City Art Centre, Edinburgh
Explore Scotland’s rich artistic heritage and vibrant contemporary scene at Edinburgh’s City Art Centre, a dynamic cultural landmark near Waverley Station.
The City Art Centre in Edinburgh is a vibrant hub dedicated to Scottish visual and applied arts, housed in a striking nine-storey former warehouse near Waverley Station. It features a nationally recognized collection of Scottish art spanning from the 17th century to contemporary works, alongside a dynamic program of temporary exhibitions showcasing painting, photography, and craft. With free admission to most exhibits, accessible facilities, and an inviting café and shop, it offers a rich cultural experience in the heart of the city.
A brief summary to City Art Centre
- 2 Market St, Edinburgh, EH1 1DE, GB
- +441315293993
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan for 1 to 2 hours to fully enjoy the rotating exhibitions and permanent collection.
- Visit Mimi’s Bakehouse on the ground floor for coffee, cake, or brunch during your visit.
- Check ahead for any ticketed temporary exhibitions to avoid surprises at entry.
- Accessibility features include lifts, hearing loops, and wheelchair access throughout.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Edinburgh Waverley Station, a 5-7 minute walk along Market Street leads directly to the City Art Centre. The station is well connected with frequent trains from across Scotland and the UK. No parking is necessary for this option.
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Bus
Multiple Lothian Buses routes serve stops near Market Street, including routes 3, 23, and 27. Travel times vary between 10-20 minutes from central locations. Buses run frequently throughout the day. A contactless or day ticket fare costs approximately £1.80–£4.00.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Edinburgh city centre. A taxi ride from Princes Street or the Royal Mile to the City Art Centre typically takes 5-10 minutes, costing around £5-£10 depending on traffic.
City Art Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about City Art Centre
A Beacon for Scottish Art
The City Art Centre stands prominently at 2 Market Street, Edinburgh, within a repurposed nine-storey warehouse that itself reflects the city's industrial heritage. This imposing structure has been transformed into a dynamic cultural venue dedicated to celebrating Scotland’s visual and applied arts. It houses a nationally recognized collection that traces the evolution of Scottish art from the 17th century through to the present day, including paintings, drawings, prints, textiles, sculpture, and photography by many of the country’s most distinguished artists.Diverse and Rotating Exhibitions
The Centre’s galleries host a rotating selection from its permanent collection alongside a rich program of temporary exhibitions. These showcase historic and contemporary Scottish painting, photography, and craft, offering visitors a fresh experience with every visit. Recent and upcoming exhibitions highlight post-war Scottish art, portraiture, and contemporary artists, reflecting the Centre’s commitment to both heritage and innovation in the arts.Accessible and Welcoming Space
Accessibility is a key feature of the City Art Centre. Visitors benefit from level access throughout, with lifts and escalators connecting the six exhibition floors. Facilities include wheelchair access, accessible toilets, hearing loops, and tactile routes for visually impaired guests. The Centre’s location near Waverley Station and the Royal Mile makes it easily reachable, while the ground floor hosts Mimi’s Bakehouse café and a well-stocked gift shop, enhancing the visitor experience.Engaging Visitor Experience
Admission to the City Art Centre is generally free, encouraging widespread public engagement with Scottish art. Some temporary exhibitions may require a ticket fee. Photography is restricted due to copyright, preserving the integrity of the artworks. The Centre’s atmosphere blends the historic character of its building with contemporary artistic expression, making it a stimulating and reflective space for art lovers and casual visitors alike.Community and Cultural Significance
Beyond exhibitions, the City Art Centre serves as a cultural hub for Edinburgh, hosting events and educational programs that deepen appreciation of Scottish art traditions and contemporary practices. Its presence enriches the Old Town area, contributing to Edinburgh’s reputation as a city of culture and creativity.Practical Information for Visitors
Open daily from 10am to 5pm, the Centre closes on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, and the following day. The venue supports dietary needs with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available at the café. Visitors can expect a welcoming, inclusive environment suitable for all ages and abilities, with amenities such as seating areas, restrooms, and information boards readily available.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Museum Context
0.1 km
Explore a unique selection of Scottish gifts and homewares at Museum Context, Edinburgh's premier souvenir shop celebrating local artisans.
North Bridge
0.1 km
Historic North Bridge links Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.
Warriston's Close Stairs
0.1 km
A widening staircase through medieval Edinburgh, where 120 steps transform from narrow lane to grand passage.
The High Street Wellhead
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s medieval heritage through the intricately carved High Street Wellhead, a historic water source nestled in Old Assembly Close.
Adam Smith Statue
0.1 km
Bronze tribute to the father of modern economics on Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile.
124 High St
0.2 km
Historic Royal Mile building serving as the iconic start point for Edinburgh’s renowned Underground Ghost Tour.
Mercat Cross
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s Mercat Cross: centuries-old market hub and ceremonial heart of the city’s royal proclamations and civic life.
1 Parliament Sqr
0.2 km
Explore Edinburgh’s Parliament Square, a historic nexus of Scottish law, politics, and culture nestled beside the iconic St Giles’ Cathedral.
Barrie's Close
0.2 km
Explore Barrie's Close, a historical landmark in Edinburgh that reveals the city's rich heritage through its captivating architecture and stories.
Heritage of Edinburgh
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs, clothing, and gifts at Heritage of Edinburgh, a must-visit shop for tourists seeking a piece of Scotland.
Old and New Towns of Edinburgh UNESCO
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval charm meets Georgian elegance in a stunning urban landscape.
David Hume Statue
0.3 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
The Centre of Edinburgh
0.3 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Wellhead at John Knox House
0.3 km
Discover the medieval charm and Reformation history embodied by the Wellhead at John Knox House on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
0.3 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Unmissable attractions to see
Anchor Close
0.0 km
Historic Anchor Close on Cockburn Street offers an atmospheric glimpse into Edinburgh’s Old Town heritage amid Scots Baronial architecture and vibrant urban life.
Cockburn St
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s Cockburn Street, a historic serpentine link blending Scots Baronial charm with vibrant shops and lively culture.
Fleshmarket Cl
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting Fleshmarket Close, a historic gem in Edinburgh, showcasing rich culture and captivating architecture amidst cobblestone charm.
The Edinburgh Dungeon
0.1 km
Dive into Edinburgh’s darkest history with thrilling live shows, chilling rides, and immersive storytelling at The Edinburgh Dungeon.
Edinburgh City Chambers
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh City Chambers: A Historical Gem in the Heart of Scotland's Capital, Showcasing Governance and Heritage.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
0.1 km
Experience the magic of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, where tradition meets breathtaking performances in the heart of Scotland.
JK Rowling’s Handprints
0.1 km
Discover the golden handprints of J.K. Rowling at Edinburgh City Chambers, a tribute to the author’s lasting impact on the city and literary world.
Royal Mile
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile – a vibrant cobbled artery linking castle, cathedral, and palace through centuries of Scottish heritage.
City of Edinburgh Tours
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh’s haunted underground and historic Old Town with immersive ghost and history tours from the iconic Old Police Box.
Edinburgh Underground
0.1 km
Descend into Edinburgh’s haunted underground vaults for a thrilling blend of dark history, ghostly tales, and immersive storytelling beneath the Old Town.
The Real Mary King's Close
0.1 km
Step beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile into a preserved 17th-century close and uncover the city’s hidden stories of plague, poverty, and daily life.
Tron Kirk Market
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s historic 17th-century Tron Kirk transformed into a vibrant indoor market showcasing Scotland’s finest arts and crafts.
Hunter Square
0.2 km
Historic Hunter Square, a serene crossroads behind Tron Kirk, blends Edinburgh’s rich heritage with peaceful urban charm.
Advocate's Cl
0.2 km
Step into history along Advocate's Close, a steep medieval alleyway in Edinburgh’s Old Town, rich with legal heritage and stunning views.
The News Steps
0.2 km
Historic stone steps linking Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, echoing the city’s vibrant newspaper heritage and urban character.
Essential places to dine
La Locanda Edinburgh
0.1 km
A cozy Italian bistro in Edinburgh’s Old Town, serving authentic, homemade pasta and wine in a warm, intimate setting.
Ecco Vino
0.1 km
Intimate Italian wine bar serving exceptional fresh seafood and handmade pasta in Edinburgh's historic Old Town.
The Devil's Advocate
0.2 km
Discover the culinary delights at The Devil's Advocate – Edinburgh’s premier gastropub offering locally sourced dishes and an extensive drinks menu.
The Piper's Rest
0.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality with hearty fare, craft drinks, and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Angels with Bagpipes
0.2 km
Innovative Scottish small plates and seasonal delights in a cozy Old Town setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Number One
0.2 km
Experience modern Scottish fine dining with seasonal flair and impeccable service in the iconic Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh.
Twenty Princes Street
0.3 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with stunning city views at Twenty Princes Street, a stylish dining destination in Edinburgh’s heart.
Monteiths
0.3 km
Experience contemporary Scottish dining and crafted cocktails in a stylish, intimate setting on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Makars Mash Bar
0.3 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
La Garrigue
0.3 km
Experience authentic Languedoc French cuisine in Edinburgh’s charming Old Town bistro with rustic flavours and vibrant ambiance.
Whiski Rooms
0.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Ondine Restaurant
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
The Nether Bow Port Cafe & Bistro
0.3 km
Cozy bistro on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile serving diverse breakfast and lunch options in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Tattu Edinburgh
0.3 km
Experience modern Chinese cuisine in a stunning setting blending Edinburgh’s historic charm with contemporary elegance.
Lady Libertine
0.3 km
A chic Edinburgh hotspot blending inventive cocktails, Mediterranean mezze, and art deco vibes across two stylish floors.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pie In The Sky Ltd
0.0 km
Discover unique, creative clothing inspired by Scottish culture in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town.
Eden
0.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique gifts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Cockburn Street at Eden.
Crest Of Edinburgh
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, kilts, and fashion accessories in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile.
Fringe Shop
0.1 km
Official Edinburgh Festival Fringe Shop on the Royal Mile offering unique festival merchandise and cultural connection year-round.
Pure Scottish
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish gifts and crafts in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic North Bridge district.
Born In Scotland - Edinburgh Waverly Mall
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish gifts blending tradition and playful modernity in Edinburgh’s Waverly Mall, perfect for meaningful keepsakes and souvenirs.
James Pringle Weavers of Inverness
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish textiles and menswear steeped in heritage on Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile.
scottish experience cashmere place
0.2 km
Explore the finest cashmere souvenirs at Scottish Experience Cashmere Place, where tradition and quality meet in the heart of Edinburgh.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover quirky, affordable Danish design and everyday essentials in Edinburgh’s vibrant Waverley Mall store.
The Scotland Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartans, bespoke kilts, and heritage gifts at The Scotland Shop in Edinburgh’s historic South Bridge.
Anime Republic
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant anime gift shop and community hub offering collectibles, manga, and events for fans of all levels.
The Wee Gift Shop
0.2 km
Award-winning Scottish gift shop celebrating local talent, sustainability, and authentic cultural heritage on Edinburgh's High Street.
I Love Scotland
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs at I Love Scotland, a welcoming shop in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic center.
Heritage of Scotland
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
Heritage Clearance Store
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish heritage treasures and unbeatable bargains in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House, celebrating 20 years of serving The Best Haggis in Town!
0.1 km
Cozy Edinburgh bar serving renowned haggis and over 100 whiskies in a warm, traditional Scottish setting with hearty portions and friendly vibes.
Copper Still
0.1 km
Cozy Royal Mile retreat dishing fresh Scottish eats and drams amid buskers and historic vibes – from breakfast brekkie to late-night cocktails.
Whistlebinkies
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s legendary underground live music bar offering free entry, vibrant bands, and a cozy vaults atmosphere every night until the early hours.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
0.2 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
The Banshee Labyrinth
0.2 km
Discover Scotland’s most haunted pub, a labyrinth of eerie vaults and lively entertainment beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.3 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
The Cocktail Geeks
0.3 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
The Voodoo Rooms
0.3 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
The Three Sisters
0.3 km
A legendary Edinburgh bar and live venue famed for its vibrant atmosphere, historic roots, and nonstop entertainment on Cowgate.
The World's End
0.3 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
The Jolly Judge
0.3 km
A cozy, historic Scottish pub nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, famed for malt whiskies, real ales, and timeless hospitality just minutes from the Castle.
The Alchemist
0.4 km
Theatrical cocktails that smoke and sparkle, inventive global dishes, and an alchemist's lair in Edinburgh's St James Quarter—pure mixology magic awaits.
The Bow Bar
0.4 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
The Oz Bar
0.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Frankenstein
0.4 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
0.2 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
0.3 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
0.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
0.3 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
0.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
0.5 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Garibaldi's
0.6 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Opal Lounge
0.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.8 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
1.0 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
