50 FREE Things to do in Edinburgh
50 FREE Things to do in Edinburgh
martaplore
Looking for an unforgettable Edinburgh experience that won’t cost you a dime? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re a budget traveler, backpacker, or someone who loves exploring without spending a fortune, Edinburgh has countless free attractions and activities. From iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle (from the outside!) to peaceful walks along the Royal Mile and breathtaking views from Arthur’s Seat, this historic city offers endless ways to soak up Scottish culture for free.
Get ready to save this ultimate guide packed with insider tips on how to experience the best of Edinburgh’s rich history, art, and local life – all without opening your wallet!
This guide includes:
👉🏼 A list of 50 FREE things to do in Edinburgh!
👉🏼 Where to Stay in Edinburgh on a Budget
👉🏼 How Your Vacation Will Look Like
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List of FREE Things
🏛️ Museums & Galleries
National Museum of Scotland
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1 - Free to enter. Very nice museum about the history of Scotland. The interiors themselves are worth a quick stop
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National Galleries of Scotland: National
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2 - Free art museum. If you enjoy paintings and learning more about Scotland you should definetly make a stop. The location of the gallery also offers a great bathroom pit-stop if you are on the go or a rain shelter in case you get unlucky with the weather .
28 - The roof garden is a great viepoint.
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The Writers' Museum
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6 - Small Free museum containing objects that once belonged to some famous Scottish writers. I think the building is very charming hence worth a visit
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🔔 Places of Worship
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St Giles' Cathedral
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11 - Free to enter. Very beautiful church with nice colored decorations. Absolutely worth a stop
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🌳 Parks & Beaches
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Princes Street Gardens
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17 - Beautiful park right at the heart of Edinburgh. Enjoy a stroll as you admire the castle above you. Doing a picnic in the park is also a great option if you are on a budget ;)
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🌅 Viewpoints
Calton Hill
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25 - Probably the most beautiful view point in Edinburgh reachable with only 20/25 minutes walk from the city center (Royal Mile). There is a short climb at the end of the path but I would say it is very easy. Be mindful about visibility conditions on a rainy day
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Arthur's Seat
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26 - This one is a bit of an hike (approximately 30/35 minutes from Calton Hill). I would keep it optional in the itinerary depending on how much time you will be spending in Edinburgh and the weather conditions. I would skip it on a rainy/low visibility day
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National Galleries of Scotland: National
@martaplore
2 - Free art museum. If you enjoy paintings and learning more about Scotland you should definetly make a stop. The location of the gallery also offers a great bathroom pit-stop if you are on the go or a rain shelter in case you get unlucky with the weather .
28 - The roof garden is a great viepoint.
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The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
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29 - My personal favorite viewpoint in Edinburgh. This is a quiet street offering perfect views of the Edinburgh castle surrounded by typical Scottish houses
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📸 Photo Spots
Dean Village
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30 - Explore this lovely village just outside of Edinburgh and enjoy the breathtaking views over the castle
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💌 Others
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Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
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43 - This graveyard contains all the charm and moody atmosphere of Edinburgh. One of the highlights of our day in Edinburgh. Once there, try to spot the grave of famous "Tom Riddle"
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Where to Stay in Edinburgh on a Budget
easyHotel Edinburgh
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This is where I stayed last time I visited Edinburgh. I can't recommend this hotel because the room I had was literally a shoebox, a bit noisy, and with no windows. Nevertheless, I included it in this guide because it is one of the cheapest options you will find in Edinburgh if you want a central location. If you plan to stay for only one night you might (?) want to consider it: 130€ a night
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Four Points by Sheraton Edinburgh
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Nice hotel a bit far from the city center but with a very good price point: 130€
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How Your Vacation Will Look Like
If you want to get an insight on how your vacation will look like check out my instagram highlights!
Don't forget to follow me on Instagram to be the first to know when I post a new "50 FREE Things to Do in .." !
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Short on time for your Edinburgh adventure? Congratulations! Your ultimate travel companion awaits right here!
Welcome to the best 24-hour Edinburgh travel guide, where I cover all the must-do activities, dining spots, and accommodation options in Scotland's capital—all conveniently packed into this FREE guide!
While this itinerary is designed for a jam-packed day in Edinburgh, it can easily be split over two days if you prefer a more leisurely pace.
Without further ado, let's dive into our guide which includes:
👉🏼Essential Insights about Edinburgh
👉🏼How to Get Around Edinburgh
👉🏼Best Places to Stay (with Options)
👉🏼Detailed 1-day Itinerary
👉🏼Cheap Eats
👉🏼Smart Budgeting Tips
👉🏼Your Vacation Preview: What to Expect in Edinburgh
Backpacker • Couples • Car-free • Female Solo • Architecture • Art • Budget • History • People & Culture
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
martaplore
Hi there, I'm Marta 👋🏼
I am an Italian traveler 🇮🇹 with a passion for exploring the world and discovering new cultures!
💕 ABOUT ME
During high school, I spent a year living in the United States 🇺🇸, which ignited my love for travel and cultural immersion. After returning to Italy, I moved around Milan and Turin, earned an engineering degree, and relocated to The Netherlands 🇳🇱 to work in the space industry 🛰️🪐
However, my desire to keep learning and exploring led me to the South of France 🇫🇷, where I am currently living while pursuing a PhD in satellite remote sensing 🌱. I've committed to living an exciting life and seizing every opportunity to travel the world 🌍✈️
🌎 WHERE I'VE TRAVELED
I've visited 24 countries so far: Italy 🇮🇹, France 🇫🇷, The Netherlands 🇳🇱, Spain 🇪🇸, The United States 🇺🇸, England 🏴, Scotland 🏴, Germany 🇩🇪, Sweden 🇸🇪, Malta 🇲🇹, Croatia 🇭🇷, Greece 🇬🇷, Morocco 🇲🇦, Belgium 🇧🇪, Montenegro 🇲🇪, Hungary 🇭🇺, Bosnia 🇧🇦, Portugal 🇵🇹, Switzerland 🇨🇭, Turkey 🇹🇷, Monaco 🇲🇨, Brazil 🇧🇷, Scotland 🏴, and New Zealand 🇳🇿.
🗺️ MY TRAVEL STYLE
For every trip, I focus on three key elements:
1️⃣ Research: I gather extensive information to create a custom itinerary tailored to my interests
2️⃣ Budget: As a PhD student, I aim to maximize experiences without overspending. I proudly consider myself "Bougie on a Budget"
3️⃣ Memories: I prioritize creating and preserving memorable experiences, so my itineraries are packed with diverse activities
📖 WHAT YOU CAN GET FROM ME
📌 Travel Itineraries: Detailed guides on where to go, must-try experiences, dining spots, cost breakdowns, and tips
📌 Maps: Ordered itineraries, food recommendations, scenic viewpoints, and more
📌 Customized Travel Planning: Let me plan your next vacation, tailored to your preferences and budget
📸 HOW DO MY TRAVELS LOOK LIKE?
Check out my Instagram @martaplore 😉
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