Scotland road trip itineraries
Rugged coastline and impressive valleys
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Discover Scotland by car
Discover the magical Highlands and the country's rugged coastline on a road trip through Scotland. For its relatively small area, Scotland has a large number of scenic routes that you can combine as you wish. Follow in the footsteps of Macbeth, look out for the Loch Ness Monster or wander through the pubs of Glasgow and Aberdeen.
Marvin Luczynski
Travel Expert for Scotland
Updated on 05/15/2025
1. Glasgow
Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, has a lot to offer, from historical sights to cozy pubs and chic shopping malls. See the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the manicured grounds of Pollok Estate Country Park.
2. Isle of Skye
Possible activities on the Isle of Skye include an Argocat off-road adventure or a photo safari. You can also look out for basking sharks, dolphins or porpoises on a boat tour and visit a seal colony in the cliffs of the Cuilin Mountains.
3. Thurso
Must-sees in Thurso include the ruins of Thurso Castle and Old St. Peter's Church. The Caithness Horizons Museum brings you closer to the history of the town. There are also many opportunities for hiking and surfing in Thurso.
4. Inverness
Inverness became famous for Macbeth and Loch Ness. Experience classic Scotland between old churches and traditional pubs, visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery or go wild rafting in the surrounding countryside.
5. Aberdeen
Aberdeen is home to museums such as the Maritime Museum and the Aberdeen Art Gallery, as well as pretty districts such as the Old Town and the charming fishing quarter of Footdee. Follow in the footsteps of Scotch whisky on the Malt Whisky Trail.
6. Edinburgh
The Scottish capital Edinburgh lies between a series of volcanic hills, its trademark being the iconic castle. Attractions such as the beautiful Dunbar's Close Garden or a Camara Obscura full of optical illusions can be found in the Royal Mile.
The most impressive panoramic routes
Northcoast 500
Although the North Coast 500 is one of Scotland’s newer scenic routes, it’s already known as the country’s answer to Route 66. This 516-mile loop follows the northern coastline of Scotland, beginning and ending in Inverness.Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages like Muir of Ord, Gairloch, and Durness. Explore stunning castles such as Dunrobin Castle and hike through dramatic landscapes, including the mountains of Glencoe—a perfect road trip for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Argyll Coastal Road
Rugged coastal flair and numerous breathtaking viewpoints await you on the Argyll Coastal Road along Scotland's west coast. Start at Loch Lomond and take time to discover the Trossachs National Park.
The Scottish Highlands take you past attractions such as Kilmartin Museum and Carnasserie Castle to Scotland's "seafood capital" Oban and finally to the outdoor paradise of Fort William.
Road to The Isles
The Road to the Isles may be one of Scotland’s shorter scenic drives, but it offers an unforgettable look at the country’s natural beauty along its 42-mile stretch.
Begin in Fort William and make stops at highlights like Neptune’s Staircase and Glenfinnan—home to the iconic Glenfinnan Monument and the Glenfinnan Viaduct, made famous by the Harry Potter films. The route ends in the coastal town of Mallaig, where you can catch a ferry to one of the nearby islands for even more adventure.
