7 day itinerary
Scotland
Personalized with:Make it family friendlyInclude castles
Itinerary
Scotland is a fantastic destination for families, especially with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and, of course, its enchanting castles. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 7-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and engaged!
Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh
Morning:
- Arrive in Edinburgh and check into your family-friendly accommodation. There are plenty of hotels and guesthouses that cater to families.
Afternoon:
- Head to . This iconic fortress is a must-see! Kids will love exploring the castle grounds, and you can check out the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.
Evening:
- Stroll down the . Grab some dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like The Witchery or Deacon's House Café.
Day 2: Edinburgh Exploration
Morning:
- Visit the . It’s free and has tons of interactive exhibits that kids will love, including dinosaurs and space!
Afternoon:
- Take a walk up for some stunning views of the city. It’s a bit of a hike, but the kids will enjoy the adventure!
Evening:
- Have dinner in the Grassmarket area, where you can find various eateries. Consider trying some traditional Scottish fare!
Day 3: Stirling and the
Morning:
- Drive or take a train to Stirling (about an hour from Edinburgh). Visit the , where you can climb to the top for breathtaking views and learn about William Wallace.
Afternoon:
- Explore , one of Scotland’s grandest castles. The kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits and the beautiful gardens.
Evening:
- Have dinner in Stirling. The Portcullis is a great family-friendly option with a cozy atmosphere.
Day 4: and
Morning:
- Head to (about a 3-hour drive from Stirling). Stop for a picnic along the way to enjoy the beautiful Scottish countryside.
Afternoon:
- Visit on the shores of . The ruins are fascinating, and the views of the loch are stunning. Keep an eye out for Nessie!
Evening:
- Stay overnight in the nearby town of . Enjoy a family dinner at a local pub, like The Inn.
Day 5: Inverness and the Highlands
Morning:
- Drive to Inverness (about 30 minutes from ). Explore the city and visit (though it’s not open to the public, the views from the outside are lovely).
Afternoon:
- Take a family-friendly boat tour on . It’s a fun way to learn more about the loch and its legends!
Evening:
- Have dinner in Inverness. The Mustard Seed is a great choice for families with a varied menu.
Day 6: The
Morning:
- Depart early for the (about a 2.5-hour drive). The scenery along the way is breathtaking, so make sure to stop for photos!
Afternoon:
- Visit , the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. The gardens are beautiful, and there’s a seal boat trip you can take if the weather permits!
Evening:
- Stay overnight on Skye. Consider a family-friendly hotel like The Skye Inn. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some fresh seafood.
Day 7: Return to Edinburgh
Morning:
- Take a leisurely morning exploring more of Skye. You could visit the for a magical experience (just be mindful of the weather and the kids’ energy levels!).
Afternoon:
- Start your journey back to Edinburgh (about a 5-hour drive). You can stop at on the way, which is one of the most photographed castles in Scotland!
Evening:
- Arrive back in Edinburgh. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, perhaps Mamma’s Pizza for something casual and fun.
Tips for Traveling with Kids:
- Always check the opening hours of attractions in advance.
- Pack snacks and water for the road trips.
- Consider bringing a lightweight stroller for younger children, especially in cities.
- Engage the kids with stories about the castles and legends of Scotland to keep them excited!
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Scotland! Enjoy your adventure! 🏰✨