Looking for the best museums in Edinburgh? These are the best ones:
1The Scotch Whisky Experience
EdinburghThe Scotch Whisky Experience is a whisky-themed visitor attraction situated on Castlehill in the Old Town of Edinburgh. It is conveniently located next to the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle, making it an easy addition to your itinerary if you're planning to visit the castle. The location offers a unique blend of history and whisky culture, providing an immersive experience for whisky enthusiasts and history buffs alike. 2National Museum of Scotland
EdinburghThe National Museum of Scotland, located in Edinburgh, was established in 2006 as a result of the merger of two adjacent museums: the Scotland Museum and the Royal Museum. The Scotland Museum is home to collections that shed light on Scottish antiquity, culture, and history. On the other hand, the Royal Museum houses collections that cover a wide range of topics, including science and technology, natural history, and world cultures. 3Edinburgh Castle
EdinburghThis most famous of Scottish castles has a complex building history. The oldest part, St Margaret’s Chapel, dates from the 12th century; the Great Hall was erected by James IV around 1510; the Half Moon Battery by the Regent Morton in the late 16th century; and the Scottish National War Memorial aft 4The Real Mary King's Close
EdinburghThe 57 Gallery was a platform for many artists to showcase their work. Among them were Barbara Rae, Jock McFadyen, Eileen Lawrence, Barry Flanagan, and John Houston. These artists had the opportunity to display their work in a space that was dedicated to promoting the arts and supporting artists. 5The Palace of Holyroodhouse
EdinburghThe Palace of Holyroodhouse, colloquially known as Holyrood Palace, has a rich history dating back to 1128 when it was founded as a monastery by David I of Scotland. Since the 16th century, it has served as the primary residence of the Scottish monarchs, with its last inhabitant being Queen Mary Stuart. This historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in Scottish history and royal residences. 6The Edinburgh Dungeon
EdinburghThe Edinburgh Dungeon, located in the city centre on Market Street, is an underground tourist attraction that uses live actor shows and interactive rides to depict various historical events from Scottish history. The shows are presented in a fun, scary style with audience interaction, special effects, theatrical sets, and performances. 7Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
EdinburghInverleith House is a significant historic house located within the Royal Botanic Garden in the suburb of Inverleith, Edinburgh, Scotland. This house, designed in 1773 by David Henderson and built for James Rocheid in 1774, offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area. It is now a part of the Royal Botanic Garden, providing a unique blend of history and nature for visitors to explore. 8Scottish National Gallery
EdinburghThe National Gallery of Scotland opened in 1859 and is housed in a neoclassical building designed by William Henry Playfair. The gallery houses a collection of both classical and modern art from various countries. The displays are organized according to countries and periods. Highlights of the perma 9Scottish National Portrait Gallery
EdinburghThe Scottish National Portrait Gallery is an art museum in Edinburgh housed in a red sandstone Gothic revival building that was built between 1885 and 1890, designed by Robert Rowand Anderson. The museum holds the national collections of portraits and the Scottish National Photography Collection. Th 10Edinburgh Zoo
EdinburghHave an unforgettable day out at Edinburgh Zoo, home of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) and over 2,500 incredible animals from around the world! Set in over 82 acres of wooded hillside, the zoo is open seven days a week and is a gateway to the natural world, where you can experience 11Surgeons' Hall Museums
EdinburghSurgeons' Hall, located in Edinburgh, Scotland, serves as the headquarters for the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd). This historic building is not only an important institution for medical professionals, but also a significant landmark in the city. 12National War Museum Scotland
EdinburghThe National War Museum, situated within the historic Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, has been welcoming visitors since its opening in 1933. The museum is housed in a converted 18th-century ordnance storehouse and offers a comprehensive look into Scotland's military history spanning over 400 years. The museum is managed by National Museums Scotland. 13Craigmillar Castle
EdinburghCraigmillar Castle is a museum in Edinburgh. The museum features exhibits related to Social History and Architecture. 14Museum of Childhood
EdinburghThe Museum of Childhood, situated on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland, is home to a vast collection of children's toys. This unique museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of childhood, with exhibits spanning from the 18th to the 21st century. Visitors can explore a variety of toys and memorabilia, providing a nostalgic journey through the evolution of children's playthings. 15The Museum on the Mound
EdinburghThe Museum on the Mound, located in Edinburgh, Scotland, is a unique institution that concentrates on the themes of money, coinage, and economics. It provides an in-depth look into the history and evolution of these subjects, offering a unique perspective on how they have shaped society and the world at large.- 16
Georgian House
EdinburghThe Georgian House is a significant historical site located at Charlotte Square in Edinburgh. It is part of the New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the United Kingdom. This townhouse offers a glimpse into the life and circumstances of a wealthy family at the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19th century. It is a part of the Charlotte Square 1–11 ensemble on the north side of the park, which has been included in the highest category A of the Scottish monument list by Historic Environment Scotland. 17Museum of Edinburgh
EdinburghThe Museum of Edinburgh, previously known as Huntly House and the historic Bank of Scotland Head Office, is situated at 142-146 Canongate. This location is in the heart of Edinburgh, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The museum is housed in a unique yellow, three-story building that dates back to the late 16th century. 18Peoples' Story Museum
EdinburghThe Museum of Edinburgh, previously known as Huntly House and the historic Bank of Scotland Head Office, is situated at 142-146 Canongate. This location is in the heart of Edinburgh, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The museum is housed in a unique yellow, three-story building that dates back to the late 16th century. 19Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
EdinburghThe National Galleries Scotland is a significant institution that oversees three national galleries and two partner galleries. These galleries form part of the National Collections of Scotland, a collection of significant cultural and historical artifacts. The organization's role is to manage these galleries, care for and preserve the objects in its collections, exhibit artworks to the public, and promote education and public enjoyment and understanding of the Fine Arts.- 20
Holyrood Abbey
EdinburghHolyrood Abbey is a museum in Edinburgh. The museum features exhibits related to: archaeology, architecture and social history.