Scottish National Gallery travel guide

The Scottish National Gallery, located in Edinburgh, is a treasure trove of fine art. It was founded in 1850 as the Royal Scottish Academy and moved to its current location at The Mound in 1859. The gallery's neoclassical building, designed by William Henry Playfair, is a visual delight in itself.

The Scottish National Gallery boasts an extensive collection, with works ranging from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. This includes masterpieces by Titian, Rembrandt, Turner, Van Gogh, Botticelli, and the Scottish artists Sir Henry Raeburn and Sir David Wilkie. In 1912, the gallery was gifted an exceptional collection of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings by Scottish philanthropist Henry Vaughan.

Over the decades, the gallery has expanded its premises, notably with the addition of the Royal Scottish Academy Building in 2003. This has allowed for more exhibition space and the display of the gallery's outstanding collection of Scottish art. Today, the Scottish National Gallery continues to enthrall art lovers with its remarkable collection and rotating exhibitions.

The Scottish National Gallery is distinguished by its comprehensive collection of Scottish art, making it the best place to discover Scotland's rich artistic heritage. A key feature is its display of acclaimed works from Scotland’s own art masters, such as Sir Henry Raeburn and Sir David Wilkie. The gallery also holds an extensive collection of international art including masterpieces from titans like Vermeer, Rembrandt, Turner, Van Gogh, Botticelli, and Titian. Another special trait is the gallery's emphasis on accessibility and engagement. It offers free entry and hosts a variety of activities like workshops, talks, and guided tours that enrich the visitor's experience. The building itself is a visual spectacle, a stunning neoclassical edifice designed by William Henry Playfair, surrounded by the beautiful Princes Street Gardens. Lastly, the gallery's innovative use of natural light to illuminate the artworks, particularly in the upstairs rooms, creates an ethereal viewing experience that is truly unique.

Located in the dynamic City of Edinburgh, the popular Scottish National Gallery is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Edinburgh or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Scotland.

Edinburgh is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Edinburgh offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Edinburgh and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Royal Mile.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Edinburgh has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Edinburgh, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Scotland!

Scottish National Gallery is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Edinburgh, Scotland. If you're flying in, Edinburgh Airport is approximately 6.8 miles (11 km) away from Edinburgh. From there, you can easily reach Scottish National Gallery by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Edinburgh, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Scottish National Gallery, which is located 0.3 miles (0.5 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Scottish National Gallery, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Scottish National Gallery!

The best time to explore Scottish National Gallery is typically during the spring (March through May) and autumn (September through November). These seasons offer milder weather, making it pleasant to stroll around the gallery and its surrounding areas. Edinburgh's summer tourist rush subsides by autumn, resulting in fewer crowds within the gallery. Spring brings the bonus of blooming flowers in the adjacent Princes Street Gardens, adding extra charm to your visit. Moreover, the gallery hosts several special exhibitions throughout the year, enhancing the experience for art enthusiasts. It is advisable to check the gallery's official website for any upcoming events prior to your visit. While the gallery is an indoor attraction and can be visited year-round, the aforementioned times provide a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Hence, spring and autumn are considered the best time to explore Scottish National Gallery.

To truly enjoy your visit to Scottish National Gallery, joining a tour that features this popular art museum in Edinburgh is highly recommended. As one of Scotland's most iconic attractions, Scottish National Gallery draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Scottish National Gallery starting at just 7.49 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Scottish National Gallery and other top attractions in Edinburgh than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Edinburgh include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Scottish National Gallery's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Scottish National Gallery and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind art museum in Scotland.

Conveniently explore Scottish National Gallery and plenty more captivating attractions in Edinburgh by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Scottish National Gallery and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Edinburgh has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Scottish National Gallery below.

Aside from Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Edinburgh, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in Edinburgh, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 90,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Edinburgh Castle is Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Edinburgh is National Museum of Scotland. Like Edinburgh Castle, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars among 45,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this museum is Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, UK.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Edinburgh. This park and top attraction in Edinburgh has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Edinburgh below.