Free things to do · Edinburgh

Free things to do in Edinburgh

No-spend weekends in Edinburgh — free museums, parks, markets and walks that don't cost a dollar.

Editor's pickPopular local pick

Top spots in Edinburgh

  • Arthur's Seat

    Outdoors

    Holyrood Park

    251 m extinct volcano with 360° city views — 45-min climb from the palace.

  • Dean Village

    Outdoors

    Water of Leith

    Hidden ex-mill village 5 min from Princes Street — Insta gold.

  • Edinburgh Castle

    Culture

    Castle Rock

    Stone of Destiny, Honours of Scotland and the 1 o'clock gun.

  • National Museum of Scotland

    Culture

    Chambers Street

    Dolly the Sheep, Lewis Chessmen and a Victorian Grand Gallery — free.

  • Royal Mile

    Culture

    Old Town

    Cobbled mile of closes, whisky shops and the Real Mary King's Close vaults.

Frequently asked

  • Standouts right now: Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, Royal Mile. The shortlist is curated by people who live in Edinburgh and refreshed regularly so it reflects what's actually open and worth your time.

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