Edinburgh with Kids: 5 Magical Must-Do Activities Your Family Will Love (Yes, Even the Tired Parents)

Let me set the scene: We landed in Edinburgh at 8:00pm the night before. The kids (9 and 5 years old) were halfway through a jet-lag-induced meltdown. I had already bribed them with donuts from the Kilted Donut, and my caffeine levels were dangerously low. But the moment we stepped onto those cobbled streets, something shifted. Maybe it was the cool air, maybe it was the sugar rush kicking in, but suddenly, I remembered why we do this. Traveling with kids is chaotic, yes, but it’s also where the best memories sneak in when you least expect them.

If you’re traveling to Edinburgh with kids, you’re in for an unforgettable, enchanting, and chocolate-fueled adventure. Here’s everything you must do with your family in Edinburgh to make those meltdowns totally worth it.

1. Get Magical at the Department of Magic

If your kids are even remotely into Harry Potter (or if you, like me, still low-key hope your owl just got delayed), the Department of Magic is a must-do.

Think: escape room meets wizard training, with a side of themed drinks. Yep, after casting spells with glowing wands and solving magical puzzles in your robes, you can head over to the Magic Potions Tavern, where you mix your own drinks using smoke, bubbles, and more potion-y goodness. The kids get colorful, non-alcoholic versions while adults get something a little stronger (because parenting).

2. Ride the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus (Trust Me on This One)

I never thought I’d say this about a double-decker bus, but the Hop-On Hop-Off Edinburgh Bus Tour is basically parental gold.

No car seats. No whining about walking uphill both ways. Just sit, ride, listen to the cool commentary, and hop off when something looks fun (like Edinburgh Castle or the Royal Mile).

Also: it’s the perfect place for a tired mom to sip a secret coffee and pretend to listen while staring blankly into the misty Scottish horizon. Bliss.

3. Go Full Harry Potter Nerd in the Birthplace of the Boy Who Lived

Edinburgh is full of real-life magic for Harry Potter fans. On a family-friendly walking tour, you’ll explore Victoria Street (the inspiration for Diagon Alley), visit Tom Riddle’s grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, and spot George Heriot’s School, the castle-like building that looks suspiciously like Hogwarts.

You’ll also pass by cafés where J.K. Rowling wrote the books including The Elephant House and Spoon.

Mom tip: It’s the perfect mix of fresh air, fun facts, and just enough wizardry to keep everyone happy.

4. Get Hands-On with a Chocolate Making Class

Need a break from castles and cobblestones? Head to The Chocolatarium, Edinburgh’s ultimate chocolate experience. This hands-on chocolate-making (and tasting!) workshop is perfect for kids—and let’s be honest, even better for parents.

You’ll learn where chocolate comes from, sample treats from around the world, and then create your very own custom bar in the chocolate kitchen. It’s educational, interactive, and delightfully messy in the best way.

Bonus: You leave with treats. Which you can totally eat in the hotel bathroom after bedtime. #MomWins

5. Islander Purse Workshop (for the Bigger Kids or Crafty Tweens)

If you’ve got older kids (12 and up) who enjoy being creative, the Islander Purse Workshop is a beautifully unique experience and a wonderful souvenir.

In this hands-on class, your family will learn to craft traditional Scottish leather pouches—carefully stitching and assembling pieces in a calm, welcoming setting surrounded by tartan and rich heritage. It’s the kind of meaningful activity that feels both educational and fun, and you’ll all leave with a special keepsake that actually fits in your suitcase.

Mom tip: It’s one of those rare travel moments where everyone’s focused, relaxed, and proud of what they’ve made, no glitter, no screens, and no drama.

Final Thoughts: Edinburgh Is Like a Fairy Tale (with Snacks)

There’s just something about Edinburgh that makes you feel like you stepped into a storybook. The accents are charming, the vibes are witchy in the best way, and even your picky eater will eventually cave and try a scone.

Sure, there will be moments where you question why you left your comfy couch. But then you’ll see your kid casting spells on cobblestones, proudly holding a handmade purse, or eating chocolate with wild abandon and think: This. This is why we travel. Edinburgh completely stole our hearts and there’s no doubt we’ll be back.