Free Things To Do In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the United Kingdom, with a rich history and many attractions. It is the capital of Scotland, and it is known for its stunning architecture and culture. Edinburgh is a bustling city, with plenty of things to see and do, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a taste of this vibrant city. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring some of the best free things to do in Edinburgh, so you can make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

History of Edinburgh

With its roots going back as far as the Iron Age, Edinburgh has a long history. The city was founded by the Romans in the 1st century AD, and it was later inhabited by Angles and Picts. In the Middle Ages, Edinburgh became an important political and religious centre, and in the 19th century it became an industrial powerhouse. Edinburgh is now a popular tourist destination, with visitors from all over the world drawn to its fascinating history, cobbled streets, and stunning architecture.

Famous Sights

One of Edinburgh’s most iconic sights is undoubtedly Edinburgh Castle, which stands atop its rocky crag overlooking the city. The castle itself is a wonderful sight to behold, and it is free to enter on some days throughout the year. Inside the castle you can explore its many different rooms and chambers, as well as seeing some of its spectacular collections. Nearby is St Giles’ Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in Scotland. This beautiful building dates back to the 12th century, and it is free to enter.

Edinburgh is also home to a number of impressive museums and galleries. The National Museum of Scotland is one of the city’s most popular attractions and it is free to enter. The museum contains an impressive range of exhibits, ranging from artworks to archaeological artefacts. The National Gallery of Scotland is another favourite among visitors, and it is also free to enter. Here you can admire a huge range of artwork from around the world.

Unique Experiences

Edinburgh is known for its unique experiences, with plenty of things to do that you won’t find anywhere else. One of these is the Royal Mile, a cobbled street that runs through the heart of the city. The Royal Mile is lined with shops, cafés and pubs, and it is free to explore. Another unique experience is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which takes place every August in the city centre. The festival features street performances, stand-up comedy, theatre and music, with many events completely free to attend.

Popular Activities

One of the best ways to explore Edinburgh is by taking one of the city’s many walking tours. These tours are usually free of charge and they are a great way to discover some of Edinburgh’s hidden gems. You can also take a free bus tour around the city, which will take you past some of its most famous sights. Alternatively, you can go on one of the city’s many ghost tours, which are popular among visitors and locals alike.

Example Tour: Old Town & Royal Mile

This two-hour tour will take you through Edinburgh’s vibrant Old Town and along its famous Royal Mile. You will learn about the history of the city, from its medieval beginnings to its more recent past. Your knowledgeable local guide will tell you stories about some of Edinburgh’s most interesting characters and tales from centuries gone by. You will also get an insight into some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks, such as Edinburgh Castle and St Giles’ Cathedral. At the end of your tour you will have a greater understanding of this beautiful city’s unique history and culture. Book a tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town and Royal Mile here.

Example Tour: Secrets Of The Castle

This two-hour tour will take you inside Edinburgh Castle, where you will explore its many different rooms and chambers. You will learn about its fascinating history, from its use as a royal residence to its role as a military stronghold. Your knowledgeable local guide will tell you stories about some of Edinburgh Castle’s most interesting characters and tales from centuries gone by. As you explore the castle you will get an insight into some of its most iconic landmarks, such as St Margaret’s Chapel and Mons Meg Cannon. At the end of your tour you will have a greater understanding of this iconic building’s unique history and heritage. Book a tour of Edinburgh Castle’s Secrets here.

Example Tour: Literary Pub Crawl

This two-hour tour will take you on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s most famous pubs, where you will learn about the city’s literary past. You will visit some of the pubs where famous authors such as Robert Louis Stevenson, JK Rowling and Arthur Conan Doyle frequented in their day. Your knowledgeable local guide will tell you stories about some of these authors and their works, as well as other interesting tales from centuries gone by. As you explore these pubs you will get an insight into some of Edinburgh’s most iconic characters, as well as its literary heritage. At the end of your tour you will have a greater understanding of this vibrant city’s unique culture and history. Book a Literary Pub Crawl in Edinburgh here.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. From exploring its iconic landmarks to discovering hidden gems on walking tours or pub crawls, there are plenty of free things to do in Edinburgh that will help make your visit even more special. So why not come along to this amazing city and experience it for yourself?