Free Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and culture, and it has long been a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant nightlife and its world-class museums and galleries, there is no shortage of things to do in Edinburgh. Whether you’re looking for a unique day out or a free activity to fill your time, there are plenty of free things to do in Edinburgh that won’t cost you a penny.

A Brief History of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and it is one of the oldest cities in Europe. It is home to over 500,000 people and it is steeped in history and culture. The city was founded in the Middle Ages and it has been the centre of government in Scotland since then. Over the centuries, Edinburgh has grown in size and importance and it is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

From its medieval architecture to its vibrant culture, Edinburgh is a city with something for everyone. It is home to a number of world-class museums, galleries, and theatres, as well as some of the best restaurants and pubs in the country. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, from hiking in the Pentland Hills to touring around the city’s many parks.

Popular Sights in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to some of the most iconic sights in Scotland, from its iconic castle to its historic Royal Mile. One of the most popular attractions in the city is Edinburgh Castle, which is perched on an extinct volcano and offers stunning views across the city. The castle is also home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and is a must-visit for anyone visiting Edinburgh.

Another popular attraction is the Royal Mile, which is a cobbled street that runs between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. This historic street is filled with cafes, pubs, and shops, as well as some of the city’s most famous attractions such as St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Scottish Parliament, and the National Museum of Scotland.

Outdoor Activities in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy from hiking in the Pentland Hills to exploring the city’s many parks. One of the best parks in Edinburgh is Princes Street Gardens, which is located in the heart of the city and offers stunning views across Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Mile. The gardens are also home to a variety of flora and fauna, which makes it a great spot for birdwatching.

The Pentland Hills are a range of hills situated just outside of the city centre, and they provide some excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding. There are plenty of trails to explore and stunning views across Edinburgh from the top of the hills. The hills are also home to a number of wildlife species, so keep your eyes peeled for birds and other animals as you explore.

Museums & Galleries in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to a number of world-class museums and galleries which offer visitors an insight into the city’s past and present. The National Museum of Scotland is one of the most popular attractions, which features a range of interactive exhibits exploring everything from Scottish archaeology to modern art. Other popular museums include the Museum of Childhood and the Museum of Edinburgh.

The city is also home to a number of galleries including The Scottish National Gallery, which is home to works by some of the world’s most famous artists such as Rembrandt and Monet. There are also plenty of smaller galleries dotted around the city which offer visitors an insight into Edinburgh’s past and present.

Sample The Local Cuisine

Edinburgh’s thriving culinary scene offers visitors plenty of opportunities to sample some delicious Scottish dishes. From traditional pubs serving classic favourites such as haggis and neeps to modern cafes serving up artisanal coffees and delicious cakes, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh. If you’re feeling adventurous why not sample some local specialties such as haggis pakora or Scotch egg?

The city also has plenty of bars and pubs serving up local ales and spirits, so why not pop down to one at sunset for a pint or two? Whisky fans will be spoilt for choice with a range of distilleries offering tours and tastings including The Scotch Whisky Experience or The Glenkinchie Distillery.

Experience Some Live Music

Edinburgh has long been associated with live music, from traditional Scottish folk music to modern rock bands. There are plenty of pubs and clubs throughout the city serving up live music on a nightly basis, so why not pop down for a few drinks and some toe-tapping tunes?

The city also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year including the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival in July, T In The Park in August, and Hogmanay in December. These events attract some of the biggest names in music to Scotland’s capital city, so check out what’s on during your visit.

Take A Tour Of The City

Edinburgh offers plenty of opportunities for visitors to explore the city on foot with tours ranging from walking tours to ghost tours. One popular tour is the Royal Mile Walking Tour which takes visitors on a journey through Edinburgh’s history from its medieval roots through to its modern day architecture. The tour offers visitors an insight into some of the city’s most iconic sights including St Giles Cathedral, The Castle Esplanade and The Royal Mile itself. Book a Royal Mile Walking Tour here.

Another popular tour is the Edinburgh Ghost Tour which takes visitors on an eerie journey through Scotland’s dark past with tales of hauntings and other supernatural occurrences. Visitors can explore underground vaults, graveyards, and other haunted locations on this unique tour. Book an Edinburgh Ghost Tour here.

Finally, visitors can also explore Edinburgh from above on the Hot Air Balloon Tour which takes passengers up into the sky for stunning views across Scotland’s capital city. This unique experience offers passengers unparalleled views as they drift over Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, Princes Street Gardens and more. Book a Hot Air Balloon Tour here.

No matter what type of activity you are looking for, there are plenty of free things to do in Edinburgh that won’t cost you a penny. From wandering around parks and gardens to exploring museums and galleries or experiencing some live music, there is something for everyone in Scotland’s capital city. So next time you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh make sure you take advantage of all that it has to offer – without breaking the bank!