Edinburgh CastlevsNational Galleries of Scotland: National
Both are endorsed by professional reviewers. Overall, Edinburgh Castle ranks significantly better than Scottish National Gallery. Edinburgh Castle has a TripExpert Score of 96 with recommendations from 9 publications such as The Telegraph, Afar Magazine and Fodor's.
Edinburgh Castle
Concierge
Frommer's
Lonely Planet
Michelin Guide
Fodor's
Afar Magazine Afar Magazine
Atlas Obscura
The Telegraph
Time Out Show All Reviews
Castlehill, Edinburgh EH12NG, Scotland
From $0/night
Concierge "For the history buffs, there are the former royal apartments (Mary Queen of Scots gave birth here), the Crown Room, and the city's oldest building."
i
The extremely loud One O'clock Gun is fired from here, which makes locals and visitors jump on a daily basis.
Frommer's "This ancient stronghold has history seeping out of the stonework, with an undeniable "wow" factor. It's big, it's bold, it's bolshy." Full review
i
If you're a first-timer to Edinburgh, you'll probably want to tick this one off, but go early to avoid the crowds.
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"Edinburgh Castle has played a pivotal role in Scottish history, both as a royal residence... and as a military stronghold." Full review
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"As well as the esplanade used for the Military Tattoo and the fortifications that afford a superb view of Princes Street." Full review
i
You must see the Scottish crown jewels, housed in the Royal Palace.
Fodor's "The crowning glory of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh Castle is popular not only because it's the symbolic heart of Scotland but also because of the views from its battlements." Full review
Afar Magazine "A visit to the majestic Edinburgh Castle is a must." Full review
i
Don't miss out the 1 o' Clock gun fire!
Afar Magazine "En route to Edinburgh Castle, the historic fortress is a sight to behold through a spray of springtime foliage." Full review
Atlas Obscura "The final resting place of soldiers' loyal canine companions. " Full review
The Telegraph "Perhaps the most iconic symbol of the city’s identity and recently named the UK’s best heritage attraction for the fourth year in a row, the castle broods over Edinburgh." Full review
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To avoid queuing, buy your tickets and download audio guides in advance online, and to avoid the crowds make your visit early in the day.
Time Out "Edinburgh Castle is the one of the most definitive landmarks in the United Kingdom and the most popular paid-for tourist attraction in Scotland." Full review
National Galleries of Scotland: National Frommer's Lonely Planet Michelin Guide
Condé Nast Traveler
The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL, Scotland
From $0/night
Frommer's "Impressionism and post-Impressionism are represented by Cézanne, Degas, van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, Gauguin, and Seurat." Full review
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"This imposing classical building with its Ionic porticoes dates from the 1850s... the gallery houses an important collection of European art from the Renaissance to post-Impressionism." Full review
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Each January the gallery exhibits its collection of Turner watercolours
Michelin Guide 2 Stars
"This huge, classic style building contains painting collections exhibited in rooms furnished according to the period and connected by arched passageways." Full review
Condé Nast Traveler "The "Louvre of Edinburgh" houses the best Scottish art, plus international art by the likes of Monet, Van Gogh, and more." Full review
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Or, opt for a tour—just be sure to book a month in advance.
