Attractions
Edinburgh's museums, galleries and attractions tell the fascinating story of the past, present and future of the city and Scotland. Choose from national collections and international blockbusters to more intimate spaces and exhibits to venues that encourage exploration and adventure.
Edinburgh Castle
Situated on top of an extinct volcano, majestic Edinburgh Castle is steeped in history. Take a tour and discover its secrets, enjoying spectacular views across the city.
Make sure you see Scotland’s Crown Jewels, Mons Meg (the giant cannon) and St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a must visit attraction packed full of interesting collections that tell you the story of Scotland, its land, its people and culture.
Some exhibits are millions of years old, others less than a decade. Full of fun for both kids and adults this should be part of every visitor’s trip to Edinburgh.
National Galleries of Scotland
Art lovers are in for a real treat in Edinburgh with these exceptional galleries. Across the National Gallery of Scotland, The Royal Scottish Academy,
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery of Modern Art's two buildings, are housed some of the best Scottish and international art in the world. And admission is free!
Royal Botanic Garden
See green and refresh your senses in one of the world’s finest Botanic Gardens located on the outskirts of town next to Inverleith Park.
Stroll through over 70 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, where you are likely to meet a squirrel or two, and then enjoy wonderful food at the Terrace Café.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia is a great day out for all the family. Step aboard to discover all five decks, from the State Apartments to the Crew’s Quarters.
Experience life aboard with a free Audio Guide for fascinating stories of life on board. Relax and enjoy waterfront views with freshly baked cakes and scones in the Royal Deck Tea Room..
The Scotch Whisky Experience
The perfect blend of Scottish history, sprits and education, situated just next door to the Castle. Discover the stories behind maturation and the vital ingredients that make Scottish Whisky so unique.
Take a barrel ride, step back in time and become part of the whisky making process.
Dynamic Earth
A short stroll from the foot of the Royal Mile, Our Dynamic Earth is a hugely popular attraction that tells the story of our planet’s past, present and future.
Children and grownups alike will love exploring exhibits like the Time Machine and Future Dome.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Five floors of interactive, hands-on fun. Swap noses and heads, walk through a tunnel of never-ending stars and capture your own shadow on camera.
Free rooftop telescopes. Enter a world of illusions where seeing is definitely not believing!
Tour of Edinburgh
Jump aboard the open-topped bus, sit back, relax and see everything Edinburgh has to offer on these multi-language tours.
The tickets last for 24 hours so you can hop on and off as often as you like as you travel through the beautiful and endlessly fascinating festival city.
Find out more about Edinburgh and its attractions by visiting This is Edinburgh
Images courtesy of Marketing Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, National Galleries of Scotland, Royal Botanic Garden, The Royal Yacht Britannia, The Scottish Whisky Experience, Dynamic Earth, Camera Obscura, Edinburgh Bus Tours
