A new Scotland Attraction Report ranks the country’s top attractions using TripAdvisor reviews to guide visitors.
23:31, 18 Sep 2025Updated 23:31, 18 Sep 2025
A new report highlights Scotland’s top attractions, including Kelvingrove Art Gallery, using TripAdvisor reviews to guide visitors.(Image: Getty Images)
Scotland continues to be a must-visit destination for travellers, offering a mix of history, culture, and unique experiences.
A new report has highlighted the best things to do across the country, helping visitors plan their next trip with insights from TripAdvisor reviews.
MG Timber and Online Marketing Surgery have compiled the Scotland Attraction Report, ranking the country’s most highly reviewed attractions for locals and tourists alike.
Royal Yacht Britannia
Located just two miles from Edinburgh city centre at Ocean Terminal, the award-winning Royal Yacht Britannia served as the yacht of the British Royal Family for over 40 years and welcomed some of the world’s most famous guests, including Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill. Today, visitors can explore the heart and history of this unique Royal residence.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
One of Scotland’s most popular free attractions, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow houses 22 themed galleries with around 8,000 objects. The collections span natural history, arms and armour, and art from multiple movements and periods. Highlights include Salvador Dali’s ‘Christ of St John of the Cross’, Sir Roger the Asian elephant, and a Spitfire suspended from the ceiling of the west court.
Arthur’s Seat
View of the Salisbury Crags at Holyrood Park, in Edinburgh, Scotland, with Edinburgh’s Castle in the background, and evening light on the face of the cliffs and the clouds. Landscape. Cityscape. Travel.(Image: Getty Images)
A short walk from Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, Holyrood Park covers 640 acres and features Arthur’s Seat, a 251-metre-high ancient volcano offering panoramic city views. The site also contains a large, well-preserved hill fort, one of four dating back roughly 2,000 years. The area is noted for its diverse flora and geology and is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
The Real Mary King’s Close
Beneath the City Chambers, Edinburgh conceals the hidden streets of The Real Mary King’s Close, where residents lived and worked between the 17th and 19th centuries. Guided tours led by costumed characters allow visitors to experience the real stories of Edinburgh’s past.
National Museum of Scotland
Opened in 1998, the National Museum of Scotland offers over 10,000 exhibits, from ancient artefacts to modern works of art. Visitors can trace Scotland’s history from its geological origins to contemporary times without leaving the building.
Edinburgh Old Town
Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns offer contrasting yet equally captivating architecture. From medieval tenements in the Old Town to the neoclassical grid of the New Town, the city provides a constantly changing visual landscape that complements its vibrant cultural scene.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, King Charles III’s official residence in Edinburgh, reveals Scotland’s royal history through its state apartments, artworks, and seasonal exhibitions.(Image: Getty Images)
The official residence of King Charles III in Edinburgh, the Palace of Holyroodhouse offers insight into Scotland’s history and royal lineage. Visitors can explore state apartments, view significant artworks, and enjoy seasonal special exhibitions.
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.
You’ll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.
All you have to do is click here if you’re on mobile, select ‘Join Community’ and you’re in!
If you’re on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click ‘Join Community’.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose ‘exit group’.
If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Established in 1853, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction. It features over 100 interactive exhibits, a Mirror Maze, Vortex Tunnel, Ames Room, and a rooftop terrace, making it one of the most fun attractions in the UK according to TripAdvisor.
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile links Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, passing historic streets, landmarks, and attractions like St Giles’ Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament.(Image: Getty Images)
The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, threading through historic closes, cobbled streets, and vibrant squares. Visitors can explore St Giles’ Cathedral, the Scottish Storytelling Centre, and the ultra-modern Scottish Parliament, alongside shops, cafes, and historic sites.
Kitchen Coos & Ewes
Visitors can meet a herd of Highland cows from a purpose-built trailer and learn how the animals help manage the natural environment. The experience concludes with traditional farmhouse baking, combining education, nature, and local culture.
Top 10 rated Scotland attractions, according to Trip Advisor
Things to do
Area
Postcode
Royal Yacht Britannia
Edinburgh
EH6 6JJ
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Glasgow
G3 8AG
Arthur’s Seat
Edinburgh
EH15 3PY
The Real Mary King’s Close
Edinburgh
EH1 1PG
National Museum of Scotland
Edinburgh
EH1 1JF
Edinburgh Old Town
Edinburgh
N/A
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Edinburgh
EH8 8DX
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Edinburgh
EH1 2ND
Royal Mile
Edinburgh
EH1 1QS
Kitchen Coos & Ewes
Newton Stewart
DG8 0AU