7-Day Family-Friendly Scotland Itinerary: History, Arts, and Local Flavor

Day 1: Arrival and Edinburgh Exploring

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Elephant House

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this iconic café known as the birthplace of Harry Potter, perfect for kids and adults alike, specializing in freshly brewed coffee and hearty Scottish fare.
GBP15 per person approx, 1h

10:30am

Edinburgh Castle

Explore this historic fortress with stunning views over the city, and learn about Scotland's royal heritage and fascinating military history. It's incredibly immersive and kid-friendly.
GBP17 per adult, GBP10 per child, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Oink in the Grassmarket

Taste authentic Scottish pulled pork sandwiches, quick and budget-friendly, great for the family to sample local flavors without fuss.
GBP8 per person approx, 1h

3:30pm

National Museum of Scotland

Visit this free museum with exciting interactive exhibits for kids, ranging from natural history to Scottish culture and art, perfect for a family afternoon learning experience.
Free entry, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hendersons Vegan

Dine at this local favorite offering fresh, farm-to-table vegan cuisine, ideal for introducing kids to new tastes in a casual setting.
GBP15-20 per person, 1.5h
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Day 2: Edinburgh Arts & Royal Mile

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Urban Angel

Start the day with fresh organic and locally sourced breakfast options in a cozy setting favored by locals.
GBP10-15 per person, 1h

10:00am

Scottish National Gallery

Admire masterpieces from famous artists including Scottish painters and international works. The kids will enjoy the beautiful artwork and the museum’s interactive kids’ guides.
Free entry, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Howies Victoria Street

Enjoy traditional Scottish dishes made with fresh ingredients in this charming historic restaurant on one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque streets.
GBP20 per person approx, 1h

2:00pm

Royal Mile Walking Tour

Take a guided family-friendly tour focusing on history, legends, and local stories along Edinburgh’s famous medieval street. It’s interactive and engaging for kids.
GBP15 per adult, GBP8 per child, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Edinburgh Old Town Markets

Browse local crafts, food stalls, and street performers on the Royal Mile to soak up vibrant local culture.
Free to explore, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Elephant & Bagels

Casual dinner with delicious bagels and kid-friendly options in a fun and informal spot.
GBP10 per person approx, 1h
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Day 3: Stirling & Falkirk Landmarks

Stirling & Falkirk, Scotland on July 7, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Edinburgh B&B

Enjoy a wholesome Scottish breakfast to fuel your day trip to Stirling and Falkirk.
Included in accommodation or GBP10-15 per person, 1h

9:00am

Stirling Castle

Explore one of Scotland’s grandest castles, with interactive exhibits and beautiful gardens suitable for children to learn about Scottish royalty and battles.
GBP16 per adult, GBP9 per child, 2.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Birds and the Bees, Stirling

Enjoy modern Scottish cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere with lots of locally sourced ingredients.
GBP20 per person approx, 1h

1:30pm

The Falkirk Wheel

Visit the world’s only rotating boat lift and enjoy a boat trip. It’s a fascinating engineering marvel that’s really fun and educational for kids.
GBP12 per adult, GBP6 per child for the boat trip, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Edinburgh

Drive or take train back to Edinburgh for evening relaxation.
GBP10 per person approx, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ting Thai Caravan

Experience popular, affordable Thai street food loved by locals, great for adventurous eaters and family-friendly dining.
GBP12 per person approx, 1h
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Day 4: Perth and Dundee Art & Nature

Perth & Dundee, Scotland on July 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local café in Edinburgh

Quick wholesome breakfast prior to travel.
GBP10 per person, 1h

9:00am

Drive/Train to Perth

Travel to Perth, scenic 1.5 hour drive or train ride for the start of the day’s adventures.
GBP15 per person approx, 1.5h

11:00am

Perth Museum & Art Gallery

Explore local history and Georgian art exhibits, including children’s activities focused on Scottish culture and nature.
Free entry, 1.5h

12:45pm

Lunch at The Auld Man Coffee House

Family-friendly café with tasty sandwiches, cakes, and hot drinks made from local produce.
GBP10-12 per person, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Dundee and V&A Dundee Museum

Short 30-minute trip to Dundee, home to Scotland’s cutting-edge design museum, offering interactive exhibits especially exciting for children.
Free entry, 2h

5:00pm

Drive to Aberdeen

Set out on a 1.5-hour drive to Aberdeen to settle in for the night.
Costs included in car rental/gas, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Adelphi Kitchen, Aberdeen

Enjoy artfully prepared modern Scottish dishes with a focus on fresh seafood, in a laid-back family venue.
GBP20 per person approx, 1.5h
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Day 5: Aberdeen Culture & Nature

Aberdeen, Scotland on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bluebird Café

Start with a tasty local breakfast in this cozy café popular for families.
GBP10-15 per person, 1h

9:30am

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Discover the city’s rich maritime history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays suited for curious kids.
Free entry, 2h

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch at Duthie Park Winter Gardens

Enjoy a relaxed picnic surrounded by beautiful glasshouses filled with exotic plants and flowers suitable for family exploration.
Cost of picnic from local shops approx GBP10, 1h

1:30pm

Footdee Village Walk

Stroll through this charming old fishing village at Aberdeen’s harbor with colorful cottages and local stories to explore.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Aberdeen Art Gallery

Visit the recently refurbished gallery featuring Scottish fine art and kids’ creative workshops (check schedule beforehand).
Free entry, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Silver Darling

Treat the family to a coastal meal overlooking the harbor with fresh seafood and kid-friendly menu options.
GBP25 per person approx, 1.5h
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Day 6: Inverness Highland Adventure

Inverness, Scotland on July 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at local hotel

Start early with a nutritious breakfast before heading north to the Highlands.
Included or GBP10, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Inverness

Enjoy scenic 2.5-hour drive through the Cairngorms National Park heading to Inverness.
Travel cost approx GBP50 (fuel), 2.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Velocity Café & Bicycle Workshop

Cool and quirky spot with sandwiches and great smoothies, perfect for families wanting fresh and healthy options.
GBP10-15 per person, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Inverness Castle and River Walk

Explore the castle views and stroll along the picturesque River Ness with interactive family activities nearby.
Castle viewing free, tours vary, 2h

4:00pm

Loch Ness Visitor Centre

Short trip south to learn about the famous Loch Ness monster, complete with informative displays and local lore.
GBP7 per adult, GBP4 per child, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Mustard Seed Restaurant Inverness

Enjoy a cozy dinner with fresh Scottish produce and warm hospitality in a family-friendly setting.
GBP20-30 per person, 1.5h
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Day 7: Return and Edinburgh Farewell

Edinburgh, Scotland on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast and pack up for the return journey.
Included or GBP10, 1h

9:00am

Drive back to Edinburgh

Return via the scenic route, possibly stopping to stretch and have a quick break, total about 3.5 hours driving.
Fuel approx GBP50, 3.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Pantry, Stockbridge

Relaxed and vibrant restaurant with fresh and locally sourced Scottish ingredients, great last meal experience in Edinburgh.
GBP15 per person, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Scottish Storytelling Centre

Immerse in Scotland’s rich oral tradition with interactive storytelling sessions and exhibits great for kids and adults.
GBP5 per adult, kids free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Free time for souvenir shopping and farewell walk on Princes Street

Enjoy last moments exploring the city center, picking up unique Scottish souvenirs and enjoying street art.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at The Outsider

Have a special final dinner with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and a menu with something fun for all ages.
GBP25 per person approx, 1.5h
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