Best Free Things To Do In Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland’s vibrant capital, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK. With its cobbled streets, impressive castle, and awe-inspiring architecture, it is a city like no other. From its vibrant nightlife to its beautiful parks and gardens, Edinburgh offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll along the Royal Mile or a fun-filled day at the Edinburgh Festival, there are plenty of free activities in Edinburgh to keep you entertained. Here’s our guide to the best free things to do in Edinburgh.

History and Culture

The historical and cultural significance of Edinburgh cannot be understated. As Scotland’s capital, it is a city steeped in tradition and steeped in history. The Old Town of Edinburgh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to explore its fascinating past. The Royal Mile is the main artery through the old town and is packed with historic buildings and monuments, including Edinburgh Castle which sits atop the hill overlooking the city. You can take a free guided tour of the castle, or if you’d rather explore at your own pace, there are plenty of free museums and galleries to explore. The National Museum of Scotland is a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture. Alternatively, you can wander down the Royal Mile and take in the atmosphere of what was once the hub of medieval Edinburgh.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

Edinburgh is a city full of natural beauty and green spaces. There’s no better way to experience this than by getting out into nature. Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano which dominates the skyline of Edinburgh, is a great place to explore with spectacular views of the city and beyond. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a hike up to the top? There are plenty of other parks and gardens to explore too, such as Princes Street Gardens, Calton Hill and Holyrood Park. Or why not take a stroll along the Water of Leith or Union Canal for a peaceful and picturesque walk?

Festivals and Events

The Edinburgh Festival is one of the largest arts festivals in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. With hundreds of events taking place throughout August, there’s something for everyone – from theatre performances to comedy gigs, concerts to street parades. The festival is free to attend but tickets must be purchased for some events. Alternatively, there are plenty of smaller festivals throughout the year such as the Fringe Festival, which takes place in April, and The Beltane Fire Festival in May.

Shopping

Edinburgh has plenty of shopping opportunities, from small independent boutiques to large department stores. The Royal Mile is home to some great shops selling everything from souvenirs to handmade crafts. For more upmarket shopping, head to George Street where you can find designer labels and high street brands. Or visit Princes Street for a selection of department stores such as John Lewis and Debenhams.

Nightlife

Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife is legendary. From buzzing pubs to trendy bars and nightclubs, there’s something for everyone. The Old Town is home to some of the best pubs in Edinburgh such as Deacon Brodie’s Tavern and The Last Drop. Or head to George Street for more upmarket bars such as Lulu and Indigo Yard. For live music venues, check out The Voodoo Rooms or The Jazz Bar. There are also plenty of comedy clubs and cabaret venues to visit in Edinburgh too.

Popular Tours

For those wanting to explore further afield, there are plenty of exciting tours on offer in Edinburgh. One of the most popular tours is the Edinburgh Castle Tour which takes visitors on a guided tour of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll learn all about its history, from its construction in the 12th century to its transformation into a royal palace in 1633. You can also take a tour of Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, or explore the city’s underground vaults with an eerie guided tour. The castle tour can be booked online in advance so you can make the most of your time in Scotland.

Another popular tour is the Edinburgh Ghost Tour which takes visitors around some of the city’s spookiest spots. You’ll hear about tales of hauntings and ghostly sightings as you explore the dark alleyways and hidden secrets of Edinburgh’s historic centre. The ghost tour can be booked online and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience!

Finally, if you’re looking for something more relaxed, why not take a whisky tasting tour? You’ll learn all about Scotland’s national drink – from its origins to its production – before sampling some of Scotland’s finest whiskies. The whisky tour can be booked online and takes place at some of Edinburgh’s best whisky bars.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a city full of fascinating sights and activities – both free and paid – so whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll along the Royal Mile or an adrenaline-filled adventure exploring its dark underground vaults, there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh. So why not book yourself onto one of these popular tours today and explore all that this amazing city has to offer?