10 Free Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city of culture, history, and impressive architecture. It’s bursting with activities to keep you entertained, and many of them are free. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s past, discover its many hidden gems, or just relax in its stunning green spaces, there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh. Here are 10 free things to do in Edinburgh that you won’t want to miss.

1. Explore the City’s Historic Old Town

Edinburgh’s Old Town is a World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. Its cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and grand squares will transport you back in time. Wander through the winding streets and explore the city’s history. Don’t forget to take a look at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, the towering St Giles Cathedral, and the famous Royal Mile.

The Old Town is also full of hidden gems, such as the Mary King’s Close, a hidden alleyway of 500-year-old homes. The area is also home to many independent shops, restaurants, and cafés, where you can soak up the atmosphere of this unique part of the city.

Take your time to explore the historic Old Town and you’ll soon discover why it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland.

2. Relax in Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens is one of the most beautiful parks in Edinburgh. Located between the Old Town and the New Town, the gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a stroll through the park and admire the colourful flowerbeds, lush green lawns, and impressive monuments.

The gardens are also home to a number of attractions, including the Ross Bandstand, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the National Gallery of Scotland. In the summer, the gardens host a number of outdoor events, including live music and theatre performances.

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax in the city, Princes Street Gardens is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

3. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is a must-see attraction in Edinburgh. The museum is home to a huge collection of artefacts, from dinosaur fossils to ancient Egyptian mummies. There are interactive exhibits, as well as a number of temporary exhibitions.

The museum is free to enter, and it’s easy to spend a whole day exploring its many galleries. Don’t forget to take a look at the roof terrace, where you can get a stunning view of the city.

The National Museum of Scotland is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Scotland, and it’s a fantastic free activity for all ages.

4. Climb Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano in the heart of Edinburgh. It’s a popular spot for hikers and climbers, and the views from the top are spectacular. The climb is relatively easy, and it takes about an hour to reach the summit.

At the top, you can admire the stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Don’t forget to take a look at the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel, a 12th century chapel perched on the side of the hill.

Climbing Arthur’s Seat is a great way to get some fresh air and take in the stunning views of Edinburgh.

5. Explore the Edinburgh Vaults

The Edinburgh Vaults are a network of underground chambers that were once used to store goods. The vaults are now a popular tourist attraction, and it’s easy to see why. The eerie atmosphere of the chambers and the stories of the hauntings make the vaults an unforgettable experience.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the vaults, and learn about their fascinating history. There are also a number of events held in the vaults, including ghost tours, music events, and theatre performances.

Exploring the Edinburgh Vaults is a great way to learn about the city’s dark past, and it’s a free activity that you won’t want to miss.

6. Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia is a floating museum located in the city’s port. The yacht was the official residence of the British Royal Family for over 40 years, and it’s now open to the public. Visitors can explore the royal apartments, the state rooms, and the engine room.

The yacht also hosts a number of special events, including royal dinners, cocktail parties, and art exhibitions. There’s also a café and a shop on board, where you can buy souvenirs and gifts.

Visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia is a great way to get a glimpse into the life of the British Royal Family, and it’s a free activity that you won’t want to miss.

7. Enjoy the Views from Calton Hill

Calton Hill is one of the most popular attractions in Edinburgh. Located in the centre of the city, the hill is home to a number of impressive monuments, such as the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument.

The hill is also a great spot to admire the views of the city. From the top, you can see the Old Town, the New Town, the Firth of Forth, and the picturesque Pentland Hills.

Whether you’re looking for a spot to watch the sunset or just want to soak up the views of the city, Calton Hill is the perfect place to do it.

8. Stroll Through the Meadows

The Meadows is a large park in the south of Edinburgh. The park is home to a number of attractions, including a pond, a children’s playground, and a bandstand. There’s also a number of sports facilities, including tennis courts, football pitches, and a bowling green.

The park is also a great spot to relax and enjoy the views of the city. Take a stroll through the meadows and admire the peaceful atmosphere of this green oasis in the heart of the city.

The Meadows is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and it’s a free activity that you won’t want to miss.

9. Explore Holyrood Park

Holyrood Park is a large park located at the foot of Arthur’s Seat. The park is a great spot for outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding. There’s also a number of attractions, including the Scottish Parliament Building, the ruined Holyrood Abbey, and the ancient Salisbury Crags.

The park is also home to a number of wildlife, such as deer, rabbits, and foxes. Take a walk through the park and admire the stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Exploring Holyrood Park is a great way to get some fresh air and take in the stunning views of Edinburgh.

10. Visit the National Galleries of Scotland

The National Galleries of Scotland is a must-see attraction in Edinburgh. The galleries are home to a huge collection of art, from ancient masterpieces to modern art. There are a number of temporary exhibitions, as well as a number of special events, such as talks and workshops.

The galleries are also home to a café and a shop, where you can buy souvenirs and gifts. The galleries are free to enter, and they’re a great place to learn about the history of art and culture in Scotland.

Visiting the National Galleries of Scotland is a great way to see some of the world’s best art, and it’s a free activity that you won’t want to miss.

Summary

Edinburgh is a city full of culture, history, and stunning architecture. It’s bursting with activities to keep you entertained, and many of them are free. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s past, discover its many hidden gems, or just relax in its stunning green spaces, there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh. Here are 10 free things to do in Edinburgh that you won’t want to miss. Explore the City’s Historic Old Town, Relax in Princes Street Gardens, Visit the National Museum of Scotland, Climb Arthur’s Seat, Explore the Edinburgh Vaults, Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, Enjoy the Views from Calton Hill, Stroll Through the Meadows, Explore Holyrood Park, and Visit the National Galleries of Scotland.