Three best road trip routes in Scotland

United Kingdom

Planning a trip to Scotland but not sure where to begin? Don’t worry — you’ve come to the right place! While there’s plenty of information out there about this stunning country, here you’ll find everything you need to plan the perfect Scottish road trip. Think castle ruins, lochs, and breathtaking views straight out of a fairy tale — and the best way to see it all is from behind the wheel.

In this article, we’ve put together three incredible itineraries to help you discover Scotland by car. Whether you’re dreaming of a journey through the Highlands, an adventure on the Isle of Skye, or a scenic drive along the coast, you’ll find all the inspiration you need for your next road trip right here.

What should I know about driving in Scotland?

Driving in Scotland is a unique experience that lets you take in stunning scenery at your own pace. Roads are generally well-maintained and clearly signposted, making travel straightforward. While driving on the left might feel unfamiliar at first, you’ll quickly adapt — and before long, you’ll feel like a local.

Distances between major attractions are relatively short, so you can explore at a relaxed pace while soaking up the beauty of the Scottish landscape.

3 road trip itineraries for exploring Scotland by car

At CarJet, we've prepared 3 unique road trip itineraries in Scotland for you. Simply choose the one you like most, organise it with Google Maps, and set off on your adventure.

All our itineraries start in the Scottish capital. With CarJet, you can hire a car from various locations in Edinburgh, whether it's the airport, the train station, or right in the city centre. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

The Highlands and Loch Ness: A magical route

If you're passionate about nature and history, this itinerary is perfect for you. It will immerse you in the heart of Scottish history while showcasing its most iconic landscapes.

We begin the journey in Edinburgh, where you can explore an array of monuments: the castle, the Palace of Holyrood, St Giles' Cathedral, and the alleys of the historic old town.

Next, hop into your rental car and head towards Stirling (about 1 hour's drive), a historic city that is home to one of the country's most famous landmarks, Stirling Castle. From there, continue northwest for approximately 2 hours to reach the Glencoe Valley, a breathtaking spot ideal for nature lovers. This magnificent glen offers perfect terrain for a hiking excursion to soak in the stunning scenery of the Highlands. Don't forget your camera—the views will leave you speechless!

After another 90-minute journey, you'll arrive at Fort Augustus and the mythical Loch Ness. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of Nessie, the legendary monster that's said to dwell in these deep waters!

The itinerary concludes in Inverness (a 30-minute drive from Loch Ness), the capital of the Highlands. This welcoming city invites you to savour local cuisine such as haggis, fresh salmon, or a hearty Scotch broth. To round off your Scottish experience, let yourself be carried away by the stirring sound of the bagpipes at one of the local pubs or traditional ceilidh events.

Isle of Skye: Discover Scottish nature

The Isle of Skye is truly a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, but the adventure begins long before reaching the island. From Edinburgh, head to Fort William (a 3-hour drive), a charming town perfect for a stop to breathe the fresh Highland air. If you're a fan of the Harry Potter films, don't miss the Glenfinnan Viaduct, just 30 minutes away, where the famous Hogwarts Express crosses. Watching the train puff across the viaduct will transport you straight into the movie.

On your journey, be sure to visit Eilean Donan, a picturesque 13th-century castle perched on its own tiny island, perfect for a photo stop. After that, continue towards the Isle of Skye, which is accessible via the Skye Bridge. Once there, you can tackle the magnificent trails at the Old Man of Storr or the dramatic Quiraing—both are must-visit spots for walking enthusiasts.

For quieter activities, the coastal village of Staffin offers lovely beach strolls, or visit Dunvegan, where you can explore the iconic Dunvegan Castle, ancestral home of the MacLeod clan, the most famous clan of the island. Round off your day with a stunning sunset at Neist Point. Its iconic lighthouse, dramatically positioned overlooking the Atlantic, provides one of the best vantage points to enjoy the sun's descent over the Hebrides.

A route through Scotland's hidden gems: Explore the East Coast

Our final itinerary takes you to Scotland's east coast, a less touristy area but full of charm and surprises. Hire your car in Edinburgh and head towards Dundee (approximately 1.5 hours), located at the mouth of the River Tay. The striking V&A Dundee design museum is worth exploring before continuing northward to Stonehaven (about 1 hour), known for its Dunnottar Castle overlooking the North Sea.

The next stop is Aberdeen (a 30-minute drive), where you can enjoy the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, the Art Gallery, the historic Old Aberdeen district with its cobbled streets, or its bustling harbour. Nature lovers will appreciate the tranquil Botanic Garden and Duthie Park for unwinding, while Aberdeen Beach offers a splendid coastal walk and a scenic sunset over the North Sea.

Finally, Inverness is less than a two-hour drive away. From there, you can easily reach the famous Speyside region, world-renowned for its whisky distilleries. It's the perfect spot to learn about Scotch whisky production and uncover more of Scotland's rich heritage. This area boasts iconic distilleries such as Glenfiddich, The Macallan, and Glenlivet, many of which offer guided tours and tastings.

Hire a car with CarJet to enjoy a unique journey

To explore Scotland in complete comfort, hiring a car is undoubtedly the best option. At CarJet, we help you find a wide variety of vehicles tailored to your specific needs and budget. Simply specify your destination along with the pick-up and drop-off dates for your car, and we'll handle the rest!

With CarJet, you'll have access to a broad range of pick-up points across Scotland. Whether you'd prefer to collect your hire car in Aberdeen, Glasgow, or Inverness—it's entirely up to you! Start your adventure wherever it suits you best.

The booking process is simple, intuitive, and remarkably quick: within seconds, we'll show you the best deals at the lowest prices, and your reservation will be confirmed in under 3 minutes. Convenient, isn't it? Choose CarJet for an unforgettable road trip experience in Scotland's breathtaking landscapes.