Edinburgh Castles, Palaces & Historic Buildings

Visit Edinburgh Castle, the city's iconic historic fortress with breathtaking views and opulent riches inside.

Situated at the opposite end of the Royal Mile from the castle, Holyroodhouse Palace is today the official residence of The Queen when visiting Scotland. Guests are welcome all year round to visit the gallery and take guided tours of the magnificent décor of Holyroodhouse Palace. The tapestries and ornate furniture still used to this day are highlights of the tour and offer the Edinburgh tourist a chance to wander around a modern day palace.

Stirling Castle, about a forty minute drive outside Edinburgh, rivals Edinburgh Castle's in beauty and magnificence. Nearby stands the National Wallace Monument, which commemorates Sir William Wallace, the 13th century Scottish hero.

Made famous by the Da Vinci Code, Rosslyn Chapel will dazzle you with its intricate symbolic carvings and mysterious Masonic history. It is located just outside the village of Roslin, to the south of Edinburgh.

Situated by the sea, mighty Tantallon Castle was built in the 1350s by a nobleman at the height of his power. It was truly the last great castle built in Scotland. Its architecture harked back to the mighty stone castles of enclosure of the 13th century, such as Bothwell Castle. These were characterized by enormously thick and high stone walls enclosing large closes, or courtyards. Lofty stone towers projected from the great curtain, wherein the noble life was lived. Visitors can enjoy wild flowers in season and touch the replica cannon. Refreshments are available in the visitor center. The castle is haunted as well - a ghost was snapped in a tourist's picture here in May 2008!