Top tourist attractions & places to visit in Scotland

Urquhart Castle has had its fair share of dramatic moments. Thankfully, you won’t come face-to-face with any gruesome or bloody battles during your visit. Step back in time and uncover the history behind the famous castle ruins left by its residents, historic replicas and much more. Make sure to climb up the Grant Tower where you’ll enjoy glorious views of one of Scotland’s most famous lochs, Loch Ness. 

Admission: Paid 

Explore the dramatic history of Urquhart Castle 

Similar places to explore:  

• Kisimul Castle, Barra – in summer, hop on a boat to this castle in the sea, perched on top of a rocky islet in the middle of Castlebay. 
• Dumbarton Castle, Dumbarton – climb to the top of White Tower Crag and enjoy the views across Strathclyde from this castle’s commanding hilltop position. 
• Lochleven Castle, Loch Leven – take a boat across Loch Leven to this island castle to uncover the story of Mary, Queen of Scots and her daring escape across the loch. 
• Kilchurn Castle, Dalmally – look out over Loch Awe and surrounding landscape as you walk around the ruins of this island castle. 

Just outside of Edinburgh, Newhailes House & Gardens offers a rare glimpse into the past. Step inside this Palladian mansion and discover rooms where peeling wallpaper, worn furniture and personal belongings create the feeling that its previous owners have just departed. The library was once described as ‘the most learned room in Europe’ and as you move from room to room, it is easy to feel as if time has stood still. Outlander fans may also recognise the dining room and exterior from the TV-series. Outside, explore the leafy woodland trails, browse the second-hand bookshop, or stop for a coffee in the café. Little ones can blow off steam in the playpark. 

Admission: Paid 

Step back in time at Newhailes House & Garden 

Similar places to explore:  

• Cawdor Castle & Garden, near Nairn – discover winding passageways, rare tapestries, low doorways and three colourful gardens in this fairytale castle. 
• Broughton House & Garden, Kirkcudbright – stroll through the Japanese-inspired garden or admire the works of art in the Edwardian home of Scottish artist E.A. Hornel. 
• Inverewe Garden, Poolewe – experience the effects of the Gulf Stream in the Highlands as you explore this stunning lochside garden and house. 

You can easily spend a whole day (or more) at the National Museum of Scotland. Set on Edinburgh's Chambers Street, this vast museum is a treasure trove of ancient artefacts and precious objects from natural history collections to science, design, and fashion. Start your visit in the Grand Gallery, where soaring pillars, intricate ironwork and light streaming through the high windows make the atrium a sight to behold.  

Not only is this museum one of the best attractions in Scotland, it also offers a great, year-round programme of changing exhibitions and events. 

Admission: Free

Visit The National Museum of Scotland 

Similar places to explore:  

• The National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh – come face to face with the people who shaped Scotland’s past, present and future at this hidden gem, right in the heart of Edinburgh. 
• The McManus Art Gallery & Museum, Dundee – journey through a collection spanning 400 million years of history that brings Dundee’s past to life. 
• Perth Museum, Perth – stand before the Stone of Destiny and uncover stories of Scottish kings, queens, and the nation’s past. 

Few places are as evocative and emotive as Culloden, where the 1745 Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end on 16 April 1746. As you stand on the windswept moor, take a moment to reflect on one of the most significant events in Scottish history. 

Step inside the award-winning visitor centre to see artefacts from both Jacobite and government forces up close. Experience the sounds and intensity of the conflict as it erupts around you inside the 360-degree battle theatre. End your visit on the rooftop platform where sweeping views over the battlefield bring into focus the scale and significance of events that took place here. 

Admission: Paid 

Visit Culloden Visitor Centre 

Similar places to explore: 

• Battle of Bannockburn Experience, near Stirling – follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce and stand on the spot where Scotland’s history was shaped. 
• Killiecrankie, Perthshire – explore the tree-lined slopes of Killiecrankie Gorge, where scenic river trails meet a famous Jacobite battleground.  

Step inside the Riverside Museum on the banks of the River Clyde, home to the Glasgow Museum of Transport. Stroll along a recreated cobbled street of shopfronts and signs and be ‘transported’ back to bygone eras. From gleaming locomotives to vintage buses, motorcycles, classic cars and even skateboards, this is a must-visit when in Glasgow.

Admission: Free 

Discover Scotland's largest transport collection at the Riverside Museum 

Similar places to explore:  

• RRS Discovery, Dundee – uncover stories from Antarctic expeditions before scaling the foremast of Captain Scott’s famous ship. 
• Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Aberdeen – from old ship models to interactive hands-on displays and harbour views, this family-friendly museum is sure to spark young imaginations. 
• National Museum of Flight, North Berwick – see Scotland’s largest collection of aircrafts on this historic WWII airfield. 
• Museum of Scottish Railways, Bo’ness – climb aboard historic trains, try your hand at signalling and uncover fascinating stories that bring Scotland’s railway heritage to life. 

Perched atop an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle has watched over the capital for centuries and remains Scotland's most-visited paid-for attraction. Explore the Great Hall and battlements, listen out for the One o’clock gun and visit the National War Museum inside the castle’s walls. It is free to enter and is filled with exhibits and artefacts that tell of the impact of war on Scotland's history, identity, and reputation abroad. 

Admission: Paid 

Discover the iconic Edinburgh Castle 

Similar places to explore:  

• Craigmillar Castle, Edinburgh – step inside this well-preserved medieval castle and explore the many nooks and crannies of this atmospheric place. 
• Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow – visit the ruins of Mary, Queen of Scot’s birthplace and imagine what royal life was like centuries ago as you wander through open corridors and towers. 
• The Black Watch Museum, Perth – discover Scotland’s oldest Highland regiment and uncover the stories of the soldiers who served around the world. 
• Fort George, near Inverness – stand on the ramparts of this impressive fort, built in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden, before exploring the fort’s history in the Highlanders’ Museum.   

Stirling Castle was a favoured residence for many of Scotland's kings and queens, and we are sure you will love it too. Like Edinburgh Castle, it sits dramatically atop a volcanic rock overlooking the River Forth. Roam through Scotland’s largest medieval banqueting hall, admire the artistry of the hand-woven Unicorn Tapestries, or stroll through the Queen Anne Garden for a moment of calm and panoramic valley views. For a different perspective, join the Secret Stirling Tour and gain access to 10 hidden areas normally closed to the public.  

Admission: Paid

Take a trip to Stirling Castle 

Similar places to explore:  

• Culzean Castle & Country Park, near Maybole – from elegant rooms to the striking Oval Staircase, this imposing castle, perched high on Ayrshire cliffs offers plenty to discover. 
• Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh – visit the King’s official residence in Edinburgh and step inside grand state apartments that have welcomed royalty for centuries. 
• Caerlaverock Castle, near Dumfries – explore this unusually triangular shaped castle from the outside and inside as you learn about its turbulent history.   

Looking for a fun day out with the family? At Loch Lomond Shores, just 25 minutes from Glasgow, you can see Loch Lomond from a whole new perspective. Cruise across the water on a boat tour, try your hands at watersports, tackle the treetop challenge at Treezone, or come face to face with sharks at the SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium. Little ones will love the dinosaur themed Jurassic Grill or browse local food and drink at the regular farmers’ market. 

Admission: Free 

Explore Loch Lomond Shores 

Similar places to explore: 

• Falkirk Wheel, Falkirk – experience being lifted in the air by boat in the world’s only rotating boat lift.   
• Loch Insh Outdoor Centre, near Kincraig – whether you’re paddling across the loch, practising your archery skills or want to snowboard down the slopes, Loch Insh offers year-round adventures for the whole family. 

Come rain or shine, it’s easy to spend hours at Kelvingrove. Wander through the 22 grand galleries and let your curiosity lead the way. From ancient artefacts and natural history collections to masterpieces by Salvador Dalí and the Scottish Colourists, you can discover something new behind every corner. Look up at the famous Spitfire suspended overhead or pause to listen to the daily organ recital filling the main entrance hall with music.  

Admission: Free 

Take a trip to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum 

Similar places to explore:  

• Hunterian Museum, Glasgow – browse fascinating collections at the oldest public museum in Scotland, from natural history and archaeology to art and culture. 
• V&A Dundee – Scotland’s first dedicated design museum is as impressive on the outside as it is within, and celebrates creativity, innovation, and design.  
• The Stirling Smith Art Gallery & Museum, Stirling – journey through Stirling’s past, from local history and archaeology to art and cultural treasures. 

After a day of sightseeing, find a moment of calm in the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh. Founded in 1670 and covering 72 acres, this world-renowned garden is just a short walk from the bustling city centre. Follow winding paths through the Rock Garden and Chinese Hillside, breathe in the scent of seasonal blooms, and be dazzled by the colourful display of plants and flowers from around the globe.  

Admission: Free 

Take a walk through the Royal Botanic Garden 

Similar places to explore:  

• Dawyck Botanic Garden, Scottish Borders – walk below a canopy of towering giant redwoods, admire the colourful seasonal displays and enjoy peaceful woodland landscapes in the heart of the Scottish Borders. 
• Glasgow Botanic Gardens, Glasgow – surround yourself with lush greenery, unusual plants, and elegant marble statues in the iconic wrought-iron greenhouse. 

This list is based on the Moffat Centre Scottish Visitor Attraction Monitor 2024.