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Edinburgh has a reputation for being quite expensive.
But you might be surprised by how much there is to do without spending any money at all.
Actually, I would go a step further and say that if you do everything on this list, you’ll have 2–3 full days without spending money on attractions at all.
During my recent visits to Edinburgh, I put together a mix of old favourites and new discoveries that are completely free. Whether you’re travelling on a tight budget or just want to balance out a busy itinerary, this list includes some of the best things to do in Edinburgh overall, without spending any money.
The last thing I’ll mention is that I did everything on this list over a few days, while my main priority was work. So if I can do it, you can as well!
And if you don’t mind spending a bit of money, make sure to check out this more comprehensive guide on 30+ Things You Will Absolutely Love in Edinburgh.
1. Walk up to the viewpoint of Calton Hill
The best thing about this walk is that it’s not really a hike. Especially if you compare it to nearby Arthur’s Seat, which will take up a lot more of your day. Another reason I love Calton Hill is that even when the weather is bad or gloomy, as it often is in autumn and winter, the walk is short enough that it never feels like a chore.
A third reason is that while it’s a famous attraction, it’s also very much a local hangout. You can easily spend an hour or two people-watching, or spotting the cutest dogs if that’s more your thing, as the park is often frequented by dog walkers.
Of course, the actual viewpoint is a highlight in itself, with sweeping views over the city.
For those with mobility issues, I’d recommend checking routes in advance. Some paths suggested by Google Maps include quite a few stairs, but there are alternative ways up that are manageable for most people.
2. Walk and explore around the Royal Mile
You might think the most famous street in Edinburgh, or even in all of Scotland, doesn’t need much of an introduction, and you’d be right.
The Royal Mile is the (almost) one-mile-long road that connects the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle.
There are countless stops along the way, and from experience, it’s a street that has managed to entertain groups of teenagers for long stretches of time over multiple days.
In addition to souvenir shops, there are plenty of places to stop and explore along the way, including:
3. Go inside St Giles’ Cathedral
Founded in 1124, St Giles’ Cathedral is often presented as a prime example of Gothic architectural design.
Since it is a working church, entrance is free and visitors are welcome. You may be encouraged to donate during your visit, but this is not mandatory.
It’s also a great place to warm up if you’re visiting during the colder months.
While you’re there, walk behind the cathedral to parking space 23, which marks the burial place of John Knox. Knox was a key figure in the Scottish Reformation and a fierce defender of Protestantism, often clashing with Catholics and the monarchy.
He died in 1572, and when his remains were discovered during later construction work, it was decided to honour his wishes in a very Edinburgh way — by turning the spot into a parking space.
It’s a small detail that reflects both local superstition and that dry Scottish sense of humour.
4. Rub the toe of David Hume
While walking along the Royal Mile, keep an eye out for the statue of David Hume, one of Scotland’s most important philosophers and a key figure of the Scottish Enlightenment.
You’ll notice straight away that one of his toes is unusually shiny.
That’s because rubbing it is said to bring good luck, wisdom, or success in exams, depending on who you ask.
The story goes that a couple of university students asked Hume for help with their exam after a night of… drinking. They all passed and attributed their luck to one of the people that was adamant he didn’t believe in luck.
5. See The Writers’ Museum
This small museum just off the Royal Mile is one of those places that gained popularity through Instagram, and honestly, it’s easy to see why.
The layout and historic building make it interesting even if literature isn’t usually your thing.
That said, Edinburgh really is a city of writers. Many famous authors have lived here or used the city as inspiration while working on their stories.
Some of the most well-known names include J.K. Rowling, Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
As you walk around the city, you’ll quickly notice how much literary inspiration is everywhere, from shop names to memorial plaques. I found myself stopping more than once just to read names that sounded like characters straight out of a novel.
Inside the museum, you’ll learn about the lives and work of Scott, Burns, and Stevenson, all of whom shaped literature far beyond Scotland.
One particularly interesting figure connected to Stevenson is William “Deacon” Brodie.
Brodie was a respected cabinetmaker and city councillor by day, and a burglar by night, secretly breaking into homes for nearly 18 years.
His double life is widely believed to have inspired The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
6. Stop by the Vennel Viewpoint
Since you’re already in the area, there’s really no reason not to stop by the Vennel Viewpoint.
It’s another spot that became famous thanks to its perfect view of Edinburgh Castle, framed by a narrow staircase.
It also gained renewed attention from fans of One Day. While I haven’t seen the TV series, I did read the book and later watched the original film starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, which makes this location feel quietly familiar.
7. Rub the nose of Greyfriars Bobby
Marketing or not, the story of Greyfriars Bobby is genuinely heartwarming, and there’s a reason people still visit this spot today. And you might be seeing a trend here with rubbing statues!
You’ll find it on your way to the National Museum of Scotland or Greyfriars Kirkyard. You’ll know you’re close when you spot a small crowd gathered near the statue, just outside the Greyfriars Bobby pub.
The story goes that Bobby was a local dog who stayed by his owner’s grave after the man passed away. New city laws at the time required all stray dogs to be claimed or put down. Once officials learned Bobby’s story, they made an exception and officially registered him as belonging to the people of Edinburgh.
Bobby went on to spend another 14 years guarding the grave, while locals fed and cared for him.
Today, you’ll also find a second memorial inside the kirkyard, often covered in sticks thrown there so Bobby can keep playing fetch in the afterlife.
8. Walk around Greyfriars Kirkyard and visit the grave of Tom Riddle
Staying on the literary theme, Greyfriars Kirkyard is another must-visit.
It’s especially popular with Harry Potter fans, as J.K. Rowling has confirmed that she took the name Tom Riddle from a gravestone here while working on the early books.
More than two million people visit the kirkyard each year, many of them just to see this spot.
9. Visit The National Museum of Scotland
One thing I love about the UK is how many museums remain free to enter, and the National Museum of Scotland is a perfect example.
You’ll want to set aside at least a few hours here. The museum houses more than 12,000 items, spread across multiple floors.
It’s well organised, with colour-coded sections, and while art and fashion lovers will enjoy it, it’s also very popular with families thanks to the interactive science and technology exhibits. You might even spot Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal.
Don’t miss the Scotland-focused galleries, which span several floors and include exhibits you won’t find anywhere else.
10. Explore Victoria Street
Victoria Street, often referred to as the “rainbow street,” is another well-known Edinburgh location.
Its connection to Diagon Alley is the main draw for Harry Potter fans, but even if you’ve never read the books, the street has its own charm.
You’ll find a mix of independent shops, cafés, and curiosities here.
You might also notice queues for Museum Context, an immersive art space where visitors explore themed rooms and installations.
11. Stop by Scott Monument
Of all the monuments in the city, this is the one I associate most strongly with Edinburgh.
Maybe it’s because it was the first thing I saw when I stepped out of Waverley Station at 18, full of excitement and dreams of studying at the University of Edinburgh. Even though that plan didn’t work out, the monument has always stayed with me.
The monument honours Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most important writers. Beyond his literary legacy, Scott also played a key role in rediscovering the Scottish Crown Jewels in 1818, which had been locked away and forgotten for over a century.
12. Walk Princes Street Gardens and Ross Fountain
Once you reach Princes Street, it almost feels mandatory to walk through Princes Street Gardens.
The views are especially beautiful in spring and summer, but winter brings a quieter, moodier atmosphere that I personally enjoy just as much.
Fun fact: the gardens were once part of the Nor Loch, a polluted body of water where the city dumped waste, including chamber pot contents. The area was also used for executions during the witch hunts. The loch was drained in the mid-1700s, and the land was transformed into the gardens you see today.
13. Walk to Dean Village
Dean Village is another Instagram-famous spot that I feel slightly conflicted about recommending.
On one hand, it’s undeniably beautiful. On the other, it’s still a residential area, and it’s easy to see how locals might feel overwhelmed by constant visitors. If you go, just be respectful.
This former milling village sits below Dean Bridge and is filled with picturesque houses along the Water of Leith. From here, you can also continue walking along the Water of Leith Walkway, which leads towards Stockbridge and offers a peaceful escape from the city centre.
You can either take a short 20-minute bus ride from Princes Street or choose to walk for about half an hour.
14. Pop into the Scottish National Gallery
Again, there is really no reason not to pop into this museum, especially since it’s completely free and has some incredible works of art to browse. From Titian to Rembrandt and Vermeer, it’s hard to beat both the collection and the location. Even if you’re not big on museums, it’s an easy stop and a nice break from walking around the city.
15. Find the cutest bookstores
This one is technically dangerous if you’re known to spend money on books, but some of Edinburgh’s bookstores are worth visiting even if you don’t buy anything. Many of them are incredibly atmospheric or come with great views.
A few of my favourites include
- Armchair Books, packed with vintage, old-style books;
- Waterstones on Princes Street, which has the famous view over the castle; and
- Topping & Company Booksellers of Edinburgh, known for both its beautiful interior and exterior.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Now that you’ve decided you should definitely visit Edinburgh, it’s time to talk locations. For a first-time visit, my favourite area to stay in is around the Royal Mile. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly hostels to small boutique hotels, just make sure to book ahead if you’re visiting during festival season or around major holidays.
Personally, I’d avoid staying too far from the Old Town. Most of the sights you’ll want to see on your first visit are based there, and staying further out usually means relying on buses or trams for 30 minutes or more. For more ideas and neighbourhood suggestions, you can check out my extended guide to Edinburgh.
In my recent trip, I tried two hotels. One is the Cairn Hotel and Apartments very close to Calton Hill. I stayed in one of their single occupancy rooms, and I found it warmer than other hotels during this winter trip, which was a bonus, but the endless stairs to reach my room with bags didn’t help the situation a lot.
Another slightly better location nearby, with good breakfast and nice sized rooms, is the Holiday Inn, which I also stayed in for a few nights.
My top free activity in Edinburgh!
The number one free (but you should pay or at least tip) activity in Edinburgh though, has to be a tour with Sarah and Pacino. Her adorable little puppy!
Sarah is high energy, very knowledgeable and will keep everyone happy.
I can attest to this after having to spend an early morning, in the rain, with 20 teenagers for almost 3 hours.
And it ended up being the favorite activity of the whole 2-week trip across the UK for the whole group.
You can book Sarah using the company (Bobby’s FREE Walking Tour) website and browse some of her top suggestions here.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Must Know When Visiting the UK
- Emergency: Dial 999 for police, ambulance, or fire. 112 also works as an emergency number. English is spoken everywhere, so communication won’t be an issue in emergencies.
- Language: English is the main language across the UK. You may hear strong regional accents (especially in Scotland, Wales, Northern England, or Northern Ireland), but visitors generally won’t have trouble communicating.
- Currency: The UK uses the British Pound. Card payments are most common and a lot of food halls or shops don’t accept cash anymore. It’s only useful for random things like laundromats or certain markets.
- Transport: Uber operates in most major cities (London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Birmingham, etc.). Taxis are widely available and are usually metered, especially in cities. Trains connect the entire country and are fast but can be expensive if booked last-minute — booking in advance saves money. Buses are cheaper but slower. Renting a car is easy, especially outside London, but driving is on the left. I would not rent a car if you stay in one city. If you rent, check out Discover Cars for the best rates and comparisons across all major and local companies.
- Accommodation: Booking.com is always my preferred first choice.
- Safety: The UK is generally considered safe for travelers. In recent years, phone snatching is quite common in London, so be extra careful when using your phone, especially near a road where motorbikes can come close.
- Tours & Activities: For city tours, day trips, museums, and experiences, platforms like GetYourGuide offer plenty of options, especially in London, Edinburgh, and major tourist hubs. Prices are higher than Eastern or Southern Europe, but tours are well organized and professional.
