5 Free Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Old Town skyline with church spires at golden hour

Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock in golden evening light

01 | The City

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and its second-largest city. Compared with London or Paris it isn’t huge, but it has just as much history, maybe more. The Old Town dates back to the medieval age, and most of its buildings have kept the same structure and architecture since they were built. Together with the Georgian New Town, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many of its best sights are free.

02 | The List

1. Scottish National Gallery, by Princes Street Gardens

2. Arthur’s Seat, for the best view of the city

3. Calton Hill, the sunset spot

4. Royal Botanic Garden, a 15-minute walk from the centre

5. A stroll around the Old Town and New Town

03 | The 5 Free Things

1. The Scottish National Gallery

Right in the middle of Edinburgh, beside Princes Street Gardens, the Scottish National Gallery doesn’t charge for admission, like many other museums and galleries across the UK.

2. Arthur’s Seat

If the weather is dry, climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat. The 250m climb takes a little effort, but it’s worth it. This is the best view over the whole city. Some people say the hill is named after King Arthur, one of the most famous British leaders.

3. Calton Hill

Just a few minutes’ walk from the end of Princes Street, Calton Hill is probably the most famous sunset spot in Edinburgh, so it can get very busy at that time, especially in summer. At the top you’ll find the National Monument, the Nelson Monument and one of the city’s icons, the Dugald Stewart Monument.

4. The Royal Botanic Garden

Get lost among the trees, flowers and wildlife of the Royal Botanic Garden, just a 15-minute walk from the city centre. It holds over 13,000 species of plants. Some exhibitions charge for entry, but you can enjoy most of the garden for free.

5. Have a Stroll Around

Edinburgh isn’t a big city. You can take the bus or the tram, but walking is the best way to get to know it. Between the Old Town and the New Town there are many places to see and streets to discover. The Royal Mile is the most famous street in the Old Town. It’s always busy with tourists, but it also has live performances, restaurants, pubs and shops, with Edinburgh Castle at the top.

In the New Town you’ll find Princes Street, the city’s main shopping street, with plenty of shops and monuments. Beside it are Princes Street Gardens, lovely for a summer picnic and with beautiful views of Edinburgh Castle. Don’t forget to visit Greyfriars Bobby, the famous dog who spent 14 years guarding his owner’s grave. While you’re there, have a pint at the pub with the same name. Unfortunately, that one isn’t free!

Information accurate as of 2020. Details like prices, addresses and opening times can change, so please confirm before visiting.