Edinburgh on a Budget: 15 Free (or Almost Free) Things to Do
Edinburgh might have a reputation as one of the pricier UK cities to visit, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy it. With its dramatic landscapes, historic streets and vibrant culture, much of what makes Edinburgh special is completely free – if you know where to look.
This guide pulls together 15 of the best free (or very low-cost) things to do in Edinburgh, perfect for visitors who want to explore the city on a budget. Whether you’re here for a weekend break, a longer trip or you’re just looking to stretch your money further, this list has something for everyone – not just families.
If you’re short on time or want a tailored plan, I offer a personalised itinerary service – perfect for family trips. Find out more here!
Iconic Sights & Must-Do Walks
Soak up some of the best views, atmosphere and history Edinburgh has to offer – all without spending a penny.
1. Walk the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is arguably Edinburgh’s most famous street, stretching from Edinburgh Castle at the top down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s packed with atmosphere – think bagpipers, cobbled closes (or alleyways) and historic buildings – and you don’t need to spend a thing to enjoy the buzz.
The Royal Mile is always full of character – you might even spot a classic red bus!
📍 Location: Old Town – from Castlehill to Canongate. The Royal Mile is actually made up of several connected streets, each with its own name: Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate and Abbey Strand. Together, they form the mile-long stretch that links Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
👀 Look out for: The sweeping view from the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, St Giles’ Cathedral with its distinctive crown-shaped spire and atmospheric closes like Advocate’s Close (offering a postcard-perfect view of the Scott Monument in New Town), Lady Stair’s Close (home to The Writers’ Museum) and Dunbar’s Close (hiding a peaceful 17th-century garden).
💡 Local tip: It’s easier to walk the Royal Mile downhill – so if you can, make your way up to the Castle first, then stroll back down towards Holyroodhouse. Your legs will thank you!
2. Explore Calton Hill
For a classic panoramic view of Edinburgh, it’s hard to beat Calton Hill – and it’s much easier to climb than Arthur’s Seat! At the top, you’ll find a variety of monuments including the Nelson Monument as well as views stretching from Arthur’s Seat to the Forth Bridges.
Calton Hill is one of the best spots in Edinburgh to watch the sun set over the city skyline.
📍 Location: East end of Princes Street, with the main entrance beside Regent Road.
👀 Look out for: The National Monument, a giant set of unfinished Greek-style columns meant to honour Scotland’s fallen soldiers; the Nelson Monument, a tall tower with a time ball on top; the Dugald Stewart Monument, a circular structure seen in many classic Edinburgh skyline photos; and Collective, a free contemporary art centre.
💡 Local tip: For a less-photographed angle, walk over to the railing in front of the Nelson Monument. From here, you’ll get a fantastic view looking straight down Princes Street, with the Balmoral Hotel clock tower and the New Town skyline laid below.
3. Hike Arthur's Seat or Salisbury Crags
If you’re up for some fresh air and incredible views, a walk in Holyrood Park is one of the best free ways to enjoy Edinburgh’s natural beauty. Just a short walk from the end of the Royal Mile, this dramatic landscape offers everything from a full-on hike to peaceful lochside paths. Climb Arthur’s Seat for a panoramic view across the city, or take an easier route along Salisbury Crags for equally beautiful scenery without the steep incline.
📍 Location: Holyrood Park – a short walk from the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom of the Royal Mile.
👀 Look out for: The view from the summit of Arthur’s Seat, which offers one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh; Salisbury Crags, a dramatic ridge that’s slightly lower and easier to reach; and the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel, which adds a historic touch to your walk. If you don’t fancy a full hike, try walking part of the Queen’s Drive loop – a wide, paved route that circles the park and offers great views without needing hiking boots.
💡 Local tip: It can be much windier (and colder!) at the top of Arthur’s Seat than it feels at ground level, even on a sunny day, so bring an extra layer just in case.
4. Explore Dean Village
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape just a stone’s throw away from the city centre, Dean Village feels like a hidden world. Tucked away beside the Water of Leith, the former milling village is known for its cobbled streets, quaint stone buildings and picturesque riverside paths. It’s one of the most photogenic parts of Edinburgh, and completely free to wander!
The picturesque Well Court buildings make Dean Village one of the most photogenic spots in Edinburgh.
📍 Location: Around a 10-minute walk from the west end of Princes Street – head up Queensferry Street and then onto Bells Brae.
👀 Look out for: The iconic view from the small footbridge over the Water of Leith Walkway, looking over the Well Court buildings with their red roofs and turreted windows. Also watch for mill stones and plaques of baked bread and pies that hint at the area’s industrial past, and enjoy the tranquil riverside walk toward the National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One and Modern Two if you feel like exploring further.
💡 Local tip: To get to the best viewpoint, turn left onto Hawthornbank Lane just before you reach the Deans Brae Bridge. Walk to the end of the lane and you’ll find the small footbridge with the perfect angle for the classic Dean Village photo.
Green Escapes & Outdoor Spaces
Recharge in the city’s beautiful green spaces. Edinburgh has no shortage of spots to relax, go for a stroll or just enjoy a slower pace – all completely free and perfect for unwinding in nature!
5. Wander the Royal Botanic Garden
A peaceful haven just north of the city centre, the Royal Botanic Garden (or the Botanics, as locals tend to call it) is a beloved green space in Edinburgh. Entry is completely free, and there’s something to enjoy year-round. Wander through beautifully landscaped grounds, discover rare plant species and enjoy some quiet moments away from the Edinburgh crowds.
The Rock Garden is one of the most peaceful corners of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
📍 Location: Inverleith, around a 30-minute walk or short bus ride from Princes Street.
👀 Look out for: Don’t miss the Rock Garden with its winding paths and colourful alpine plants. The Chinese Hillside is another highlight – a peaceful, secluded area inspired by traditional Chinese garden design. And be sure to check out the Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden, a quiet, reflective space featuring a lovely labryinth path at its centre.
💡 Local tip: Enter or exit via the West Gate for easy access to Inverleith Park just across the road – perfect if you want to extend your stroll or enjoy open views of the Edinburgh skyline.
6. Relax in Princes Street Gardens
Once a loch and now a lush green space, Princes Street Gardens is Edinburgh’s most central park. Divided into East and West Gardens by The Mound, this park offers beautiful views of Edinburgh Castle, lovely flowerbeds, historic monuments and lots of benches for a budget-friendly break with a view.
Princes Street Gardens it the perfect place for a peaceful stroll right in the heart of the city.
📍 Location: Right in the centre of the city, stretching below Edinburgh Castle between the Old and New Towns.
👀 Look out for: As you enter the park from the east end of Princes Street, you’ll find the towering Scott Monument, a dramatic gothic spire dedicated to the author Sir Walter Scott. Admire the seasonal floral displays, including the famous floral clock in summer at the start of the West Gardens. And be sure not to miss the elegant Ross Fountain at the far end of the West Gardens, a cast-iron Victorian structure with Edinburgh Castle rising behind it.
💡 Local tip: The West Gardens tend to be a bit quieter than the East, especially during busier months – ideal if you’re after a peaceful break from the crowds.
7. Stroll Along Portobello Beach
With its wide sandy beach that stretches for nearly two miles along the Firth of Forth, Portobello has become one of Edinburgh’s most beloved escapes, especially on sunny days. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, paddle or just sitting with a coffee and soaking in the sea air.
📍 Location: East of the city centre, around 30 minutes by bus from Princes Street.
👀 Look out for: Along the promenade, you’ll see the historic Portobello Swim Centre with its distinctive red brick facade, plenty of cafes and restaurants and occasional food trucks during warmer months. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed seaside walk with wide beach views across the Firth of Forth – especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
💡 Local tip: Portobello is often affected by haar – a cold sea fog that can roll in suddenly, especially in spring or early summer. It cools the beach and creates a misty, atmospheric vibe, so keep an eye on the weather when you visit.
8. Follow the Water of Leith Walkway
Winding through some of Edinburgh’s most scenic areas, the Water of Leith Walkway offers a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. This riverside path is great for a leisurely stroll or a longer walk, with leafy stretches and hidden landmarks along the way.
📍 Location: The full walkway runs for 12 miles from the village of Balerno on the city’s southwestern edge to the vibrant district of Leith in the north of Edinburgh. One of the most popular stretches is from the National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One on Belford Road through Dean Village and Stockbridge, finishing at Canonmills or further into Leith.
👀 Look out for: Along this route, you’ll pass by peaceful woodland, the charming Dean Village and hidden gems like St Bernard’s Well – a neoclassical monument tucked beside the water. Also keep an eye out for Antony Gormley’s life-sized sculptures, part of his 6 TIMES installation, three of which can be found between Modern One and Stockbridge.
💡 Local tip: The path can get muddy in places after rain, so wear comfortable shoes with decent grip. Starting at Modern One makes for an easy and well-marked beginning and you can pop into the gallery before or after your walk.
Free Museums & Cultural Highlights
From world-class museums to stunning galleries, Edinburgh offers plenty of ways to soak up culture without spending a penny. You’ll also find free walking tours that run daily – a brilliant introduction to the city for first-time visitors.
9. Explore Edinburgh's Free Museums
Rainy day? Edinburgh’s museums and galleries are not only excellent – many are free to enter. Whether you’re interested in classic art, modern design, Scottish history or anything in between, there’s something to explore without spending a thing. Here are some great options, grouped by theme:
🎨 Art & Design
Scottish National Gallery – Set just off Princes Street, this central gallery is home to European masterpieces from Botticelli to Turner and is perfect for a cultural stop while exploring the city centre.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery – A striking red sandstone building on Queen Street in New Town, filled with portraits of Scotland’s most notable figures and a dramatic entrance hall worth seeing on its own.
National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One and Modern Two – A pair of galleries showcasing modern and contemporary art, set in leafy grounds just northwest of the city centre.
🦖 History, Science & Culture
National Museum of Scotland – This huge museum in Edinburgh’s Old Town covers everything from dinosaurs to technology to Dolly the Sheep. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for views over the city.
Museum of Edinburgh – Housed in a bright yellow building on the Royal Mile, this museum takes you through the city’s past with detailed models and historic objects.
The People’s Story Museum – Right across the street, this museum focuses on the everyday lives of Edinburgh’s working class from the 18th to 20th centuries, told through personal stories and recreated scenes.
St Giles’ Cathedral – While technically not a museum, this historic church on the Royal Mile is free to enter, with optional donation. It’s beautiful inside, with stained glass and ornate features.
💷 Niche & Hidden Gems
Museum on the Mound – Near the top of the Mound, close to Princes Street, this small museum explores the history of money in Scotland – including the chance to see £1 million in cash.
The Writers’ Museum – Tucked away in Lady Stair’s Close just off the Royal Mile, this wee museum celebrates writers like Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Museum of Childhood – Also on the Royal Mile, this museum showcases toys, books and childhood memorabilia from across the decades.
💡 Local tip: Many of these museums are clustered around the Old Town and city centre, so you can easily explore more than one in a morning or afternoon. And if it’s pouring outside, the National Museum of Scotland is big enough to keep you dry and entertained for hours!
10. Join a Free Walking Tour
Discover Edinburgh through the eyes of a local with a tip-based walking tour – an ideal way to explore the city’s history, hidden corners and iconic sights, all without a fixed price tag.
Several tour companies offer free walking tours of Edinburgh, including City Explorers Tours, GuruWalk and SANDEMANs. I actually did a SANDEMANs tour myself when I first moved here and found it a great way to get a feel for the city’s layout and stories early on.
Tours typically last around 1.5-2+ hours and cover key spots like the Royal Mile, Grassmarket, Greyfriars Kirkyard and more. You’ll hear interesting tales of Edinburgh’s past – from royalty to witch trials to literary legends.
💡 Local tip: Although these tours are technically free, they operate on a pay-what-you-like basis, so bring some cash or be ready to tip by card. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Local Life & Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known attractions, Edinburgh’s local corners are full of charm, character and surprise. From Sunday markets to mews lanes to daily traditions, this section will allow you to tap into the city’s personality – all completely free of charge!
11. Browse a Local Market
Edinburgh’s small outdoor markets are great places to explore the city’s creative and culinary side. There’s something for everyone – and you don’t need to spend a thing to enjoy the atmosphere.
📍 Locations:
Edinburgh’s Farmers Market – Saturdays from 09.00 - 14.00, Castle Terrace, EH1 2EN
Stockbridge Market – Sundays from 10.00 - 16.00, Saunders STreet, EH3 6TQ
Grassmarket Market - Saturdays from 10.00 - 17.00, Grassmarket, EH1 2JR
Leith Market – Saturdays from 10.00 - 16.00, Dock Place, EH6 6LU
👀 Look out for: Fresh produce, handmade jewellery, local artwork and street food – stalls often change from week to week. Websites usually update with stallholder information.
💡 Local tip: Earlier in the day tends to be quieter and more relaxed, giving you space to browse and chat with vendors without the crowds.
12. Snap a Photo on Circus Lane
Tucked away in Stockbridge, Circus Lane is one of Edinburgh’s most photogenic spots. With its cobbled street, colourful doors and gentle curve toward St Stephen’s Church, it’s a favourite background for photoshoots – and for good reason.
Circus Lane is one of Edinburgh’s most photographed streets – and it’s easy to see why.
📍 Location: Enter from N W Circus Place, Stockbridge.
👀 Look out for: The iconic view of St Stephen’s Church at the far end of the lane, the classic angle.
💡 Local tip: Visit early or on weekdays for quieter moments. Circus Lane is a residential street, so make sure to be respectful when taking photos.
13. Catch Free Shows at Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Every August, Edinburgh transforms into a city-wide stage during the Fringe Festival, and many shows are free to watch. From stand-up and improv to live music and theatre, free shows are a great way to discover rising talent.
📍 Location: Various venues across the city in August.
👀 Look out for: You’ll often spot performers on the Royal Mile and elsewhere in the city – and sometimes giving you a mini performance on the spot!
💡 Local tip: While plenty of free shows are unticketed, some require booking in advance, so it’s worth checking listings ahead of time.
14. Hear the One o'Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle
Everyday (except for Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day), a cannon is fired from Edinburgh Castle at exactly 13.00 – a tradition dating back to 1861. It was originally used to help ships in the Firth of Forth set their maritime clocks, but now it’s a fun surprise in the middle of the day!
📍 Location: Edinburgh Castle (visible/heard from various city spots).
👀 Look out for: The actual cannon blast from the Castle – or people visibly reacting to it!
💡 Local tip: You don’t need to go inside the Castle to see or hear the One o’Clock Gun. A great spot to watch or hear the blast is West Princes Street Gardens near the Ross Fountain.
Drinks with a View
Sometimes the best way to take in Edinburgh’s skyline is with something in hand – and while these spots aren’t free, they can be a memorable low-cost treat.
15. Rooftop Bars for Panoramic Views
For a special treat, enjoy a comfy seat and admire Edinburgh from above. Rooftop bars offer sweeping cityscapes with the bonus of something tasty in hand. Access usually means buying a drink – no fancy dress code or booking required!
📍 Popular spots include:
W Edinburgh’s “W Deck” – Modern glass terraces at St James Quarter in New Town with views towards the Firth of Forth.
1820 at Johnnie Walker Princes Street – On the west end of Princes Street, perfect for Edinburgh Castle views.
Nor’ Loft at Market Street Hotel – Beside Waverley Train Station, looking out over the New Town rooftops.
Forth Floor Bar at Harvey Nichols – In St Andrew Square, with views across the elegant New Town.
The Raeburn – A relaxed terrace in leafy Stockbridge, just north of the city centre.
👀 Look out for: Each rooftop terrace offers a slightly different view over Edinburgh’s skyline. Keep an eye out for the changing light at sunset and the city’s architectural details from above. These spots are also perfect for panoramic photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.
💡 Local tip: Check access details before you go, as opening hours and entry policies can change seasonally or during busy times like the festival season in August.
Edinburgh is a city full of history, charm and hidden gems – and the best part? You don’t need to spend a fortune to experience it. From scenic walks and rooftop views to museums and markets, there’s something for every type of explorer.
Have you discovered any free or low-cost Edinburgh favourites that we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments below – we love hearing about new ways to enjoy the city!
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Discover 15 free or budget-friendly things to do in Edinburgh – from iconic sights to hidden gems, scenic walks, markets and museums.