9 day itinerary
Scotland
Itinerary
Scotland is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and plenty of green spaces to explore. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 9-day itinerary that includes parks, castles, and lots of opportunities for adventure!
Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh
Morning: Arrive in Edinburgh and settle into your accommodation. If you’re staying in the city center, you’ll be close to many attractions.
Afternoon: Head to . This expansive park is perfect for a family stroll, and you can hike up to for breathtaking views of the city. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the top!
Evening: Explore the . Grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, and maybe treat the kids to some traditional Scottish fare like haggis (or fish and chips if they’re not feeling adventurous!).
Day 2: and the City
Morning: Visit . The kids will love exploring the fortress and learning about its history. Don’t miss the Crown Jewels!
Afternoon: After lunch, head to . Let the kids run around, and you can enjoy the beautiful views of the castle from the gardens.
Evening: Consider a ghost tour in the evening. There are family-friendly options that are more fun than scary!
Day 3: Day Trip to
Morning: Take a short train ride to . Visit , one of Scotland’s most important castles. The kids will enjoy the interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Explore the . It’s engaging and educational, with lots of hands-on activities for the kids.
Evening: Return to Edinburgh and have a relaxed dinner. Maybe try a local pub with a family-friendly atmosphere.
Day 4: and Inverness
Morning: Drive or take a bus to . Stop at on the way. The castle ruins are right on the loch, and the views are stunning!
Afternoon: Spend some time at . You can take a boat tour to search for Nessie or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Evening: Head to Inverness for dinner. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants to choose from.
Day 5: Explore the Highlands
Morning: Visit , one of Scotland’s most beautiful glens. There are family-friendly walking trails, and the scenery is breathtaking.
Afternoon: Have a picnic in the park and let the kids explore the natural beauty around them.
Evening: Return to Inverness for a cozy dinner.
Day 6: Adventure
Morning: Drive to the . The journey is part of the adventure, with stunning views along the way.
Afternoon: Visit , the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland. The gardens are lovely, and there’s a seal boat trip you can take if the weather permits!
Evening: Settle into your accommodation on Skye and enjoy a family dinner.
Day 7: Explore the
Morning: Head to for a magical hike. The pools are beautiful, and the kids will love splashing around (bring towels!).
Afternoon: Visit , the island’s capital. Explore the colorful harbor and grab some lunch.
Evening: Enjoy a relaxed evening, perhaps with some local music if you find a family-friendly venue.
Day 8: Back to Edinburgh
Morning: Start your journey back to Edinburgh. Stop at on the way. It’s one of the most photographed castles in Scotland!
Afternoon: Continue your drive back to Edinburgh. Once there, you can visit for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Have a farewell dinner in Edinburgh. Celebrate your adventures with some delicious Scottish cuisine!
Day 9: Departure
Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for a last stroll through or a visit to the .
Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.
And there you have it! A delightful 9-day itinerary filled with castles, parks, and family-friendly activities. Scotland is sure to leave you with wonderful memories. Enjoy your trip!