by Paula May

Central Scotland is home to two of Europe's greatest cities as well as thousands of acres of stunning Scottish countryside. You could spend a fortnight here and barely scratch the surface. But as this isn't always possible, here are our suggestions of some of the best things to do in Central Scotland:

Wallace’s Monument, Stirling

Scone Palace, Perth

The home of the Scone of Destiny, this beautiful elevated palace is one of the most important sites in Scottish history. Entry to the Palace is currently £6.75 for adults and £3.80 for the kids from 9.30am till 5.30pm every day from April through October. For further details call 01738 552300 or go to www.scone-palace.co.uk

Glasgow Science Museum, Glasgow

With an IMAX movie theatre, a planetarium and hundreds of interactive exhibits, Glasgow science museum is almost as much fun as it is educational. Admission is £6.95 for adults and £4.95 for children every day from 10am to 6pm. For more information call 0141 42050000 or go to www.glasgowsciencecentre.org

Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh

The Royal Botanic Gardens is not only one of the finest gardens in Scotland, it’s one of the finest in the world. The gardens are free for everyone and open all year from 10am to 7pm. In March and October they close at 6pm and over the winter months it’s 4pm. For further details phone 0131 5527171 or visit www.rbge.org.uk

Edinburgh Castle , Edinburgh

Arguably the most impressive castle in Britain, Edinburgh’s top attraction overlooks the magnificent city below. Entry to the castle is currently £9.50 for adults and £2 for the kids every day of the year from 9am till 6pm. In the winter months the castle closes an hour earlier at 5pm. For further details call 0131 2259846 or go to www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

Stirling Castle, Stirling

Stirling Castle is another majestic Scottish castle that everyone should take the time to visit. Combined with a trip to nearby Wallace’s monument, the castle makes a great day out for all the family. Admission is £8 for adults but only £2 for children. The castle opens daily from 9.30am to 6pm and closes an hour earlier in the winter months. For more information call 01786 450000 or go to www.historic-scotland.gov.uk

More places to go in Central Scotland