blackhouse village on Lewis
Map of Scotland Highlands & Islands Road Trip - 8 Days
Scotland Highlands & Islands Road Trip - 8 Days

This immersive eight-day Scotland journey combines city exploration, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Your self-drive odyssey commences with a street art tour of Glasgow before you switch gears to Oban for a wildlife expedition and traditional Scottish ceilidh evening. Then taste whisky on the Isle of Skye, and journey to the Outer Hebrides to see the mystical Callanish Standing Stones. Finally, visit beautiful Inverness and hike up Ben Vrackie near Pitlochry.

Scenery along the Scotland NC500 near Durness
Map of Scotland North Coast 500 Road Trip - 8 Days
Scotland North Coast 500 Road Trip - 8 Days

Tick off Scotland's greatest road trip—the NC500— with this epic eight-day self-drive itinerary. You'll drive the full loop, soaking up pristine white beaches, wild Highlands landscapes, incredible castles, and a dram or two of whisky. Touch the northernmost tip of mainland Great Britain, learn about the Jacobite uprising, and embark on an intrepid wildlife safari as you explore Scotland's wilder side.