Whether you’re looking to play tourist in your own country or are coming from further afield, there are a number of excellent tourist attractions in Scotland worthy of exploring.
You can step back in time and explore well preserved locations such as The Real Mary King's Close or witness history through medieval ruins such as Dunnottar Castle, but with so many options all around the country where should you start?
We asked you to share what you thought Scotland’s top tourist attractions were and after hundreds of comments, we’ve narrowed down the list.
So without further ado, here are the 32 best Scottish tourist attractions as voted for by The Scotsman readers.

21. Glenfinnan Viaduct
A location which will need no introduction for Harry Potter fans, the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Inverness-shire was ranked by The Scotsman readers as one of Scotland's top tourist spots. | AFP via Getty Images

22. The Kelpies
Located inside the Helix Park, the Kelpies in Falkirk are the largest equine sculptures in the world. Visitors can stop by the cafe or even join tour guides for a look inside the structures. | AFP via Getty Images

23. The Real Mary King's Close
Tucked under Edinburgh's Royal Mile, The Real Mary King's Close is also among the Scotsman readers' top tourist attractions. A series of hidden streets where citizens lived, worked and died between the 17th and 19th centuries, it is also Tripadvisor's Best UK Attraction for 2024. | Derek Young Small

24. Melrose Abbey
A partly ruined monastery in Melrose in the Scottish Borders, Melrose Abbey is full of history having been founded in 1136. Visitors can explore its architecture as well as explore the chapter house which is believed to be the resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart. | Adobe Stock


