So, you’re finally planning a trip to Scotland’s capital city and looking for the best places to visit in Edinburgh for free.
Adventuring through Auld Reekie doesn’t mean you have to empty your pockets – you can get swept up in the Scottish magic and go home with a full wallet.
Bright Bus Tours offers the complete lowdown on the best free attractions in town. Pair that with our hop-on, hop-off Edinburgh bus tour ticket, and you’re in for the budget-friendly adventure of a lifetime.
Experience the brightest way to explore the city’s highlights with our hop-on, hop-off buses. Read on for 16 of the best free attractions around Edinburgh.
The Ultimate Free Things to Do in Edinburgh
Planning on visiting Edinburgh on a budget? There are more than enough attractions fer nowt, as the locals say, to keep you busy during your stay. From Edinburgh museums to iconic royal landmarks along the Royal Mile in Old Town, here are our favourite spots among Edinburgh’s free attractions.
Tip: Get around the city with a cost-effective hop-on, hop-off bus tour from Bright Bus Tours. Our tour buses stop throughout Edinburgh’s city centre, allowing you to see more for less.
1. Visit the National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a go-to for history buffs. This attraction boasts galleries with artefacts from some of the oldest humans in Scotland. It also features incredible fossils and innovative inventions in exhibits like “Natural World” and “Making It” within the science wing.
With free entry and family fun zones, the National Museum is a family-friendly activity that you absolutely can’t miss.
And if you’re looking for more free museums, the Writers’ Museum and Museum of Childhood are just a short walk away. You’ll find the museum near the top of the Royal Mile on Lady Stair’s Close. The Writer’s Museum covers the lives and works of three incredible Scottish authors: Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott.
2. Take in the View at Calton Hill
Calton Hill is a volcanic hill and UNESCO World Heritage Site showing off incredible views of the city centre and beyond, worthy of being featured in many historical paintings.
This volcanic hill is much less hike strenuous than Arthur’s Seat, and its paved path takes you all the way to the top. With a stunning combination of natural beauty and landscapes, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic.
One of the best things to do on Calton Hill is to admire the various important monuments – the National Monument. This monument mimics the image of the Parthenon in Athens to honour the fallen soldiers of the Napoleonic War. There’s also the Nelson Monument to admire, where you can pay your respects to the sad passing of Admiral Lord Nelson, who died in battle in the early 19th century.
3. Admire the Art at the Scottish National Galleries
Edinburgh has three incredible free national galleries for fine art lovers to take advantage of.
Scottish National Gallery
Overlooking Princes Street Garden, this free art gallery showcases some of the greatest art in the country. Visit free exhibitions in a range of mediums, from watercolours and sculptures to impressive canvases and more.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
As the world’s first purpose-built portrait gallery, this Queen Street attraction has an impressive collection of artworks. See famous Scottish faces from King James IV, Mary, Queen of Scots and Robert Burns to modern icons like Vivian Westwood.
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is another free gallery in New Town, hosting pieces from icons such as Salvador Dali and Picasso. It also features an outdoor sensory sculpture trail – a delight for young and old.
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is quite close by and makes for an intriguing combined visit. You can also view masterpieces for free at the City Art Centre across from Waverley Train Station.
Once you’ve gotten your fill of art from Edinburgh’s free galleries, pop over to Edinburgh Castle for a deeper look into the city’s history. This incredible landmark on the Royal Mile near Princes Street Gardens has some fascinating stories lurking in its ancient walls. Follow in the footsteps of royalty in the Great Hall, where King James IV once enjoyed many celebrations.
Take a moment of silence at St Margaret’s Chapel for Queen Margaret, whom King David I honoured when he commissioned the building. If you’re visiting around lunchtime, keep your ears peeled for the sound of the One O’clock Gun, which was used from 1861 to help ships set their maritime clocks.
4. Find Your Pace in Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is the perfect spot to plan your next move — completely gratis. Relax on the lush lawns and take in landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill in the distance. For a more active option, climb the 287 steps of the Scott Monument.
The capital’s green heart is engaging year-round. Enjoy cherry blossoms in April, the Edinburgh Christmas Market in winter, and year-round events and concerts.
5. Stroll Through the Royal Botanic Garden
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is ideal for anyone looking for a moment of peace and quiet. While it is another great picnic spot spreading 70 acres, this garden offers so much more than a place to kick back or stroll about.
It was originally designed in 1670 as a garden dedicated to growing medicinal plants. Now, it’s home to one of the largest plant collections in the world. You can enjoy an interesting Rock Garden with dozens of stunning formations or stop at the pond for some solitude.
There are also a number of seasonal events happening here; in winter, they trail the garden with a stunning pattern of lights. Though these may not always be free events in Edinburgh, there is still plenty to do around the garden to keep yourself entertained — for example, perusing the art at the Inverleith House.
6. Admire the Architecture at Circus Lane
Built in the early 19th century as a picturesque part of Edinburgh’s New Town, Circus Lane is one of the most popular streets in the city, and for good reason. Circus Lane is close to the Royal Botanic Garden, so you can take a quick walk over from our guided tour stop.
With quaint cobblestone houses, old stables restored into charming blocks and stunning flowers to enjoy while you save money, it’ll definitely be a walk to remember. Transport yourself back in time and wander these streets at absolutely no cost.
This charming little spot is also close to Dean Village, so you can hit them both in one day and test your photography skills while you’re at it! If you’re there on a Sunday, don’t miss the Stockbridge Market for delicious artisanal treats.
7. Immerse Yourself in Pottermania at Victoria Street
Calling all Harry Potter fans – this is one of the best free places to go in Edinburgh that’s filled with magic. Victoria Street, rumoured to be Diagon Alley’s inspiration, is definitely a picturesque little road.
The colourful Victoria Street has tons of cute shops and coffee spots to check out, too. Don’t forget to bring your camera to catch your own unforgettable wizardry moment. Originally built to provide better access between the George IV Bridge and Grassmarket, it remains one of the city’s most photogenic streets.
8. Wander About Edinburgh’s Old Town
Edinburgh’s Old Town is the historic heart of the city, where it first formed its roots. The Old Town is home to many alluring hotspots, especially if you want to immerse yourself in Scottish history and culture.
Explore historic Old Town landmarks like the 12th-century St Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile. You can also visit the Heart of Midlothian, a brick mosaic near the cathedral’s entrance that marks the entrance to Edinburgh’s old toll booth.
The Royal Mile is an intriguing street to wander down, rife with history, entertainment, and culture. It’s a go-to for any traveller looking for free things to do in Edinburgh city centre.
9. Climb Arthur’s Seat
Have an adventure up an extinct volcano, Arthur’s Seat.
There are several routes to take up Arthur’s Seat. The easiest is the Green Route, which takes around 30-60 minutes to climb on a gradual incline. The 360-degree view of the city at the top is completely worth the exercise.
You can also spot Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock in the distance! It’s even rumoured that this viewpoint is where Camelot — a castle associated with King Arthur — used to stand.
10. Wander the Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway is a favourite attraction among tourists and locals. Stretching around 5km long along Edinburgh’s main river, this walkway offers a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take some peaceful moments to yourself.
The Water of Leith walkway offers stunning views of nature surrounding a shimmering river. You’ll spot some architectural surprises along the way, like St Bernards Well. The locals believe the water has healing powers. You can also explore the unique 6 Times sculpture by Antony Gormley — an individual fixture positioned among the waters.
If you’re craving another waterside stroll, Portobello Beach Promenade offers a refreshing dose of sea air. Just a short trip from the city centre, Portobello Beach is a two-mile stretch of glorious golden sand.
11. Discover Dean Village
If you’re making a stop by Water of Leith, you absolutely have to make time to visit Dean Village — a sleepy hamlet seemingly straight from a storybook. What was once a milling settlement in the 1100s and a mark of the Industrial Period is now a charming village that makes for some great pictures. One of the most interesting architectural marvels in Dean Village is the Well Court, built in the late 19th century to provide a home for water mill workers.
When you take a stroll through the village, keep an eye out for the decorative stone plaques and mill stones designed to celebrate Scotland’s industrial history. The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is also nearby if you are feeling artsy. Here, you’ll get to see gems like Van Gogh’s work in the flesh.
12. Journey to the Forts in Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park is a fantastic place to spend an afternoon, with a history dating back 1000 years. Studies suggest that the park was even the location of hunter-gatherer communities 6,000 years ago.
One of the most remarkable things to enjoy here is the four Iron Age Hill Forts, rife with historical significance. The park also has some religious significance, and many visitors stop by St Anthony’s Well and St Margaret’s Well for a spiritual experience. You can hear all about the local history of this fascinating park at the Educational Centre close by.
13. Rub Greyfriars Bobby’s Nose
Greyfriars Bobby was known as the most loyal dog in Scotland in the mid-1800s. Bobby was a lovable Skye Terrier and best friend to John Gray, a respected constable in Edinburgh’s police force. They used to travel the streets together, side by side, protecting citizens at night.
When John Gray fell terribly ill, Bobby stayed by his side until he passed. Bobby proceeded to guard his grave for 14 years until his sad passing in 1872. Now, you can stop by his statue outside Greyfriars Kirkyard and rub his nose to pay your respects. There are even free walking tours starting here, where you can explore Edinburgh side-by-side with a friendly tour guide and his dog!
14. Get Spooked at a Haunted Graveyard
While the official Edinburgh ghost tour is not a free event, you can still get spooked in the city for free. Greyfriars Kirkyard is along Candlemaker Row, close to the statue of Greyfriars Bobby on Chambers Street. Greyfriars Kirkyard is home to the grave of Harry Potter’s arch-nemesis, Tom Riddle.
There are a few other spooky spots around here, too, like the Covenanter’s Prison, where hundreds of men were sadly tortured in the 1600s. You’ll also find George MacKenzie’s grave here, the very same man who tortured all those men in the kirkyard. You’ll find his grave in a black mausoleum, which is reported to have some scratches on it. Visit if you dare!
15. Walk Up the Vennel Stairs
When you hop off our Edinburgh bus at Grassmarket, there’s so much more than meets the eye. The area hides a secret alley to the iconic Vennel Steps. This hidden gem takes you past the Flodden Wall, which was built in 1560 in an attempt to protect the city from potential English invasions.
After a fifteen-minute walk up, you’ll reach a large platform with vistas of Edinburgh Castle and beyond. It’s a popular hotspot with photographers. Why not bring your camera and test your own photography skills?
16. Explore the Core of Scottish Democracy
This might sound like advice from a well-meaning relative who doesn’t travel much, but hear us out. The Scottish Parliament is a fascinating stop, giving you insight into one of the oldest democracies in action.
The Scottish Parliament is in a uniquely designed, somewhat controversial building on the Royal Mile. Do a self-guided tour Monday through Saturday, or book a guided free walking tour with guides on select days. Be sure to review the official website for upcoming exhibitions and family-friendly events.
If you’re visiting around lunchtime, keep your ears peeled for the sound of the One O’clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle. When blast echoes through the city — locals calmly check their watches, while tourists jump.
Wondering how to hit as many free events as possible?
Book a spot with Bright Bus Tours and stop for dozens of things to do for free in Edinburgh in one day.
Things To Do in Edinburgh for Free – FAQs
What are some of the best free things to do in Edinburgh at night?
Seeing the sunset at Arthur’s Seat is an unforgettable free experience in Edinburgh. If you happen to be around the Royal Mile, wander down the road and enjoy admiring the street performers. Experience a range of entertainment, from quirky musicians and singers to portrait artists and balloonists.
For those young in age and spirit wondering what to do in Edinburgh for free at night, the city boasts a vibrant nightlife. Many spots offer free entry before a certain time or on weekdays.
Are there free indoor activities in Edinburgh?
If you’re trying to escape the weather, there are many free activities to explore. From travelling to the past in The People’s Story Museum and exploring St Giles’ Cathedral to gazing in awe at the work in the City Art Centre, you don’t have to head outside for a fun time!
Are all museums free in Edinburgh?
Most museum sites in Edinburgh are free, while others have a small entry charge. For example, the Surgeons’ Hall Museums and John Knox House require an entry fee. However, there are plenty of other free museum hotspots, like the Writers’ Museum and The People’s Story Museum, that are along the Royal Mile.
Which of Edinburgh’s free activities are family-friendly?
Many of the free stuff to do in Edinburgh are family-friendly. These include visiting an Edinburgh museum or strolling through the art galleries.
A popular spot for children to visit is Greyfriars Bobby, where the whole family can rub the nose of this brave dog for good luck!
The Museum of Childhood is another fantastic place for hours of family fun, with fun toys and games from the 19th century on display. Drop by the Scottish Parliament for free “crafternoons” on select Saturdays. Keep an eye on their website for other fun, free events.
Are there any unusual places to visit in Edinburgh for free?
You’ve climbed Arthur’s Seat at dawn, explored every free museum and lounged in Princes Street Gardens. Yet, something still feels missing from your Edinburgh adventure. Here are some of the more offbeat sights and activities in the city:
Uncover Financial Disasters at the Library of Mistakes
The Library of Mistakes in New Town was founded in the ashes of the 2008 recession. Its 2,000+ books and quirky artefacts cover global economic history. The idea is to educate the next generation of economists and other enquiring minds.
It’s free to visit Monday to Saturday, with bookable time slots. The library hosts finance-focused talks, many recorded as podcasts.
Stand Where Medieval Edinburgh Ended
There was a time when the world ended on the Royal Mile for many poor Edinburgh citizens. World’s End Close is an eerie alley that marked the boundary in medieval Edinburg between the city and the unknown beyond.
The city’s gates stood near this spot, separating those who could afford to leave from those trapped within. The name remains a haunting reminder of a time when life for many truly stopped at this point.
Walk Through Poetry at the Colinton Tunnel
The Colinton Railway line, once travelled by author Robert Louis Stevenson to visit his grandfather in a nearby village, now features a striking mural. The artwork is inspired by Stevenson’s poem “From a Railway Carriage,” connecting this transformed walking path to its rich railway heritage. The public walkway is free of charge and permanently open.
