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21+ of the Best Free Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

Low angle shot of Edinburgh street

From free museums to the most beautiful streets to wander, discover the best free things to do in Edinburgh!

Scotland’s capital is a city I’ve visited multiple times, and have never failed to be bowled over by its charm. Think historic cobbled streets and medieval buildings, steeped in history and legends. Add some Scottish culinary delights, a thriving nightlife and beautiful green spaces, and you’ve got the makings of a perfect weekend trip to Edinburgh!

Edinburgh is often considered an expensive city to visit (particularly due to accommodation costs), but it also offers more budget-friendly activities, including no-spend sightseeing and free attractions.

In this guide, I’ve shared the most popular free things to do in Edinburgh, along with some lesser-known gems (along with some sneaky suggestions of activities that are worth the splurge!).

*This site may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I’ll earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you)*

Edinburgh Essentials

Find the best deals on flights or trains to Edinburgh
Looking for a place to stay? Find the best hotels in Edinburgh.
Budget travellers should check out these top Edinburgh hostels.
Get under the skin of the Scottish capital with the best Edinburgh city tours.

Free things to do in Edinburgh

Sightseeing, hiking and tasting local sweet treats – there are plenty of free things to see and do in Edinburgh. These are some of the best.

Stroll along the Royal Mile

Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is the picture postcard Edinburgh experience. Every time I’ve visited Edinburgh, I’ve spent a good few hours walking around the Mile, as there’s always something new to uncover!

Centuries-old buildings line the main road and the surrounding streets, and narrow alleyways lead to tucked-away courtyards. From glimpses of medieval Edinburgh to modern restaurants and bars, the Royal Mile is the real heart of Edinburgh.

Sights to see for free in the Royal Mile

Many of these sights do have paid-for entry, however you can take in the architecture of these impressive buildings from the outside on a Royal Mile sightseeing walk!

  • Edinburgh Castle – entry is paid-for, but you can walk to the top of Castle Hill for free views of the castle from the esplanade below.
  • Riddle’s Court – A small 16th century courtyard, best-known for hosting King James VI in 1598
  • Lady Stair’s Close – one of the best-known closes in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, home to the 400-year old Lady Stairs House. You’ll also find the Writers’ Museum here, a free Edinburgh attraction (optional donation) that explores the lives of three belove Scottish writers.
  • St Giles’ Cathedral – a Gothic medieval building of worship, with striking stained-glass windows.
  • Moubray House – one of the oldest surviving buildings along the Royal Mile.
  • John Knox House – the alleged former home of the home of minister and theologian John Knox, who founded the Presbyterian Church of Scotland.
  • Canongate Kirk (free entry) – 17th century Presbyterian church, where poet Robert Fergusson is buried.
  • The Tolbooth Tavern – former courthouse and prison that’s now a traditional-style pub, established in 1820
  • White Horse Close – a small, picturesque courtyard used as a coaching inn during the 17th century, with restored buildings.
  • Panmure House – the final remaining home of renowned 18th century Scottish philosopher Adam Smith.

See the colourful facades of Victoria Street

Perhaps one of Edinburgh’s most-photographed streets, the colourful facades of Victoria Street are an emblem of the city’s tourism.

The street is also lauded as an inspiration for the Harry Potter series. Wizarding world fans can check out Museum Context to see an impressive collection of curiosities and souvenirs (it’s primarily a souvenir shop, so entry is free).

Wander through Holyrood Park

Last time I visited Edinburgh was actually the first time I properly explored Holyrood Park, as I’d been blessed with some sunshine in the Scottish Capital!

Holyrood Park sits at the end of the Royal Mile, offering 650 acres of dramatic natural landscapes. Within easy reach of the city centre, it’s the perfect escape from the bustle of the Old Town, with hikers, dog walkers and families enjoying some fresh air and beautiful views.

Sights to see for free in Holyrood Park

  • Holyrood House – entry is paid-for, but you can take a peek at the exterior and courtyard through the railings.
  • St. Margaret’s Well – a holy well that was moved brick-by-brick from Restalrig in 1860. Easily accessible from the park’s entrance.
  • St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins – the remains of a religious building on a rocky outcrop in Holyrood Park, accessible to anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
  • Salisbury Crags – clifftop path for views across Edinburgh.
  • Dr. Neil’s Garden – ‘Edinburgh’s Secret Garden’ is a tranquil place to connect with nature, founded by local doctors Andrew and Nancy Neil.

Take in the views from Arthur’s Seat

The highest point in Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat, is a popular hiking destination for Edinburgh visitors. Sadly, I’ve never actually done it, due to weather conditions not being ideal when I’ve visited the city. However, the steep and moderately-challenging route offers a glorious reward, panoramic views over the city skyline and into the Scottish countryside beyond its borders.

This guide to hiking Arthur’s Seat tells you everything you need to know about your route options and what to expect.

If you’re travelling solo and looking for walking buddies, you can join a (paid-for) guided hike to Arthur’s Seat.

See the skyline from Calton Hill

For a less taxing viewpoint over Edinburgh, make your way up to Calton Hill. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers scenic views across Arthur’s Seat, the Firth of Forth and Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Sights to see for free at Calton Hill

  • Dugald Stewart Monument – a columned monument modeled upon Athens’ Tower of The Winds
  • National Monument of Scotland – dedicated to Scots who died in the Napoleonic Wars
  • Nelson Monument – designed by Robert Burns, this monument commemorates Nelson’s victory at Trafalgar.
  • Monument to the Scottish Parliament – a stone-based brazier, commemorating Scotland’s independence.

Take a break in Princes Street Gardens

This landscaped public park sits at the heart of Edinburgh, a tranquil expanse just minutes from the Old Town and Edinburgh Waverley Station. In the centre, Ross Fountain is a decorative water feature that’s been lovingly restored.

Other highlights include the vibrant Floral Clock, numerous war memorials and a statue of Wojtek the Bear, who fought alongside the Polish Army before spending the rest of his years in Edinburgh Zoo.

Pay respects to well-known Scots in Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard

Edinburgh is a city steeped in legend, with more than it’s fair share of ghost stories. The city is home to some well-known cemeteries, the most famous being Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Attached to the 1600s Greyfriars Church, notable Scots interred here include poet Allan Ramsay, architect William Adam, and William McGonagall, known as one of ‘Scotland’s worst poets’. Wizarding world fans also won’t want to miss the grave of ‘Tom Riddell’, located towards the back of the churchyard. And, of course, there’s Greyfriars Bobby – more on him in a moment!

Got some cash to splash? Take a Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour to discover Edinburgh’s ominous underbelly.

Say hello to Greyfriars Bobby

One of Edinburgh’s smallest but most beloved monuments, the statue of Greyfriars Bobby celebrates a terrier who showed extreme devotion to his late master.

John Gray was a night watchman in the mid-19th century. When John passed away, his terrier Bobby is said to have spent the rest of his life protecting Gray’s grave. He became a local animal celebrity in Edinburgh, and following his death a fountain and statue were built to acknowledge his devotion.

If you fancy a pint, there’s also a neighbouring pub named after the well-loved hound!

Soak up nature in Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden

One of the world’s major botanical institutions can be found just a mile from Edinburgh city centre! Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden offers 70 acres of peaceful green space, with landscaped gardens and plant specimens from all over the world. Multiple glass houses and themed garden spaces will take you on a natural tour across the world’s most diverse climates.

The Victorian Temperate Palm House is one of the UK’s tallest palm houses, home to tropical and subtropical plant species. If mountain landscapes are more your thing, check out the Rock Garden, with high-altitude growing plants from the world’s mountainous regions.

Opening Times: 10am-4pm

Get a photo at the Vennel Viewpoint

Regarded as one of the most Instagram-worthy views of Edinburgh Castle, a series of steps leads you to a perfectly framed vantage point of the castle. The viewpoint was also used as a filming location in the Netflix series One Day.

Tour the home of Scottish Parliament

Want to learn more about how Scotland governs? Visit the Scottish Parliament building! Designed by Spanish architect Enric Miralles, the home of Scottish democracy stands out with its modern architecture within the centuries-old buildings of the Royal Mile.

The Parliament building is open to the public every day except Sundays, and free guided tours offer an insight into the inner workings of Scottish government. Find out more on guided tours here.

Opening Times: Mon, Fri & Sat 10am-6.30pm. Tue, Wed & Thur 9.30am-6.30pm

Watch local artisans make fudge and try free samples

For a taste of a local favourite sweet treat, head to Fudge Kitchen on the Mile. Here, artisan fudge makers demonstrate the process of creating one of the nation’s most beloved sugary delights, sharing free samples as they go!

Got some cash to splash? Get to know the city’s foodie hotspots with an Edinburgh Secret Food Tour

Want to read more? Find the best activities, things to see and places to eat in my ultimate two-day Edinburgh itinerary!


Free museums and attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has an impressive array of museums and attractions, to suit all interests and budgets. There are also plenty of free museums in Edinburgh, ranging from art and design to Scottish history and culture.

National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh is one of the UK’s most popular free museums outside of London. The vast and varied displays incorporate art, design, science and Scottish heritage, with thousands of objects across numerous impressive gallery spaces.

An exhibit dedicated to Dolly The Sheep (the first ever cloned mammal) is a highlight, and there are plenty of hands-on interactive displays in the Science and Technology Galleries.

Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF
Opening Times: 10.30am-4.30pm

National Galleries of Scotland

The Scottish National Galleries boast an outstanding collection of art, with works by both Scottish and international artists. The collection includes masterpieces by renowned artists, such as Rembrandt and Constable.

The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL
Opening Times: 10am-5pm

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

This gallery holds the national collection of portraits, featuring around 3000 paintings and sculptures; plus 25,000 prints and drawings. Subjects include royalty and nobility, writers and artists, alongside contemporary Scots including Billy Connolly, Sean Connery and Robbie Coltrane.

1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD 
Opening Times: 10am-5pm

Museum of Edinburgh

Formerly known as the Huntly House Museum, 16th-century house with a colourful yellow and red facade explores the fascinating history of the city of Edinburgh. Within its walls, you can see the original copy of the National Covenant from 1638; and a WW1 site reconstruction. 220,000 artifacts document Edinburgh history and culture, from the city’s beginnings to present-day.

142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DD
Opening Times: 10am-5pm

Museum on the Mound

Want to see what £1 million in Scottish banknotes looks like? The Museum on the Mound is a free museum, all about money! Located within the Bank of Scotland headquarters, the exhibits explore all things currency, coins, and economics. You can even learn how to crack a safe (but I wouldn’t try it on the exhibits…).

The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ 
Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 1-5pm

Museum of Childhood

Childhood nostalgia comes to live at Edinburgh’s Museum of Childhood. The impressive collection of toys and games here date from the 1800s to the present day, with activities on offer for children and adults. For an engaging, fun free museum in Edinburgh, definitely check it out!

Admission is free, although there’s a suggested donation of £3

42 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TG
Opening Times: 10am-6pm

The Writers’ Museum

This small museum celebrates the lives and works of three of Scotland’s literary icons: Robert Burns, Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. The museum showcases a collection of personal artefacts from the renowned writers, including letters and belongings. A must-visit free Edinburgh museum for literary lovers!

Admission is free, although there’s a suggested donation of £5

Lawnmarket, Lady Stair’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 2PA
Opening Times: 10am-4.30pm

People’s Story Museum

Personal stories, objects and images bring to life the experience of working class Edinburgh residents between the 18th and 20th centuries. Authenticity is vital, and the exhibits have been created based on recollections from workers of the time. My favourite kind of museums show day-to-day life of ordinary people, and the People’s Story Museum does just that!

Admission is free, although there’s a suggested donation of £5

The Royal Mile, 163 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BN
Opening Times: 10am-4.30pm


Free walking tours in Edinburgh

Free walking tours are never usually actually free – they’re tip-based, but they’re a popular low-cost way to learn more about the city.

Got some cash to splash? Book an affordable guided or self-guided walking tour of Edinburgh:


Free entertainment in Edinburgh


Affordable acommodation in Edinburgh

Castle Rock Hostel (£) – a colourful, lively hostel right next to Edinburgh Castle
CoDE Pod – The CoURT (£) – pod-style dorm beds in a former courthouse and jail
Motel One Edinburgh-Princes (££) – stylish chain offering comfortable rooms

BUDGET TRAVEL TIP: Accommodation costs in Edinburgh skyrocket around the Edinburgh Festival Fringe – so August may not be the best month to visit Edinburgh on a budget!

More Scotland Guides:

Discover the Scottish capital with my ultimate two-day Edinburgh itinerary.
Going alone? Plan your perfect solo trip to Edinburgh.
Get out into the stunning Scottish countryside on a day trip to Loch Lomond – no car needed!

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