The first day is arrival day, and it depends on what time you arrive. We didn't get to Edinburgh until evening, so we had time to check in, buy food for breakfast, and recharge for the next few days. However, if you arrive earlier and feel like doing something, head straight to one of the most magical corners of the city - Dean Village. The journey from the airport to accommodation takes approximately 30 minutes. In front of the airport is the Airlink 100 City CenterExpress bus stop (instructions on how to buy a ticket are at the beginning of the itinerary), and get off at Haymarket Station (HB stop), then it's just a 10-minute walk to the accommodation. We stayed near the center in the Edinburgh West End area, so everything is within walking distance, but you can also get around by local transport.

Today you will enjoy a lot of history. We'll start the morning at the large cobbled Grassmarket square, once a rough place, now an ideal spot to soak up the morning atmosphere with a view of the castle towering above you. 

From there, head to the city's landmark - Edinburgh Castle. Keep in mind that this isn't just a "quick stop", but a place full of stories, views and moments that even children enjoy.

Then walk down towards Princess Street Gardens, where you will find The Parish Church of St Cuthbert - a quiet place with a slightly mysterious atmosphere, which surprisingly appeals to children.

A small but great stop is the Waterstones bookstore - ideal for a short break, browsing books or a small souvenir.

For lunch, I recommend The Rose & Crown. We were lucky enough to have a "happy hour" and a delicious lunch at a great price. You can taste traditional food and experience a small English pub.

In the afternoon, change the pace and take the train from Haymarket Railway Station to South Queensferry. And then comes the highlight of the day - a view of the iconic Forth Bridge. If you are in Edinburgh from April to July, you can go from here to see puffins. For this option, I recommend shortening the morning program to just the castle and Princess Street Gardens and spending the afternoon by the sea.

The third day is about contrasts. Historical backdrops, playful streets, and modern architecture that may surprise you more than any landmark.

Start at The Vennel Viewpoint - one of the best places to photograph the castle first thing in the morning, without crowds and with a perfect perspective on Edinburgh Castle.

Continue to the National Museum of Scotland, which is ideal for families - interactive exhibitions, animals, technology, and a roof terrace with a view. A great place for not only children to take a break from "sightseeing", but it is also an ideal option in bad weather.

Then back to the magical center. If you skipped Victoria Street yesterday, you can walk through it today, but mainly walk through the historic Royal Mile.

In the afternoon, go "hunting" - to find the iconic modern roof that the locals call ... well, you'll see for yourself 😁. On the way, you will pass the financial heart of the city, such as the Royal Bank of Scotland, and the modern quarter around the St James Quarter shopping center. And then it appears - the W Edinburgh hotel with its unmissable "organic" roof, which is one of the most talked-about buildings in the city.

A few steps further awaits you the highlight of the day - Calton Hill - a large park on a hill with stunning views of the entire city. There is the City Observatory, the iconic columns of the National Monument of Scotland. Stay until evening. The sunset over the city, the view of the historical center and the contrast of the modern roof of the hotel in the distance creates a moment that closes the day perfectly.

If your flight from Edinburgh is in the evening, you definitely have plenty of time for one last experience that will please not only the kids. Visit the zoo. If you’re short on time, do what we did: pack up at your own pace, have one last coffee, and head to the airport.