3 day itinerary for Scotland

Itinerary

Scotland is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Edinburgh Exploration

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at a cozy café. Try some haggis, black pudding, and eggs to fuel up for the day!
• Edinburgh Castle: Head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. It’s a must-see! Explore the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. The views from the castle are breathtaking, so don’t forget your camera!

Afternoon:

• Lunch on the Royal Mile: Stroll down the Royal Mile and grab lunch at one of the many family-friendly pubs or restaurants. You can find everything from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine.
• Dynamic Earth: After lunch, visit Dynamic Earth, an interactive science museum that’s perfect for families. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits about the Earth’s history and environment.

Evening:

• Dinner in the Grassmarket: Head to the Grassmarket area for dinner. There are plenty of family-friendly options, and the atmosphere is lively.
• Ghost Tour (Optional): If your family is up for it, consider a ghost tour in the evening. It’s a fun way to learn about Edinburgh’s spooky history, and many tours are suitable for kids!

## Day 2: Highlands Adventure

Morning:

• Drive to Loch Ness: After breakfast, set off for a scenic drive to Loch Ness. It’s about a 3-hour drive from Edinburgh, so enjoy the beautiful Scottish countryside along the way.
• Urquhart Castle: Stop at Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness. Explore the ruins and enjoy the stunning views of the loch. Kids will love the tales of the Loch Ness Monster!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Drumnadrochit: Head to the nearby village of Drumnadrochit for lunch. There are several family-friendly cafes where you can refuel.
• Loch Ness Boat Tour: After lunch, take a boat tour on Loch Ness. Keep an eye out for Nessie! It’s a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.

Evening:

• Drive to Inverness: After your boat tour, drive to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Check into your accommodation and freshen up.
• Dinner in Inverness: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Inverness. Try some local dishes, and don’t forget to ask for dessert!

## Day 3: The Isle of Skye

Morning:

• Drive to the Isle of Skye: After breakfast, set off early for the Isle of Skye. The drive is about 2.5 hours, but the scenery is absolutely stunning, so take your time and stop for photos!
• Fairy Pools: Once on Skye, head to the Fairy Pools. These crystal-clear pools are perfect for a family hike. The walk is relatively easy, and the kids will love splashing around in the water (if it’s warm enough!).

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Portree: After your hike, head to Portree, the largest town on Skye, for lunch. There are plenty of charming cafes and restaurants to choose from.
• Explore Portree: Spend some time exploring Portree’s colorful harbor and shops. You can pick up some souvenirs or enjoy some ice cream!

Evening:

• Return to Edinburgh: After a fun day on Skye, start your journey back to Edinburgh. It’s a longer drive (about 5 hours), so consider stopping for dinner along the way or back in Edinburgh.
• Relax and Reflect: Once back in Edinburgh, take some time to relax and reflect on your amazing Scottish adventure. Maybe enjoy a final family dinner at a favorite spot from the trip!

Tips for Traveling with Family:

• Pack Snacks: Always have snacks and water on hand, especially for longer drives.
• Flexible Schedule: Be flexible with your plans. If the kids are tired or want to explore something unexpected, go with the flow!
• Engage the Kids: Involve the kids in planning some activities or choosing meals. It makes the trip more exciting for them!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Scotland with your family! Enjoy your adventure! 🏴‍☠️✨