Please be advised that Edinburgh city centre is becoming a low emissions zone (LEZ). All vehicles entering the city centre zone area must now meet the less-polluting emission standards or face a penalty charge. To check if your car meets LEZ emissions standards, please visit www.edinburgh.gov.uk/lez
National Gallery of Scotland
The National Galleries Complex is among the finest of Edinburgh galleries. It encompasses the National Gallery of Scotland and the adjacent Royal Scottish Academy. Right next to Princes Street Gardens, the galleries are situated in a prime location at the centre of Edinburgh. It houses Scotland’s permanent collections of fine art and plays regular host to major touring art exhibitions. From the newest portrait of Bonnie Prince Charlie to modern collaborations. This is one of the most active Edinburgh galleries and has one of the world’s best fine art collections. Cubism, pop-art, expressive and more, the National Galleries are sure to catch your interest.
National Gallery of Scotland for Kids
This gallery also offers activities for the kids during the holidays. You can choose a range of activities. From the aptly named Bags of Art to Storytelling, Portrait Detector and much more. Sure to keep your little ones entertained and involved during your visit. This gallery even has a baby friendly tour focused on story telling for very young children. Held on a monthly basis, Wee Treasures tells tales behind the art to spark creativity from the start. The national galleries even has an active events list to help you keep up to date with all the art exhibitions they hold.
Admission to the permanent collections is free and there is even a floor plan online to help you plan your visit.
‘Great collection, always interesting exhibitions. What a great place this is to while away some time. Love the atmosphere! Visited the watercolour exhibition of Turner which was amazing.’
– Scottish National Gallery Tripadvisor Review
Food for Thought
If the food in the fine art paintings has sparked your appetite then hop over to the gallery’s cafe, the Scottish Cafe and Restaurant. With good food that is fresh and simple, and stunning views over Princes Street Gardens, you’ll spoil all your senses with all this visit has to offer.
