Must-Visit Museums in Edinburgh

Discover the rich Scottish history within Edinburgh's museums 🏛️

Historic building with columns draped in British flags and banners that read "National," "World-class art," and "Free admission." One of Edinburgh's must-visit museums.
Edinburgh / Must-Visit Museums in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is packed with history, and you can dive into all that art and culture at the local museums. There are several museums all over town. We can’t wait to share our top picks must-visit museums in Edinburgh!

National Museum of Scotland hall NCT edinburgh museum

1. National Museum of Scotland

Location: Chambers Street, Edinburgh

The National Museum of Scotland is a all about Scottish history and culture. Spread across several levels, the museum showcases a rich and varied collection that covers everything from prehistoric artifacts to modern art. Noteworthy highlights include national treasures such as the Lewis Chessmen and the revolutionary Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal ever cloned. Each exhibit is expertly curated to offer a profound insight into Scotland’s social history and its impact on the world. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh! Admission is free 😊

Scottish National Gallery NCT edinburgh

2. Scottish National Gallery

Location: The Mound, Edinburgh

Art enthusiasts cannot miss the Scottish National Gallery, home to an impressive collection of artworks spanning from the Renaissance to the 20th century. The gallery features masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Titian, and Monet, alongside exceptional Scottish artists like Sir Henry Raeburn. Not only is the art breathtaking, but the striking architecture of the gallery itself adds to the overall aesthetic experience. Admission is free, although some temporary exhibitions may charge a fee.

3. The Museum of Edinburgh

Location: 142 Canongate, Edinburgh

If you find yourself wandering down the Royal Mile, you gotta check out The Museum of Edinburgh! It’s all about the city’s amazing history, showing you how it went from a medieval hangout to the bustling capital we know today. Inside, you’ll discover a treasure chest of cool artifacts and exhibits that highlight just how important Edinburgh is culturally, with everything from ancient coins to modern art pieces. It’s free entry.

4. The Writers’ Museum

Location: Lady Stair’s Close, Edinburgh

Bookworms definitely need to check out The Writers’ Museum! It’s all about celebrating the lives and works of some of Scotland’s coolest writers, like Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Set in this lovely little building, the museum is packed with awesome artifacts, manuscripts, and personal stuff from these literary legends. It totally captures the spirit of Scotland’s writing scene, making it a must-visit spot for anyone who loves books.