Discover the Magic of Edinburgh: A Fun Family Day Trip

Discover history and enchantment in family-friendly Edinburgh!

19 July 2023

Visiting Edinburgh with your family promises an unforgettable adventure. Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle which stands proudly atop Castle Rock, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city. Kids will be enthralled by the interactive exhibits at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, while everyone can enjoy a stroll along the historic Royal Mile with its charming shops, street performers, and mouthwatering food options.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring the Glorious Capital:

  • Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at The Elephant House, a café renowned as the birthplace of Harry Potter. Expect magic in every bite!
  • Visit Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically on the Castle Rock. Marvel at the Crown Jewels, whisper with the Stone of Destiny, and soak in centuries of history.
  • Take a stroll down the charming Royal Mile, bustling with street performers, quirky shops, and pubs. Don't forget to make eerie eye contact with Greyfriars Bobby.
  • Fill your tummy with a scrumptious lunch at The Witchery by the Castle, a Gothic delight that combines fabulous food with an enchanting atmosphere.
  • Join a dynamic and interactive tour of the Real Mary King's Close, a hidden underground street frozen in time, where tales of plague and ghosts await your brave hearts.
  • End the day with a relaxing walk through the beautiful Princes Street Gardens, offering stunning views of the Scottish National Gallery and the iconic Scott Monument. Make a wish upon Sir Walter Scott's statue for good luck!

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.

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