Map

The Scottish Parliament vs The Real Mary King's Close

Both are recommended by professional reviewers writing for major publications. On balance, Real Mary King's Close ranks marginally better than The Scottish Parliament. Real Mary King's Close is ranked #6 in Edinburgh with approval from 7 sources like Frommer's, Atlas Obscura and Time Out.

The Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament
8 / 10
Horse Wynd, Edinburgh EH991SP, Scotland
From $0 /night
Concierge 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 Frommer's
"The abstract motif repeated on the facade facing the Canongate was apparently inspired by Raeburn's painting." Full review
Lonely Planet 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 Travel + Leisure
"Catalonian architect Enric Miralles went $767 million over budget on his 2004 architectural masterpiece." Full review
Fodor's 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
Show All Reviews
The Real Mary King's Close
The Real Mary King's Close
8 / 10
2 Warriston's Close, Edinburgh EH1 1PG, Scotland
From $0 /night
Lonely Planet Lonely Planet
Top Choice
"This spooky, subterranean labyrinth gives a fascinating insight into the everyday life of 17th-century Edinburgh." Full review
Travel + Leisure Travel + Leisure
"Tour this warren of recently opened underground alleyways for a fascinating account of the city's past (victims of the 1644 plague died here) and a firsthand look into restored 17th-century town houses." Full review
Atlas Obscura Atlas Obscura
"17th century streets hidden under Edinburgh were once a breeding ground for the black death. " Full review
The Telegraph The Telegraph
"It explores a series of narrow 17th century streets, subsequently built over and closed to the public until the first tours began in 1990s. " Full review
Fodor's Fodor's
"Hidden beneath the City Chambers, this narrow, cobbled close, or lane, named after a former landowner, is said to be one of Edinburgh's most haunted sites." Full review
Show All Reviews