Start Here: Plan Your Perfect Trip to Edinburgh

Planning a trip to Edinburgh? You’re in the right place.

I’m an ex-expat who’s explored Edinburgh extensively – and I help families plan stress-free trips with kids.

Start here to learn how to plan your trip step-by-step, from choosing when to visit to booking the best tours and finding the right place to stay.

Plan Your Trip to Edinburgh Step-By-Step

Step 1: Decide When to Visit

Not sure when to visit Edinburgh? Start here to find the best time for your trip based on weather, events and crowds

Best Time to Visit Edinburgh
23 Magical Ways to Enjoy Edinburgh in January
Edinburgh in February: 34 Best Things to Do
33 Best Things To Do Edinburgh in March: Weather, Events & Tips
Edinburgh in April – Weather, Events & What to Pack
33 Top Things to Do in Edinburgh in May with Kids
Edinburgh in June With Kids: Weather, Events, Packing & What to Expect

Step 2: Choose What to Do

These are the must-do experiences in Edinburgh – whether you’re visiting for the first time or travelling with kids

21 Things to do in Edinburgh with Kids
19 Free Things to Do in Edinburgh for Families
What to Do on a Rainy Day in Edinburgh with Kids
Is Edinburgh Castle Worth It with Kids?

Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary

Don’t want to feel overwhelmed? Use the done-for-you itineraries to map out your trip

How To Have The Best 3 Days in Edinburgh
Best 3 Day Edinburgh Itinerary with Kids
How to Spend 2 Days in Edinburgh (Without Overwhelm)
How to Spend 24 Hours in Edinburgh

Step 4: Book Tours & Experiences

These are the tours and experiences I recommend booking in advance – especially during busy seasons

6 Best Edinburgh Whisky Tours (Tried & Tested)
7 Unforgettable Whisky Tours from Edinburgh
7 Best Family Tours From Edinburgh
13 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh with Kids

Step 5: Find the Best Place to Stay

Choosing the right area to stay in Edinburgh makes a huge difference to your trip

Where to Stay in Edinburgh City Centre

Visiting Edinburgh with Kids?

Travelling as a family? I’ve put together a full guide with the best things to do, itineraries, and tips for visiting Edinburgh with kids

👉 Edinburgh with kids

Quick Edinburgh Travel Tips

Here are a few helpful guides to answer common questions before your trip

Is Edinburgh Worth Visiting?
Is Edinburgh Safe? + Insider Tips
Can You Drink the Tap Water in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh Packing List: Essentials to Pack Year-Round

Edinburgh Family Day Planner

Plan Your First Day in Edinburgh With Kids — In Just 10 Minutes

Grab my free family day planner with snack stops, toilet breaks, rainy-day backups, and a toddler-friendly route already mapped out.

  • A full Edinburgh day planned for you
  • Kid-friendly stops that won’t bore them
  • Built-in food, rest, and backup options
  • No stress, no spreadsheets, no guessing
This is the exact plan I’d give a friend visiting Edinburgh with kids.

Free PDF · Instant download · Built for first-time family visitors