While Glasgow was basking in its status as European Capital of Culture, there was plenty to celebrate in Edinburgh too.
Richard Branson visited the Capital to open a massive Virgin Megastore on Princes Street and journey times across the city were slashed with the opening of the Edinburgh City Bypass.
Take a look through our photo gallery to see 18 incredible images of Edinburgh in 1990 – and please do let us know your own memories of that year in the comments section before you go.
9. David Attenborough
British journalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough with the Livingstone medal he received at a Royal Geographical Society lecture in Edinburgh, March 1990. Photo: Jack Crombie
10. Dinosaurs Alive! poster 1990
Workmen put up a giant Tyrannosaurus Rex poster outside the City Art Centre in Edinburgh to publicise the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibition in February 1990. Photo: Jack Crombie
11. Aileen Paterson & Maisie 1990
Edinburgh children's author Aileen Paterson at her home with Morningside Maisie the cat in November 1990. Photo: Joe Steele
12. Harold Levey closing down sale 1990
Exterior of Harold Levey jewellers shop in Edinburgh's High Street, having a closing down sale after 33 years in business due to a drop in sales. Picture taken December 1990. Photo: Crauford Tait