A Family Adventure Through Edinburgh's History

9:30 - 12:00

Begin your Edinburgh adventure with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Perched on Castle Rock, it offers stunning views of the city and houses Scotland's crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Explore the Royal Palace, the Great Hall, and the Scottish National War Memorial.

Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure you have plenty of time to explore the castle's many exhibits. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 16:30

After lunch, head to the National Museum of Scotland to discover the wonders of nature, art, design, fashion, science, and technology. Don't miss the Dolly the sheep, the first mammal to be cloned from an adult somatic cell.

Tips: The museum is free to enter. It's a great place to learn about Scottish history from prehistoric times to the present day. Check out the museum's roof terrace for a breathtaking view of Edinburgh.

17:00 - 19:00

End your day with a leisurely stroll down the Royal Mile, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. This historic street is lined with medieval tenements, quaint shops, and atmospheric pubs.

Tips: Explore the closes (narrow alleys) branching off from the main street for hidden treasures. Don't forget to try some traditional Scottish food or a dram of whisky in one of the many pubs.

9:00 - 11:30

Start your day with a refreshing walk in Holyrood Park. Explore the park's dramatic landscape, including Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano, and enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh.

Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

12:00 - 13:00

13:30 - 15:30

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Explore the State Apartments, the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, and the beautiful gardens.

Tips: Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Don't miss the opportunity to see the Queen's Gallery, which hosts changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection.

16:00 - 17:00

Conclude your day with a visit to The Real Mary King's Close, a historic close located under buildings on the Royal Mile. Discover the true stories of the people who lived, worked, and died here.

Tips: The tour is quite popular, so booking in advance is recommended. It can be chilly underground, so consider bringing an extra layer.

10:00 - 12:00

Begin your day surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Explore its extensive collection of plants, take a peaceful walk through the Chinese Hillside garden, and don't miss the Glasshouses with their exotic plant species from around the world.

Tips: Check out the Garden's events calendar for special tours and activities. Don't forget to visit the Terrace Cafe for a beautiful view while enjoying a cup of tea.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 16:00

Spend your afternoon immersed in art at the National Galleries of Scotland: National. Discover masterpieces by Scottish and international artists, including works by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.

Tips: Admission is free. Consider joining one of the guided tours to gain deeper insights into the collections. The gallery shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs and art books.

16:30 - 17:30

Conclude your day with a visit to Dean Village, a picturesque residential area that feels like stepping back in time. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Water of Leith, admire the well-preserved mill buildings, and take in the peaceful atmosphere.

Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven cobblestone paths. Bring a camera to capture the charming architecture and serene landscapes.

10:00 - 12:30

Start your day with a visit to The Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II. Explore the five main decks of the yacht, from the State Apartments to the Crew's Quarters, and learn about the history of royal yachts.

Tips: Audio guides are available in multiple languages, offering an insightful tour. Don't miss the Royal Deck Tea Room for a unique dining experience.

13:00 - 14:00

14:30 - 16:30

After lunch, head to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions for an interactive experience. Enjoy the fascinating illusions, get lost in the mirror maze, and experience Edinburgh in a unique way through the Camera Obscura.

Tips: The rooftop terrace offers one of the best views of Edinburgh. It's a great spot for photography enthusiasts.

17:00 - 20:00

Conclude your day with a visit to Edinburgh Zoo, home to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals. Don't miss the chance to see the UK's only giant pandas and koalas.

Tips: Check feeding times online to plan your visit around them. The zoo is large, so wear comfortable shoes.

10:00 - 11:00

Start your day with a relaxing walk along Portobello Beach. Enjoy the fresh sea air, the sound of waves, and the soft sand under your feet. It's a perfect place for a peaceful morning.

Tips: If the weather permits, consider taking a dip in the sea or trying out some water sports. There are cafes nearby for a warm drink afterwards.

11:30 - 12:30

13:00 - 14:30

Experience the darker side of Edinburgh's history at The Edinburgh Dungeon. Engage with live actors, thrilling rides, and special effects that bring the city's gruesome past to life.

Tips: Booking tickets in advance is recommended to avoid waiting times. The Dungeon can be quite scary for young children, so it's best suited for older kids and adults.

15:00 - 16:00

Visit St Giles' Cathedral, an iconic part of Edinburgh's skyline. Marvel at its beautiful stained glass windows, intricate architecture, and learn about its role in Scotland's religious history.

Tips: Don't miss the Thistle Chapel, home to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's chivalric company of knights chosen by The Queen.

16:30 - 17:30

End your day with a visit to the Scott Monument, dedicated to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Climb up to one of the viewing platforms for stunning views of Edinburgh.

Tips: The climb involves narrow spiral staircases, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. The view from the top is well worth the effort.

10:00 - 12:00

Start your day by immersing yourself in the world of portraiture at the National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait. This gallery showcases an extensive collection of portraits that tell the story of Scotland through the faces of those who shaped it, from royals and rebels to poets and philosophers.

Tips: Check for any special exhibitions or guided tours available during your visit to enhance your experience. The gallery's cafe offers a great selection of snacks and drinks for a quick refreshment.

12:30 - 13:30

14:00 - 15:30

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through Princes Street Gardens. These beautifully landscaped gardens offer a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle, with stunning floral displays, monuments, and breathtaking views of Edinburgh Castle.

Tips: Don't miss the Ross Fountain and the Scott Monument within the gardens. Consider bringing a picnic if the weather is nice.

16:00 - 17:30

Conclude your day with a visit to The Scotch Whisky Experience. Learn about the history and production of Scotland's national drink, enjoy a guided tour through a replica distillery, and finish with a tasting session where you can sample some of the finest Scotch whiskies.

Tips: Booking in advance is recommended, especially for the tasting sessions. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for some unique souvenirs.