There are an impressive number of places to visit in Edinburgh for free; you just need to know where to look. Whether wandering the Royal Mile, ascending Calton Hill, or exploring free museums, you can fill several days in the Scottish capital without breaking the bank.
Explore the Fly Coach round-up of the best attractions and things to do in Edinburgh for free.
Best Free Things to Do in Edinburgh
Find all the fun free things to do in Edinburgh below.
Free Museums & Art Galleries in Edinburgh
For cultural things to do for free in Edinburgh, you’re in luck. Frugal travellers have a good time as most museums and galleries across the city offer free admission year-round.
1. National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street
The National Museum of Scotland houses pivotal artefacts of Scottish history, world cultures, science and the natural world. Located just a short walk from Waverley Train Station, it's easily accessible for visitors.
2. Museum of Edinburgh
142-146 Canongate, Royal Mile
Explore Edinburgh's history through the eyes of its residents in a distinct yellow-and-red 16th-century building on the Royal Mile. The museum's exhibits reveal how ordinary citizens worked, celebrated and contributed to the city's distinctive culture.
3. Scottish National Gallery
The Mound
The Scottish National Gallery showcases European fine art by masters such as Monet and Van Gogh, alongside Scottish artists like Raeburn and Wilkie.
4. The Writers Museum
Lady Stair's Close off the Royal Mile
The Writer’s Museum honours three Scottish literary greats: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Along with exhibits featuring the authors’ personal effects and rare books, you can view a printing press that was used to publish some of Scott’s work.
5. People's Story Museum
163 Canongate, Royal Mile
Set in the historic Canongate Tolbooth, the People’s Story Museum explores Scottish history through storytelling. It focuses on the daily lives of Edinburgh’s working people, with recreated shops, homes and workplaces that show how the city has evolved over the centuries.
Best Free Attractions in Edinburgh
Explore some of the free places to visit in Edinburgh, including hidden gems that are often overlooked.
6. Calton Hill
Enjoy panoramic city views without spending a penny at Calton Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient volcano offers easy walking paths for a relaxed wander, or steeper routes for a brisk challenge.
The summit is a brilliant spot for sunrise or sunset photos and picnics. You'll also find stunning architecture and historic monuments, including the National Monument and the City Observatory.
7. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Entrances on Arboretum Place and Inverleith Row
Spanning 72 acres, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is home to over 10,000 plant species from around the world. It’s one of the top free things to do in Edinburgh and a fantastic spot to enjoy nature.
The gardens are divided into sections, namely the Chinese Hillside, Rock Garden, Woodland Garden and the Scottish Native Plants collection. Keep a lookout for visiting birds and the odd cheeky squirrel.
8. Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street
Right in the city centre, these green spaces offer a welcome break from the city’s busiest shopping streets. Princes Street Gardens is effectively the border between Old and New Town, offering stunning views of Edinburgh Castle towering above you.
The famous floral clock is worth a look, and if you visit in April, the cherry blossoms are absolutely gorgeous. Throughout the year, you'll find free concerts and events in the gardens.
9. Arthur's Seat
Holyrood Park
Rising 251 metres from Holyrood Park, this ancient volcano is one of the capital’s highest points, making it a beloved free attraction in Edinburgh. From the summit, you'll get 360-degree views across the city, including Leith and Dean’s Village on clear days.
The walk takes about two hours return, and it's ideal for visitors who love the outdoors but do not want to be too far from the city. You'll find plenty of local wildlife along the way, and the fresh air beats any gym session.
10. Victoria Street
This colourful, curved street is rumoured to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, with independent shops that may have sparked ideas for Flourish & Blotts and Ollivanders. Beyond the magic, you'll find plenty of charming shops, restaurants and cafés along this picturesque thoroughfare that connects George IV Bridge to Grassmarket.
11. Scottish Parliament
Horse Wynd
Somewhat controversial for its alternative architecture, the Scottish Parliament building offers a free self-guided tour from Monday to Saturday. Or you can book a free guided tour on select days. Check the website for exhibitions and family events.
12. The Royal Mile
Stretching between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is packed with historic landmarks, such as St Giles' Cathedral, as well as shops and restaurants. You’ll often find free street performances along the way, especially during the Fringe Festival.
One of the best commitment-free stuff to do in Edinburgh is to linger on the Royal Mile around lunchtime. Listen for the One O’Clock Gun firing from Edinburgh Castle as it ripples across the city. For extra entertainment, see if you can spot the locals, who barely flinch, while tourists jump every time.
Several tour operators offer free walking tours covering some of the most picturesque areas of Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town. While the tours are free to join, it’s good etiquette to leave a tip as a thank-you for the guide’s local knowledge.
Expand your travels with our five favourite free things to do in Dundee.
Fly-Coach: Free Airport Transfers with Qualified Cards
Visiting Edinburgh’s free attractions is even more affordable when your travel is free as well, with a qualified card, of course. Fly Coach runs a direct service from Edinburgh Airport to Dundee, with tickets available online or at our CityHub on Commercial Street.
Why you should book a ticket today:
- Free travel with eligible cards: Hold a National Entitlement Card or a Young Scot Card? You can travel to Edinburgh free on a turn-up-and-ride basis, or guarantee your seat online for just a £1 booking fee.
- Ample luggage: You can pack one large suitcase (75×50×32 cm) or two medium cases (70×45×30 cm), for a weekend exploring all the great, free things to do in Dundee.
- Accessible travel: Our friendly drivers will help with your bags, and all vehicles are wheelchair-accessible (PSVAR-compliant).
Finished planning all the places to visit in Edinburgh for free? Secure your budget-friendly transfers from Dundee city centre to Edinburgh Airport.