Cards on the table: Edinburgh isn’t a cheap place to eat, drink, or live. Second only to London as the most expensive city in the UK, and officially the most expensive place in the country to grab a pint, the Scottish capital is an easy place to bleed contactless payments if you’re not careful.
However, with a little scheming, Edinburgh opens up to even the most budget-restricted travelers, with a wealth of art galleries, outdoor spaces, community endeavors, and charming nooks and crannies ready to be discovered for precisely zero pounds.
Here’s the best things to do in Edinburgh for free.
National Galleries of Scotland
All national museums and art galleries in the UK are free, making them an ideal spot for immersing yourself in art or taking a refreshing break. The Scottish National Gallery is conveniently located at the foot of The Mound, housing an impressive collection that features Claude Monet’s Haystacks, Van Gogh’s Olive Trees, and John Singer Sargent’s Lady Agnew of Lochnaw.
Its modern counterpart showcases fantastic art and lovely grounds, featuring sculpted parkland by Charles Jencks and a permanent installation by Turner-Prize winning artist Martin Creed that boldly declares “EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE ALRIGHT” in neon across the neoclassical façade.
Arthur’s Seat
One of the most iconic features of Edinburgh’s skyline is the towering mass of extinct volcano, Arthur’s Seat, along with the sharp Salisbury Crags surrounding it. Situated in Holyrood Park, the hike to the summit takes around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your level of fitness.
More accessible paths meander around the base, including one that showcases swan-filled St Margaret’s Loch and views of the haunting St Anthony’s Chapel ruins, along with another path that snakes through the quaint village of Duddingston.
Calton and Blackford Hill
While Arthur’s Seat might be the iconic climb, Edinburgh is renowned as a city of seven hills, many of which are equally deserving of your time. Calton Hill, situated at the east end of Prince Street, offers a straightforward climb and features an array of historical monuments, including the infamous half-finished National Monument and the Greek temple-esque City Observatory.
On the southwest side of the city, Blackford Hill is surrounded by the Hermitage of Braid nature reserve, providing picturesque views, including of Arthur’s Seat itself.
Independent Art Galleries
If the national museums feel overwhelming, exploring small, privately owned art galleries can offer a glimpse into Edinburgh’s cutting-edge arts scene. Ingleby Gallery showcases exhibitions of both emerging and historical artists, while Arusha Gallery presents rotating group and solo shows, focusing on strikingly beautiful aesthetic art.
Festivals
Edinburgh’s rich tapestry of festivals usually involves ticketed events, but numerous free surprises are hidden within their programs. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe offers countless free comedy and theater performances, particularly at venues like The Counting House and The Free Sisters, while the Edinburgh International Film Festival presents outdoor screenings of classic films in St Andrews Square.
Out of the Blue Drill Hall
Despite being a large city, the community spirit in Edinburgh thrives, especially in the art scene, which aims to promote local talent. Out of the Blue Drill Hall, a community-driven initiative, combines an open-access riso print studio with an arts center, offering free exhibitions and zine fairs, in addition to creative classes open to the public.
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile stretches between Edinburgh Castle and the stately Palace of Holyroodhouse. This cobbled street is nearly a Scots mile in length and is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic thoroughfares.
While it can become crowded during the August festivals, exploring the Royal Mile in quieter months offers a charming experience. It’s best to avoid tourist traps and instead venture into the many closes that branch off the main street. Explore courtyards and gardens like the quaintly manicured Dunbars Close Garden.
Innocent Railway Tunnel & Colinton Dell
For a more unique experience, consider heading to Colinton Dell or the Innocent Railway Tunnel. These two disused railway tunnels have transformed their industrial past into a living gallery filled with street art and murals.
Colinton Dell is about an hour’s walk from the center, while the Innocent Railway Tunnel begins near Arthur’s Seat and is best traversed by bike, which adds to the exhilaration and connects you with the scenic bike paths winding through Holyrood Park to Portobello.
Scottish Parliament Building
The Scottish Parliament Building represents a remarkable feat of modern architecture. Although free guided tours are currently closed due to the pandemic, the exterior is a wonderful highlight, featuring the Canongate Wall adorned with 24 quotes from local writers and an innovative design reminiscent of the Scottish landscape.
Its unique angles, extensive use of natural materials, and accessibility—ideal for picnics by the adjacent ponds—distinguish it from similar structures elsewhere, particularly those in London.
Grassmarket Community Picture House
Among the several indie cinemas in Edinburgh, Grassmarket Picture House stands out as the only free venue, showing a mix of classic films and contemporary selections just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mile. For budget-friendly film events, keep an eye on local festivals that provide flexible payment options.
Gorgie City Farm
For a delightful outing, Gorgie City Farm is a charming alternative to an expensive zoo visit. Located only a 15-minute walk from the west end of Princes Street, this beloved community initiative allows visitors to reconnect with farm animals in the urban heart of Edinburgh, thanks to the dedicated local community that has helped preserve it.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Edinburgh is rich in green spaces, with parks like The Meadows and Princes Street Gardens enhancing the city’s natural beauty. The most notable is the Royal Botanic Garden, located in the picturesque Stockbridge neighborhood.
While entry to the greenhouses incurs a fee, the grounds are free and feature stunning floral herbaceous borders and one of the world’s largest collections of rhododendrons, blooming every spring in vibrant colors.
Fruitmarket
Recently undergoing a multi-million-pound renovation, the Fruitmarket gallery has transformed into a hub for cultural innovation and creativity. Alongside its cutting-edge exhibitions, the venue hosts a variety of workshops and art fairs, making it a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s art community.
Walk Through the City
When in doubt, take a leisurely stroll through Edinburgh. The city is home to numerous neighborhoods, each with its unique character. Explore the artistic and multicultural avenues of Leith and the enchanting ambiance of Dean Village, connected by the Water of Leith river. Alternatively, follow the river as it merges with the Union Canal, which weaves through both urban settings and serene countryside all the way to Falkirk.
This article was first published 23 August 2012 and updated September 27, 2021.
