Family-Friendly 1-Day Itinerary in Edinburgh

  1. 9:00AM: Edinburgh Castle
    Located in the city center

    Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and houses Scotland's crown jewels. Be sure to check out the One O'clock Gun, a tradition dating back to 1861 where a gun is fired every day except Sundays, Christmas Day, and Good Friday at exactly 1:00pm.

  2. 11:00AM: Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
    20 minutes (1.5 miles) from Edinburgh Castle

    Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. With over 13,000 plant species, the gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. Highlights include the Victorian Palm House and the Queen Mother Memorial Garden.

  3. 1:00PM: lunch at The Elephant House
    5 minutes (0.2 miles) from Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

    Grab lunch at The Elephant House, a cozy cafe that claims to be the birthplace of Harry Potter. Sit in the same spot where J.K. Rowling wrote the early Harry Potter books or feast on their delicious sandwiches and soups.

  4. 2:30PM: Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    20 minutes (1 mile) from The Elephant House

    Experience a fun and interactive adventure at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. Explore five floors of illusions, amazing views of the city, holograms, and more. Be sure not to miss the Camera Obscura itself, an optical device that has been in operation since 1853.

  5. 4:30PM: Edinburgh Dungeon
    5 minutes (0.2 miles) from Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

    Step back in time at the Edinburgh Dungeon and experience Scotland's dark history. With live actors, thrilling rides, and special effects, this interactive tour is not for the faint of heart. Learn about the infamous Scottish cannibal Sawney Bean and escape the torture of the Spanish Inquisition.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Edinburgh Castle (2-3 hours, £17.50 per adult)
  • Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (2-3 hours, free entry)
  • The Elephant House (1 hour, £10-15 per person)
  • Camera Obscura and World of Illusions (2-3 hours, £17 per adult)
  • Edinburgh Dungeon (1-1.5 hours, £18 per adult)
  • Total Estimated Costs: £80-85 per adult

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider checking out the Scottish Parliament Building or indulging in some shopping on Princes Street. For those with less time, consider skipping the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, or only exploring one floor of the Edinburgh Dungeon.

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