Free Attractions In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city known for its magnificent architecture and stunning views. Situated in the heart of Scotland, the city is home to many historical sights and a plethora of attractions. Edinburgh is an exceptionally popular destination for visitors from all over the world, and is particularly well-known for its numerous free attractions. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for a second trip, there are plenty of free activities to keep you entertained.

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a rich history that dates back to the 11th century and the reign of King Malcolm III. The city has changed and developed over the centuries, becoming one of the most visited cities in the United Kingdom. One of its most popular attractions is its old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old town features many historical buildings such as St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh Castle, and the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is a long street that connects the old town to the new town of Edinburgh and is one of the most popular attractions in the city.

The city is also known for its numerous festivals, which attract millions of visitors each year. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world, and is held every August. Other popular festivals include the Edinburgh International Film Festival, the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival, and Hogmanay, a New Year’s Eve celebration that draws tens of thousands of people to the city each year.

Edinburgh is a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do. From its world-renowned festivals to its many historical sights, there’s no shortage of attractions. Despite its popularity, there are many free attractions to be found in Edinburgh that won’t break the bank.

Free Attractions

Edinburgh is full of free attractions that are perfect for visitors on a budget. From parks to museums, here are some of the best free attractions in Edinburgh.

The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the most popular attractions in Edinburgh. The museum has a wide range of exhibits on a variety of topics, including science and technology, world cultures, and art and design. The museum also has a section dedicated to Scottish history and culture, which includes artifacts from all over Scotland. The museum is open from 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sundays and public holidays.

The Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden is located in the heart of Edinburgh and offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The garden is home to more than 70 different species of plants, including trees and flowers. There are also several walking trails throughout the garden that allow visitors to explore at their own pace. The garden is open from 10am-6pm Monday through Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sundays and public holidays.

The People’s Story Museum

The People’s Story Museum is located in the Old Town of Edinburgh and offers an insight into the lives and experiences of ordinary people who lived in Edinburgh between 1780 and 1920. The museum houses a variety of artifacts from this time period, including photographs, clothing, furniture, and other items. The museum is open from 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sundays and public holidays.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks and offers stunning views of the city. The hill is home to several monuments, including the National Monument of Scotland and the Nelson Monument. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and other landmarks from the top of Calton Hill. The hill is open daily from dawn until dusk.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

The Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a unique attraction in Edinburgh that has been entertaining visitors for over 150 years. The attraction offers a variety of interactive exhibits, including a “trick” art gallery, a mirror maze, and a collection of holograms. There are also several optical illusions that will delight both children and adults alike. Visitors can explore this attraction for free from 10am-5pm Monday through Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sundays and public holidays.

Dean Village

Dean Village is a picturesque village located just outside of the city centre. Visitors can explore the village’s cobblestone streets and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere. There are also several waterfalls located throughout the village that make it an ideal spot for photos or simply taking in some fresh air. Visitors can explore Dean Village at any time as it is open 24 hours a day.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic sights in Edinburgh and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. The castle is home to many historical artifacts and provides stunning views over the city skyline. Visitors can explore this landmark for free from 9:30am-5pm Monday through Saturday and 10am-5pm on Sundays and public holidays.

Holyrood Park

Holyrood Park is a large park located near Edinburgh Castle that covers over 500 acres. The park offers stunning views over Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags, a series of rocky cliffs that rise above Edinburgh’s skyline. Visitors can explore Holyrood Park for free at any time as it is open 24 hours a day.

Popular Tours In Edinburgh

In addition to exploring all these free attractions in Edinburgh, there are also some popular tours available that can offer a deeper insight into what makes this city so special. Here are two popular tours that visitors to Edinburgh should consider:

Edinburgh City Tour

The Edinburgh City Tour gives visitors an insight into the history and culture of this unique city. The tour takes visitors through some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace while providing an informative audio commentary along the way. Visitors will learn about some of the city’s oldest traditions such as whisky distilling and bagpiping as well as its more recent history such as its role in the Industrial Revolution. This tour takes place every day from 10am-4pm and tickets can be booked here.

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

The Edinburgh Ghost Tour offers visitors an insight into some of the city’s spookiest stories and legends. The tour takes visitors around some of Edinburgh’s oldest streets while listening to tales about its gruesome past, such as tales about plague pits, witches, body snatchers, and more. The tour runs every night from 8:30pm-10:30pm and tickets can be booked here.

Conclusion

Edinburgh has something to offer everyone who visits it; from its rich history to its many free attractions, it’s hard not to fall in love with this beautiful city. With so much to see and do for free, this Scottish capital is perfect for anyone looking for an inexpensive getaway. And for those looking for something a little more immersive, there are plenty of tours available that can offer an even deeper insight into what makes this city so special.