Best places to visit in Scotland

Scotland's Crown Jewels

This collection spans Scotland’s urban landmarks and rugged highlands, featuring historic fortifications like the 12th-century Edinburgh Castle and the ruins of Kilchurn Castle on Loch Awe. The selection covers Edinburgh’s royal heritage from the Royal Mile to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, alongside geological wonders like Arthur’s Seat and the Fairy Pools of Skye. Architectural highlights include the Victorian Gothic Scott Monument and Glasgow’s Art Nouveau Mackintosh Church, complemented by cultural sites exploring the nation’s whisky distilling traditions and the underground history of Mary King’s Close.

Scotland's Crown Jewels — Map

Mactographer / Attribution

A

Edinburgh Castle

Historic fortress and national monument with a history dating back to the 9th century, featuring royal artifacts and panoramic views of the city.

Daniel / CC BY 2.0

B

Royal Mile

Historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, known for its shops, dining, and cultural heritage.

Ludi Ling / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Historic royal palace featuring Renaissance architecture, state apartments, gardens, and abbey ruins. It serves as the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

David Monniaux / CC-BY-SA-3.0

D

Arthur's Seat

Volcanic hill reaching 251 meters in height, featuring panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. It is located within a large park known for its geological and historical significance.

[Duncan] / CC BY 2.0

E

Calton Hill

Historic hill featuring panoramic city views, iconic monuments, and cultural heritage. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

George Gastin / CC BY-SA 3.0

F

Scott Monument

Victorian Gothic tower and memorial dedicated to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, featuring viewing platforms with panoramic city views.

The Real Mary King's Close / Public domain

G

The Real Mary King's Close

Mary King's Close is a historic close located under the Edinburgh City Chambers building on the Royal Mile, in the historic Old Town area…

Derek Harper / CC BY-SA 2.0

H

The Scotch Whisky Experience

The ultimate whisky attraction offering a journey through the distilling process.

Maddie Messenger / CC-BY-SA

I

Fairy Pools

The Fairy Pools are a series of natural pools and waterfalls in Glen Brittle on the Isle of Skye, Scotland.

Mihael Grmek / CC BY-SA 3.0

J

Kilt Rock Viewpoint

This beautiful colorful sea cliff in the shape of a kilt is 55 m tall and it features a majestic waterfall, the Mealt.

Carlos Delgado / CC BY-SA 3.0

K

Victoria Street

If there was an award for the most picturesque street in Edinburgh, Victoria Street would definitely receive it.

Remi Mathis / CC BY-SA 3.0

L

Kilchurn Castle

Kilchurn Castle () is a ruined structure on a rocky peninsula at the northeastern end of Loch Awe, in Argyll and Bute, Scotland.

HARTLEPOOLMARINA2014 / CC BY-SA 3.0

M

Dunstaffnage Castle

Constructed before 1240, it is considered to be one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland.

elmaranayu / CC-BY-SA

N

Midhope Castle

Midhope Castle is a 15th-century tower house in Scotland. It is situated in the hamlet of Abercorn on the Hopetoun estate, About 4…

Postdlf / CC-BY-SA-3.0

O

Argyle Street

Argyle Street is a major thoroughfare in the city centre of Glasgow, Scotland.

dave souza / GFDL

P

Queen's Cross Church

Queen's Cross Church is a former Church of Scotland parish church in Glasgow, Scotland.

Other Lists

Editor's Choice: Scotland's Best Scotland's Hidden Gems Scotland's Heritage Trail Scottish Museums & Galleries Iconic Castles of Scotland Scottish Religious Sites Beaches and Lighthouses Scotland's Natural Wonders