3 day itinerary
Edinburgh
Itinerary
Edinburgh is a fantastic city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Plus, visiting in October means you might catch some beautiful autumn colors! Here’s a budget-friendly, fun-filled 3-day itinerary for your family of four.
Day 1: Explore the Old Town
Morning:
- Breakfast: Start your day at a local café like for some hearty baked potatoes or for a healthy breakfast.
- : Head to the iconic . While tickets can be a bit pricey, it’s worth it for the views and history. If you arrive early, you might catch the opening ceremony and avoid the crowds.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Grab a quick lunch at , where you can enjoy a delicious hog roast sandwich. It’s a local favorite and very affordable!
- : Stroll down the , popping into shops and street performances. Don’t miss the —it’s free to enter and absolutely stunning.
- : This is a fun stop for the family! It’s a bit of a splurge, but the interactive exhibits and rooftop views are worth it.
Evening:
- Dinner: Head to for a family-friendly meal that won’t break the bank.
- : If your kids are up for it, consider a family-friendly ghost tour in the evening. It’s a fun way to learn about Edinburgh’s spooky history!
Day 2: Nature and Culture
Morning:
- Breakfast: Try for a delicious, locally-sourced breakfast.
- : After breakfast, hike up , an ancient volcano that offers breathtaking views of the city. It’s a bit of a climb, but the kids will love the adventure!
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at or grab something from a local shop.
- : Visit the official residence of the Queen in Scotland. The gardens are lovely, and you can explore the history of the palace. Look for family tickets for savings!
Evening:
- Dinner: Check out for a casual dining experience with a variety of options.
- : If you’re up for it, catch a storytelling session or a family-friendly show. It’s a great way to immerse yourselves in Scottish culture.
Day 3: Museums and Shopping
Morning:
- Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at , a retro diner with a great menu.
- : Spend the morning exploring this fantastic museum. It’s free and has something for everyone, from dinosaurs to Scottish history!
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Head to area and grab lunch at or for some traditional pub fare.
- Shopping on : After lunch, take a stroll down for some shopping. There are plenty of affordable shops, and you can enjoy views of the castle from the gardens.
Evening:
- Dinner: For your last night, treat yourselves to a meal at (it’s a bit pricier, but you can share a few dishes).
- Evening Stroll: End your trip with a leisurely walk through the city, perhaps along the or through the beautiful .
Tips for Saving Money:
- Public Transport: Use buses to get around; they’re affordable and convenient.
- Family Tickets: Look for family tickets at attractions for discounts.
- Free Attractions: Take advantage of the many free attractions and parks in the city.
I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Edinburgh! Enjoy your trip!
