Your family trip to Scotland
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The perfect destination for families
A Scottish vacation with children guarantees plenty of adventure! Explore the Scottish Highlands on hikes or with outdoor activities suitable for children. Experience the country's exciting history up close on a castle visit. Or use your family vacation in Scotland for relaxing days by the sea. There's something for everyone here.
Marvin Luczynski
Travel expert for Scotland
Updated on 07/02/2025
Unforgettable adventures
This family trip is a special kind of road trip. Start in Edinburgh and immerse yourself in the exciting history of Scotland. Drive by rental car past lush green landscapes with idyllic lochs to the capital of the Highlands, on to the Hebrides and finally back down to Glasgow. Varied outdoor activities and untouched nature await you.
Highlights: Edinburgh ➢ Inverness ➢ Isle of Skye ➢ Glencoe ➢ Glasgow
➔ PLANNING A FAMILY VACATION IN SCOTLAND
| Overview | Details |
|---|---|
| 🛫 Getting there: | Direct flights from New York to Edinburgh or Glasgow | about 2 hours by car from London |
| 🔆 Best time to visit: | April through September |
| ⌛ Trip duration: | At least 10 days recommended |
| ⭐ Accommodation: | 3 to 4 star hotels |
| 🍴 Meals: | Breakfast included |
| ⛵ Activities: | Seal watching tour | city tour | castle visits |
| 🚗 Transportation: | Rental car |
| 💰 Price: | From approx 2400 dollars per adult excluding flight |
Edinburgh
Start your discovery tour of Edinburgh with a breathtaking view of the city from Castle Rock. After a visit to the impressive Edinburgh Castle, you can explore the city center on a Harry Potter tour. Two spots that no family trip should be without are the multifaceted Royal Botanical Garden and Edinburgh Zoo.
Inverness
Surrounded by mountains, forests, rivers and lakes, Inverness is like a huge natural playground. You can go hiking, cycling, skiing, kayaking or horse riding in the Cairngorms National Park. It is also worth visiting the Highland Wildlife Park to experience the fascinating flora and fauna of the region up close.
Isle of Skye
Enjoy Scotland's authentic charm on a trip to the Inner Hebrides. The Isle of Skye awaits you with dramatic mountain landscapes, historic castles, colorful fishing villages, countless waterfalls and at least as many sheep. The hike to the enchanting waterfalls and Fairy Pools in Fairy Glen is also an absolute must.
Glencoe
Explore this beautiful Highland valley on various child-friendly walks. Immerse yourself in the exciting history of the Valley of Tears. Marvel at the many rapids and waterfalls. Take in the view of the breathtaking mountains from the Three Sisters viewpoint. Or visit the historic Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Glasgow
Whether classic sightseeing, relaxation in the city's green oases such as Pollok Country Park and the Botanical Gardens, a stadium tour through Celtic Park or aha moments in the Glasgow Science Center, Glasgow inspires with a diverse program and offers for travelers of all ages.
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These places will be remembered by young and old alike
Glenfinnan Viaduct
If you want to experience the Scottish Highlands on a unique panoramic tour, you should take the historic Jacobite Steam Train from Fort Williams to Mallaig.
The steam train, also known as the Hogwarts Express, takes you through a picturesque landscape of hills and lochs. Take a look at Loch Morar or the imposing Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the region. And enjoy the ride at a dizzying height over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
Mull Head Nature Reserve
In the north-east of the mystical Orkney Islands, Mull Head Nature Reserve is a spectacular natural treasure. Explore the huge area on easy hiking trails or challenging trekking routes with the whole family.
Marvel at the wild nature, the impressive cliffs and the fascinating flora of the region. Take the time to observe the many native birds up close, especially in the summer months. And enjoy the breathtaking view over the Scottish coastal landscape.
Fairy Pools
Not far from Carbost on the Isle of Skye, the country's unique nature meets Scottish magic. There are several natural pools and waterfalls in the middle of the beautiful mountain landscape.
While the Fairy Pools shimmer wonderfully blue and green, especially after rain showers, the local fairies are said to bathe here. Go on a discovery tour with your children and explore the magical region. And if you don't mind the low temperatures, you can always refresh yourself in the crystal-clear water on the hike.
