Best Museums in Calton Hill

"With four levels of exhibits featuring everything from the natural world, world cultures, science & technology to art, design & fashion and Scottish history, a trip to The National Museum of Scotland offers a whole world of discovery for all the family. Start your visit in the beautiful Grand Gallery and marvel at the massive skull of Moby the whale; travel back in time as you explore the Scottish galleries; or why not explore centuries of creativity and innovation in the Fashion and Style gallery – whatever your interests, you’re bound to find something in this awe-inspiring museum to capture your imagination. Free entry, advance online booking required."

"If you are museum lover then this will be at the top of you list when looking for things to do in Edinburgh. The National Museum of Scotland is situated in Chamber’s Street in the old town and is a fine Victorian building that opened in 1866. The museum is free and is very extensive."

"On a visit to the National Museum of Scotland you’ll learn all about the history and culture of Scotland. Moreover, there are many antiquities from around the world including ancient Egypt. For the latest information and exhibits check the official Museum of Scotland website."

"The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh was the first of its kind in the world, and continues to showcase toys and games from the 18th century to the modern day. The museum provides an interesting look into the way that childhood has been defined over the generations, and the differences in toy trends over time. This is a great attraction for both children and adults, exploring the history of ‘fun’ as well as provoking nostalgia in the grown-ups!"

"Despite there being millions of children in the world, there’s only one Museum of Childhood. This is one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh for families thanks to its fun and interactive exhibits. There are lots of games and toys including a few with emotional stories, for example a teddy bear that travelled on a Kindertransport train destined to rescue children from Nazi Germany."

"You can discover how our planet evolved millions of years ago at the exciting Dynamic Earth. Let’s start with a bang as we journey through time and learn about our past, present and future with interactive exhibits and mind blowing technology. Another must for family days out."

"From Cubism and Expressionism to 20th-century Russian and French pieces, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is unmissable for art buffs. With two early-19th-century buildings to explore (Modern One and Modern Two) and sweeping green spaces dotted with sculptures (including monumental earthworks by Charles Jencks), it’s well worth leaving the city centre to explore the galleries. Modern Two contains the intact studio of erstwhile Edinburgh sculptor Eduardo Paolozzi."

"The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art — also known as "Modern One" — is another must-visit for art enthusiasts. Here, you'll find displays of paintings by Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso; surrealistic works by Rene Magritte, Joan Miró, and Max Ernst; and contemporary paintings by Bruce McLean, Callum Innes, and Gwen Hardie. The gallery is also well-known for its impressive collection of sculptures."

"Edinburgh's gallery of modern art is split between two impressive neoclassical buildings surrounded by landscaped grounds some 500m west of Dean Village. As well as showcasing a stunning collection of paintings..."

"Transport yourself to the Outlander set at Callendar Park & House. Callendar Park & House was used for one of the most well-known Outlander scenes as the Duke of Sandringham’s home."

"The People’s Story sits on the opposite side of the street from the Museum of Edinburgh, and is housed within the Canongate Tolbooth, which has stood on the Royal Mile since 1591. The tolbooth was a once a courtroom, a prison, and a place of gathering for the town council – if only walls could tell tales!. Nowadays, the iconic clock and pretty turrets epitomise Edinburgh’s Old Town charm, and are frequently photographed by passersby."

"Canongate Tolbooth, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH8 8BNOpen Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10am - 5pm; Sunday 12pm - 5pmFree to enter, donations welcome. The People's Story museum is located in the Canongate Tolbooth, which is a historic landmark in itself built in 1591. It provides visitors with a realistic and fascinating look at what life was like for Edinburgh citizens in days gone by."

"At Union Canal every Friday, Fountainbridge is home to some of the country’s best street food retailers offering the prefect location for lunch. Elevenses or an afternoon treat. Each week hosts different suppliers but regular favourites include Babu Bombay Street Kitchen, Barnacles & Bones, Bonnie Burrito, French Connection Creperie, Union of Genius Soup and Steampunk Coffee."

"It has been offering delectable Franco-Scottish fare for more than10 years!. The city regulars make the bistro's main clientele. A very busy and much loved restaurant in Edinburgh."

"Frizzante is a multi-award winning restaurant that’s steeped in local culinary history. Run by the son of famed Italian chef and restaurateur Don Pasquale, Frizzante aims to continue the success of its forebears by providing locals with authentic Italian dishes, a friendly and charming atmosphere, fantastic service and value for money. It’s been a long-standing family motto that the real stars are the regular customers who come and eat time and time again."

"Frizzante is the most recent venture of the charismatic and accomplished Don Pasquale and his son jonathan. Don Pasquale has been serving delicious Italian food to Edinburgh patrons for many years, and his son has clearly inherited his enthusiasm and charm. Frizzante specialises in Neapolitan and Mediterranean food."

"Tuck into all the American classics, including burgers, steaks, indulgent desserts and classic cocktails in this rock n roll themed resultant. Outdoor seating is unreserved and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Hard Rock Cafe20 George Street, Edinburgh."

"Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh, 20 George Street, Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH2 2PF. Things to do at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh review. The legendary Hard Rock Cafe was established in Edinburgh city centre in 1998."

"With three restaurants in Edinburgh, Five Guys is well-known and loved for it's burgers and fries. Made with the toppings of your choice, the diner style eatery is has been racking in the orders from locals in recent weeks. According to Deliveroo, the 'Bacon Cheeseburger' is the most popular dish."