Restaurants, hotel, entry-fees, souvenir-shopping, tour-tickes: A city trip can get very expensive very fast. So it’s nice to have a few free things ligned up. Here are the best free things you can enjoy in Edinburgh, Scotland.
1. Greyfriars Bobby & Greyfriars Kirkyard
Next to the National Museum there is a statue of a cute dog named Greyfriars Bobby. If you don’t know it’s there it’s easy to miss. Definitely look up Bobbys story when you go there and don’t forget to rub his nose for good luck! Behind the statute is a nice pub with good food. If you’re already in the area, you should also check out the graveyard Greyfriars Kirkyard. If you like it a little creepy, go there by dusk or in the dark.
2. Dean Village
This district is getting more and more popular since it’s the perfect little getaway from the busy old town. You can reach it by foot from the center. Take your time to wander around the old houses and maybe even do a photoshoot.
3. Scottish National Picture Gallery
Museums are free in Scotland. So don’t miss the Scottisch National Picture Gallery. The star of the show is definitely the amazing paintings on the walls and roof in this room.
4. Calton Hill
I know, city trips usually involve a lot of walking but if you’re up for a little bit more walking, you should definitely visit Calton Hill. It’s not too exhausting to walk up there and you will be rewarded with a beautiful view over the roofs of Edinburgh.
5. Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens are especially beautiful in spring and summer when all the flowers bloom. But it’s also worth a visit in winter, when the gardens transform into a winter wonderland.
6. The Writers’ Museum
Calling all literature lovers! This museum is for you. It’s home to artefacts from the most famous scottish writers. From Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott to Robert Louis Stevenson. There’s even an old printing press you can admire.
7. National Museum of Scotland
You can spend a rainy day in the National Museum of Scotland. Here you can not only learn more about the history of Scotland but look at paintings, weapons, animals, clothes and so on. The museum is huge and it’s completely free.
8. Princess Street Gardens
Located in the middle of city you will walk past there for sure. But take a moment to explore the gardens. There’s a beautiful fountain and even a cafĂ©. Take your picknick to the park and enjoy it with an amazing few of the old town.
9. Water of Leigh Walkway
Like Dean Village, Water of Leigh Walkway is the perfect getaway if you need to get away from the busy town. Here you won’t feel like you’re in the middle of a big city. All of the street noise and hustling disappear and you feel like you’re in the middle of nature.
10. City Art Center
If you’re sick of museums but the weather is too bad to spend the the outside? Then the City Art Center might be for you. The museum supports local historic and contemporary art.
