Planning a memorable weekend away for your family of four does not have to be expensive. Scotland’s two great cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh, offer a perfect blend of culture, history, and outdoor fun.
Whether you are art lovers, nature fans, or history buffs, here is how you can enjoy a fantastic family weekend in these cities by taking advantage of the many free attractions and planning ahead.
Day One: Discovering Glasgow’s Treasures
Glasgow is packed with free museums, sprawling parks, and interactive attractions perfect for families.
It is a city where you can immerse yourselves in art, history, and science without constantly opening your wallet. If you are travelling by car, options for car hire in Glasgow are plentiful, with convenient pick up locations including Glasgow Airport.
What to Do
A visit to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a must. This stunning building houses a vast and eclectic collection of over 8,000 objects.
Children are often fascinated by the natural history exhibits, including Sir Roger the elephant, and the impressive display of medieval armour. Best of all, entry is completely free.
For a change of pace, head to the Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Here you can enjoy a peaceful stroll or a fun playtime in the expansive gardens.
While entry to the grounds is free, a small fee is required to enter the beautiful Victorian glasshouses, such as the Kibble Palace.
Nearby, the Riverside Museum is another superb free attraction. Situated on the banks of the River Clyde, this award winning transport museum is home to historic cars, trams, locomotives, and even a recreated old Glasgow street.
Outside, you can climb aboard The Tall Ship Glenlee, which is also free to visit.
If you have room in your budget for a paid attraction, the Glasgow Science Centre offers a world of discovery with hundreds of hands on exhibits. A family ticket will cost around £58 when booked in advance online.
Food and Transport
To keep costs low, consider bringing a packed lunch to enjoy in the Botanic Gardens or Kelvingrove Park. Local supermarkets provide plenty of affordable options.
Getting around is straightforward with a First Bus Family Day Ticket, which offers unlimited travel for a family group for about £15.
Day Two: Exploring Edinburgh’s Historic Heart
Edinburgh’s blend of medieval charm and natural beauty makes it a fantastic city for families to explore. From the cobbled lanes of the Old Town to the wide open green spaces, there is something to capture everyone’s imagination.
Having your own transport offers great flexibility, and you can easily arrange car hire in Edinburgh to explore the city and its surroundings, with services available at Edinburgh Airport as well.
What to Do
The National Museum of Scotland is an unmissable and free destination. You can easily spend hours wandering through its diverse galleries, which cover everything from Scottish history and archaeology to natural history, science, and world cultures.
Highlights for families include the giant T-rex skeleton and Dolly the sheep, the world’s first cloned mammal.
For some fresh air, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers a beautiful and tranquil escape. Entry to the garden is free, allowing you to explore its stunning landscapes and plant collections at your leisure.
If your family is feeling energetic, a hike up Arthur’s Seat is a brilliant adventure. This ancient volcano, located in Holyrood Park, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and is a fantastic free activity that rewards your effort.
The city’s most famous landmark, Edinburgh Castle, dominates the skyline.
While it is a significant expense, with a family ticket costing around £70, it offers a deep dive into Scotland’s history. To save money, it is essential to book tickets online in advance.
Food and Transport
Edinburgh has many casual cafes and bakeries that are perfect for an affordable lunch.
For transport, a Lothian Buses Family DAYticket costs approximately £12 and gives you unlimited travel for the day on their extensive network, including the city’s tram service.
Making Your Budget Work
While a weekend budget of £200 including major paid attractions is very challenging, a wonderfully affordable trip is still very achievable:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (Focusing on Free Attractions) |
| Transport (local travel + car rental/fuel) | £30 – £40 |
| Glasgow Attractions and Food | £80 |
| Edinburgh Attractions & Food | £80 |
| Total Estimated Cost | £200 |
Tips for Saving More
- Book transport early. Whether travelling by rental car, coach or train between the cities, booking in advance secures the best prices.
- Prioritise free attractions. Both cities offer world class museums and parks that cost nothing to enter. They provide more than enough entertainment for a weekend.
- Pack your own snacks and drinks. This simple step saves a surprising amount of money compared to buying them throughout the day.
- Check for deals. Look on attraction websites before you travel for any special offers or discounted family tickets.
An Unforgettable Scottish Adventure
A fantastic and memorable family weekend exploring Scotland’s most exciting cities does not require a huge budget. By mixing the wealth of free museums and galleries with the joy of exploring parks and historic streets, you can create lasting memories.
With a little careful planning, Glasgow and Edinburgh offer an affordable escape that will keep the entire family happy and inspired!