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7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Edinburgh

Friday, December 15: Arrival and Exploring the Royal Mile

In the morning, start your trip by exploring the historic Royal Mile. Begin at Edinburgh Castle, where you can immerse yourself in Scottish history and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Afterward, stroll down the Royal Mile, visiting attractions like St. Giles' Cathedral and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. In the afternoon, take a ghost tour to learn about Edinburgh's spooky legends. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Scottish meal at a local restaurant.

  • Edinburgh Castle: £18 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours (estimated time spent)
  • St. Giles' Cathedral: Free, 1 hour
  • Palace of Holyroodhouse: £16 (estimated cost), 2 hours
  • Ghost Tour: £15-20 (estimated cost), 1.5-2 hours
Saturday, December 16: Dynamic Earth and Arthur's Seat

Start your day at Dynamic Earth, an interactive museum that explores the Earth's history. Spend the morning learning about volcanoes, glaciers, and dinosaurs. In the afternoon, head to Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano offering breathtaking views of the city. Enjoy a family hike to the summit and take in the panoramic vistas. End the day with a visit to the Scottish Parliament nearby.

  • Dynamic Earth: £15 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
  • Arthur's Seat: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Scottish Parliament: Free, 1 hour
Sunday, December 17: National Museum of Scotland and Camera Obscura

Spend the morning at the National Museum of Scotland, where you'll find fascinating exhibits on Scottish history, archaeology, and natural sciences. Enjoy interactive displays and learn about the country's rich heritage. In the afternoon, visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, a fun-filled attraction offering optical illusions and panoramic views of the city. Wrap up the day with a walk along Princes Street, famous for its shops and festive decorations.

  • National Museum of Scotland: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Camera Obscura and World of Illusions: £17.50 (estimated cost), 2 hours
  • Princes Street: Free, 1-2 hours
Monday, December 18: Edinburgh Zoo and Royal Botanic Garden

Start the day by visiting Edinburgh Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals, including pandas, penguins, and lions. Spend the morning exploring the zoo and attending animal feedings. Afterward, head to the Royal Botanic Garden, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll through beautiful gardens and glasshouses. End the day with a visit to the charming village of Stockbridge, known for its independent shops and cozy cafes.

  • Edinburgh Zoo: £20 (estimated cost), 3-4 hours
  • Royal Botanic Garden: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Stockbridge: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Edinburgh Castle and Mary King's Close

Spend the morning exploring Edinburgh Castle in more detail. Dive deeper into Scottish history as you tour the various exhibits and learn about the castle's significance. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of Mary King's Close, an underground network of streets and houses that offers a unique glimpse into Edinburgh's past. Wrap up the day by enjoying a traditional Scottish evening of music and dance at a ceilidh.

  • Edinburgh Castle: £18 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
  • Mary King's Close: £15 (estimated cost), 1.5-2 hours
  • Ceilidh: £10-20 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Holyrood Park and Museum of Childhood

Start the day with a visit to Holyrood Park, where you can explore the picturesque landscapes and hike to the summit of Salisbury Crags. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from this vantage point. In the afternoon, head to the Museum of Childhood, a delightful museum showcasing toys and games from various eras. Spend some time reminiscing and playing with interactive exhibits. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the charming Grassmarket area.

  • Holyrood Park: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Museum of Childhood: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Grassmarket: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Dynamic Earth and Christmas Market

Return to Dynamic Earth for another visit, this time to experience their festive activities and exhibitions related to Christmas and winter traditions. Spend the morning exploring the winter wonderland and participating in holiday-themed activities. In the afternoon, head to the Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens, where you can shop for unique gifts, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. End your trip with a memorable evening at the Edinburgh Christmas Festival.

  • Dynamic Earth: £15 (estimated cost), 2-3 hours
  • Christmas Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  • Edinburgh Christmas Festival: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When exploring Edinburgh with your family, don't miss the chance to visit the Museum of Childhood on the Royal Mile. It's a nostalgic journey through time, offering insights into the toys and games of yesteryears. Another hidden gem is Gorgie City Farm, where kids can interact with farm animals and learn about rural life. For a unique day trip, consider exploring the ruins of Craigmillar Castle, a lesser-known gem with impressive architecture and beautiful surroundings.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Edinburgh trip, click here.

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