19 Unique Cheap Things To Do In Edinburgh And 80% Are Free!

Planning to visit Scotland soon and searching ideas on cheap things to do in Edinburgh. As the most visited UK city after London, Edinburgh can be pricey during the Fringe Festival in August and in December especially around Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve).

But we’re here to help you 🙂 Living here part-time and being Scottish, we know of numerous free and low cost activities to enjoy in Edinburgh. You might be surprised to know that 80% of our suggested activities in this guide are FREE, and the rest average around £20-£40 per person.

Don’t worry, value for money activities doesn’t mean boring!

This post contains our ideas to help you plan a fantastic stay in Edinburgh and keep to your budget while doing some bucket list and totally unique activities!

Edinburgh Essential: Brief Overview

Edinburgh is compact and if you are mobile, it’s easy to get around by simply walking, which saves you quite a bit from your budget.

Accommodation is going to be the biggest expense. Our suggestion is to stay centrally but you’re not going to spend that much time inside (we hope), so go for location first!

Transport from Edinburgh airport into town is good value either by tram or bus, although if there are several of you travelling together, Welcome Pickups might work out cheaper.

🛏️ Affordable Accommodation in Edinburgh

If you are visiting on a tight budget, consider staying at student halls over the summer months. With 2000+ rooms available across the student campus areas, Edinburgh Student Accommodation Rentals provides availability and prices.

When students are in town, check out these suggestions. Our picks are based on location, links to transport hubs and value for money.

19 Awesome Cheap Things To Do in Edinburgh

Everything we list is less than £50 per person, often much less or totally free! Who doesn’t like a deal??

Extra Discounts are usually offered for kids, family groups and those aged 60+. In Scotland, most major museums and galleries do not charge a general entrance fee.

From ancient volcanoes to bustling marketplaces, picnics in romantic parks or discovering the hidden gem of Dean Village, there’s no shortage of fun cheap things to do in Edinburgh.

There are enough ideas here to fill at least 3-4 days in Edinburgh, so go ahead and challenge yourself to tick them all off your Scotland Bucket List!

1. Walk Edinburgh’s Royal Mile (Free)

The Royal Mile stretches from Edinburgh Castle at one end down to the Royal Palace of Holyrood, the official residence of the monarch when in Edinburgh.

Our suggestion is to ignore the ‘manufactured’ attractions if you’re on a tight budget. Instead travel back in time to the 1800s by checking out some of the multiple passageways (called closes) that form arteries off the Royal Mile.

At one time, there were around 250 of these alleyways but not all have survived. Still, you’ll find more than enough of these fascinating ‘hidden streets’ to explore. Some charge an entrance but most are FREE.

Here are 3 ‘unmissable’ Royal Mile passageways or closes to explore with a map to help you see their relative locations.

Lady Stairs Close (Free)

Lady Stairs Close is like being transported back in time! Enter Makers Close and in front of you is Lady Stairs House built in the 1600s.

Almost demolished in the late 1800s, this home is an fabulous example of how wealthier people lived in Edinburgh. The interior is beautifully maintained to reflect the period in which it was a home. Although tucked away from busy main streets, it’s still in the heart of the city.

Today, the building is home to a small but fascinating writers’ museum (also free) and a real bonus if you love literature. The exhibits celebrate several Scottish authors including Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott.

Brodie’s Close (Free)

Brodie’s Close  is where one of Edinburgh’s most colourful historic characters lived. William (Deacon) Brodie was a cabinet maker by day but a robber at night and infamous in his time.

Hanged for his crimes, it’s said he was the inspiration for Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde. Pop your head in for a peak – there’s a coffee shop hidden in here!

Opposite the close entrance, you will see a pub named after him on the Royal Mile. Perhaps a little touristy but this is a nice spot for a day time refreshment. This side of the street catches the sun and is perfect for people watching!

Mary King’s Close

Mary King’s Close  just across from St Giles Cathedral, used to be free. But, now it’s been ‘discovered’, you will have to pay £25 for a 1 hour guided tour.

That said, this intriguing centuries old area of the city with its well-told stories of past residents, is hugely popular. So if you’re interested, make sure to book well in advance!

2. FREE Edinburgh Walking Tours

There are numerous tours to choose from in Edinburgh from Historical Personalities to Harry Potter! Here’s our suggestions for 2 great FREE ones:

Book a Free Edinburgh City Walking Tour to enjoy the city at a slower pace than by bus or tram. 

If you are a fan, don’t miss a Free Harry Potter Walking Tour – just remember to bring your own wand with you. Edinburgh is where JK Rowling was inspired to create many of her characters.

On this tour you will discover many of corners of the city from where she wrote including an introduction to wha we locals call ‘real life’ Daigon Alley!

3. Go Back In Time At Edinburgh Castle

Towering above the city, Edinburgh Castle sits atop an ancient volcano and reflects the enduring and turbulent history here. Over the centuries, it has served as a fortress, a prison and the seat of royalty!

Today, it is open to explore on a self-guided tour or a guided tour, both of which are really good value. We know from our many trips to the castle kids will love this Edinburgh adventure.

There’s a lot to see here. The Honours of Scotland (Crown Jewels); learning about Mary Queen of Scots and remembering Queen Margaret. She died in 1093 and subsequently was made a saint.

In fact, the chapel, built in her memory by her son, is the oldest building in the city. If you’re around at 1pm, listen out for the daily firing of the ancient canon called Mons Meg. This massive defense weapon dates back to the mid 1400s!!

There are cafes and restaurants within the castle so perhaps have a coffee here and enjoy the views. If you’re planning a family visit, snag discounted tickets available at the above site.

The courtyard of the castle is the venue for the August Royal Military Tattoo and summertime concerts. The views from here over to the Forth of Firth and city are fantastic. You can enjoy this part of the castle without paying to enter if you wish!

4. Explore National Museum of Scotland (Free)

Take a small detour off the Royal Mile and head towards our National Museum of Scotland. From the outside, the exterior doesn’t look as majestic as some of Edinburgh’s other grand buildings, but inside it’s actually very beautiful.

If you visit on a sunny clear day, head up to the ‘Hutton’ roof of the museum for free 360 degree views over the city. Cleverly, the plants that edge the roof are all plants that reflect your direction of view.

For example, look towards the sea and you’re looking at coastal foliage, towards the hills and its mountain planting.

It’s possible you might have a rainy day while in Edinburgh. But don’t fret! We have more amazing museums and galleries later on our list, most of which are free to visit.

5. Stroll up Calton Hill For A Picnic – Free

If you want breathtaking views over Edinburgh, but Arthur’s Seat steeper climb isn’t for you, we encourage you to head to Calton Hill. It’s located just off Waterloo Place, and easy to get to from the train station end of Princes Street.

There is a decent wheelchair accessible pathway to the top (although a bit steep in places). Also anyone who has a ‘blue badge’ in their car can drive to the top and park up.

Come for sunrise with a coffee, a camera and bask in the morning glow over the city. This is a fantastic spot to spend time if you love photography. City views are outstanding from here as are sweeping vistas over Leith and out to the islands just off the coast.

If you’re not an early riser, no worries! This is an appealing spot in the city any time of day and year round with constantly changing light and seasons.

What to See on Calton Hill

There’s such a variety of buildings to explore including the National Monument (dedicated to Scottish soldiers and sailors from the Napoleonic Wars) and modeled on the Parthenon in Greece.

Another fantastic exhibition is at the base of Nelson Monument. It’s £3 to enter this part of the monument. If you want to also climb up to the viewing platform, a combined ticket is £7.50 Adults, with concessions for kids.

The observatory has recently been refreshed and is home to a range of artistic pieces. It’s also free.

There is a lovely restaurant up here too (The Look Out), but it’s quite pricey. So, pack a picnic if the weather is good. Find yourself a grassy bank to hang out on and we think you’ll agree Calton Hill is one of the best places in Edinburgh.

6. Dance To A Scottish Ceilidh Band

Traditional music is a huge part of our Scottish culture and it’s on offer in many different venues across Edinburgh.

If dancing isn’t your thing, head to Sandy Bells in Forest Road and/or The Royal Oak nearby in Infirmary Street. Both offer a great atmosphere and are an easy walk from the city center.

There’s an ever changing mix of local folk music and many choices for your wee dram (other drinks too!

In our opinion, this is a great value way to try a couple of different whisky brands, meet locals and be entertained by some great melodies!

7. Climb Scott Monument

You can see the almost black 61 feet (200m) tall gothic structure that is Edinburgh’s Scott Monument from around town and right in front of you as you sit at the National Gallery cafe.

Designed through a competition back in 1836, it is named after the literary great – Sir Walter Scott (author of Rob Roy, Ivanhoe and many other classics).

Climb the 287 steps to the top of the monument pausing as you go at each of the 4 levels. If hiking the hills around Edinburgh isn’t for you, this is a great alternative. The exhibits as you go up are also informative – great value in our opinion.

And don’t forget to admire the Edinburgh Flower Clock in Princes Street Gardens which was the 1st of its kind in the world. It’s replanted twice a year and yes, it works!

8. Visit Greyfriars Graveyard & Meet Bobby!

After you exit the museum, take a left and across the road you will see a small bronze terrier dog statue.

This is Greyfriars Bobby. Entry into the church dating back to 1620 next to the pub of the same name to visit our national doggy grave. You will find out about this heart warming story of the loyalty Bobby had for his owner, from 1855 to 1872!

Greyfriars Church and Cemetery Site Edinburgh has full details of church led tour and timings.

Book an Edinburgh Darkside Walking Tour which you can book here takes you through this graveyard. Honestly, it’s an awesome adventure in the city’s history from 17th century characters to, well, 21st century Harry Potter! Look for Tom Riddle’s grave.

Listen to tales of body snatcher protection devices and peek into gated areas where convicted citizens were held before being shipped off to Australia or somewhere far away from Scotland.

9. Step Into St Giles Cathedral (Free)

Regardless of your beliefs, Scotland’s main cathedral holds countless unseen twists and turns from history. So, spending an hour on a tour with a guide is absolutely enthralling and even living here and being Scottish, I have learned so much from these experts.

As you walk around, you will hear historical recounts from the 900 years of this site. Its name is in memory of Saint Giles, who was said to have been dedicated to the sick and those outcast from society, although little of the building is left from this time (1124).

You will see the small almost hidden Thistle Chapel on our tour where the Order of the Thistle meet after being appointed by the reigning king or queen.

This is also where the late Queen Elizabeth II was laid in state for a period after her death at Balmoral.

10. Spend An Afternoon In Leith

Leith is the new ‘cool’ hangout outside the capital and it’s changing at a great pace without losing touch with its origins. In fact, Time Out ranked Leith as 16th in the world’s list of coolest neighborhoods!!

Leith was the primary trading port in Scotland during the 18th century, and in its prime, imported and exported products as diverse as wine and wool. It received a bump in notoriety with the filming of Trainspotting (Ewan McGregor)

You can walk down to Leith from Edinburgh (it’s around 1 mile). It’s a pleasant stroll through recently upgraded streets running parallel to the tramline down to the statue of Queen Victoria.

Keep going until you hit the old docks area which again is lined with cafes, bars, restaurants and several Michelin star ones! You can walk to the end next to the war memorial, and then cross the green bridge, walking parallel to the working harbour.

This is where the Royal Britannia Yacht Britannia is moored. It is another very popular tourist attraction on Trip advisor although personally we think it’s a little over-rated.

11. Whisky Tasting In Edinburgh

There’s a whisky tasting for everyone in Edinburgh and these are some of the best value in our experience. While you can always enjoy a taste of ‘water of life’ in any pub or restaurant, it’s fun to learn more about the tradition and how whisky is made in Scotland.

Here’s 3 we suggest you check out:

• Leith Distillery
• Whisky Tasting Stories Tour
• Holyrood Whisky and Gin Tastings

Leith Distillery

Leith Distillery is new and the tallest in the world. Being new, their whisky products will take a few years to mature. But don’t let that put you off! The views from this elevated building are wonderful.

Learn about the latest distilling techniques and taste their innovative sherry, port and guest whiskies in a remarkable spot overlooking the water.

If you prefer, head straight to the 8th floor for a cocktail (or whisky) and a light bite.

Small Group History of Whisky Tasting Tour

If you love the idea of combining a walk and whisky tasting with a historical thread running through the experience, this Edinburgh Whisky Tour is for you.

Full of ancient stories that bring you on a journey of our national drink through the ages. Tastings are in cool venues, one of which is in an underground cellar. Lots of fun and unique experience in Edinburgh.

🔍 Check Whisky History & Tastings Tour Availability

Scottish Gin and Whisky Tasting at Holyrood

This is another great experience that gives you the chance to sample both Scottish Whisky and Gin made right on site at Holyrood Distillery.

Over an hour you will get to see the production process and then of course taste! We have done these tours when friends and family visit us in Edinburgh and they are always well received.

12. Relax At The Royal Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking for a little oasis in the city, come discover the 70 acres of world class plants which is the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Founded by two doctors in 1670, with an emphasis on local and global botany, wander around the grounds at your leisure.

Peak through trees for views back over the city chimney tops or head to the Scottish Native Plants in the Heath Garden. Note: The glasshouses are currently closed due to some major upgrades but there’s still plenty to enjoy.

If you have green fingers and want to learn more about botany, here you can book a guided tour.

13. Waters of Leith Path To Dean Village (Free)

Not to be confused with the Port of Leith we mention above, this is a beautiful quiet walk along the river that runs through Edinburgh.

From the botanical gardens, it is a short walk to lovely Stockbridge in the New Town. Distinctly different in its architecture from the Old Town, you might check out the much photographed Circus Lane (street) or just wander through the neighbourhood at leisure.

Stockbridge has lots of small independent coffee shops, book stores and restaurants and is typically less busy with visitors than Princes Street and the Old Town.

When the Sunday market is on, it’s a little busier but we enjoy the buzz and the delicious foods on offer!

After a break at a local coffee shop like Artisan Roasters on Raeburn Place, why not have a stroll along the Waters of Leith. This is one of the best walks through the city along the gently flowing clear water.

You will pass some interesting landmarks on the way including St Bernard’s Well and old Mill (check out the old mill stones to your right).

Keep going and you will come to Dean Village which is almost a surprise to the eye. Artists are often seated here sketching this glorious city view.

Continue your walk back into the city towards George Street and Princes Street from here. It is about a 20 minute walk up a gentle hill. Maybe end in Rose Street with its huge array of places to eat, drink and shop!

14. Visit The National Galleries

Back on Princes Street you will find a complex of galleries including the Scottish National Gallery building, recently refurbished. We love this place both for its external architectural beauty but for the rich collection of Scottish art it contains.

Don’t miss the collection of old photographs of Edinburgh which are fascinating as parts of the city really haven’t changed that much!

After you’re done with absorbing the art, head to the coffee shop/ restaurant which is reasonably priced. If you can, sit outside, under shady parasols, looking out to the grassy ‘fields’ that are Princes Street Gardens.

Admire the stunning buildings that snake up around the mound up to the castle.

15. Climb Arthur’s Seat – Free

Wow! Another unique experience and one of the best cheap things to do in Edinburgh – actually totally FREE!!

**Sadly there was a bad fire here in 2025, so check on arrival to see if the walking paths are open**

Burn off a few calories as you climb to the highest city peak. Located within Holyrood Park, this is a more challenging hike than Calton HIll especially if you take the steeper approach.

Here’s a useful Arthurs Seat Walking Route Map but honestly you can’t miss this hill from anywhere in the city!

Standing on the 251 metre high summit you might not believe you’re atop another extinct volcano! Soak in panoramic vistas of Edinburgh and surrounding hills, coastlines and small islands!

Also you can see views of the village of Duddingston. Head here later for a refreshment at the one and only Sheep Heid Inn which dates back to 1360 and is the oldest pub in Scotland. 

It can be a wee bit windy walking here and slippery after rain so we recommend some sturdy walking shoes. Also think about doing this hike earlier (before 10am) or in the evening before dark if you’d like a quieter experience as it gets pretty busy. Bring water!

16. Take The Tram to Newhaven Village

Newhaven is at the end of the tram line and a great place to experience small east coast Scotland village life.

Walk 10 mins from the last tram stop to the harbour. Here you will find a modern wide boardwalk with several affordable cafes and restaurants. There is also an old lighthouse and small boats moored behind stone wall reinforcements.

Walk on further down from here and you will pass by a few pubs and shops. Several have spectacular views over the Firth and you might see ferries and other vessels coming and going.

There is a great fish and chip restaurant here which offers seating outdoors overlooking the water. If you’re self catering, the fishmongers next door has a huge range of seafood. Save a few £s and cook your own dinner!

17. The People’s Story Museum (Free)

If you fancy a peek into how life was for us Scots living in Edinburgh, head down the Royal Mile to the Cannongate (towards Holyrood Palace) to the People’s Story.

With a lens on scenes from everyday life, you will get a sense of the culture of Scotland evolved. From a war era kitchen, to an early jail, there’s plenty to see!

18. Boat Tour From South Queensferry Village

For an affordable fun day trip from Edinburgh, we suggest you ride a local bus to South Queensferry, a little north of the city. Then jump on a local boat tour around the 3 bridges while looking out for local wildlife including puffins and seals.

Lothian Bus 43 runs from Princes Street every 20 minutes daily and every 30 minutes on Sundays. Return Bus Ticket cost only £5 (adults); £2.75 (kids) if you buy with your contactless card when you board.

🔍 Check Queensferry Boat Tour Prices and Availability

Before or after your boat tour around these mega bridge structures that span the Firth of Forth, enjoy walking around this small fishing town, with its traditional cobbled streets, and local stores.

Grab a coffee at The Little Bakery on Main Street or treat yourself to an ice cream from LouLou’s just a wee bit further down the same street. Their flavours are amazing and do try a Scottish flavor like Tablet or Iron Bru if they’re on the menu.

19. Join Locals In The Meadows Park

Our favourite park in Edinburgh is the ancient Meadows park, which used to be a loch which supplied drinking water via wooden pipes.

Today, it’s the place to come walk, play frisbee, croquet, tennis, or just hangout on the grass for lunch. There is a playground for little kids.

There are events on most weekends and most are free to attend. Across the park you can find some great cafes like Victor Hugo Deli, and The Pavillion Cafe, which we feel is a perfect spot on weekend mornings!

Tips To Get Around Edinburgh City Cheaply

Edinburgh is built over a number of hills. Being medieval at its core, you will find lots of cobbled streets weaving parts of town together.

Also several steep stone stairs connect the old town (where the castle is) with the newer town (think Princes Street). It’s a fairly compact city centre, so if you have good mobility, you can walk between most of the sights and experiences we’ve listed.

Sometimes travelers unfamiliar with the city opt for a taxi when it’s actually quicker to walk, especially from old town into new town.

So we suggest you get a good map from one of many travel information booths in town to familiarise yourself with the main streets. Also download Google Maps App to help you navigate on foot.

But if walking isn’t possible or to help make the most of a short period of time here, we suggest these affordable city transport options.

48 Hour Hop On-Hop Off Bus Ticket

You will see these all around town so use this service to help you navigate to the main sights below. If you buy a 48 hour hop on-hop off ticket on-line, for example, it will cost you £26 per adult (£14 kids age 5-15). This removes any hassle of buying tickets for each destination and works out much less expensive than a taxi.

Some deals also include discount to other sights and entrances. Take a look and decide which is best for your time and interests. Note: some sights are closed on certain days. Do read the small print to check whether entrance fees are included in your tour cost!

The Edinburgh Tram Service

The Edinburgh Tram Service is a fantastic service. Hop on down to the coast, stopping in Leith. Then continue to the end of the line and explore the small coastal village of Newhaven.

Also, use the tram to travel to/from the airport in around 30 minutes if you are flying here. A day city tram ticket is £5 but a 3 day city ticket is only £10. Book tickets directly with the Tram Company here.

FAQs

Edinburgh On A Budget – Making It Happen!

If it’s helpful to planning your trip to Edinburgh, here are our top recommended travel resources. We use these ourselves again and again, otherwise we wouldn’t suggest them to you!

If you use the ideas in the post you can get by on a budget of £60 per day, sticking to free activities and cafe style dining. Stretch to £100 per day for affordable accommodation, a restaurant dinners and x1 paid activity daily.

For more great travel planning essentials check out our Travel Resources full of ways to help you plan great trips and save money as you go!

How About Exploring Beyond Edinburgh?

Now you know the secrets to having fun in Edinburgh without spending a fortune, maybe you can stretch to seeing more of Scotland?

Our Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Itinerary is a bucket list adventure and we have included ‘budget’ accommodation options in all the featured destinations.

Also, don’t overlook our Scottish islands. Ferries to islands like Mull and Iona leave from Oban and it’s possible to do a day trip. They are also excellent value.

In Oban, you can stay in a Bed and Breakfast, then catch an early ferry. For more on visiting Scottish islands read our posts:

• Getaway Itinerary to Mull and Iona islands of Scotland.
• Explore the Isles of Colonsay and Islay – low key and just gorgeous.