8 day itinerary for Scotland

Itinerary

Scotland is a stunning destination with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. Let’s craft an exciting 8-day itinerary for you, starting from your arrival in Edinburgh. Buckle up, because this is going to be a fantastic journey!

## Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh

• Morning: Arrive in Edinburgh from Rome. Pick up your rental car at the airport.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel. I recommend the Motel One Edinburgh-Royal or The Inn Place for a cozy stay within your budget. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll down the Royal Mile, soaking in the atmosphere.
• Evening: Visit Edinburgh Castle. It’s a must-see! Afterward, enjoy dinner at a local pub like The Bow Bar for some traditional Scottish fare and maybe a wee dram of whisky.

## Day 2: Explore Edinburgh

• Morning: Start your day with a visit to Arthur’s Seat for a hike. The views of the city are absolutely worth it!
• Afternoon: Head to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Explore the beautiful gardens and the historic rooms.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Witchery by the Castle for a magical dining experience. Make sure to book in advance!

## Day 3: Edinburgh to Stirling and Loch Lomond

• Morning: Drive to Stirling (about 1 hour). Visit the impressive Stirling Castle and take a walk around the Old Town.
• Afternoon: Continue your journey to Loch Lomond (about 30 minutes). Enjoy a scenic drive and stop at Balloch Castle Country Park for a picnic by the loch.
• Evening: Check into a hotel like The Inn on Loch Lomond. Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s restaurant with views of the loch.

## Day 4: Loch Lomond to Glencoe

• Morning: After breakfast, take a boat tour on Loch Lomond or hike one of the trails in the area.
• Afternoon: Drive to Glencoe (about 1.5 hours). The scenery is breathtaking! Stop at the Glencoe Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s history.
• Evening: Check into The Glencoe Inn. Enjoy dinner at the Clachaig Inn, known for its hearty meals and cozy atmosphere.

## Day 5: Glencoe to Fort William and Isle of Skye

• Morning: Explore Glencoe’s stunning landscapes. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a short hike.
• Afternoon: Drive to Fort William (about 30 minutes) and grab lunch. Then, continue your journey to the Isle of Skye (about 2 hours). Cross the Skye Bridge and take in the views!
• Evening: Check into The Skye Inn or The Bosville Hotel in Portree. Enjoy dinner at The Storr for some local seafood.

## Day 6: Explore the Isle of Skye

• Morning: Visit the iconic Fairy Pools for a magical experience. If you’re up for it, take a dip!
• Afternoon: Head to the Old Man of Storr for a hike. The views are absolutely stunning and worth the effort.
• Evening: Return to Portree for dinner at The Chippy for some delicious fish and chips.

## Day 7: Isle of Skye to Inverness

• Morning: Depart from Skye and drive to Inverness (about 2.5 hours). Stop at Eilean Donan Castle along the way for some photos!
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel, like The Glen Mhor Hotel. Explore Inverness, including the Inverness Castle and the River Ness.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Mustard Seed for a lovely dining experience by the river.

## Day 8: Loch Ness and Return to Edinburgh

• Morning: Take a short drive to Loch Ness (about 30 minutes). Visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, and maybe even catch a glimpse of Nessie!
• Afternoon: Start your drive back to Edinburgh (about 3.5 hours). Stop for lunch along the way.
• Evening: Return your rental car and prepare for your flight back to Rome. If time allows, enjoy a final dinner in Edinburgh at The Kitchin for a memorable farewell meal.

Tips:

• Make sure to book your hotels in advance to secure the best rates.
• Check the weather and pack accordingly, as it can be quite changeable in Scotland.
• Don’t forget to try haggis, shortbread, and local whiskies!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable adventure in Scotland! If you have any questions or need adjustments, just let me know! Safe travels! 🌍✈️🏴