7 Free Attractions in Edinburgh, Scotland’s Affordable Capital

“Edinburgh must be expensive, it’s the Scottish capital and really popular isn’t it?” is the sort of question we often get asked. And the answer is yes sometimes it can seem expensive, like any city. But also no. Read on and learn that there are many ways Edinburgh is a seriously affordable city. And – even better – there are loads of ace free things to do as well. That’s right – free! And free is something we thoroughly approve of in these times when a cost of living crisis bites.

Edinburgh is popular and some quality things, like Michelin fine dining, can cost a bit, but even then in Edinburgh they are still offer serious quality and are good value for what you’re savouring. And the very good news is that there is a string of fantastic attractions to enjoy that don’t cost a penny to visit. With the money you’ve saved you can treat yourself elsewhere in the city. Read on for seven tips you can enjoy as soon as you can hotfoot it to Edinburgh. What are you waiting for?

1. Tale of Two Hills

Ok, we’re starting off by cheating a little, but we’ve got so many great places to choose from. If you’ve got your hiking boots celebrate that Edinburgh is one of the few cities we can think of with a mountain in the city centre. The city’s highest point of Arthur’s Seat soars to 251m and offers unbeatable views out over the whole city and on to the Firth of Forth. It’s a sublime, rocky, wild spot that offers a taste of the Highlands – ideal if you don’t have time to head further north.

If you want something less taxing steps are on hand to spirit you from the east end of Princes Street up to Calton Hill. A more modest 103m high, it still offers great views, not least across to the hulk of Arthur’s Seat. There is a café and restaurant here, or just bring a picnic and take in the view from the Nelson Monument and the National Monument. Try popping up Calton Hill at the beginning and end of your trip so you can appreciate how much you’ve seen and spot all the places.

2. Tale of Two Museums

We’re ‘cheating’ again here, but you can forgive us when the old Victorian-era museum and the slick modern sandstone neighbour are both so fine, they now function as one museum and both are free. Together they form the National Museum of Scotland, which achieves what all great museums should strive for – it inspires, informs and elicits everything from tears of joy to tears of sadness. It’s also brilliant for kids and big kids alike. Our daughters love it here, while we like learning more about our history and how the country around us was formed. There is something to learn on every visit, whether you pay your respects to Dolly the cloned sheep, take a spin in a Formula One Car or chase fish across the floor. We recommend all three.

3. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

This green lung has such a special place in the heart of so many locals that I think we sometimes subconsciously forget to mention it to visitors! You simply must go to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – a garden oasis that dates back over 350 years. You walk through 70 acres of flora from all over the world on immaculately laid out pathways. Picnic to save cash, but treat yourself to a coffee in one of the cafes. Then re-join the squirrels and castle views. Everyone is welcome here, even rhododendrons – ask one of the super-friendly staff about that joke!

4. Meet the Animals

It is impossible not to adore LOVE Gorgie Farm. This oasis works on so many levels. It’s run by an educational and social charity, so you are really engaging with the city beyond the tourist face of the capital. It is serious fun, but really does educate the little ones in a way that no amount of mooing at kids’ books will ever do. You come face to face with chickens, guinea pigs, ducks, ferrets, cattle, pigs, sheep and all thriving goats here. They’ve even got an alpaca! You can contribute to the charity if you pay for a tour, with the ‘cuddle tours’ a sheer joy.

5. Edinburgh’s Most Affordable Bank

The Museum on the Mound is a bit of a secret many locals don’t even know about. Yes, it’s set in the striking old Bank of Scotland Head Office on The Mound, one of the city centre’s most dramatic buildings. But most locals presume it’s still off limits to the public. That couldn’t be further from the truth with a museum that delves into the often-mysterious world of economics and money. Highlights include having a go at breaking into a safe! You’ll get to view Scotland’s oldest banknote and get to feel like a millionaire by seeing what £1 million pounds looks like in all its glory. It’s not all about the bank as it offers a window into how the city has developed since the 1600s.

6. Go for the Galleries

Whether you’re a bona fide art critic, or think you don’t even like art, you’ll find creative – and free – joy in Edinburgh. There is something to suit all tastes. Classical art, from Scotland and much further afield stars at the Scottish National Gallery. Then many a well-kent face pops up at the dramatic Scottish National Portrait Gallery. We recommend taking a quick dip into a list of famous Scots before heading here. Last of our artistic trio is the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, a playful fun escape alive with avant garde art in multiple mediums. And, oh yes, all three are free!

7. Follow John Muir

This is our wildcard. During Covid travel restrictions we found exercise, space and peace on The John Muir Way, a long-distance walking route that crosses from Scotland’s west coast all the way to its east, cutting through Edinburgh. The stretch between Edinburgh and South Queensferry is a stunner that offers an insight into some of the less explored sides of Edinburgh, like the Union Canal and Water of Leith. It also zooms up little-walked Corstorphine Hill, the largest forested area in Edinburgh. Pushing west the green tentacles of the Dalmeny Estate take over before a spectacular final stretch to the cobbled High Street of South Queensferry. Trains and buses zip you back to Edinburgh.

*This post comes in conjunction with Forever Edinburgh. Note all views are expressed are our own and are independent. For more information on free attractions see https://edinburgh.org/discover/edinburgh-city-guides/free-attractions/