Stirling

Things to do in Stirling

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Top 10 attractions in Stirling

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Stirling Castle
No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Stirling

Stirling Castle

4.6
4.7/5
79 reviews
Stirling Castle is a fortress castle building with cliffs on three sides on the Castle Hill in Stirling, Scotland. Although there have been traces of human activity here as early as prehistoric times, it was not until 1110 when King Alexander I of Scotland built a chapel here that the first official record of an actual building was found here. As for the Stirling Castle seen today, it was almost all in the late 15th century to the end of the 16th century, during the reign of several kings such as James IV, James V and James VI of the Stuart Dynasty. built. Stirling Castle is located on a 77-meter-high cliff in the Old Town of Stirling and was once the palace of the King of Scotland. Mary Queen of Scots and James VI, who played an important role in British history, also lived in this castle. The castle is an iconic building throughout Scotland and even Great Britain. It has witnessed many wars and historical movements in Scottish history. Some people call it "a brooch of Scotland", which fully shows its historical status and importance. Stirling Castle was a very famous royal castle in the 12th century. In the history of Scotland, whether it is stories involving war and peace or stories related to imperial power, many stories are related to this castle. Without this castle, there would not be the famous Battle of Stirling Bridge, which Wallace directed here in 1297. Now, the castle is converted into the Legion Museum.Stirling · 889m from downtown
Palace of Holyroodhouse
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Palace of Holyroodhouse

8.8
4.7/5
384 reviews
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and serves as the official residence of His Majesty the King of Scotland, used for state ceremonies and official entertainment. This palace has been a royal residence for over 500 years and is deeply intertwined with Scotland's rich history. A visit to the palace includes the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, where many dramatic events occurred during her brief and tumultuous reign, including the brutal murder of her Italian secretary David Rizzio by her husband Lord Darnley. In the palace's State Apartments, visitors can admire the magnificent Great Gallery, where grand balls were held in September 1745 when Bonnie Prince Charlie established his Jacobite court at the palace. Today's State Apartments reflect the evolving tastes of successive monarchs, renowned for their exquisite plaster ceilings and an unparalleled collection of Brussels tapestries. They house a significant portion of the Royal Collection's artworks, many of which have long-standing connections to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Scotland. A visit to the palace also includes the opportunity to explore the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the palace's unique gardens, set against the backdrop of Arthur's Seat. At the palace café, visitors can enjoy homemade dishes made from local produce, ranging from light snacks and lunches to afternoon tea.Edinburgh · 50.9km from Stirling

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Experiences you can't miss in Stirling

Featured Culture & history in Stirling

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Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour
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4.8/5
· 3.3k reviews· 297 booked
Duration: 750 mins
Free cancellation
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95% of travelers recommend
FromPLN 261.79
From Glasgow: Stirling Castle & Loch Lomond Small-Group Tour
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5.0/5
· 27 reviews
Duration: 9 hrs
English
Free cancellation
27 consecutive positive reviews
FromPLN 268.56
Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour
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4.5/5
· 429 reviews
Duration: 570 mins
Free cancellation
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FromPLN 276.51
From Edinburgh: West Highlands, Lochs, and Castles Tour
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4.8/5
· 109 reviews
Duration: 10 hrs
Free cancellation
96.3% of travelers recommend
FromPLN 362.55

Featured Food & drink in Stirling

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Glasgow: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk, and Whisky Tour
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4.5/5
· 11 reviews
Duration: 8 hrs
Free cancellation
FromPLN 473.94
Edinburgh: Stirling Castle, Kelpies, Whisky & Highlands Tour
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5.0/5
· 4 reviews
Duration: 9.5 hrs
Free cancellation
FromPLN 473.98
Stirling Castle, Highland Lochs & Whisky Tour from Edinburgh
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4.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 10 hrs
Free cancellation
FromPLN 363.39
Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow
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FromPLN 528.67
Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour and Beer Tasting
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Duration: 5 hrs
English
Free cancellation
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FromPLN 258.06

Featured Outdoor & sports in Stirling

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1-day tour of St Andrews Cathedral + Old Course + Fife Coast | Medieval University Town
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5.0/5
· 3 reviews
Duration: 6.2 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromPLN 345.54
Edinburgh: Guided Hike to Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
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5.0/5
· 73 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
73 consecutive positive reviews
FromPLN 126.42
Oban, Lochs & Inveraray Full-Day Tour from Edinburgh
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5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
FromPLN 289.66
Edinburgh: Highland Cow Hike in Edinburgh
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5.0/5
· 10 reviews
Duration: 3 hrs
Free cancellation
FromPLN 418.66
Edinburgh: Arthur's Seat Hike with Mountain Guide
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FromPLN 251.21
Arthur's Seat Sunset Hike
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5.0/5
· 16 reviews
Duration: 2 hrs
Free cancellation
FromPLN 251.21

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Stirling weather for the next 2 days11/5: 7-10℃, 11/6: 6-10℃

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What travellers say about Stirling

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werduy19 January 2025
5.0
This is a great historical location. Of course I am into the ruins and all that entails, but regardless fun! Kissing the stone does require you to hang update down over the castle wall but it iscompletely safe. The grounda are beautiful andpeaceful. We came on a rainy day so crowds may have been smaller due to that. Be sure to plan for a few hours to see as much as possible. Easily 4 or more.

Stirling Castle

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D08***9621 January 2025
1.0
It's off-season now, the park is not open at all, it's a waste of time

Blair Drummond Safari Park

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Tania Akter (Sumi)29 October 2026
5.0
Edinburgh Castle is an absolutely breathtaking historical landmark! ❤️ Perched high on Castle Rock, it offers spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding city. The impressive stone walls, ancient architecture, and rich Scottish history make this place truly special. Walking through the castle feels like stepping back in time, with fascinating stories of kings, queens, battles, and royal traditions waiting to be discovered. I especially love the dramatic setting and the way the castle stands proudly above the city. It’s a perfect destination for history lovers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys exploring beautiful historical places. 😊 Definitely a must-visit attraction in Scotland!

Edinburgh Castle

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_TS***i819 June 2022
5.0
what can I say, impressive is an understatement and definitely worth a visit to see the shear size of these Celtic Clyde's- my husband is in this picture for a comparison of the size (and he's not vertically challenged like myself !)

The Kelpies

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Girish94004 November 2026
5.0
🏴 Exploring the Beautiful City of Edinburgh, Scotland! ❤️🏰What an amazing experience exploring the historic streets of Edinburgh! From the magnificent Edinburgh Castle to the stunning architecture and charming old stone buildings, every corner tells a story of Scotland's rich history and culture.Walking through the beautiful Old Town, surrounded by historic buildings, breathtaking views and lively streets, felt like stepping back in time. The atmosphere, the architecture and the beauty of this city make it truly unforgettable.Scotland, you are full of history, charm and magic! A beautiful destination and a wonderful memory. ❤️

Edinburgh Old Town

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Anonymous user24 September 2026
5.0
Visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse was easily one of the highlights of my time in Edinburgh. Located right at the end of the Royal Mile, it offers a fascinating contrast to the medieval drama of Edinburgh Castle, providing a much more intimate glimpse into British and Scottish royal history.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

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Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Stirling?

Don't miss these attractions in Stirling: Stirling Castle, The National Wallace Monument, and Blair Drummond Safari Park. If you like Culture & history, try Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Glasgow: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk, and Whisky Tour.

You can give Glasgow: Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk, and Whisky Tour and Edinburgh: Stirling Castle, Kelpies, Whisky & Highlands Tour a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

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