12 Must-See Things to Discover in Scotland

The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is divided in two between the medieval city and the modern city. Known for its castle, its festivals but also its legends, the city offers a special atmosphere and attracts many visitors each year in search of traditions and authenticity. From Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood and the museums, we invite you to discover our selection of must-sees for visiting Edinburgh.

#1 Edinburgh Castle

Built on top of an ancient volcano, Edinburgh Castle proudly dominates the city. Visiting Edinburgh seems impossible without taking the time to discover this impressive Scottish castle. Built at 12^e century, it was a royal residence and a military base before being today one of Scotland's main tourist attractions. By visiting Edinburgh Castle, you can learn more about the country's history. You will discover sublime objects and rooms such as the apartments of Queen Mary Stuart or the Great Hall. You will also have the chance to admire a national treasure since the Scottish crown jewels are on display in the castle. The building being built high up, take your time on the ramparts from where you will have a splendid view of the city. Depending on your visit schedule, also note that the One O'Clock Gun is fired every day at 1 p.m. except Sunday. Please note that to make the most of your visit, we strongly advise you to reserve your tickets in advance. This will help you avoid very long queues.

#2 The Royal Mile

At heart of the medieval townthe Royal Mile is none other than theEdinburgh's main avenue which connects the castle to Holyrood Palace. You are therefore almost obliged to pass on this artery to visit Edinburgh. With many iconic monumentsdifferent museums, restaurants or even souvenir shops, we advise you to stroll at your own pace on the Royal Mile despite the presence of many tourists. You can really admire themedieval architecture from Edinburgh and soak up the atmosphere of Old Town. During your stroll on this avenue, do not miss, among other things, Saint-Gilles Cathedral or the Scottish Parliament.

#3 Holyrood Palace

Located at the end of the Royal Miles, Holyrood Palace was the residence of Mary Stuart. This superb building with classical architecture is still today the official residence of the English royal family in Scotland. With his sublime baroque decorationits state apartments or even its gardensa visit to Holyrood Palace is a must during a stay in Edinburgh. As for the castle, we advise you to book your tickets in advance. To control your budget in Edinburgh, don't hesitate to opt for a city pass if you are planning several visits.

#4 Arthur's Seat

Located opposite Holyrood Palace, Arthur's Seat hill allows you to benefit fromone of the most beautiful panoramas of the Scottish capital. An extinct volcano, Arthur's Seat actually peaks at an altitude of 250 meters. Although its ascent is quite steep, it allows you to enjoy a beautiful walk in nature. To reach the summit, we advise you to allow around 45 minutes of walking. On a day when the weather in Edinburgh is clear, don't hesitate to go up to watch the sunset.

#5 The National Museum of Scotland

Located in a stunning building in Old Townthe National Museum of Scotland is a must when visiting Edinburgh. In this very fun museum, you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of the country in many aspects. To discover the origins of Scotland, immerse yourself in Scottish life in the last century or to learn more about science, art or technology, the National Museum of Scotland will seduce you. Note that a visit to this museum is perfectly suited for a family activity in Edinburgh. Also note that entry is free. So don't hesitate to plan a visit to this museum, whatever your budget in Scotland.

#6 Princes Street Gardens

Located just below the Old Town, Princes Street Gardens are a must-see for a break from nature when the weather in Scotland is pleasant. This green space is in fact the most important in the city. It will allow you to enjoy beautiful, relaxing walks or superb views of Edinburgh Castle. The gardens also house the famous Scott Monumenta building dedicated to the writer Walter Scott. In Princes Street Gardens, don't miss also the floral clock. This clock made entirely of flowers actually works and changes every year.

#7 The Scotch Whiskey Experience

National drink in Scotland, whiskey has its museum in Edinburgh. The Scotch Whiskey Experience is even one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Scottish capital. In this museum you can learn more about the history and making of the famous Scottish whiskey. Note that your visit will obviously end with a tasting.

#8 The Real Mary King's Close

Among Edinburgh's well-kept secrets, the city has all a gallery of underground streets and houses where part of the population once lived. Today, memorable guided tours are organized to take you to discover this unusual labyrinth. A costumed guide will then offer you a walk through legends, ghosts and real anecdotes about living conditions. Note that it is imperative to reserve your visit slot in advance for this attraction.

#9 The National Art Gallery of Scotland

Art lovers, a visit to the Scottish National Gallery is unmissable during your stay in Edinburgh. With numerous collections ranging from the Renaissance to the beginning of the 20^e century and very interesting temporary exhibitions, the national art gallery of Scotland allows you to admire numerous masterpieces of painting. As with the National Museum of Scotland, access to the Scottish National Gallery is free. To continue your artistic discoveries, note that you can also visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art which exhibits numerous works by artists from the 20^e century like Picasso, Matisse and Miró among others.

#10 Saint-Gilles Cathedral

A must-see in the old town, Saint-Gilles Cathedral is a superb gothic medieval building perfectly representative of the Scottish architectural style. Built in 12^e century, the cathedral was then victim of the fire which ravaged Edinburgh in the 14^e century before being rebuilt in the following century. Take the time to enter the religious building, its interior is indeed as much worth a detour as its superb facade.

#11 The Royal Botanical Garden

In New Town, the Royal Botanical Garden is renowned for being one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Over approximately 30 hectares, you will be able to admire numerous species in a magnificently landscaped space. Between greenhouses and the Chinese garden, plan to take your time in the royal botanical garden. Note that if you are in Edinburgh in the right season, you will also enjoy the largest collection of rhododendrons in the world.

#12 The Fringe Festival

Edinburgh is a city known for its many festivals throughout the year. Cinema, music, theater or even dance, there is always something happening in the Scottish capital. Among the internationally recognized festivals, the Fringe Festival is held every year in August. This festival highlights live performance as a whole and street arts. If you're planning to visit Edinburgh in August, the city is buzzing and you can see many street performances for free.

From the old town to the modern city, you can add many other attractions to this selection to visit Edinburgh according to your desires. You can also continue your journey through this fascinating country by discovering our ideas for itineraries in Scotland. Do not hesitate to also read our advice for preparing a trip to Scotland before your departure.