Affordable Things to Do in Edinburgh with GoTravelDaily

Edinburgh is famously one of the UK’s most expensive cities, but that doesn’t mean it has to cost you a pretty penny – there are myriad affordable activities for every visitor.

Whether it’s enjoying local cuisine, exploring an extinct volcano, or taking a bus or train to nearby seaside towns, Edinburgh offers plenty of options for experiencing the city on a budget.

Fly on a Weekday with a Budget Airline

Flying with a budget airline is often the most economical way to reach Edinburgh. However, weekend flights typically cost more. Therefore, if possible, consider planning your journey for a weekday. If you’re traveling from London, planning ahead can save you money—look for the Lumo train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh Waverley, which offers round-trip fares for less than £30 (US$41).

Take the Airlink 100 Bus to the City Center

Upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport, you have the option to travel directly to the city center via bus or tram. The Airlink 100 bus operates every 15 minutes throughout the day, with an open return ticket costing £7.50 ($10.20). It’s advisable to purchase a physical ticket on board or use the Lothian Buses M-Tickets app to pay in advance and store your fare electronically. The tram runs every seven minutes but is not available 24/7 like the airport bus and is generally more costly.

Explore the City on Foot or via Bus

Once you arrive in the city, you’ll find that Edinburgh is incredibly walkable. Strolling through the city allows for a more immersive experience. Conversely, if you opt to use the bus, a single ticket is £1.80 ($2.45) regardless of distance traveled, while a day ticket costs just £4.50 ($6.10). If you’re planning an extended visit, consider the 5 x Adult DAYtickets option available through the app for £20 ($27).

Stay at a Budget Hotel or Hostel

There are numerous budget accommodations in Edinburgh, including popular chains such as Premier Inn and Travelodge, as well as various hostels located near key attractions like Edinburgh Castle. For a unique experience, consider Castle Rock Hostel, or explore self-catering apartments like the Holyrood Aparthotel, with rates starting at £49 ($67) for a double studio equipped with a full kitchen.

Avoid Festivals and Hogmanay for Cheaper Rates

To save on accommodation, consider avoiding the Edinburgh Festivals in August and the Hogmanay celebrations during New Year’s, as prices generally see a dramatic increase during these peak times.

There’s a charge to go inside, but views of the iconic Edinburgh Castle are free and readily available across the city © lou armor / Shutterstock

Enjoy Budget-Friendly Attractions

Edinburgh has numerous free attractions to enjoy. The iconic Edinburgh Castle, located centrally, allows for exceptional views from its Esplanade, especially at sunset. Keep in mind that while there is an entry fee, the castle itself is quite significant from the outside. Also, be on the lookout for free-entry days, especially around St Andrew’s Day (November 30), largely sponsored by Historic Environment Scotland.

On the Royal Mile, visit St Giles Cathedral, which welcomes guests without charge seven days a week. Additionally, there are numerous walking tours available, such as the Edinburgh Free Tour, departing daily nearby. Don’t miss the modern architecture of the Scottish Parliament at the base of the Royal Mile.

Take a moment to explore Greyfriars Kirkyard, known for the gravestone of Scotland’s famous dog, Greyfriars Bobby, and don’t miss the nearby bronze statue situated on George IV Bridge.

The magnificent Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh offers free access and an ideal setting for leisurely family strolls. If you’re visiting in September, explore the annual Doors Open Days event where various usually restricted spaces become accessible for free.

Find Affordable Evening Activities

Evenings in Edinburgh are vibrant with activity. For live music, check out the Jazz Bar on Chambers Street or Sneaky Pete’s in the Cowgate, where tickets usually range from £5 to £15 ($7–$20). Alternatively, Stramash and Whistle Binkies offer free music options. For folk music fans, Captain’s Bar and the historic Royal Oak showcase performances at no cost.

If you’re keen on theater, check the Lyceum for preview nights that often feature discounted tickets or pay-what-you-can options. For opera enthusiasts under the age of 26, Scottish Opera provides discounted tickets.

For cinema lovers, visit the independent Filmhouse, where most Sunday screenings are just £5 ($7) for students throughout the week. Comedy fans can enjoy shows at Monkey Barrel Comedy or Stand Comedy Club for affordable laughs. Check out the Half Price Hut on the Mound during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe for additional savings.

The National Museum of Scotland is perfect for a drizzly afternoon and great for entertaining the kids © Anton_Ivanov / Shutterstock

Discover Free Art Galleries

Art enthusiasts will find a treasure trove in Edinburgh, as most galleries offer free entry to their permanent collections. The Scottish National Gallery on the Mound is a must-visit, along with smaller venues like Collective and Fruitmarket Gallery.

Back in the Old Town, prioritize the National Museum of Scotland, which is perfect for families and offers interactive exhibits alongside fascinating artifacts without any entrance fee except during special events.

Get Outdoors

There are striking green spaces in Edinburgh, with seven hills awaiting adventurous explorers. Climbing Arthur’s Seat presents breathtaking city views that are well worth the effort. After your hike, explore the surrounding Holyrood Park, rich with lochs and historical ruins.

For stunning panoramic views, visit Blackford Hill and enjoy a picnic while taking in the scenery. Consider exploring the Hermitage of Braid nature reserve as well.

Stroll through Stockbridge on a Sunday and you’ll find the weekly free-entry outdoor market on Saunders Street © Getty Images

A relaxing walk along the Water of Leith is another delightful way to spend an afternoon, and don’t forget to visit the charming neighborhoods of Dean Village and Stockbridge. Planning your visit on a Sunday allows you to experience the free-entry outdoor Stockbridge Market on Saunders Street, ideal for breakfast, lunch, or browsing.

Eat and Drink Like a Local

Dining doesn’t have to strain your wallet in Edinburgh. For a local delicacy, enjoy a £6 ($8) haggis burrito at Bonnie Burrito. A bit further down, Sister Bao offers delicious steamed buns for £1.50 ($2). Nearby at Mosque Kitchen, you can find heartwarming meals like dal and chana masala starting at £5 ($7).

In Leith, visit the Pitt, a weekend street food market where you may find some of the best chicken burgers in town. The local favorite, Portobello’s St Andrews Takeaway, is a must-visit for fish and chips, often priced at around £6 ($8).

For drinks, steer clear of pricey venues on George Street. Instead, enjoy affordable pints at local dives such as Starbar and Banshee Labyrinth, which is well-known for its haunting history yet inviting atmosphere. For a genuine Scottish pub experience, consider visiting Athletic Arms, where many local ales are available for under £4 ($5).

For those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, check out Paradise Palms for vegan plates and local beers, where regular promotions often provide excellent value.

Daily Costs in Edinburgh

Hostel room: from £13 ($18)
Basic hotel room for two: from £30 ($41)
Self-catering apartment: from £49 ($67)
Lothian buses ticket: £1.80 ($2.45) single; £4.50 ($6.10) day ticket
Coffee: £2.50–3 ($3.40–4)
Sandwich: £5–9 ($7–12)
Dinner for two: £40–50 ($54–68)
Beer/pint at the bar: £3.80–6.50 ($5.15–8.80)

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