Scotland 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Flight to Edinburgh

Board your connecting flight from London Gatwick to Edinburgh Airport.

Avis Car Rental Pick-up

Pick up your reserved Avis rental car at Edinburgh Airport.

This car will be your companion for exploring Scotland.

Have your booking confirmation, driver's license, and credit card ready for a smooth pick-up process.

Drive to Doune Castle

Begin your drive north from Edinburgh, heading towards the heart of Scotland.

Your first stop is Doune Castle.

Doune Castle (Outlander)

Visit the historic Doune Castle, famous for its role as 'Castle Leoch' in the Outlander series, as well as being featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail.

Check opening hours, as it might be closing soon. Guided audio tours available.

Drive to Highland Accommodation

Continue your scenic drive north towards your unique accommodation near Pitlochry or Aviemore.

Dinner in Pitlochry

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant in Pitlochry, a charming Victorian town.

Drive through Cairngorms

Enjoy a beautiful morning drive through the vast landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park.

Clava Cairns (Standing Stones)

Explore the ancient burial cairns and standing stones of Clava Cairns, a Bronze Age cemetery that is thought to have inspired Craigh na Dun in Outlander.

This site is free to visit and easily accessible. A truly atmospheric and historic place.

Lunch in Inverness

Grab lunch in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, before heading to Loch Ness.

Drive to Urquhart Castle

Take a short scenic drive along the shores of Loch Ness to Urquhart Castle.

Urquhart Castle & Loch Ness

Visit the iconic ruins of Urquhart Castle, dramatically situated on the banks of Loch Ness, offering stunning views and a visitor center.

Book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.

Loch Ness Boat Cruise

Embark on a boat cruise on Loch Ness from Drumnadrochit or nearby, hoping for a glimpse of Nessie while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Several operators offer tours; check availability and book ahead.

Dinner by Loch Ness

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views of Loch Ness.

Scenic Drive to Glen Shiel

Embark on a breathtaking drive west through some of Scotland's most dramatic Highland landscapes, including Glen Shiel, which offers truly majestic, Bond-esque scenery.

Eilean Donan Castle

Visit the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, perhaps Scotland's most photographed castle, set on an island where three sea lochs meet.

It's a truly unforgettable sight.

Allow time for photos from different angles outside the castle, as well as an interior tour.

Lunch in Kyle of Lochalsh

Enjoy lunch in Kyle of Lochalsh before crossing the bridge to Skye.

Cross Skye Bridge

Cross the iconic Skye Bridge, marking your official arrival onto the magical Isle of Skye!

Old Sligachan Bridge

Stop at the Old Sligachan Bridge for stunning views of the Black Cuillin Mountains and a photo opportunity with the legendary bridge and river.

Legend says that if you dip your face in the river for 7 seconds, you will have eternal beauty!

Check into Accommodation in Portree

Drive to Portree, the capital of Skye, and check into your unique accommodation for the night.

Dinner in Portree

Enjoy fresh seafood or traditional Scottish fare at one of Portree's charming restaurants.

Drive to Fairy Pools

Head south from Portree towards the magical Fairy Pools.

Explore The Fairy Pools

Hike along the River Brittle to discover the enchanting Fairy Pools, a series of crystal-clear rock pools and waterfalls fed by the Cuillin Mountains.

Bring waterproof shoes if you plan to wade!

The path can be muddy and rocky, so appropriate footwear is essential. There is a paid parking area.

Lunch near Glenbrittle

Enjoy a casual lunch at a cafe or food truck near Glenbrittle after your hike, or pack a picnic to enjoy by the pools.

Talisker Distillery Tour

Take a guided tour and tasting at the Talisker Distillery, Skye's oldest working whisky distillery, known for its peated single malt.

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for tours, as spaces are limited.

Explore Carbost Village

Wander around the picturesque village of Carbost, home to the Talisker Distillery, and enjoy the views of Loch Harport.

Dinner in Portree

Return to Portree for another evening of delicious Scottish cuisine.

Hike to Old Man of Storr

Embark on the iconic hike to the Old Man of Storr, a large pinnacle of rock that stands high and can be seen for miles around.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Sound of Raasay.

Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for potentially windy conditions. There is a paid car park.

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Visit the dramatic Kilt Rock, a sea cliff resembling a pleated kilt, and Mealt Falls, which plunges directly into the sea from the clifftop.

Easy access from the car park to the viewpoint. Free to visit.

Lunch in Staffin

Grab a bite to eat in the small village of Staffin, perhaps at the local cafe.

Explore The Quiraing

Drive and walk through the otherworldly landscape of The Quiraing, a spectacular landslip on the eastern face of Meall na Suiramach. Enjoy incredible vistas and unique rock formations.

There are various walking paths, from short strolls to longer hikes. Be prepared for changing weather. Paid parking.

Wander Fairy Glen

Visit the charming and mystical Fairy Glen near Uig, a unique miniature landscape of conical hills and hidden ponds, said to be a gathering place for fairies.

Park in the designated paid car park and walk into the glen to protect the fragile landscape.

Dinner in Northern Skye

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the Uig or Portree area.

Hike Old Man of Storr

Embark on a scenic hike to the iconic Old Man of Storr, a large pinnacle of rock on the Trotternish peninsula, offering spectacular views of the Sound of Raasay and Portree.

Wear sturdy hiking boots. The trail can be steep and muddy in parts. Allow extra time for photos.

Kilt Rock & Mealt Falls

Visit the dramatic Kilt Rock viewpoint, where basalt columns resemble the pleats of a kilt, and witness the stunning Mealt Falls plunge directly into the sea.

Easy access from the car park. Great photo opportunities.

Lunch in Portree

Enjoy a delightful lunch in Portree, the largest town on Skye, known for its picturesque harbour and colourful houses.

Explore the local shops.

Try fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Parking can be challenging in peak season.

Scenic Drive to Loch Ness Area

Embark on a picturesque journey from the Isle of Skye, crossing the Skye Bridge and driving through the majestic Highlands towards the legendary Loch Ness area. Keep an eye out for smaller standing stones or ancient cairns along the way, hinting at Scotland's rich history.

This is a long but incredibly scenic drive. Take breaks as needed. Ensure your car is fuelled.

Dinner near Loch Ness

Savor a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant near your unique accommodation, reflecting on the day's dramatic scenery.

Urquhart Castle Visit

Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, dramatically situated on the banks of Loch Ness, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Scotland's turbulent past.

Keep an eye out for Nessie!

Book tickets online in advance, especially during peak season. Excellent visitor centre. Google Places has a rating of 4.8/5.

Loch Ness Boat Tour

Embark on a short boat cruise on Loch Ness, offering a unique perspective of the legendary waters and the surrounding Highland landscape.

Several operators offer cruises; check schedules and book ahead. Dress warmly as it can be breezy on the loch.

Drive through Glencoe & Skyfall Views

Begin your stunning drive south through the dramatic valley of Glencoe, famed for its breathtaking scenery and historical significance.

Stop at iconic viewpoints, including the area near Glen Etive, recognizable from James Bond's 'Skyfall'. This will be a long but spectacular drive towards Glasgow.

Take your time to stop at various lay-bys for photos. This is one of Scotland's most beautiful drives. Ensure you have snacks and water.

Arrive & Check-in Glasgow

Arrive in Glasgow, check into your unique accommodation, and refresh before heading out for the evening's concert.

Joan Jett & The Blackhearts Concert

Experience an electrifying performance by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts!

Enjoy classic rock hits in a lively Glasgow venue.

Ensure you have your concert tickets booked well in advance. Check venue specific bag policies and arrival times. Prices are an estimate and will vary.

Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis

Visit the magnificent Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning example of medieval Scottish architecture.

Afterwards, explore the atmospheric Victorian Necropolis, offering panoramic views of the city.

Check for opening hours. Entry to the Cathedral is usually free, but donations are welcome.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Immerse yourselves in art and history at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, one of Scotland's most popular attractions, housing a vast collection.

Free entry. Easily accessible by public transport or a short drive. Allow plenty of time to explore.

Lunch in West End Glasgow

Enjoy lunch in Glasgow's vibrant West End, known for its eclectic eateries and bohemian atmosphere.

Outlander: Doune Castle (Castle Leoch)

Drive to Doune Castle, famously known as Castle Leoch in the 'Outlander' series and also featured in 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail'.

Explore this well-preserved medieval stronghold.

Approx. 45-minute drive from Glasgow. Book tickets online. An audio guide narrated by Sam Heughan (Jamie Fraser) is available.

Return to Glasgow & Dinner

Drive back to Glasgow and enjoy a delightful farewell dinner, perhaps trying a modern Scottish cuisine experience.

Merchant City Exploration

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Glasgow's historic Merchant City, known for its grand Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and cafes.

Perfect for some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Many independent boutiques and cafes to explore.

Farewell Scottish Lunch

Savour a final Scottish lunch in Glasgow before heading to the airport.

Drive to Edinburgh Airport & Car Return

Drive from Glasgow to Edinburgh Airport (EDI), allowing ample time for traffic and car return procedures with Avis.

Allow extra time for potential traffic on the M8 motorway. Ensure the car is refuelled before returning.

Edinburgh Airport Departure

Proceed with check-in and security at Edinburgh Airport for your return journey.

Confirm your flight details and recommended airport arrival time in advance.