Start our adventure with Edinburgh's most recognizable symbol - Edinburgh Castle. This imposing fortress, rising atop an extinct volcano, has dominated the city's skyline for more than a thousand years. Edinburgh Castle is not just a monument, but a true journey through time, offering an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Visiting the castle is a great opportunity to actively learn about Scotland's history. The climb up Castle Hill is already a mini trek in itself, which rewards you with magnificent views of the city. Inside the walls, a wealth of attractions await you: from the Crown Jewels of Scotland to the Great Hall to the Mons Meg cannon. For children, there are special interactive exhibitions that provide an accessible introduction to the history of the castle and its inhabitants. The price of admission may seem steep (currently around £18 for adults), but it's worth booking tickets online in advance to avoid queues and sometimes get a small discount. The castle is open year-round, but opening hours can change depending on the season, so it's worth checking the official website for up-to-date information. Edinburgh Castle is the starting point of the famous Royal Mile, a historic street that connects the castle to Holyrood Palace. This bustling thoroughfare of the Old Town is the perfect place for a family stroll combined with exploring local stores, pubs and attractions. Along the Royal Mile, you'll find many fascinating backstreets (closes) and courtyards that hold the secrets of old Edinburgh. This is an excellent opportunity for a mini game of detective for children to discover the city's hidden treasures. Note the distinctive architecture of the buildings, some of which date back to the 16th century. The Royal Mile is also the place to enjoy street performers, especially during the summer Fringe Festival. Keep in mind, however, that the street can get quite crowded during the peak tourist season, so plan your walk in the early morning or evening to fully enjoy the atmosphere of this unique place.

After a busy tour of the historic center, it's time to get in touch with nature and get active in Holyrood Park. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, this expansive green space offers extraordinary recreational opportunities for the whole family. Holyrood Park is not just a city park, but a true wildlife reserve in the middle of the city. Spread over 260 hectares, the park offers a variety of walking and trekking trails of varying difficulty, so there is something for everyone. The park's main attraction is undoubtedly Arthur's Seat - the highest hill in Edinburgh, rising 251 meters above sea level. Climbing to the top is a great way to spend active time with the family. The route to the summit is not too difficult, but requires proper footwear and preparation. It's a good idea to bring water and snacks with you to have a picnic at the top, enjoying the panoramic view of the city. The view from Arthur's Seat is absolutely breathtaking - there is a panoramic view of the entire city, the Firth of Forth bay, and in good weather you can even see distant mountains. This is the perfect place for family photos and unforgettable memories. For those who prefer less demanding routes, Holyrood Park offers many alternatives. Around the picturesque St Margaret's Loch you can take a pleasant walk while watching wild birds. This is a great opportunity for the little ones to learn to identify different species of birds. The park is also home to the ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel, which add a mysterious charm to the place and are a great spot to take a break during your hike. It's worth remembering that the weather in Edinburgh can be changeable, so it's a good idea to bring warmer clothes and a rain jacket, even on summer days. The park is open year-round and admission is free, making it a great option for families looking for budget-friendly activities. Holyrood Park is not only a place for active recreation, but also an excellent lesson in geology and history. The park's hills are remnants of past volcanic activity, and traces of Iron Age settlement can be found throughout the park. This is a great opportunity to combine physical activity with education, showing children how nature has shaped Edinburgh's landscape for thousands of years.

At the end of our Edinburgh tour, visit Holyrood Palace - the official residence of the British royal family in Scotland. Located at the foot of the Royal Mile, the palace is a fascinating blend of history and modernity. Visiting the palace is not only an opportunity to admire the royal apartments, but also to learn about Scotland's turbulent history, including the dramatic events surrounding Mary Stuart. For children, there are special tours and interactive exhibitions that provide an accessible introduction to life at the royal court. Note the beautiful palace gardens, which are the perfect place for a relaxing stroll after a busy tour. Tickets to the palace cost around £15 for adults (as of 2023), but there are often special offers for families. The palace is open most of the year, except when the royal family is in residence, so it's worth checking availability before visiting. After visiting the main attractions, it's time to explore Edinburgh's lesser-known but equally fascinating sites. One such place is The Real Mary King's Close, an underground city hidden beneath the streets of modern Edinburgh. This place offers an extraordinary journey back in time to the 17th-century city, showing what daily life was like in those days. Guided tours in period costumes make history come alive before our eyes. For adventurous families, it's the perfect opportunity to experience slightly chilling adventures and learn about the legends of old Edinburgh. It is worth remembering that due to narrow passageways and stairs, this place may not be suitable for very young children or people with limited mobility. For lovers of nature and active recreation, an interesting alternative to the crowded center may be a trip to the Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve. This place, located a bit off the main tourist routes, offers beautiful walking trails and great views of the city. It's the perfect place for a family picnic and bird watching. Admission to the reserve is free, making it a great option for families looking for budget-friendly activities. Finally, there are Edinburgh festivals that take place throughout the year, but especially in August the city is bustling with cultural activity. The Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe Festival offer myriad activities for audiences of all ages, from street performances to concerts in prestigious venues. This is a great opportunity to show children the diversity of culture and art. Edinburgh is a city that never ceases to amaze. Whether you go to the top of Arthur's Seat, explore the mysteries of the underground city or stroll through the royal gardens, any day spent in Scotland's capital will be full of unforgettable experiences and activities for the whole family. Remember to adjust your sightseeing plan to the age and abilities of your children, taking regular breaks for rest and meals. Edinburgh is a city that is best explored slowly, savoring its atmosphere and discovering hidden treasures at every turn.