5-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland

5 days

Skyline during Christmas
light show and Christmas carols
Illuminated Edinburgh Castle
The Dome during Christmas
Christmas market

About Edinburgh, Scotland

Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning landscapes of Edinburgh, Scotland's captivating capital. Explore the medieval Old Town and the elegant Georgian New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an ancient volcano, and stroll down the historic Royal Mile. Discover the city's literary heritage at the Writers' Museum or through the famous Harry Potter sites. Enjoy breathtaking views from Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park. Indulge in traditional Scottish cuisine and world-class whisky. Experience the world's largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, if visiting in August. Edinburgh, a city of culture, history, and beauty, promises an unforgettable journey.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Historic Edinburgh and Christmas Market

Morning

Start your day at the Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress that offers panoramic views of the city. Explore the castle's many rooms, including the Great Hall, the Royal Palace, and the Stone of Destiny.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Scottish lunch in a family-friendly restaurant in the Old Town area.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a stroll down the Royal Mile, a historic street filled with shops, street performers, and historic sites. Don't miss the chance to visit St. Giles' Cathedral.

Dinner

Have dinner in a cozy restaurant in the New Town area, known for its Georgian architecture and vibrant dining scene.

Evening

End your day at the Edinburgh's Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, ice skating, and Christmas stalls.

Morning

Visit the National Museum of Scotland in the morning. The museum houses a variety of exhibits, including natural history, world cultures, and Scottish history.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the museum, offering a variety of cuisines to choose from.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a beautiful garden with a variety of plant species and a stunning glasshouse.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the Stockbridge area, known for its food scene and charming streets.

Evening

Experience the Street of Light, a stunning light installation in George Street, accompanied by synchronized music.

Morning

Start your day at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. Explore the historic apartments and the beautiful gardens.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the palace, offering a variety of local and international dishes.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, take a hike up Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park. Enjoy the stunning views of the city from the top.

Dinner

Dine in a restaurant in the Leith area, known for its waterfront dining options.

Evening

End your day with a festive pantomime show at the King's Theatre, a popular Christmas tradition in Scotland.

Morning

Visit the Edinburgh Zoo in the morning. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including the UK's only giant pandas.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch in a restaurant near the zoo, offering a variety of family-friendly options.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Museum of Edinburgh, where you can learn about the city's history. Don't miss the chance to see the National Covenant.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant in the Grassmarket area, known for its historic buildings and vibrant dining scene.

Evening

Experience the Torchlight Procession, a spectacular event that marks the start of Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations.

Morning

Start your day at the Scottish National Gallery, home to a collection of fine art from the Renaissance to the end of the 19th century.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the gallery, offering a variety of cuisines to choose from.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Christmas Tree Maze in Princes Street Gardens, a fun activity for the whole family.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Edinburgh in a restaurant in the Old Town area, offering a variety of Scottish dishes.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Silent Light, a spectacular light and sound installation in the heart of the city.

Attractions in Itinerary (14)

Edinburgh Castle

1
Edinburgh Castle

A historic fortress dominating the skyline of Edinburgh, home to the Honours of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Royal Mile

2
Royal Mile

A historic street stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Neighborhoods
St. Giles' Cathedral

3
St. Giles' Cathedral

St Giles' Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, is the principal place of worship of the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh. Its distinctive crown steeple is a prominent feature of the city skyline, at about a third of the way down the Royal Mile which runs from the Castle to Holyrood Palace. The church has been one of Edinburgh's religious focal points for approximately 900 years.

Religious Sites
Landmarks
Architecture
Edinburgh's Christmas Market

4
Edinburgh's Christmas Market

Edinburgh's Christmas Market is a popular destination during the holiday season. It offers a variety of stalls selling festive goods, food and drink, and also features entertainment such as live music and funfair rides.

Entertainment
Shopping
Cultural Experiences
National Museum of Scotland

5
National Museum of Scotland

A museum that combines the collections of the former National Museum of Antiquities of Scotland and the Royal Museum. It showcases diverse collections from Scottish antiquities, culture, and history to science, technology, and the natural world.

Attractions
Museums
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

6
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

One of the world's leading botanic gardens, home to the largest collection of living plants in the world.

Parks
Gardens
Palace of Holyroodhouse

7
Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, also known as Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, at the opposite end to Edinburgh Castle. Visitors can explore 14 magnificent historic and State apartments, the romantic ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey and remarkable royal gardens.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Arthur's Seat

8
Arthur's Seat

An ancient volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park, offering panoramic views of the city.

Attractions
Parks
Landmarks
King's Theatre

9
King's Theatre

King's Theatre in Edinburgh is a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and dance shows. It's a cultural hub in the city, known for its stunning architecture.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Edinburgh Zoo

10
Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo is a non-profit zoological park located in Edinburgh, the second most popular paid-for tourist attraction in Scotland. The zoo is home to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals, including the UK's only giant pandas and koalas.

Attractions
Parks
Museum of Edinburgh

11
Museum of Edinburgh

The Museum of Edinburgh, housed in a series of 16th and 17th century buildings, is the city's treasury. It is home to a vast collection of objects of historical and cultural significance to Edinburgh.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Scottish National Gallery

The Scottish National Gallery is a national art gallery, located on the Mound in central Edinburgh. It is managed by National Galleries of Scotland. The gallery houses the Scottish national collection of fine art, including Scottish and international art from the beginning of the Renaissance up to the start of the 20th century.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Christmas Tree Maze

13
Christmas Tree Maze

The Christmas Tree Maze in Edinburgh is a festive attraction that offers a fun and unique experience during the holiday season.

Attractions
Entertainment
Silent Light

14
Silent Light

Silent Light in Edinburgh is a unique light and sound show that takes place during the festive season. It's a mesmerizing experience that combines music and visual effects.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Haggis

Haggis

Haggis is a savoury pudding containing sheep's pluck (heart, liver, and lungs); minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, mixed with stock. It is traditionally encased in the animal's stomach and has a strong connection to Scottish culture.

Scotch Pie

Scotch Pie

Scotch Pie is a small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or other meat. It's a staple in Scottish bakeries and is often eaten at room temperature, making it a popular choice for picnics or quick meals.

Black Pudding

Black Pudding

Black Pudding is a type of blood sausage commonly eaten in Scotland. It is made from pork blood, with pork fat or beef suet, and a cereal, usually oatmeal, oat groats or barley groats.

Cullen Skink

Cullen Skink

Cullen Skink is a thick Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. This hearty dish is a local speciality, particularly in the town of Cullen, from which it gets its name.

Cranachan

Cranachan

Cranachan is a traditional Scottish dessert. It's a layered concoction of whipped cream, whisky, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oatmeal soaked overnight in a little bit of whisky.

Tablet

Tablet

Tablet is a medium-hard, sugary confection from Scotland. It has a brittle, grainy texture, a fudge-like taste and is often flavoured with vanilla or whisky.

Scotch Broth

Scotch Broth

Scotch Broth is a filling soup, originating in Scotland but now obtainable worldwide. The principal ingredients are usually barley, stewing or braising cuts of lamb, mutton or beef, root vegetables, and dried pulses.

Arbroath Smokie

Arbroath Smokie

Arbroath Smokie is a type of smoked haddock – a speciality of the town of Arbroath in Angus, Scotland. The fish are first salted overnight, then left to dry. They are then hung in pairs over a triangular length of wood to smoke.

Scotch Whisky

Scotch Whisky

Scotch Whisky, often simply called Scotch, is malt whisky or grain whisky made in Scotland. It is one of the most popular drinks in Scotland and is known for its distinct, robust flavour.

Irn-Bru

Irn-Bru

Irn-Bru is a Scottish carbonated soft drink, often described as 'Scotland's other national drink' (after whisky). It is orange in colour, with a unique flavour that is difficult to describe.

Shortbread

Shortbread

Shortbread is a traditional Scottish biscuit usually made from one part white sugar, two parts butter, and three parts plain wheat flour. It is often associated with Christmas and Hogmanay festivities in Scotland.

Neeps and Tatties

Neeps and Tatties are the traditional accompaniment to haggis, particularly on Burns Night. 'Neeps' is a Scottish term for swede, or rutabaga, and 'tatties' is a familiar term for potatoes.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Edinburgh, Scotland as a tourist is during the summer months, from June to August. This period offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. It's also when the city comes alive with several high-profile festivals including the Edinburgh International Festival and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival. However, it's also the busiest time, so booking in advance is recommended. If you prefer a quieter time, consider visiting in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November) when the city is less crowded but still offers pleasant weather.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

2nd January (Scotland)

March 17

Sun

St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland)

March 18

Mon

Day off for St Patrick's Day (Northern Ireland)

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 1

Mon

Easter Monday (regional holiday)

May 6

Mon

Early May Bank Holiday

May 27

Mon

Spring Bank Holiday

July 12

Fri

Battle of the Boyne (Northern Ireland)

August 5

Mon

Summer Bank Holiday (Scotland)

August 26

Mon

Summer Bank Holiday (regional holiday)

November 30

Sat

St Andrew's Day (Scotland)

December 2

Mon

St Andrew's Day observed (Scotland)

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

December 26

Thu

Boxing Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Edinburgh is a compact city, making it easy to get around on foot. Many of the city's main attractions, such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the Scottish National Gallery, are within walking distance of each other.

Edinburgh has an extensive bus network, operated by Lothian Buses. Buses run regularly throughout the city and surrounding areas. There are also night buses available.

Edinburgh's tram system runs from the city centre to Edinburgh Airport. The trams are a convenient way to travel, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage.

Edinburgh is a bike-friendly city with many cycle paths and bike hire schemes available. Just Eat Cycles offers bike hire stations across the city.

Taxis are readily available throughout Edinburgh. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from a taxi rank.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Edinburgh. This can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're travelling in a group or have a lot of luggage.

Edinburgh has two main train stations - Waverley and Haymarket. Trains are a quick and convenient way to travel to other cities in Scotland, such as Glasgow or Aberdeen.

Car hire is available from various companies in Edinburgh. However, due to the city's compact size and excellent public transport, it's often easier to get around without a car.

Hop-on hop-off tour buses are a popular way to see the city's main sights. These buses follow a set route and you can get on and off as many times as you like throughout the day.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency£ GBP

Time zoneUTC 0

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phone112, 999

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type G

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Edinburgh, Scotland as a first time visitor

1

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of its 32 council areas.

2

The city is known for its stunning scenery and historical sites, making it a popular destination for tourists.

3

The local currency is the British Pound (£). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always handy to have some cash.

4

Edinburgh has a temperate maritime climate, which means it can be quite changeable. Always pack for all weather conditions.

5

The average summer temperature is around 66°F (19°C), while in winter it can drop to around 34°F (1°C).

6

The city is quite walkable, but it also has an excellent public transport system, including buses and trams.

7

Taxis are plentiful but can be expensive. Consider using Uber or a local taxi app for better rates.

8

Edinburgh is a safe city, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

9

The legal drinking age in Scotland is 18. It's common for pubs to ask for ID, so carry a passport or driver's license if you plan to drink.

10

Tipping is customary in Edinburgh. A 10-15% tip is standard in restaurants, and it's polite to tip taxi drivers and hotel staff.

11

Scotland's national dish is haggis, a type of pudding composed of liver, heart, and lungs, minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt. It's worth trying when in Edinburgh.

12

Edinburgh is known for its festivals, the most famous of which is the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival.

13

The city is built on seven hills, similar to Rome, so be prepared for some steep walks.

14

The official language is English, but you may hear some Scots and Gaelic, especially in the more rural areas.

15

Scotland uses the Type G plug. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

16

Edinburgh has a rich literary history and is the first UNESCO City of Literature. It's a great city for book lovers.

17

The city is also known for its whisky. Consider visiting a whisky distillery or tasting session.

18

Edinburgh has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of pubs, clubs, and live music venues.

19

The city is also a great base for exploring the rest of Scotland, with excellent train and bus connections.

20

Lastly, remember to respect the local customs and traditions. Scots are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so don't hesitate to ask for help or directions.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Lightweight clothing for layering

  • Warm sweater or jacket

  • Waterproof jacket or umbrella

  • Socks and underwear

  • Sleepwear

  • Accessories (scarves, hats, gloves)

  • Swimwear (if your accommodation has a pool)

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (British Pound)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and tour reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal travel adapter

  • Camera and charger

  • Headphones

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Edinburgh

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Ziplock bags for liquids and snacks

Weather Conditions

Edinburgh, Scotland is known for its unpredictable weather. It's often said that you can experience all four seasons in one day here, so it's best to come prepared for a variety of conditions. The city's climate is generally temperate, which means it doesn't experience extreme temperatures. However, it can get quite chilly, especially in the winter months (December to February), when temperatures can drop to around 34°F (1°C). On the other hand, the summer months (June to August) are relatively mild, with temperatures typically reaching up to 66°F (19°C). Rain is a common occurrence in Edinburgh, so it's a good idea to always carry an umbrella or raincoat. The city gets the most rainfall during the winter months, but showers can happen at any time of the year. Wind is another factor to consider when visiting Edinburgh. The city can be quite breezy, especially in the more exposed, hilly areas. If you're planning on visiting any of the city's many beautiful viewpoints, it's a good idea to bring a windbreaker or a heavy coat. Despite the unpredictable weather, Edinburgh's beauty shines through in any condition. The city's historic architecture looks even more dramatic under a brooding, cloudy sky, and a bit of rain can make the city's many parks and gardens look even more lush and vibrant. In conclusion, when packing for a trip to Edinburgh, it's best to prepare for a bit of everything: bring warm clothing for the chilly days and nights, waterproof gear for the frequent rain, and don't forget your windbreaker for the breezy hilltops. And remember, the weather can change quickly, so always check the forecast before heading out for the day.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

7° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Edinburgh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy crisp, cold weather and fewer tourists.

February

8° / 1°

February is still quite cold, but you'll start to see a bit more sunshine. It's a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and don't mind the chill.

March

12° / 2°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures starting to rise. You can expect more daylight hours and the start of the blooming season.

April

14° / 4°

April is a pleasant month to visit, with mild temperatures and longer daylight hours. The city starts to come alive with spring blooms and outdoor activities.

May

18° / 6°

May is a beautiful month to visit Edinburgh, with warm temperatures and lots of sunshine. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom, making it a great time for outdoor exploration.

June

20° / 9°

June marks the start of summer, with long daylight hours and warm temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.

July

22° / 11°

July is the warmest month in Edinburgh, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. It's a great time to explore the city's many outdoor attractions and enjoy the summer festivals.

August

21° / 11°

August is a busy month in Edinburgh, with the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe taking place. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it a great time to explore the city.

September

19° / 9°

September sees the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures and changing foliage. It's a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and beautiful autumnal scenery.

October

14° / 6°

October is a cool and crisp month, with beautiful autumn colours. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy cooler weather and stunning natural beauty.

November

11° / 3°

November is a chilly month, with shorter daylight hours and the start of the winter season. It's a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere.

December

7° / 1°

December is a festive month in Edinburgh, with Christmas markets and festive lights. The weather is cold, but the festive atmosphere makes it a magical time to visit.

Did you know?

Did you know that Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of its 32 council areas?

1 of 10

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