Introduction to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city of ancient and modern wonders. Founded in the 7th century, it has a rich and vibrant history and is widely considered one of the most beautiful cities in the United Kingdom. With its majestic castle, beautiful parks, world-renowned museums, vibrant food scene, and thriving nightlife, it is no wonder why Edinburgh is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city has a population of just over 500,000 people and is filled with a diverse range of cultures, making it a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and exciting experience. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture, Edinburgh is a place that offers something for everyone.

An Overview of the City

Edinburgh’s history dates back to the 7th century when it was founded by King Edwin of Northumbria. It became an important city during the Enlightenment period and was the home of famous figures such as Adam Smith and David Hume. Edinburgh was also home to the famous novel Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, which was written while she lived in the city. Today, Edinburgh is an important cultural center and a popular tourist destination. The city is filled with incredible architecture, stunning parks, world-class museums, and renowned restaurants. It is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in the United Kingdom, with its rugged landscape and stunning views.

The city is divided into two main areas, Old Town and New Town. Old Town is home to many of the city’s historical sites, such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and St. Giles’ Cathedral. The cobbled streets of Old Town are filled with centuries-old buildings, making it a great place to explore on foot. New Town, on the other hand, is filled with elegant Georgian architecture and grand squares. It is home to many of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and shops.

Free Things To Do In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a great destination for budget travelers as there are plenty of free things to do in the city. From beautiful parks to historic sites, here are some of the best free activities in Edinburgh:

Explore Old Town

One of the best free things to do in Edinburgh is to explore Old Town. This area of the city is filled with centuries-old buildings and cobbled streets that make for a great exploration. There are plenty of attractions to visit such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and St. Giles’ Cathedral. You can also explore some of the city’s tucked away alleyways or take a stroll along the Royal Mile.

Visit The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh and it’s completely free! This museum offers a wide range of exhibits on topics such as Scottish history, natural history, science and technology, art, fashion and design. There are also interactive displays and activities that make the museum fun for both adults and children.

Visit The National Galleries Of Scotland

The National Galleries of Scotland are also free of charge and offer a great selection of artwork from across the centuries. The main museum houses works from world-famous artists such as Rembrandt, Monet and Renoir as well as many more. There are also several other galleries located throughout the city that showcase modern art, photography and sculpture.

Take A Stroll In The Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Edinburgh and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. It is filled with lush green spaces and vibrant flowers that make it a great spot for photography or simply taking in the beauty of nature. The garden also has an incredible glasshouse which houses exotic plants from around the world.

Climb Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat offers some of the best views of Edinburgh and it’s completely free to climb! This extinct volcano rises up 251 meters above sea level and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. It takes around an hour to reach the peak but it’s worth it for the spectacular views.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

In addition to all of its free activities, Edinburgh also offers some incredible tours that are worth considering for those who want to explore more deeply. Here are two popular tours in Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle Tour

The Edinburgh Castle tour gives visitors a chance to explore one of the oldest castles in Europe. Tour guides will take visitors through different areas of the castle such as its ancient ramparts, dungeons, and crown jewels. Visitors will also learn about its history and the many stories that are associated with it. This tour takes around 2 hours and can be booked here.

Historic Pub Crawl Tour

The Historic Pub Crawl Tour takes visitors on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs while learning about their history and culture. Tour guides will provide interesting stories about each pub as well as offering samples of traditional drinks. This tour takes around 2 hours and can be booked here.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a vibrant city filled with incredible sights, activities and attractions that will appeal to all types of travelers. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture, there is something for everyone in this remarkable city. Whether you’re looking for free things to do or want to take part in one of its popular tours, Edinburgh has something for everyone. So why not book your trip to this wonderful city today?