TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND

Scotland is home to a variety of sites and landmarks, almost all of which are worth visiting in their own right. Here, we've compiled a list of the top 10 places to visit in Scotland.

The list contains both big-name attractions as well as less traditional ones that may be more difficult or time-consuming to find but will be worth it once found.

Be sure to check the list item by item and you'll soon find out why these are all must-see places in Scotland.

Edinborough Castle/Scotland's largest castle

Built-in 1094, the current fortress was erected on the site of two older castles, both of which were destroyed by lightning. The castle's successor, the Tolbooth, became an impressive residence for the king of Scotland and later, a prison. The present-day building is now a popular tourist destination and includes a large exhibition center showcasing Scotland's diverse history.

The Scottish National Gallery

The country's largest art gallery features world-famous artworks from Scotland's ancient past as well as numerous local artists. The gallery boasts three buildings displaying paintings, sculptures, and other collections over four floors.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle was Built around 975 AD by a great hunter called King Duncan II, the stronghold was later occupied by his daughter Margaret (the Maid of Norway). The castle was later rebuilt during the reign of King David II and has since been used by many of Scotland's monarchs.

Glasgow Cathedral/Cathedral of the city's patron saint

Built-in 1136, this stunning structure features a stunning vista from atop its tower. The cathedral can also be visited at night during special events to view it illuminated by hundreds of candles. A new visitor's center is set to open in 2013, featuring modern displays and artworks on the fold.

Salvage at the Old Royal Naval College

The Old Royal Naval College, established in 1793 and now part of the Museum of Scotland, showcases many unusual specimens found while researching the shipwrecks that have happened off Scotland's coasts. Visitors can also explore the rooms and halls within the museum and have their pictures taken with life-size statues of historical ships.

Blarney Castle/King of Blarney's castle

Built-in 1292, this castle is one of Ireland's oldest castles and is today home to a museum that displays many artifacts from Ireland's past. The castle is named after Blarney Castle in Ireland and boasts an incredible view of Edinburgh.

Holyrood Palace/Scotland's largest palace

Holyrood Palace was originally a castle built in the 11th Century by King Malcolm III, who himself was later crowned at the castle in 1005. The palace today is the official residence of Scotland's monarchs and houses many important conversations and political events, including that which sealed Scotland's independence from England.

St Andrews Castle/Scotland's oldest castle (and oldest university)

St Andrews Castle is one of Scotland's most well-known castles, located just southwest of the town itself. The castle was first established in the 12th Century by King David I. The castle is best known for being one of the venues for the inter-college golf tournament played every year.

Edinburgh Zoo

The zoo has been visited by over 40 million people since it first opened in 1933, and boasts a wide selection of exotic and endangered animals and plants from around the world. The zoo is set to be renamed Edinburgh's Wildlife Park in 2013 but will continue to host many exotic animals such as elephants, lions, antelope, ring-tailed lemurs, gorillas, and meerkats.

These are some of the places you must visit. Choosing Scotland is already a great idea and these places would be the cherry on the cake.  Happy Travelling!