5-Day Family Friendly Budget Itinerary in Scotland

Day 1: Explore Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Baked Potato Shop

Start your adventure with a hearty and affordable breakfast of baked potatoes at The Baked Potato Shop, a delightful, family-run eatery.
Walk to the nearby attractions.
GBP5, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock, where the views of the city are simply stunning.
Head up the Royal Mile towards the castle.
GBP19.50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Grassmarket

Stroll to the Grassmarket area and enjoy lunch at one of the many budget-friendly pub options, offering traditional Scottish fare.
Easy 10-minute walk from the castle.
GBP10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Holyrood Park

Take a leisurely walk through Holyrood Park and hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views and fresh air.
15-minute walk from Grassmarket.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Discover the official residence of the Queen in Scotland, with beautiful gardens and fascinating history.
Walk to the palace from Holyrood Park.
GBP15, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Hula Juice Bar

Wrap up your day with a light dinner at Hula Juice Bar, known for its budget-friendly salads and smoothies.
Head back towards the Old Town.
GBP8, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Further Explore Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:30AM

Breakfast at Caffe Nero

Grab a quick breakfast of pastries and coffee at Caffe Nero to fuel up for the day.
Short walk from the hotel.
GBP7, 45 minutes

9:30AM

Scottish National Museum

Visit the Scottish National Museum, that has extensive collections and is perfect for kids with plenty of interactive exhibits.
15-minute walk from Caffe Nero.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Oink

Enjoy a filling lunch of pulled pork sandwiches at Oink, which is known for its delicious and affordable meals.
5-minute walk from the museum.
GBP6, 1 hour

1:00PM

Stroll down Princes Street Gardens

Relax and let the kids play in the beautiful Princes Street Gardens while you enjoy the stunning backdrop of the castle.
10-minute walk from Oink.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Calton Hill

Take a walk up Calton Hill for some more fantastic views and explore the monuments on top.
15-minute walk from the gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Dynamic Earth

Experience a fun and interactive learning experience at Dynamic Earth, perfect for kids to learn about our planet.
15-minute walk from Calton Hill.
GBP14, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Vetri Pizza

Enjoy a family meal at Vetri Pizza, where everyone can customise their own pizza without breaking the bank.
Short bus or 20-minute walk.
GBP10, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Discover Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The City Cafe

Catch a train to Glasgow early and enjoy breakfast at The City Cafe, a retro diner serving classic Scottish breakfast.
Short walk from the train station.
GBP6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Visit the free Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum that boasts an impressive collection of art and natural history.
Take the subway to Kelvinhall Station.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Roll Shop

Indulge in delicious, freshly made rolls at The Roll Shop, perfect for a quick and budget-friendly meal.
15-minute walk from the museum.
GBP5, 1 hour

1:30PM

Glasgow Green and People’s Palace

Enjoy a stroll at Glasgow Green and visit the People’s Palace, an excellent family-friendly museum.
20-minute walk or short bus ride.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Science Centre

Engage with numerous interactive science exhibits at the Glasgow Science Centre, perfect for kids and families.
Bus or 25-minute walk from The People's Palace.
GBP12, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Butterfly and the Pig

Savour a homemade meal at Butterfly and the Pig, a quirky cafe with hearty dishes for families.
Take the bus back towards city centre.
GBP10, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Nature and Views at Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Alba

Grab a quick breakfast at Café Alba, a lovely spot that offers simple yet delicious morning bites.
Travel by bus from Glasgow, approximately 1 hour.
GBP8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Loch Lomond

Spend your day enjoying the stunning landscapes and possibly renting a boat for some family fun on the loch.
Short walk from the bus stop to the lake area.
GBP20 (boat rental approx.), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Oak Tree Inn

Dig into a great value pub lunch at The Oak Tree Inn, known for its welcoming atmosphere and local dishes.
10-minute walk from the loch shore.
GBP10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking the West Highland Way

Enjoy a family-friendly walk on part of the West Highland Way, soaking in the natural beauty around you.
Head to the nearest access point.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Luss Village

Explore the charming village of Luss, with its quaint cottages and beautiful waterfront.
Quick bus from the hiking location.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Village Inn

End your day with a relaxed dinner at The Village Inn, serving delicious local cuisine.
Short walk from Luss village.
GBP12, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Historic Stirling

Stirling, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Burgh Coffee House

Start your day with coffee and pastries at The Burgh Coffee House, just a short walk from the bus station.
Take an early bus to Stirling.
GBP6, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Stirling Castle

Explore the remarkable Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s grandest castles with breathtaking views.
15-minute walk from coffee house.
GBP16, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Birds and the Bees

Enjoy an affordable lunch at The Birds and the Bees, offering a variety of family-friendly meals.
Short walk from the castle.
GBP8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Wallace Monument

Visit the iconic Wallace Monument which commemorates Sir William Wallace, complete with stunning views of the surrounding area.
Bus from the restaurant to the monument.
GBP10, 2 hours

3:30PM

Stirling Old Town

Wander through the cobbled streets of Stirling Old Town, soaking in the charming architecture and local shops.
Walk back towards the town centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Dreadnought Hotel

Conclude your trip with dinner at The Dreadnought Hotel, featuring a variety of traditional Scottish dishes to cap off your adventure.
Easy 10-minute walk from Old Town.
GBP12, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability