Discover one of the world’s finest collections of art at Scottish National Gallery, situated on the Mound, an artificial hill in the middle of the city. Designed by architect William Henry Playfair in the Neoclassical style, the gallery opened in 1859. Today, it houses Scottish and international art from the beginning of the Renaissance to the start of the 20th century. At the heart of the collection is a group of paintings transferred from the Royal Scottish Academy, including masterpieces by Jacopo Bassano, Anthony van Dyck, and Giambattista Tiepolo. The collection also includes notable works by Cézanne, Botticelli, Degas, El Greco, Monet, Goya, Gauguin, Raphael, Rembrandt, Velazquez, and Vermeer, to name just a few. Check online for special events and temporary exhibits. Use our Edinburgh online tour itinerary maker to arrange your visit to Scottish National Gallery and other attractions in Edinburgh.
Tours to Scottish National Gallery
Scottish National Gallery reviews
-
If you like museums, don't miss this gem in Edinburgh. The collection is amazing and the artwork was displayed elegantly. The staff was also approachable, friendly and knowledgeable. The...
If you like museums, don't miss this gem in Edinburgh. The collection is amazing and the artwork was displayed elegantly. The staff was also approachable, friendly and knowledgeable. The... more »
-
Nice small museum with a sample of pre 1900 art: Scottish and Spanish are highlights. Free. The temporary exhibits were closed. Get a guide!
Nice small museum with a sample of pre 1900 art: Scottish and Spanish are highlights. Free. The temporary exhibits were closed. Get a guide! more »
-
This was an amazing visit. So much talent. Some of the paintings feel like they are alive and they could very well come out of the pictures. The artists have a keen eye for detail and fine mixing of different colors and textures to make their painting come to life to tell their story. Would definitely recommend seeing this gallery.
-
A must visit if you come to Edinburgh, plus it’s free so who doesn’t like that! Since the museum is currently under construction the visit it’s definitely shorter but that doesn’t make it less enjoyable! Very nice with some beautiful art from some well known artists, and long explanations with every artwork! Worth a visit even while it's under construction.
Plan your trip to Edinburgh
best routes and schedules
Popular things to do in Edinburgh
Side trips from Edinburgh
Historic Sites in Edinburgh
Museums in Edinburgh
Hidden gems in Edinburgh
Nearby attractions in Edinburgh
Trips in Scottish National Gallery by other users
58 days in United Kingdom
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Belfast
Weymouth
Bath
60 days in United Kingdom
SEE PLAN
St Austell
Torquay
Cardiff
56 days in United Kingdom
SEE PLAN
London
Inverness
Edinburgh
12 days in Edinburgh & Silverstone
SEE PLAN
Edinburgh
Silverstone
34 days in Europe
SEE PLAN
Edinburgh
Amsterdam
Eindhoven
33 days in United Kingdom
SEE PLAN
London
Brighton and Hove
Inverness