Affordable Family Travel Through Edinburgh, Scotland

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.

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.