The best free attractions in Edinburgh you can't miss
Think a UK capital is an expensive break? Well, if you’re heading to Scotland’s bonnie capital, you’re in luck, as there are plenty of free things to do in Edinburgh.
From hiking extinct volcanoes to dipping your toes in the icy sea to visiting one of Edinburgh’s multitude of museums, penny-pinching explorers won’t be stuck for something to do. Read on for our top 23 Edinburgh activities that you can do without breaking the bank.
1. Edinburgh Castle
Let’s kick things off with the obvious – the iconic Edinburgh Castle. While the entrance might require you to part with a few pounds, the unrivalled city views are free.
Take a leisurely stroll around the esplanade, snap some holiday pics and try to time your journey to hear the daily (except Sundays) one o´clock gun. This ritual has taken place since 1861, when sailors used to set their maritime clocks by the bang.
2. Royal Mile
This iconic Scottish street is a must for any Edinburgh explorer. And as you walk past historic buildings and specialty Scottish shops, keep your eyes peeled for hidden courtyards – you never know what you might discover!
There’s a good chance you’ll be accompanied by the discordant din of the humble bagpipe. Hopefully, you’ll love (or at least be able to tolerate) this particular strain of Scottish music.
3. Princes Street Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle in this beautiful green retreat in the heart of the city. Do as the locals and pack a picnic, bask in the sun (if you’re lucky!) and enjoy the lovely flower beds.
4. Arthur’s Seat
Did you know there’s an extinct volcano just a short walk or hop-on hop-off bus ride from the city centre? If you’re feeling energetic, head to Arthur’s Seat.
So, who exactly is Arthur, and why does this seat belong to him? Nobody knows! Some believe it was named after King Arthur, although he didn’t accept this challenging but rewarding climb. But you can! And you’ll be rewarded with remarkable views of the city (without having to part with your hard-earned cash!)
- Top tip: free walking tours go most Tuesdays and Thursdays between 13:00 and 13:00.
5. People’s Story Museum
Edinburgh has myriad marvellous museums. And guess what? Loads of them are free! Why not start off with the fantastic People’s Story Museum? It offers insight into Edinburgh’s working-class history and documents the lives of Scottish people throughout the centuries.
We bet you’ve never been in a war period kitchen or a nineteenth-century bindery (bookbinders), have you? And best of all? You won’t spend a dime.
6. Greyfriars Kirkyard
Next up on our list of the top free things to do in Edinburgh is this eerie, atmospheric cemetery. While you’re there, look out for three things:
- The tombstones that are said to have inspired many of J.K. Rowling’s cherished characters, including Harry Potter himself.
- Ghosts! Greyfriars Kirkyard is apparently the most haunted cemetery in the world – visit at night with nothing but a torch to give yourself a good scare. WoooOOOOooohhh!
- Scotland’s much-loved celebrity canine ghost, Greyfriars Bobby. This faithful little pup stood by his deceased owner’s gravestone for 14 years until his own death. Luck-seeking visitors enthusiastically rub Bobby’s nose. However, tourists have been asked to rub his nose gently to avoid Bobby having to have a repeat nose reconstruction.
7. Old Town Closes
Edinburgh’s Old Town is full of secret courtyards and alleyways, known as closes. Take a wander through the narrow, winding streets and see where they lead – you might stumble upon a hidden gem.
8. Diagon Alley (sort of)
While you won’t find any magic wands or talking owls, Edinburgh’s Victoria Street is often compared to the magical shopping district from the Harry Potter series. With its colourful buildings, cobbled streets, and quirky shops, it’s easy to see why.
9. Scott Monument
Edinburgh has many landmarks, and one that is sure to catch your eye is the Scott Monument. This spooky Gothic spire, which looms over the city centre, is dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, the renowned Scottish writer. You can book reasonably priced guided tours to ascend its 287 steps. However, just admiring it from afar, especially lit up at night, is one of our best free things to do in Edinburgh!
- Top tip: to find out more about the man himself, head to the free Writer’s Museum (just 7 minutes’ walk away), open daily from 10:00 -17:00.
10. Dean Village
If you’re the sort who tires of a busy city and needs a peaceful escape, seek out Dean Village. This picturesque village, one of Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable spots, is filled with charming watermills and quaint cottages. It’s near the city centre, along the Water of Leith Walkway, a supremely scenic 13-mile-long route that follows the course of the Water of Leith River.
11. St. Giles’ Cathedral
All hail St. Giles Cathedral. This sacred stalwart has been a working church since 1124 – that’s 900 years of loyal service!
St. Giles is one of several cathedrals in Scotland that, despite retaining the title, is no longer technically a cathedral. The main Scottish faith is the Church of Scotland (presbyterian), which hasn’t had a bishop since 1689. This means that there are no Church of Scotland cathedrals either.
Whatever you call it, St. Giles is a truly impressive building. Don’t miss its magnificent stained-glass windows.
- Top tip: Free walking tours of the cathedral take place every day at 10:30 and 14:30. Booking is essential.
12. Calton Hill
For sweeping views of this city, Calton Hill is the place to be. The best part? The view comes at no cost. This hilltop park is also home to the National Monument of Scotland.
13. Scottish Parliament Building
Even if politics isn’t your thing, the sleek, space-age design of the building is worth a visit. The home of Scottish democracy was opened in 2004 and marked the start of Scottish legislative power after 300 years of union with the UK.
- Top tip: Free guided tours are available and take you to see the dramatic vaults of the Main Hall and the Debating Chamber. Free 10-minute talks for those short on time but with a thirst to learn about Scotland’s political landscape can also be booked.
14. National Galleries of Scotland
Next on our list of free things to do in Edinburgh are the not one, not two, not three, but four national galleries of Scotland! Choose between the Scottish National Gallery, Modern 1 and Modern 2 and the National Portrait Gallery. And, of course, they are all free. So, you won’t need to spend a pretty penny to see this pretty art.
15. Museum of Edinburgh
Yet another fab museum on our list of free things to do in Edinburgh, the Museum of Edinburgh is the place to be if you want to find out about the city’s fascinating history.
From Edinburgh’s 1452 appointment as the country’s capital to architect James Craig’s original sketches of the New Town, learning about the city’s heritage doesn’t have to cost a thing.
16. Portobello Beach
Edinburgh’s nearest beach is a few miles from the city centre, but if you’re in the mood for a beach day, it’s worth the effort.
“Porty,” as the locals know it, offers you the chance to feel the sand beneath your toes on two miles of golden sand. The brave amongst you might want to take a brief dip in the chilly waters of the North Sea.
17. Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a lush oasis right in the city centre. It’s also the second oldest botanic garden in the UK (after Oxford). Pack a picnic, explore the gardens and enjoy their diverse plant collection, ranging from rhododendrons to azaleas. A splendid way to spend an afternoon amidst nature without spending a single pound!
18. National Museum of Scotland
This world-class museum is free to enter and boasts an extraordinary collection of, well, almost everything! Spend a day here learning about the 17 miniature coffins with carved figures found in a secluded Edinburgh cave in 1836 and the mysterious 400 AD Celtic Votadini tribe. You could easily spend an entire day here and still not see everything.
- Top tip: Free 60-minute guided tours of the National Museum of Scotland every Tuesday – Friday from April 1st to August 31st at 11:00. Sign up at the Information Desk in the Entrance Hall.
19. New Town
Now, call us pernickety, but we’re not sure Edinburgh’s “New Town” qualifies as “new.” Built between 1767 and 1890, its neoclassical style was intended to complement Edinburgh’s old town.
Misnomer aside, this area (alongside the old town) has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. Head to the not-so-new New Town to admire elegant Georgian architecture and soak up the sophistication.
20. Festivals
Edinburgh is famous for its festivals, notably the August Edinburgh Fringe and the International Book Festival. While you may have to pay to enter individual shows, there is loads of stuff happening in the street, and many events are free to attend with budding comedians and performers attempting to establish themselves.
In the streets of Edinburgh in August, you’ll find yourself surprised and entertained in ways you couldn’t have imagined!
21. Stockbridge Market
We’re approaching the end of our big list of free things to do in Edinburgh, and number 21 is the yummilicious Stockbridge Market!
This place is foodie heaven. You’ll find all sorts of lip-smacking, drool-inducing treats. From cheese to charcuterie and Japanese hors d’oeuvres to homemade jam. Or try out the local cuisine – a fried scotch egg (pictured)!
Disclaimer: the food is not free! But if you’re really on a tight budget, make yourself some sandwiches beforehand and then head down there to enjoy the cracking atmosphere.
- Top tip: It takes place from 10:00 – 16:00 every Sunday, come rain or shine (and expect quite a few of those Sundays to be rainy!)
22. Witches Well
Albeit one of the more obscure free things to do in Edinburgh, this is one that’s not to be missed. The Witches’ Well is a monument to all those (largely women) who were accused of witchcraft in Scotland between 1479 and 1722.
Alleged crimes ranged from dancing with the devil to shapeshifting into animals. Many were burned at the stake as punishment. This commemorative plaque and fountain are near one of the sites where these unfortunate women were burned.
23. City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
And the final item on our list of free things to do in Edinburgh? Our very own City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus in Edinburgh.
It may not be free, but it is extremely economical at under £20 per adult for a 24-hour ticket. And kids go free! Enjoy seeing Edinburgh’s top sights from the top deck and travel around the city at your own pace.
- Top tip: Up to three kids can travel free per paying adult!
Start exploring Edinburgh on a shoestring
So, there you have it: 23 amazing free things to do in Edinburgh! With so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored in this brilliant city. So, leave your wallet at home for a day of economical adventure. And remember, the best things in life are often free, and Edinburgh is the perfect place to prove it.
Like? Share this post with your friends
Frequently Asked Questions
The best area to stay in Edinburgh depends on your preferences. The Old Town is perfect for history enthusiasts with its narrow alleys and historic buildings, while the New Town offers a more upscale experience with elegant Georgian architecture and chic restaurants. Leith is known for its vibrant waterfront and great dining options, and Stockbridge is ideal for those seeking a quaint, village-like atmosphere.
Edinburgh and Glasgow are approximately 42 miles (67 km) apart. (about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 drive, depending on traffic). If you are visiting both cities, you can buy a handy hop-on hop-off combination ticket that includes buses in both destinations.
In one day, you can visit several of Edinburgh’s iconic attractions, such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace. Take a stroll through the historic Old Town, explore the charming streets of the New Town, and wander through Princes Street Gardens for breathtaking views of the city. Don’t miss out on trying traditional Scottish cuisine at local restaurants and cafes. You can visit all these destinations and more with one of your City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus Edinburgh tickets. Hop off at any of our carefully selected stops. It saves you time, lets you plan your own itinerary, and means you get brilliant views from our top deck!