Edinburgh is one of those cities where you can have a brilliant time without emptying your wallet. The Scottish capital is packed with free things to do, from world-class museums and galleries to hilltop views and fascinating walking tours. I’ve spent plenty of time here, and I’m always surprised by how much you can see and do for absolutely nothing.
This guide covers the best attractions in Edinburgh, all without spending a penny 🪙
1. Walk the Royal Mile and explore the Old Town 🏰
The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s most famous street, stretching from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace. Walking it costs nothing, and you’ll pass centuries-old buildings, narrow closes (alleyways), and street performers along the way.
The Old Town’s multi-level layout offers unexpected staircases and viewpoints, so take your time to admire the buildings and explore the side streets.
2. Hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views
Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano right in the middle of Edinburgh, and climbing it is one of the best free activities in the city. The summit sits at 251 metres, and the views across Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding hills are spectacular.
The main path from Holyrood Park is well-maintained and takes about 45 minutes to an hour. It’s a proper hill walk, so wear decent shoes 👟 and bring a jacket. The weather can change quickly up there, even in summer.
Practical tips
- Start early to avoid crowds and catch sunrise if you can
- Check the weather forecast before you go
- There are no facilities on the hill, so bring water
- The descent can be slippery after rain☔
3. Visit the National Museum of Scotland
This is one of the finest free museums in Edinburgh, and it’s genuinely world-class. The collection covers everything from Scottish history and geology to science, technology, and world cultures. You could easily spend half a day here.
The Grand Gallery is stunning, and the rooftop terrace gives you excellent views across the city. The Scottish history galleries are particularly good, telling the story of Scotland from prehistoric times to the present day.
The museum gets busy, especially during school holidays, but it’s large enough that you can always find quieter corners. The natural history section and the science and technology galleries are often less crowded than the Scottish history floors. Check the museum’s official website for opening times and any special exhibitions. Some temporary exhibitions may charge admission, but the permanent collection is always free.
4. Explore the Scottish National Gallery
Right on Princes St., you’ll find this elegant gallery that showcases an collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings ranging from the Renaissance to the 20th century. It’s definitely worth a visit! It’s compact enough to see in a couple of hours.
The collection includes works 🎨 by Vermeer, Velázquez, Monet, and Van Gogh, alongside Scottish artists like Ramsay and Raeburn. The Scottish Colourists section is particularly strong.
5. Walk around Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park covers 650 acres of wild, open space right next to the city centre. Beyond Arthur’s Seat, there are lochs, ruins, and miles of paths where you can walk, run, or just sit and enjoy the scenery.
6. Join a free walking tour Edinburgh locals recommend 🚶
Several companies offer free walking tour Edinburgh experiences that run on tips. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share stories, history, and local insights you won’t find in guidebooks.
The most popular tours cover the Royal Mile and Old Town, usually lasting around 90 minutes. Some companies also offer New Town tours, ghost tours, and themed walks. You’ll find tour groups gathering near the Hub on the Royal Mile.
These tours work on a tip basis, so you pay what you think it’s worth at the end. Most people give £5-10, but there’s no obligation. It’s a great way to get your bearings on your first day.
7. Visit the Royal Botanic Garden
The Botanics, as locals call it, covers 70 acres just north of the city centre. Admission to the garden is free, and it’s a beautiful place to spend a few hours, particularly in spring and summer when everything’s in bloom. The Rock Garden is spectacular in April and May. The Chinese Hillside comes alive with colour in autumn. Even in winter, the glasshouses (which do charge admission) are worth seeing, though you can enjoy plenty without paying.
8. Walk through Princes Street Gardens
These public gardens run along Princes Street in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. They’re split into East and West sections and offer a green escape right in the city centre. The Ross Fountain and the Floral Clock are Victorian landmarks worth seeing. In summer, the gardens host free events and concerts. In winter, the Christmas market takes over part of the space, though that’s not free.
The gardens are built in the valley where the old Nor Loch used to be, and walking through them gives you excellent views up to the castle and Old Town.
10. Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard and meet Bobby
Greyfriars Kirkyard is Edinburgh’s most famous cemetery, and it’s free to wander around. The gravestones🪦 date back to the 16th century, and you’ll find atmospheric corners, impressive monuments, and connections to Edinburgh’s history. The kirkyard is atmospheric but can feel a bit crowded during peak times. Early morning or late afternoon visits are more peaceful.
The grave of Greyfriars Bobby (or rather, his owner John Gray) is here, though the little dog has his own memorial outside the churchyard. The story of Bobby, the Skye Terrier who supposedly guarded his master’s grave for 14 years, is Edinburgh’s most famous tale.
11. Walk up Calton Hill at sunset 🌅
Calton Hill sits just east of Princes Street and offers some of the best views in Edinburgh. The climb takes about 10 minutes from street level, and you’re rewarded with 360-degree panoramas across the city and out to the Firth of Forth.
Sunset is the prime time to visit, and you’ll often find groups of people up there with bottles of wine 🍷enjoying the view. It’s a popular spot, but there’s plenty of space.
12. Explore Dean Village
Dean Village is a hidden gem tucked into a valley along the Water of Leith, just 10 minutes’ walk from the West End. This former milling village dates back to the 12th century and feels like a different world from the city centre. The Water of Leith Walkway runs through Dean Village, and you can follow it in either direction for a peaceful riverside walk. Heading west takes you towards Stockbridge. Going east leads you back towards the city centre.
Edinburgh proves you don’t need a big budget to have a brilliant city break. From museums and galleries to hill walks and historic streets, these experiences are often free. Take your time, explore on foot, and you’ll discover a city that rewards curiosity and gives back far more than it costs.
