Edinburgh Adventures: A 4-Day Family-Friendly Journey

Discover enchanting Edinburgh, where family fun meets historic wonders in the heart of Scotland.

19 July 2023

A family friendly trip to Edinburgh, United Kingdom promises an exciting blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the historic Royal Mile, and visit the engaging exhibits at the interactive Museum of Edinburgh. With stunning landscapes and parks like Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures that kids and parents will enjoy.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering the Royal Mile

  • Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at a charming local café, fueling up for an adventure-filled day.
  • Wander along the famous Royal Mile, a historic and lively street that stretches from the magnificent Edinburgh Castle to the enchanting Palace of Holyroodhouse.
  • Take a tour of the Edinburgh Castle and immerse yourself in its rich history, from the Stone of Destiny to marvelous Crown Jewels.
  • Explore the quaint alleys and hidden closes, like the atmospheric Victoria Street, lined with unique independent shops and charming cafes.
  • Visit the immersive and interactive Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, where you can experience mind-bending optical illusions and panoramic views of the city.
  • End the day with a traditional Scottish dinner at a cozy pub, trying haggis, neeps, and tatties or other local specialties.
Day 2

A Journey into Arthur's Seat

  • After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, embark on a nature adventure by climbing the iconic Arthur's Seat, extinct volcano and the crown jewel of Holyrood Park.
  • Marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes from the top of Arthur's Seat.
  • Explore the picturesque Holyrood Park, strolling through its meadows, hidden lochs, and ancient ruins.
  • Enjoy a picnic surrounded by the beauty of nature, savoring delicious local treats and taking in the peaceful ambiance.
  • Head to Dynamic Earth, a captivating science museum that takes you on a journey through the history of our planet, complete with interactive exhibits and thrilling multimedia displays.
  • End the day with a dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, relishing in traditional Scottish dishes or international favorites.
Day 3

Art and Whimsy in Edinburgh's Museums

  • Begin the day with a delightful breakfast at a cozy café, fueling up for a day of exploration.
  • Visit the National Museum of Scotland, a treasure trove of history, science, and art, showcasing fascinating exhibits from ancient relics to contemporary artworks.
  • Experience the magic of storytelling at the Museum of Childhood, where you can immerse yourself in toys, games, and memories from different eras.
  • Explore the intriguing Surgeons' Hall Museums, delving into the history of medicine, with exhibitions on anatomical specimens, surgical instruments, and medical curiosities.
  • Journey to the realm of fantasy at The Writers' Museum, celebrating Scotland's literary heroes such as Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Sir Walter Scott.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious afternoon tea or brunch in one of the charming tearooms, savoring delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a variety of tempting pastries.
Day 4

Venturing Beyond Edinburgh

  • Start the day with a leisurely breakfast, preparing for a day trip outside of Edinburgh.
  • Head to the must-visit Rosslyn Chapel, a mystical and intricate masterpiece shrouded in legends and secrets, featured in Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code."
  • Visit the fascinating Edinburgh Zoo, home to an array of exotic animals, including the famous giant pandas. Don't miss the daily penguin parade!
  • Take a scenic drive to the charming coastal town of South Queensferry, where you can behold the stunning architectural marvel of the Forth Bridges and enjoy fish and chips by the picturesque waterfront.
  • Explore the enchanting wonders of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, with its stunning flora from around the world and peaceful walking trails.
  • End your day with a memorable dinner in one of Edinburgh's top-rated family-friendly restaurants, indulging in delicious Scottish cuisine or international flavors.
  • Enjoy your unforgettable family-friendly trip to Edinburgh, soaking in the city's history, natural beauty, and delightful experiences!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Edinburgh by plane is to fly into Edinburgh Airport, which is located approximately 8 miles from the city center, with many major airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair offering direct flights from a range of cities around the world.

Car

Driving to Edinburgh is a great option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace or are traveling with a lot of luggage. You can reach Edinburgh by taking the M8 motorway, which connects the city to Glasgow and other major cities in the region.

Train

The most convenient way to travel to Edinburgh by train is to catch a train to Edinburgh Waverley station, which is located in the heart of the city center and is well connected to the rest of the UK. Trains are available from a range of cities including London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

Boat

If you're traveling from Europe, taking a ferry to Rosyth in Fife is a great option. From there, you can easily reach Edinburgh by car, bus, or train. DFDS Seaways operates a direct ferry service from Zeebrugge, Belgium to Rosyth.

Bus

The best way to get to Edinburgh by bus is to take a coach from Edinburgh Bus Station, which is located just a short walk from the city center. A variety of coach companies, including National Express and Scottish Citylink, provide direct services from various cities across the UK.

Destination

Edinburgh

Looking for a place where history, culture, and whiskey mix? Look no further than this city, where the streets are so steep, you might just stumble down them after a few too many drams.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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