Who doesn’t know Edinburgh? A place where a famous author J.K. Rowling writes a magical story of Harry Potter. In Edinburgh, you will feel the magic through its whimsical castle landscape in every corner of its city. This is definitely one of the best reasons why you should go to Edinburgh once in your lifetime with your family and kids.

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland, located in the southeast part of the country. It is also close to the southern edge of the Firth of Forth, an inlet of the North Sea extends westward into the Scottish Lowlands. With 506,520 residents as of the middle of 2020, the city is the second most populous in Scotland and the seventh most populated in the UK.

Edinburgh is also known as a lively city that offers a lot of fun things to do. It is the perfect destination for an exciting family vacation, blending charm and rich history, making it particularly appealing to children who love Harry Potter and recognize the Hogwarts-style architecture. Moreover, it's just a short train ride away from the countryside and the Scottish Highlands. The city offers a great mix of urban exploration and year-round outdoor adventures in the Highlands, providing numerous family-friendly activities, kid-friendly hikes, treks, and fun educational opportunities as you head north. You'll also see forests turning into green hills and jagged rocks, making it feel like you've landed on the moon. In there, you can walk around Arthur’s Seat, close to the Royal Mile, or take an easy stroll in the woods at Dalkeith Country Park with a picnic. It's a fun and quiet day away from the usual spots. So, pack your bags and discover why Edinburgh should be your next family trip. Before that, take notes to our guides to Edinburgh before you go here. In this guide, we will provides you the best things to do in Edinburgh with your family and the best place to stay at Edinburg.

If you are decided to go to Edinburgh with your Family or kids, make sure you choose the right destination that are enjoyable and doable for all ages. These are the things you can do with you family or kids that will give you unforgettable experiences.

Located atop Castle Rock with a beautiful view of the city, Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit destination. Home to significant Scottish artifacts like the Honours of Scotland and The Stone of Destiny, the castle offers a wide area to explore. Take a guided tour with a castle steward or use the available audio guide in eight languages. To make your visit to Edinburgh Castle more enjoyable, it is advisable to book tickets early, especially in summer, and don't miss the daily firing of the One O'Clock Gun.

A hidden gem in Princes Street Gardens, the castle playground is a favorite for families with toddlers. The large play structure, designed like a castle, sits in the shadow of the real Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy the scenic surroundings and explore Ross Fountain, a beautiful cast-iron fountain from the 1800s. The Princes Street Gardens is also a great place to stroll, and nearby kiosks offer treats and drinks.

For Harry Potter enthusiasts, a guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh is a must. This family-friendly 2-hour tour covers top Edinburgh attractions, revealing the inspiration for Hogwarts and significant Harry Potter locations. Consider a private tour for a customizable experience and increased engagement for your kids.

In case of rainy weather, visit the National Museum of Scotland, offering free entry and over 20,000 unique artifacts. Explore exhibits on Egypt's catacombs, the wonders of nature, and modern-day technology. Don't miss the rooftop terrace for stunning views if the sun makes an appearance.

For a thrilling and unusual adventure, explore the city's dark and eerie history, stroll through the plague-infested streets of 1645, avoid encounters with the murderous duo Burke and Hare, and even endure a trial – best of luck! This interactive adventure features live actors, underground rides, and special effects, ensuring a thrilling and spooky time.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at The Edinburgh Chocolatarium, dedicated to all things chocolate. Enjoy a guided tour of the chocolate-making process, create your chocolate bar with various toppings, and taste Scottish and international chocolates in the Chocolate Tasting Room.

Explore illusions at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, featuring over 100 mind-bending exhibits across five floors. Experience a light vortex, a maze of mirrors, and visual effects. Head to the Rooftop Terrace for the best 360⁰ views of Edinburgh.

Discover the evolution of our planet at Dynamic Earth, with interactive exhibits, an earthquake simulator, and a chance to step inside a tropical rainforest. Uncover the wonders of our planet through a journey across time and space.

Portobello Beach offers year-round family fun with sandy shores near the city centre. Build sandcastles, fly kites, or enjoy the amusement arcade and indoor swimming pool at Portobello Baths. Cafes and ice cream shops along the promenade provide additional delights.

For a break from the city, climb Arthur’s Seat, a grassy hill with hiking trails offering fantastic views of Edinburgh. Suitable for adventurous kids over the age of five, it's a great way to enjoy nature without leaving the city limits.

There are many family-friendly hotels in Edinburgh that you can choose to stay depending on what kind of facilities you want to have. In this guide, we give you the most recommended hotels that are perfect for family and kids.

Norton House Hotel and Spa, a famous family in Edinburgh, built a big country house in 1840. It's a good choice if you want to be close to the airport for convenience or an early flight. Kids under three stay and eat for free, and there are discounts for guests aged 12-18 sharing a room with their parents. The children's menu, which changes with the seasons, includes healthy options like hummus and pitta bread, fish goujons, and pancakes with fresh berries. The hotel has a large swimming pool with special family hours that kids will enjoy. For more fun, you can visit Jupiter Artland, a contemporary sculpture park nearby, which is great for exploring and has outdoor workshops for families.

The Balmoral is a fancy hotel with luxurious bedrooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and extravagant afternoon teas in the Palm Court, making it a sophisticated modern version of a grand hotel. The Balmoral takes care of young guests just as much as adults, offering various services for different ages. For babies, they provide complimentary meals, cots, and play mats. Older kids get their own special service at bedtime, including milk and cookies, along with backpacks, games, books, magazines, and films. Teens can enjoy spa treatments in the wellness center. Adults love the spa too, which has a 15-meter lap pool, sauna, steam room, and gym.

Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family trip, or looking for city-style vibes, InterContinental Edinburgh The George has got you covered. The rooms are beautifully decorated with a touch of luxury, and the restaurant and bar offer superb dining experiences. If you're on a romantic break, the central location adds to the charm. Families can enjoy perks like interconnecting rooms, welcome gifts, and special kids' menus. For those seeking a chic city experience, this spot is sophisticated, elegant, and stylish. And don't forget to check out The Printing Press Restaurant, where you can savour classic dishes made with the finest Scottish ingredients.

Radisson Blu is tucked away in a special townhouse with towers in the historic part of the Royal Mile. It's just a short walk from places that let families explore medieval Scottish history, like the 15th-century John Knox House, St Giles’ Cathedral, the Real Mary King’s Close, and the Museum of Childhood – all great for a fun family vacation. At the hotel, everyone can enjoy the pool, sauna, and steam room. The family rooms and suites have calm silver decorations and sofa beds for a comfortable stay.

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian is perfect if you want to see castles and enjoy spacious family-friendly features. The hotel has connecting rooms, an indoor pool, and the inside used to be a ticketing hall and main station of an old train station, making it feel really open. Families can relax about meals because there are three great restaurants, including Peacock Alley for kid-friendly afternoon teas and Grazing by Mark Greenaway for smaller portions. You can spend your days exploring nearby places like Princes Street Gardens, historic Haymarket, and the busy Royal Mile. Specifically, Camera Obscura, a house of illusions, will keep even the fussiest kids entertained.If you're planning a trip to Edinburgh with your family, make the smart choice and book your flights, activities, and accommodations with Traveloka! Experience the convenience of a one-stop platform that allows you to seamlessly plan your entire journey. From finding the best flight deals to exploring exciting activities and securing comfortable accommodations, Traveloka has got you covered. Save time, enjoy exclusive offers, and make your Edinburgh adventure memorable by trusting Traveloka for all your travel needs. Don't miss out on the ease and excitement – book your Edinburgh getaway with Traveloka today!