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Edinburgh with Teenagers: Unforgettable Things to Do in 2025

My family has traveled to Edinburgh several times, and on every visit, we fell in love all over again. It’s one of the most popular destinations in the world for tourists, but it still feels authentic. Edinburgh with teenagers is a blast because they’re old enough to appreciate landmarks and the local scene while still having fun with tourist attractions.

Best Things to Do in Edinburgh with Teenagers - Kids Are A Trip

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The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is a magical place nestled in the southeastern region of the country. It’s a gem of a city that offers something for everyone, from colorful history and ancient architecture to unique cultural experiences and top-notch shopping.

There’s the historic Edinburgh Castle at the heart of the city and the hidden gems of the Royal Mile. You’ll love the interactive exhibits at the National Museum of Scotland and the moving tales of the Edinburgh Dungeon. You can hike Arthur’s Seat for great views or spend your days hunting down all the film locations from your favorite shows and movies!

Whether visiting national landmarks, enjoying a spooky ghost tour, or catching a live performance at the Edinburgh Festival, this city promises an unforgettable adventure. Get ready to uncover the best things to do in Edinburgh with teens, the first stop on any Scotland itinerary.

How to Plan a Teen-Friendly Trip to Edinburgh

We went to Edinburgh with our boys when they were younger and we found plenty to do. but Edinburgh with teenagers is a treat because they can appreciate this culture-rich city even more!

The tricky part of planning a trip to Edinburgh is knowing which attractions to focus on. There are so many! If you only have a few days, stick to Edinburgh’s city center.

All of New Town and Old Town make up Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most of Edinburgh’s main attractions can be found in Old Town, including Edinburgh Castle, Holyroodhouse, and the Royal Mile. Then you can fill your itinerary with the shops, museums, historic sites, and local eateries in New Town.

Edinburgh with teenagers castle

Even if you only have a few days, I suggest booking a guided tour or two (I’ve included my favorites below). They’re a great way to see more of the city in less time since you’ll be led by a knowledgeable guide!

For a longer trip, spread out a bit. There are quality attractions outside the city center, like the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Edinburgh Zoo, and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. All of these locations and more are easily accessed via public transportation.

21 Best Things to Do with Teens in Edinburgh

1. Explore Edinburgh Castle

It’s a given that you’ll visit Edinburgh Castle when you plan a family trip to Edinburgh! This iconic fortress sits on top of Castle Rock, offering breathtaking views of the city and beyond. The castle’s history stretches back over a thousand years, making it a national monument of immense significance.

Edinburgh Castle

I recommend booking tickets and taking a guided tour of the castle to hear the long, juicy history of Edinburgh Castle.

You will explore the Royal Apartments, where Mary, Queen of Scots, gave birth to James VI in the 1500s. In the Crown Room, you will find the Honours of Scotland, which are Scotland’s Crown jewels and the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles.

2. Walk the Royal Mile

Visiting the Royal Mile is a must on a family vacation to Edinburgh, especially if it’s your first time in the city.

The Royal Mile consists of High Street in the middle, with Lawnmarket to the west and Canongate to the east. The historic road stretches approximately 1 mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, hence the name!

Royal Mile Edinburgh Scotland view of Firth of Forth-Kids Are A Trip

Walking the entire length can take about 20 minutes, but you could easily spend a whole day exploring the many attractions found here.

Start at the top of the Royal Mile with a visit to the castle and walk east. You will pass fun shops, cafes, museums, historic landmarks, and street performers along the way.

3. Visit Holyrood Palace

As you reach the eastern end of the Royal Mile, you’ll find yourself at the Palace of Holyrood House. This is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and an important part of Scottish history.

It was founded as a monastery in the 12th century and was later transformed into a royal residence.

Holyrood-Palace-Holyrood-Abbey-Edinburgh-Kids-Are-A-Trip
Ruins of Holyrood Abbey

You can tour the palace and see the State Apartments (where the Queen hosts official events), the Throne Room, and the Great Gallery. Holyrood Palace is where Mary, Queen of Scots spent much of her time. When you tour the castle, you’ll see her chambers and learn about her dramatic life. Grab your tickets to Holyrood House here>>>

Next, take some time to see through the picturesque Holyrood Abbey ruins and the beautiful gardens. Honestly, I think this was my family’s favorite part of visiting Holyrood Palace!

4. National Museum of Scotland

A few blocks south of High Street and the Royal Mile is an absolutely beautiful museum, the National Museum of Scotland. It’s free to visit, and you could spend all day here and not see everything.

National Museum of Scotland Edinburgh interior

Galleries cover the history of Edinburgh, world culture, natural history, dinosaurs, and more. Teens might enjoy the science and technology gallery or the art, design, and fashion gallery. You will also find tons of hands-on activities and interactive exhibits for younger kids.

If you need a bite to eat, there’s a brasserie and the Balcony Cafe. The National Museum of Scotland is free to visit and open 7 days a week.

5. The Edinburgh Dungeon

Just north of the Royal Mile is the Edinburgh Dungeon. If you like haunted houses, you’ll like this immersive show that takes you through Scotland’s dark and eerie past. This popular attraction combines live actors, theatrical sets, and special effects to bring historical events (and fantastical stories) to life.

As you walk from room to room, you encounter notorious characters from Edinburgh’s 1000-year history. Experience plague-ridden streets and grim torture chambers. The Dungeon also brings alive the city’s most haunting ghost stories and Scotland’s infamous witch trials.

The whole experience is silly fun if you’re open to the dark and cheesy, with tons of jump scares, gory costumes, and spiders. Learn about the city’s gruesome history while being thoroughly entertained!

6. Camera Obscura

Whenever we travel as a family, we try to break up all the sightseeing with some casual, kid-friendly fun. Camera Obscura fits the bill, with over 100 hands-on and immersive exhibits.

This optical illusion museum is tons of fun and you’ll want to spend a few hours here at least. Have fun with thermal cameras, play songs with light, explore special effects, and take fun selfies! Head to the rooftop terrace and enjoy fabulous views of the Royal Mile.

7. Go Shopping

Of course, you have to plan a shopping day when you’re in Edinburgh with teenagers! There are plenty of options, depending on your taste.

While you’re on the Royal Mile, check out the historic Lawnmarket Street for touristy gift shops and independent clothing boutiques.

Victoria Street Edinburgh
Victoria Street

The perfect place for teens who prefer trendy brands, designer labels, and high-end boutiques is New Town. On Prince Street, you’ll find everything from TK Maxx and Primark to Apple and Dr. Martens. On George Street, there’s Lululemon, Anthropologie, and all kinds of custom clothing and jewelry boutiques.

Those looking for higher-end shops will want to head to Multrees Walk. This outdoor mall features names like Louis Vuitton, Mulberry, and Gucci. Afterward, stroll over to St. James Quarter Shopping Mall for more of your favorites.

Harry Potter fans and lovers of vintage everything will find Grassmarket to be an excellent location to spend a day shopping. This street and the adjacent Victoria Street were the inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Enjoy popping into shops selling handcrafted items, one-of-a-kind clothing, vintage books, and more. For all your Harry Potter-themed must-haves, head to Museum Context or The Great Wizard (or both since they’re across the street from each other!).

8. Afternoon Tea

Edinburgh is the perfect place to experience a classic afternoon tea and there are some fabulous ones to choose from! We enjoyed tea time at The Ivy on the Square. This brasserie offers a selection of classic and inventive finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a variety of tea options.

Afternoon tea

The Colonnades at the Signet Library offers a more traditional setting, with a beautifully presented afternoon tea in a chic, neoclassical library. Just book in advance because it’s very popular.

Another excellent option is The Dome on George Street. Come here if you’re looking for a traditional Georgian afternoon tea experience in a glamorous and elegant setting. Take in your lavish surroundings while you sample cakes, savory bites, and an extensive menu of teas and cocktails.

9. Check out an Edinburgh Festival

If you’re planning a family trip to Edinburgh during the summer, you’re just in time for festival season.

Fringe Festival Edinburgh

Every June, July, and August, Edinburgh attracts visitors from around the world for an array of arts festivals. Many of them occur at the same time. Here’s the most current list of Edinburgh festivals:

  • Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival – Held in July, this festival celebrates jazz and blues music with performances from local and international artists. It features a mix of live music concerts, jam sessions, and workshops, taking place in various venues across the city.
  • The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – Taking place every August on the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, this iconic event features military bands, dance troops, and pipe and drum performances from around the world.
  • Edinburgh International Festival – Also held in August, this festival focuses on classical music, opera, theater, and dance. It showcases some of the world’s most prestigious performers and companies, providing a more curated and high-profile experience compared to the Fringe.
  • Edinburgh Festival Fringe –The Edinburgh Fringe is the largest and most famous of the festivals. It runs throughout August and is known for its open-access format. The Fringe features thousands of performances, including comedy, theater, dance, street performers, and more, spread across numerous venues.
  • Edinburgh Art Festival – Another August festival, this one focuses on visual arts. It includes exhibitions, installations, and public art projects, highlighting both established and emerging artists.
  • Edinburgh International Book Festival – Happening at the same time as both the International Festival and the Fringe, this is the largest public celebration of books and authors in the world. It features talks, book signings, and workshops from renowned writers and literary figures.
  • Edinburgh International Film Festival – Held in August, this festival is one of the longest-running film festivals in the world. It showcases a diverse selection of films, from independent productions to international cinema, offering screenings, premieres, and industry events.

If you have the chance to visit during the summer, be sure to book your Edinburgh accommodations early and plan to have plenty of company!

10. Hike Arthur’s Seat

Hiking Arthur’s Seat is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park, and it’s one of the city’s most popular outdoor spots.

The hike to the summit is considered a moderate climb because it’s relatively straightforward but involves a steady climb. There are several paths to choose from.

View from Arthurs Seat

The main route starts outside Holyrood Palace. This 2.7-mile loop trail takes you up to the peak and then down through the park’s scenic terrain.

The entire hike usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on how fast you go. Along the trail, you can stop and check out the ruins of a 600-year-old chapel or have a rest next to a loch.

Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and beyond. The surrounding park also features lovely walking trails and scenic spots if you want to extend your outdoor adventure.

11. Catch a Football Game

Catching a football game in Edinburgh is a thrilling experience for sports fans. The city is home to two major football clubs: Heart of Midlothian (Hearts) and Hibernian (Hibs). While many cities and towns in Scotland have their own clubs, Edinburgh’s clubs are among the biggest and most popular.

The Hearts play their home games at Tynecastle Park, located in the Gorgie area of Edinburgh and the Hibs play at Easter Road Stadium, in the Leith area. During the season (August through mid-May), teams play both league matches and participate in competitions like the Scottish Cup and the Scottish League Cup.

To buy tickets, you can go online to each club’s website or head to the box office at the stadium. The season includes breaks for holidays, but generally, you will find matches happening almost every weekend.

12. Explore Dean Village

For some relief from the hustle and bustle of central Edinburgh, take a walk to Dean Village. A historic neighborhood nestled along the Water of Leith, Dean Village is known for its charming buildings and peaceful atmosphere. It’s an easy 15- to 20-minute walk north from Prince Street.

Take the morning and walk there via the Water of Leith Walkway to enjoy a quiet and scenic route along the river. You can access it on Miller Row, behind the wine store just to the west of Dean Bridge.

Dean Village Edinburgh Scotland-2

Dean Village was once a thriving grain milling center, dating back to the 12th century. By the 19th century, Dean Village became more residential. Today, its cobbled streets, quaint cottages, and historic structures give it a unique charm.

As you walk along Dean Path and Damside, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Enjoy the rustic 19th-century architecture and lush vegetation.

Pass over Bell’s Brae Bridge and stop for the iconic scene over the Waters of Leith. Look for Well Court, a worker’s house from the milling days and one of the oldest and best-preserved structures in Dean Village.

While you’re in Dean Village, art lovers might also be interested in walking over to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. You’ll find the two buildings and the sculpture garden that houses the museum’s collection on Belford Road.

Note: Dean Village is residential with no services. So, eat and visit the restroom before you head out!

13. Royal Yacht Britannia

Another option outside of Old Town is the Royal Yacht Britannia. Moored in Leith, the former royal vessel offers a unique glimpse into royal life at sea. This was where Queen Elizabeth II and her family spent their holidays for decades until 1997.

You can explore the various decks, including the elegant state apartments, the crew quarters, and the bridge. Get the audio tour and you’ll get a lot more insight.

Afterward, you can have lunch in the Royal Deck Tea Room and visit the gift shop. Grab your tickets to The Royal Yacht Britannia here>>>

14. Have a Family Photo Shoot

While you’re in Edinburgh, take the opportunity to capture your memories with a family photo shoot! Here are a few of the best spots we found for photos:

Flytographer Photo Edinburgh
Photo credit: Flytographer
  • Victoria Street: It’s the perfect backdrop, with its colorful, curved row of buildings and cobblestone streets. Don’t forget to take the walkway up to Victoria Terrace which overlooks the shopping street.
  • Grassmarket: For a unique photo session, head to Grassmarket, one of the oldest streets in Edinburgh. Nestled beneath Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket’s wide square and 600-year-old storefronts make for a striking backdrop.
  • St. Giles’ Cathedral: Save this Royal Mile landmark for your photoshoot. When we were in Edinburgh, we found that the massive Gothic church offers all kinds of nooks and crannies for taking great shots.
  • Dean Village: This historic residential area is easily one of the most picturesque places in the city. For serene and scenic photos, consider Bell’s Brae Bridge, along Dean Path, or even the Waters of Leith Walkway.
  • Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery: For moody vibes, head to Greyfriars Kirkyard, with its ancient tombstones and lush greenery. And while you’re here, look for the tombstones of Thomas Riddell and William McGonagall, which inspired character names in the Harry Potter series!

We recommend booking a photo shoot with Flytographer so everyone can be in the picture!

Teen-Friendly Edinburgh Tours Worth Booking

Edinburgh is one of the best cities to find a wide range of top-notch tours. Check out my picks for the best ones to enjoy in Edinburgh with teenagers.

15. Harry Potter Tour

See the Edinburgh that inspired the Harry Potter books on a private walking tour! Your local guide will take you to all the places where JK Rowling spent her days writing the infamous novels, as well as the locations that inspired settings in the books.

Greyfriars Kirkyard Harry Potter Edinburgh
One of the famous Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh!

16. Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour

The perfect rainy day activity with young people in Edinburgh is a 90-minute Chocolatarium Chocolate tour on the Royal Mile. Enjoy a chocolate tasting and learn about the process of making chocolate bars from beginning to end. You’ll even create a chocolate bar to take with you.

17. Edinburgh Food Tour

Join a small group walking food tour with Secret Food Tours to try the best food in Edinburgh. Over 3 hours, you’ll try all the Scottish classics while also stopping at iconic Edinburgh landmarks along the way.

We’ve used this company in Budapest and Rome and they really know how to find the local gems!

18. Outlander Tour with Andy the Highlander

Even older kids can’t help but get excited about an Outlander Tour with Andy the Highland from Highlander Tours. Choose from one of his epic private or day tours from Glasgow or Edinburgh. Don your favorite Highland or Redcoat attire, pick your weapon of choice, and see the most recognizable film locations from the famous TV series.

Outlander Tour Scotland

19. Underground Vaults Tour

What’s so fun about Edinburgh with teenagers is that you can lean into the dark and macabre. Join an hour-long Underground Vaults Walking Tour to discover both historic and spooky tales of life in Edinburgh in the 1800s.

20. Hogwarts Express and Highlander Tour

Visitors of all ages will appreciate this full-day Hogwarts Express Tour in the Scottish Highlands. See iconic Harry Potter film locations, stop at a Highland village, and ride the Hogwarts Express.

21. Ghost Tour

Edinburgh is one of the best places for ghost tours throughout the year, it just depends on how scared you want to get! Book an evening ghost tour with Ghost Bus Tours to see some of the most famous Edinburgh landmarks and find out about the ghosts and monsters of such an old city.

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