Edinburgh is one of our favorite places to visit! Full of charm, its historic buildings offer romantic sceneries, perfect for any adventure – but, we will be the first to tell you it can sometimes be a bit pricey to visit. That’s why we want to share with you 10 things that we enjoy doing that won’t cost you a cent. Check them out – we’ve even thrown in a bonus at the end just for you! 

1. Wonder around the Royal Mile

One of the most famous stretches of land, the Royal Mile starts at Edinburgh Castle and will take you to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. While walking the cobblestone streets you’ll likely run into a few street performers and pass by notable places like The Real Mary King’s Close, Tolbooth Tavern, and the Scottish Parliament Building. 

2. Hike Arthur’s Seat

Have you ever hiked an extinct volcano? Well here is your chance! Holyrood Park offers a panoramic view of Edinburgh and surrounding areas at Arthur’s Seat. A popular activity for locals and tourists alike, this hike is a once in a lifetime experience.

Note: Be careful! In our experience this hike has been very windy. Wear appropriate hiking shoes as the stones can be slippery in the rains of Scotland.

3. Walk through Princes Street Gardens

Hands down the best place for rest and relaxation. This is where you will want to find a bench near the Ross Fountain, or have a picnic in the grass — there are so many gorgeous landscapes to see here. We make visiting the gardens a must stop location every time we visit. It’s a great spot to grab a cup of coffee and make a plan for your day.

4. Admire the Scott Monument

Located in the Princes Street Gardens, across from Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station, this is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Gothic structure was erected in 1844 to honor the famous author Sir Walter Scott. For those wanting to climb to the top, there is a small fee if you decide to climb the 287 stairs to the top.

5. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Science, nature, culture, history – the museum offers a little bit of everything for all audiences. Probably one of the coolest things we saw here was Dolly the Sheep’s display. Not familiar with Dolly? Read more about her story here. 

6. Ascend Calton Hill

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton Hill is best visited at sunrise or sunset. The hike up the hillside is around 20 minutes so plan accordingly if you do decide to catch the sun. Calton Hill is not only home to monuments like the National Monument, the City Observatory and the Dugald Stewart Monument, but you can also get a great view of the Nelson Monument and the National Monument of Scotland from this point of view. 

7. Walk Through Dean Village

Dean Village is a unique area that looks as though a storybook village has come to life. Nestled along the Water of Leith, this picturesque neighborhood was once known for its grain mills. We recommend taking a few hours to walk through the windy roads and down along the water. The charming old buildings and greenery are set away from the bustling streets of old town and offer a peace of serenity and make for great photo opportunities. 

8. Spend Time in the Scottish National Gallery

Whether you’re the type of person who can name drop famous artists like Titian, Rembrandt, and Turner (all of whom are featured here), a master finger painter, digital artist, or just a curious mind there is something for every level of art knowledge here. We save the museums for days when the weather is just so bad it’s not fun to be outside.

9. Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard

If you’re a Harry Potter fan then this graveyard is a landmark you won’t want to miss. Located in Old Town, Greyfriars Kirkyard is famous not only for its history and graves, or for the ghostly legends that lie within its walls but is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling in her writing.  

The graveyard is not all haunts, it also has a warm, softer side to its ghosts. Greyfriars Bobby, is a Skye Terrier and truly man’s best friend. Bobby was loyal to his owner who was ‘Bobby’ (Bobby is the nickname for a British police officer), guarding his grave for 14 years until his own death. Visitors leave sticks as a symbol of love, loyalty, and remembrance. The sticks, along with flowers have become a tradition for anyone visiting his grave. If you walk outside the graveyard you’ll see a bronze statue of Bobby. A relatively new tradition, people have begun rubbing his nose for good luck which has worn the bronze down leaving it shiny and discolored. 

Why is it called a kirkyard? The word Kirk in Gaelic means Church, and the grounds surrounding a church are usually used for graves. So, that is where the Scottish get the word kirkyard, or graveyard from. 

10. Walk the The Water of Leith Walkway

A 13 mile path, this scenic route is a quiet escape from the city. Running through areas like Dean Village and Stockbridge, the walkway is suitable for walkers, cyclers, and is accessible in some areas by wheelchairs. The Visitor Centre offers a map to help plan your journey.

Bonus: Check Out the Fringe Festival

If you happen to be visiting Edinburgh in the month of August there are countless numbers of street performers and stage shows to see. Acts come from all around the world to showcase their talents all over the city. While many shows are free please be generous and tip the artists for sharing if possible. Any little bit is appreciated!

Now you know how we save money, but still find a way to experience all of the history, culture, and more in Edinburgh without breaking the bank. Safe travels!