Edinburgh is a city that feels like it was plucked straight from the pages of a gothic novel. With its jagged skyline, misty atmosphere, narrow cobblestone “closes,” and gorgeous architecture, it is one of the most impressive cities you could ever visit.
Edinburgh has a gravity that pulls you in. But as any traveler knows, visiting another country can be pricey. So, we, as a family, love to find budget friendly things to do when we travel. Here are a few free things to do in Edinburgh that we enjoyed.
The very best of Edinburgh—its soul, its history, and its views—won’t cost a single penny. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a “Potterhead” looking for the inspiration behind the magic, here a few thoughts on how to see some of the best parts of the Scottish capital for free.
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Free Things to do in Edinburgh
1. Conquer the “Sleeping Dragon”: Arthur’s Seat
If you want to understand the scale of Edinburgh, you have to get above it. Arthur’s Seat is the highest point in Holyrood Park, sitting at 251 meters (823 feet) above sea level. But it’s not just a hill; it’s an ancient, extinct volcano that erupted some 350 million years ago. It’s one of my favourite parts of this historic city and one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh.
Why go?
Locals often refer to it as the “Sleeping Dragon” because of its unique shape. The hike takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your fitness level and how many times you stop to take photos (and you will stop).
Pro Tip: There are several routes up. For a gentler climb, take the path from Dunsapie Loch. If you want the full experience, start at Holyrood Palace and follow the “Red Route.” When you reach the rocky summit, you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree panorama of the Firth of Forth, the Lothians, and the castle-topped city below. It’s the perfect place to clear your head and realize just how stunning Scotland really is.
2. Step Into the National Museum of Scotland
Museums in Scotland are spectacular and they are also free which makes that a great place to start if looking for ways to experience the culture and the history. The National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street is a great place to start
The Victorian Grand Gallery, with its soaring white cast-iron pillars and glass roof, is one of the most beautiful indoor spaces in the UK.
What to See:
Dolly the Sheep is the world’s first mammal cloned from an adult cell.
The Millennium Clock: A towering, intricate piece of art that performs a hauntingly beautiful mechanical dance every hour.
Did you know there’s a Roof Terrace at the museum: Take the lift to the 7th floor for a hidden (and free!) view of Edinburgh Castle that most tourists miss.
3. Discover the Literary Soul at The Writers’ Museum
Tucked away in Lady Stair’s Close just off the Royal Mile, The Writers’ Museum is housed in a gorgeous 17th-century townhouse. It celebrates the “Big Three” of Scottish literature: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Even if you aren’t a bookworm, the building itself is worth the visit. It’s full of winding stone stairs and creaky floorboards. You can see Robert Louis Stevenson’s riding boots and a printing press used to produce the original Waverley novels. It’s a quiet, intimate look at the men who gave Scotland its voice. There are a few spots where women have now been added into the story as well, but this is really about the big three.
4. Wander the “Dead Centre” of Town: Greyfriars Kirkyard
Walking through a cemetery might sound morbid, but Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the most peaceful and fascinating spots in the city. It’s famous for two very different reasons: a loyal dog and a dark wizard. And frankly everyone knows that the cemeteries in the UK and Europe hit different.
The History:
First, look for the grave of Greyfriars Bobby, the little Skye Terrier who supposedly spent 14 years guarding his master’s grave until his own death in 1872. It’s a heart-wrenching tale of devotion that has become a staple of Edinburgh lore. Leave him a twig or a stick.
The Mystery:
For Harry Potter fans, this graveyard is a pilgrimage site. J.K. Rowling famously spent time here while writing the early books. As you wander among the mossy headstones, look for names like William McGonagall and, most famously, Thomas Riddell. Yes, the real-life inspiration for Voldemort’s name rests right here. WE spied both of these and they are not that hard to locate. Google if you need to once you are in the cemetery.
5. Walk the Streets that Inspired Hogwarts
You don’t need a tour guide to find the magic in Edinburgh; you just need to look up. The city is a masterclass in Gothic and Reformation-era architecture, and it’s easy to see how it inspired the Wizarding World.
Where to walk:
• Victoria Street: This brightly coloured, curving street is widely believed to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley. With its independent shops and two-tier levels, it feels truly whimsical. You can spend as much as you want exploring the stores here, but you might just want to walk through, sight see and enjoy. One of the days we literally just walked exploring all of the Harry Potter themed sights.
• George Heriot’s School: You can view this stunning turreted building from the gates. It was built in 1628 and features four houses (sound familiar?), often cited as a likely inspiration for the physical look of Hogwarts.
• The Royal Mile: Walking from the Castle down to Holyrood Palace is a free history lesson. Look into the narrow “closes” (alleys)—some are so steep and dark they feel like they belong in Nocturn Alley. We had an AirBnB at the end of the Royal Mile, so we could walk anywhere and explore the entire mile (which is a little more than a mile.)
Edinburgh is a Walkable City
Edinburgh is a city built on layers—geological layers of volcanic rock and historical layers of myth and legend. The best way to experience it is to put on a pair of sturdy walking shoes, grab a raincoat (this is Scotland, after all!), and get lost in its streets.
A Few Other Ideas
This is by no means a comprehensive list of free or budget friendly things to do in Edinburgh. Remarkably there are many surprise events that you might stumble onto when exploring. One day we discovered a popup exhibit at the library which featured the works of Mary Shelley. LOVED that. Also, there’s an indoor maker’s market on the Royal Mile at Tron Kirk. Free entry, but the souvenirs and artworks will of course cost money.
Auld Reekie
By no means am I saying you shouldn’t spend money here. Don’t compromise on the non negotiables. Escape the city and visit the Highlands, go feed the Highland Cows and get that butter beer on Diagon Alley. Enjoy Cullen’s Skink and all the bangers and mash! But you might be surprised by all the affordable things you can see and do in Edinburgh. From the top of a volcano to the quiet corners of a 400-year-old graveyard, some of the best things in “Auld Reekie” truly are free.
