12-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Edinburgh

Day 1: Explore Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring local produce and homemade dishes.
Located in Stockbridge, a scenic area of Edinburgh.
GBP 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Discover the iconic Edinburgh Castle, filled with history and stunning views.
A short drive to the castle, parking available nearby.
GBP 20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Elephant House

Enjoy a light lunch in the café famous for being the place where J.K. Rowling wrote her first Harry Potter book.
Walking distance from the castle.
GBP 40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Arthur's Seat Hiking

Take a family-friendly hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city.
About a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Engage with interactive exhibits great for kids and adults alike.
Only a 5-minute drive from Arthur's Seat.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Zizzi Edinburgh

Savor delicious Italian fare in a family-friendly restaurant.
A short 10-minute drive from the museum.
GBP 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: St. Andrews Adventure

St. Andrews, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Forgan's St Andrews

Indulge in a hearty Scottish breakfast with a twist.
About a 1.5 hour drive from Edinburgh.
GBP 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Old Course

Visit the world-famous golfing course and enjoy some family fun on the grounds.
Located right next to the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Seafood Restaurant

Try fresh seafood in a stunning location overlooking the sea.
Short walk from the Old Course.
GBP 70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit St. Andrews Castle

Explore the ruins of this medieval castle and learn about its history.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
GBP 6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stroll through St. Andrews Botanic Garden

Let the kids explore the various plant species and lovely landscapes.
About a 20-minute walk from St. Andrews Castle.
GBP 5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Adamson

End the day with innovative dishes in a chic setting.
A short 5-minute drive from the botanic garden.
GBP 90, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Perth’s Cultural Highlights

Perth, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at A Room in the West

Enjoy a trendy breakfast with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
1-hour drive from St. Andrews.
GBP 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Scone Palace

Explore the birthplace of the Scottish Kings and its beautiful gardens.
A 15-minute drive from breakfast.
GBP 12, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Bothy Restaurant

Enjoy a family-friendly menu with hearty options in a cozy setting.
About a 10-minute drive from Scone Palace.
GBP 50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Perth Museum and Art Gallery

Engage with interactive exhibits perfect for children.
A 10-minute drive from The Bothy.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the North Inch Park

Let the kids play outside and enjoy a lovely walk along the river.
Only a 5-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Ristorante Pino

Finish your day with Italian dishes in a laid-back environment.
5-minute drive from North Inch Park.
GBP 65, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Discovering Inverness

Inverness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 1

Start your day with a delightful breakfast offering local Scottish cuisine.
1.5-hour drive from Perth.
GBP 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Inverness Castle

Visit this historic castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Located in the city centre, just a short drive away.
GBP 10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Take a Loch Ness Cruise

Embark on a family-friendly boat trip to search for Nessie!
Cruise departures are close to the castle.
GBP 70, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Kitchen Brasserie

Enjoy delicious local dishes with views over the river.
5-minute walk from the cruise port.
GBP 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

Learn about the local history and culture in a family-friendly space.
A short 10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore the River Ness

Enjoy a peaceful walk and let the kids spot wildlife along the riverbank.
Just steps from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Mustard Seed

Wrap up your day with a delightful meal in a warm atmosphere.
Around a 5-minute walk from the river.
GBP 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Loch Ness Expedition

Loch Ness, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Foyers Lodge

Enjoy breakfast with spectacular views over Loch Ness.
Drive about 30 minutes from Inverness.
GBP 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition

Learn about the legend of Nessie and the fascinating history of Loch Ness.
Just a 10-minute drive from breakfast.
GBP 10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Kayaking on Loch Ness

Rent kayaks for a thrilling adventure on the loch, perfect for families.
Rental shop nearby the centre.
GBP 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Dores Inn

Taste local seafood with stunning views of Loch Ness.
A 20-minute drive back down the loch.
GBP 60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Urquhart Castle

Explore this historic castle located on the banks of Loch Ness.
About 15-minute drive from lunch.
GBP 12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore the surrounding trails

Take a family-friendly hike to enjoy nature and stunning views.
Trails around the castle.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Lovat Loch Ness

Enjoy dining with local ingredients in a relaxed setting.
A 10-minute drive back to Foyers.
GBP 90, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Fort William Highlights

Fort William, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Lime Tree An Ealdhain

Enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast before heading out for the day.
30 minutes drive from Loch Ness.
GBP 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the West Highland Museum

A fantastic opportunity to learn about the culture and history of the Highlands.
The museum is in the town centre, just a short drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Ride the Nevis Range Mountain Gondola

Fiend the family adventure while enjoying breathtaking views from the top.
A 15-minute drive from the museum.
GBP 60, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Ben Nevis Inn

Savor local dishes with exceptional views of Ben Nevis.
A short 10-minute drive from Gondola station.
GBP 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Glen Nevis

Enjoy a family walk in one of Scotland's most picturesque glens.
Just a 15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Old Inverlochy Castle

Explore the ruins of this 13th-century castle, great for kids’ imaginations.
A 10-minute drive from Glen Nevis.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Grog & Gruel

Enjoy hearty meals in a family-friendly atmosphere.
A short drive back to the town centre.
GBP 65, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Charming Oban

Oban, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Oban Bay Hotel

Start your day with fresh Scottish breakfast overlooking the bay.
Drive about 1 hour from Fort William.
GBP 35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit McCaig’s Tower

Explore this iconic landmark offering stunning views of Oban.
Close to the hotel, just a short drive.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Oban Distillery Tour

Take a family-friendly tour of one of Scotland's oldest distilleries.
Shortly down the road from McCaig’s Tower.
GBP 12 (adults free for children), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Seafood Temple

Savor fresh seafood from the waters surrounding Oban.
About a 5-minute drive from the distillery.
GBP 60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Take a Ferry to the Isle of Mull

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride and a chance to explore the beautiful Isle of Mull.
Ferry terminal is just minutes from lunch.
GBP 70, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Isle of Mull

Discover picturesque villages, wildlife, and beautiful landscapes.
Explore at your leisure on the island.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Galley of Lorne Inn

Savor local dishes, a great finish to your day on Mull before returning.
Around a 10-minute drive from the ferry terminal.
GBP 80, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Dynamic Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Strange Brew

Enjoy a lively breakfast with locally sourced ingredients.
Drive about 2 hours from Oban.
GBP 35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Engaging exhibits that are family-friendly with something for everyone.
Around a 10-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Ubiquitous Chip

Enjoy scrumptious dishes in a uniquely designed restaurant.
Short drive from the museum.
GBP 70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Glasgow Science Centre

An interactive space that’s incredibly fun for the whole family.
About a 15-minute drive from lunch.
GBP 38 (adults free for children), 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Glasgow Green

Take a stroll and let the kids play in one of Glasgow's oldest parks.
Short drive from the science centre.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Finnieston

Indulge in seasonal seafood and craft cocktails in a family-friendly setting.
A 5-minute drive from park.
GBP 85, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Coastal Ayr

Ayr, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at McCalls

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the Ayr shoreline.
A 1.5-hour drive from Glasgow.
GBP 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Ayr Beach

Relax and enjoy a beach day with opportunities for family fun.
Just a short walk from McCalls.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum

Engage with interactive exhibits about Scotland's national poet.
A 10-minute drive from the beach.
GBP 8, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Waterfront

Savor delicious seafood and local dishes with bay views.
About a 15-minute drive from the museum.
GBP 50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Culzean Castle and Country Park

Enjoy the stunning castle and scenic gardens perfect for family adventures.
A 20-minute drive from lunch.
GBP 12, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Chefs Table

Enjoy fresh local cuisine in an upscale family-friendly restaurant.
A 15-minute drive back towards Ayr.
GBP 70, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Historical Stirling

Stirling, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Meadowpark

Start the day with a traditional Scottish breakfast in a cozy setting.
1.5 hours drive from Ayr.
GBP 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Stirling Castle

Explore the grand castle with rich history and interactive exhibits for children.
A 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
GBP 15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Portcullis

Enjoy hearty British pub fare with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Located right near the castle.
GBP 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Stirling Old Town

Wander through cobbled streets lined with shops and historic sites.
Short walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Wallace Monument

Climb the impressive tower for great views of Stirling.
A 10-minute drive from the Old Town.
GBP 10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Birds and the Bees

Wrap up with a fun and relaxing meal in an inviting atmosphere.
About a 15-minute drive from the monument.
GBP 70, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Back to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in a family-friendly café.
1 hour drive from Stirling.
GBP 35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Scottish National Gallery

Explore fantastic artwork, including pieces by famous artists.
Located in the city centre.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Stockbridge Restaurant

Savor seasonal dishes at this beloved local spot.
A 10-minute drive from the gallery.
GBP 60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Holyrood Park

Let the kids run around and explore the wonderful park.
Close to the lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Dynamic Earth

Engage with interactive exhibits that cater to children and adults alike.
Near Holyrood Park.
GBP 50, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Dishoom

Enjoy delicious Indian food in a unique setting.
About a 15-minute drive from Dynamic Earth.
GBP 90, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: End of Journey

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sweet Radish

Start your final day with a scrumptious breakfast before departure.
A nearby café in Edinburgh.
GBP 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Royal Botanic Garden

Unwind in the beautiful garden, a perfect farewell to your trip.
A short drive or pleasant walk from the café.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Harvest Garden

Savor organic meals in a family-friendly environment.
Near the botanic garden.
GBP 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Ocean Terminal

Do some last-minute shopping or enjoy views of Leith.
Short drive away.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Leith Links Park

Let the kids play at the park as you unwind after your adventure.
Close to Ocean Terminal.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Kitchin

End your trip on a high note with award-winning Scottish cuisine.
A short drive from the park.
GBP 120, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability