Scottish Parliament Tours

Scottish Parliament showing street scenes
Scottish Parliament showing street scenes and a pool
Scottish Parliament showing street scenes
Scottish Parliament showing street scenes
Scottish Parliament which includes street scenes

As Scotland’s political center, this striking modern building hosts the nation's government and welcomes visitors to its events and exhibitions.

Admire the unique design of the Scottish Parliament building, a must-see sight in Edinburgh. The front of the building is a mixture of steel, oak and granite, designed to look as if it is growing from the ground. Inside is equally interesting and is open for the public to explore, with special events and tours for curious visitors. A selection of artwork completes the picture of the building as a modern representation of a welcoming and cultural Scotland.

When Scotland voted in favor of a devolved parliament in 1997, it was clear that a new building was needed to host this chamber of politicians. A competition was launched for architects to design it and in 2004 the Scottish Parliament met here for the first time. Note the modern, abstract design elements, some of which attracted controversy initially, but now the building is an iconic part of Edinburgh's architecture.

Take one of four different guided tours, such as the Parliament Tour, which explores the history of Scottish politics and the design of the building. The History Tour tells stories from Scotland's past while the Literature Tour looks at how the building is linked to Edinburgh's writers. Browse the permanent collections of paintings and sculptures on the Art Tour. Book these free tours in advance to guarantee your spot.

Sit in on the debates that shape a nation when the parliament is in session. Visitors can attend First Minister's Questions, when Scotland's leader is grilled on government choices, or listen to a debate in the debating chamber.

Attend one of the Scotland-themed events hosted in the award-winning building. The Scottish Parliament building has been used for musical competitions, multimedia art presentations and public lectures, as well as conferences on culture and politics.

Make the 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Waverley train station to reach the Scottish Parliament building. Alternatively, buses run to the Canongate and Horse Wynd stops, both of which are nearby. Visit during the day from Monday to Saturday.

Plan a trip to see Scottish Parliament

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The Hoxton Edinburgh

The Hoxton Edinburgh

4 out of 5
West End
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Sep 25 - Oct 1
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Boston (BOS) to Edinburgh (EDI)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (23 reviews)
Excellent staff, great areas to hang out and a restaurant that was unique and had indulgent Italian food. Highly recommend this hotel.

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2025

Destiny Scotland Royal Mile Residence

Destiny Scotland Royal Mile Residence

4 out of 5
Old Town Edinburgh
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Oct 28 - Nov 3
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
New York (JFK) to Edinburgh (EDI)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (155 reviews)
Perfect location for my family of four to explore Edinburgh

Reviewed on Aug 13, 2025

First Lasswade Road House

First Lasswade Road House

4 out of 5
Gilmerton
Save 100% on your flight
per person
Oct 23 - Oct 28
found 9 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Dallas (DFW) to Edinburgh (EDI)
7.6/10 Good! (4 reviews)

Browse tours and tickets to explore Scottish Parliament

Tours & day trips

See all 487 activities
Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Activity duration is 12 hours and 30 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 87 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $122 per adult
Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry TourOpens in new tab

Private & custom tours

See all 190 activities
Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth Tavern

Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth Tavern

Activity duration is 1 hour
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $36 per adult
Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth TavernOpens in new tab

Adventure & outdoor

See all 22 activities
Stunning Edinburgh E-bike Tour max 10 people small group

Stunning Edinburgh E-bike Tour max 10 people small group

Activity duration is 3 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is $74 per adult*
Stunning Edinburgh E-bike Tour max 10 people small groupOpens in new tab

Holiday & seasonal tours

See all 20 activities
Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 19 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $39 per adult
Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with WhiskyOpens in new tab

Classes & workshops

See all 10 activities
Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
9.8 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is $24 per adult
Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing CruiseOpens in new tab

Popular places to visit

The Royal Mile which includes heritage architecture, a house and street scenes

Royal Mile

Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.

Royal Mile
Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth

You can study the exhibits at Dynamic Earth, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Edinburgh. Discover the area's acclaimed theater scene and notable monuments.

Dynamic Earth
Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Palace of Holyroodhouse is just one of the places to see in Edinburgh, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and lively festivals.

Palace of Holyroodhouse
Burns Monument

Burns Monument

You can learn about the history of Edinburgh with a stop at Burns Monument. Discover the area's lively festivals and shops.

Burns Monument
Bakehouse Close © Paul Cunningham-Edinburgh Photo Guy Bakehouse Close, Canongate on Edinburgh's Royal Mile is one of my favourite closes, because it's so well preserved. Edinburgh Heritage have documents from the 1700's with all the names of the people that lived in the historic close, including Lord Adam Gordon; David Doig, merchant; William Dunbar, weaver and Ewen. Visiting here gives a good impression of what living in the old city must have been like.

Museum of Edinburgh

You can study the exhibits at Museum of Edinburgh, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Edinburgh. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and fascinating museums.

Museum of Edinburgh
The Royal Mile which includes heritage architecture, a house and street scenes

People's Story Museum

You can study the exhibits at People's Story Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Edinburgh. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.

People's Story Museum

Best Lodging Options Near Scottish Parliament

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

4 out of 5
23-27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

4 out of 5
231 Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
Apex Grassmarket Hotel

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

4 out of 5
31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh

CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh

2 out of 5
1 a Parliament Square, Edinburgh, Scotland
CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh
Cairn Hotel

Cairn Hotel

2 out of 5
10-18 Windsor Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Cairn Hotel
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile

ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile

3 out of 5
77 South Bridge, Edinburgh, Scotland
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

5 out of 5
1 India Buildings, Victoria Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

4 out of 5
61 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh

Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh

4 out of 5
43 Jeffrey Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
See all 2,849 properties in Scottish Parliament
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Scottish Parliament

Near the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, visitors can enjoy vibrant theater performances, exciting festivals, and various entertainment options. Don't miss nearby attractions like Castle Hill, which offers stunning views and rich history. Exploring tourism in Scotland provides a unique insight into its culture and heritage, making your visit to the Parliament a perfect starting point for discovering the charm of the city and its surroundings.

Food and drinks

For a taste of Scotland near the Scottish Parliament, visit the Edinburgh Gin Distillery for unique gin experiences just 1 mile away. Glenkinchie Distillery, 12 miles away, offers fine whisky tours. For a cozy meal, Potter About is an excellent choice 8 miles from the Parliament.

Shopping

For a great shopping experience near Scottish Parliament, visit Scottish Gems, only 0.4 miles away, offering unique gifts. The Hub is 0.8 miles away, featuring local crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre, located 2 miles away, with a variety of family-friendly stores.

Recreation

Explore Murrayfield Stadium for an exhilarating sports experience, just 3 miles from Scottish Parliament. Enjoy the thrill of ice skating at Murrayfield Ice Rink, also 3 miles away, offering fun and adventure. For peace and relaxation, visit Blackford Hill, a serene recreational area located 2 miles away.

Adventure

At the Midlothian Ski Centre, enjoy thrilling skiing experiences just a mile from the Scottish Parliament. For an adrenaline rush, head to Bedlam Paintball, also a mile away, where you can engage in exciting paintball battles. If you're into motorsports, the Knockhill Racing Circuit is 18 miles away, offering exhilarating racing events.

Nightlife

Experience Edinburgh's nightlife by catching a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, just 0.5 miles from Scottish Parliament. For family fun, visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, 0.8 miles away. Wind down at Greyfriar's Bobby, a cozy pub 0.7 miles away, perfect for drinks and romance.

Find the best attractions near Scottish Parliament

When visiting the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history by exploring Parliament Square and the impressive Holyrood Palace. Don't miss the nearby Craigdarroch Castle, which offers stunning architecture and gardens. For a unique experience, consider a trip to London's Houses of Parliament. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities or beach strolls, there's plenty to discover around this vibrant area.

  • Royal Mile: A vibrant street that stretches through the heart of Edinburgh, the Royal Mile is brimming with shops, street performers, and historic sites. This bustling thoroughfare connects the Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, offering a lively atmosphere that embodies the spirit of the city.
  • Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress with stunning views and rich heritage. Explore its ancient walls, learn about Scotland’s royal history, and marvel at the Crown Jewels, all while soaking in the castle's romantic and cultural ambiance.
  • University of Edinburgh: One of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, the University of Edinburgh boasts stunning architecture and a rich academic legacy. Wander through its picturesque campus and soak up the scholarly culture that has shaped many great minds.

Best time to go to Scottish Parliament

Visitor numbers around Scottish Parliament is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Scottish Parliament can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Scottish Parliament falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Scottish Parliament falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January38.5°F (3.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowModerately Low
March41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
April45.1°F (7.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately High
July58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately High
August57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately High
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageModerately Low
December39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Scottish Parliament

To save money during your visit to the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, explore free attractions like the Royal Mile and Princes Street. Plan your trip in January, February, or November for lower hotel rates, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Use Expedia to find last-minute discounts and consider bundling your hotel with flights for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership offers exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future stays. Always check for great rates and secret escapes to maximize your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Scottish Parliament is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Scottish Parliament are January to February and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Scottish Parliament about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodations. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: Consider maximizing your savings by purchasing an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay near the Scottish Parliament with your flights and activities. This way, you can enjoy a more economical travel experience.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.