Your kids may be familiar with the Scottish Highlands from blockbuster films such as Harry Potter and Snow White and the Huntsman, but seeing the incredible landscape up close is a completely different experience. The sprawling scenery of Scotland acts as the setting for epic films and otherworldly scenes for good reason. Take your next family trip to the incredible landscape and enjoy Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh. The metropolitan cityscape boasts the best of both worlds as it’s bordered by the lush green, rolling countryside of The Lothians. The quaint-meets-capital city feel provides a laundry list of attractions for visitors and families traveling at any budget.
Enjoy a family breakfast and fresh coffee at Deacon’s House Café. With sweet and savory starters ranging €4–12, you can indulge with a hearty and affordable start to the day.
Begin the day sightseeing and enjoying the long list of free activities scattered over Edinburgh. Stroll through the many incredible National Museums of Scotland, from the Scottish National Gallery to the Britannia. Hop on the free gallery bus to get from one museum to the next. Explore modernist art, ancient Egyptian collections and Galloway pieces from ancient civilizations with this list of old and new Scottish museums and galleries — all budget friendly.
© Shahid Khan | Dreamstime.com
For lunch, check out One Square for traditional Scottish fare with a modern twist. Try one of the signature cocktails with a view from the terrace.
With 72 acres of incredible landscape and pristine grounds, the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh is a must-see while in Scotland. Just one mile from center city, the Royal Garden boasts a fantastic view of the city as well as incredible plant life and a floral, glass-dome greenhouse. Get on your best walking shoes and bring a snack for the kids and enjoy a long day out and about exploring the Scottish Highlands.
Take a free tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town or check out the Potter Trail with real-life wizards and witches in the medieval district of the city. Both tours occur daily, are completely free and are beloved among travelers.
Dine early and enjoy the incredible atmosphere and upscale fare at Howies on a budget. From Sunday–Thursday, guests dining before 6:30 p.m. enjoy a two-course meal for €14.95, or opt for Scotland’s first rooftop restaurant, The Tower. Enjoy multiple courses €22–38 and take in the city views and classic Scottish cuisine.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
Jan 14, 2026This Nashville Hotel Partners with Ryman Auditorium on Exclusive Suite
Music-loving family travelers have a new lodging option in Nashville, Tennessee. Noelle Nashville recently partnered with iconic Ryman Auditorium on a first-of-its-kind Ryman Vinyl Suite.
Sponsored Content
TAP Air Portugal: A Milestone Year
From small airline to global success, TAP Air Portugal turns 80 and better than ever.
Travel Tips
Jan 14, 2026How to Select the Right On-Site Hotel for Your Family at Universal Studios Orlando
Experiencing the parks at Universal Studios Orlando is just as much about the hotel as it is about actual time spent at the theme parks. Universal Studios Orlando offers a wide array of on-site hotels and, for family travelers unsure which one is right for their family, we’re here to give you a quick round-up of the Signature Collection to make sure you select the best one for your group:
Destinations / North America
Jan 14, 2026Head to Charlottesville, Virginia, for Culture and Mac and Cheese
Virginia is a state full of history and culture, making it a great place for family travel. You can show the kids a beautiful state with plenty of adventure and, while you’re at it, discover the birthplace of the American version of the ultimate kid-favorite comfort food: macaroni and cheese.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Azores & Madeira: Portugal’s Island Paradises Await
Embrace the Portugal’s Magical Islands of the Azores and Madeira
Hotels
Jan 13, 2026The Regent Grand Unveils Grandymoon Offer
For family travelers planning a multigenerational vacation, finding a resort that can meet the needs of every age group can present a challenge. The Regent Grand, in Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos, looks to take some of the guesswork out of the process with its new Grandymoon offer, perfect for multigenerational travel as it is designed for grandparents, parents and kids to enjoy time together under one roof. Families enjoy curated amenities, island adventures and other touches tailored to every generation, allowing all family members to travel together in comfort and style.
ShareThis