How many days do you need in Scotland?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Scotland, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Scotland?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Scotland. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Scotland

Day 1: Exploring Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Elephant House

Start your day with breakfast at The Elephant House, known as the birthplace of Harry Potter. Enjoy a magical meal before heading to Edinburgh Castle.

£10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, where you can learn about Scotland's royal history and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

£20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Witchery by the Castle

Indulge in a delicious lunch at The Witchery by the Castle, a charming restaurant with a gothic atmosphere near the castle.

£30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Royal Mile

Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Royal Mile, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Don't miss the opportunity to buy some traditional Scottish souvenirs.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Angels with Bagpipes

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Angels with Bagpipes, a fine dining restaurant offering modern Scottish cuisine in a cosy setting.

£40, 2 hours

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Day 2: More of Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mimi's Bakehouse

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Mimi's Bakehouse, known for its delicious cakes and pastries.

£15, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Holyrood Palace

Visit the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, Holyrood Palace. Discover the history and grandeur of this royal palace.

£15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Scran & Scallie

Enjoy a traditional Scottish lunch at The Scran & Scallie, a gastropub offering classic dishes with a modern twist.

£20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Arthur's Seat Hike

Embark on a family-friendly hike up Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano in Holyrood Park. Experience breathtaking views of Edinburgh from the top.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Tower Restaurant

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at The Tower Restaurant, located atop the National Museum of Scotland with stunning views of the city.

£50, 2 hours

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Day 3: Discovering Inverness

Inverness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Kitchen Brasserie

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Kitchen Brasserie, known for its fresh local produce and cosy atmosphere.

£12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Urquhart Castle

Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, located on the banks of Loch Ness. Learn about the castle's history and enjoy stunning views of the loch.

£15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mustard Seed

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Mustard Seed, a riverside restaurant serving Scottish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.

£25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Cruise on Loch Ness

Embark on a cruise on Loch Ness to search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the loch and surrounding landscapes.

£20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kitchen Restaurant

Savour a delightful dinner at The Kitchen Restaurant, known for its contemporary Scottish dishes and warm hospitality.

£35, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Inverness

Day 4: Exploring Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Arriba

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Arriba, a cosy cafe known for its homemade pastries and hearty breakfast dishes.

£10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Fairy Pools

Explore the magical Fairy Pools, crystal-clear blue pools located at the foot of the Black Cuillin mountains. Take a refreshing dip or enjoy a scenic walk.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Three Chimneys

Indulge in a gourmet lunch at The Three Chimneys, a renowned restaurant with stunning views of Loch Dunvegan and the surrounding countryside.

£40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Dunvegan Castle

Visit the historic Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. Discover its rich history and beautiful gardens.

£15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Edinbane Lodge

Enjoy a cosy dinner at Edinbane Lodge, a charming restaurant serving Scottish dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

£30, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Isle of Skye

Day 5: Discovering Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at Singl-end Cafe & Bakehouse

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Singl-end Cafe & Bakehouse, known for its freshly baked bread and pastries.

£12, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Explore Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to stunning artworks, historical artefacts, and interactive exhibits for all ages.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ubiquitous Chip

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ubiquitous Chip, a quirky restaurant offering modern Scottish dishes in a charming courtyard setting.

£25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shop on Buchanan Street

Spend the afternoon shopping on Buchanan Street, Glasgow's main shopping thoroughfare lined with high-street stores and designer boutiques.

Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Stravaigin

Indulge in a fusion dinner at Stravaigin, a restaurant known for its innovative dishes that blend Scottish and international flavours.

£35, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Glasgow

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Scotland

Day 1: Exploring Edinburgh

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: More of Edinburgh

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Discovering Inverness

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Exploring Isle of Skye

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Discovering Glasgow

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

More About Scotland

Plan Your Scotland Trip