Edinburgh CastlevsThe Scottish Parliament
Both are highly recommended by writers. On balance, Edinburgh Castle is preferred by most professionals compared to The Scottish Parliament. Edinburgh Castle comes in at #1 in Edinburgh with positive reviews from 9 reviews like Afar Magazine, Fodor's and Lonely Planet.
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
i
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
The Scottish Parliament Concierge Frommer's Lonely Planet
Travel + Leisure Fodor's Michelin Guide
Horse Wynd, Edinburgh EH991SP, Scotland
From $0/night
Concierge "Highlights of Catalonian architect Enric Miralles's extraordinary complex include the west side's stainless-steel windows... a section of roof that looks like upturned boats, and the Canongate Wall."
Frommer's "The abstract motif repeated on the facade facing the Canongate was apparently inspired by Raeburn's painting." Full review
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"This weird concrete confection at the foot of Salisbury Crags has left the good people of Edinburgh staring and scratching their heads in confusion." Full review
Travel + Leisure "Catalonian architect Enric Miralles went $767 million over budget on his 2004 architectural masterpiece." Full review
Fodor's "Scotland's somewhat controversial Parliament building is dramatically modern, with irregular curves and angles that mirror the twisting shapes of the surrounding landscape." Full review
i
It's worth taking a free tour to see the main hall and debating chamber, a committee room, and other areas. Call well in advance
Michelin Guide 1 Star
"The building is formed of groups of small buildings that form a scallop shell shapes, linked together by glass corridors." Full review
