Edinburgh is one of the best cities in the UK for free attractions. The national museums and galleries are all free, the parks and gardens are spectacular, and the city's viewpoints offer some of the best urban panoramas anywhere—all without spending a penny.
You could easily spend several days exploring Edinburgh's free attractions. From the world-class National Museum of Scotland to the stunning Royal Botanic Garden, from climbing Arthur's Seat to wandering the atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard, there's no shortage of things to do on a budget.
Free Museums & Galleries
National Museum of Scotland
FREEWorld-class museum covering Scottish history, science, technology, art, and cultures from around the world.
Highlight: Rooftop terrace views
Learn more →Scottish National Gallery
FREEOutstanding collection of European art from the Renaissance to Post-Impressionism including Botticelli, Vermeer, and Monet.
Highlight: The Skating Minister painting
Learn more →Scottish National Portrait Gallery
FREEScottish history told through portraits—from Mary Queen of Scots to modern celebrities in a stunning Gothic building.
Highlight: Great Hall murals
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
FREEModern and contemporary art in beautiful grounds. Two galleries with sculpture park and landform garden.
Highlight: Outdoor sculptures
Museum of Edinburgh
FREELocal history museum on the Royal Mile telling the story of Edinburgh from prehistoric times to today.
Highlight: Greyfriars Bobby collar
People's Story Museum
FREELives of ordinary Edinburgh people from the 18th century to present day. Housed in the historic Canongate Tolbooth.
Highlight: Recreated interiors
Free Attractions
Royal Botanic Garden
FREE70 acres of stunning gardens with world-class plant collections. Only the glasshouses have a charge.
Learn more →Greyfriars Kirkyard
FREEAtmospheric historic cemetery with connections to Greyfriars Bobby, Harry Potter, and centuries of Edinburgh history.
Learn more →St Giles' Cathedral
FREEHistoric High Kirk of Edinburgh on the Royal Mile. Beautiful stained glass and the ornate Thistle Chapel.
Princes Street Gardens
FREEBeautiful public park in the city centre with castle views. Perfect for picnics and relaxation.
Scottish Parliament
FREEFree guided tours of Scotland's Parliament building. Striking modern architecture at the foot of the Royal Mile.
The Meadows
FREELarge public park popular with locals for walking, sports, and summer barbecues. Cherry blossom in spring.
Free Walks & Hikes
Arthur's Seat
2-3 hoursClimb Edinburgh's ancient volcano for panoramic city views. Free and spectacular any time of year.
Learn more →Calton Hill
30-60 minutesEasy climb to Edinburgh's acropolis with monuments and 360-degree views. Best at sunset.
Learn more →Water of Leith Walkway
1-5 hours12-mile riverside path through woodland and historic villages. Dean Village to Stockbridge is the highlight.
Learn more →Royal Mile
1-2 hoursWalk the historic spine of the Old Town from castle to palace, exploring the closes along the way.
Learn more →Dean Village
30-60 minutesPicturesque historic mill village hidden in a gorge, just minutes from the city centre.
Learn more →Cramond
2-3 hoursCharming coastal village with Roman remains. Walk to Cramond Island at low tide (check tides!).
Learn more →Free Viewpoints
Calton Hill
Easy climb, monuments, panoramic views
Arthur's Seat
Summit views across the city and beyond
Castle Esplanade
Views over Princes Street and New Town
National Museum Rooftop
360° views from the museum terrace
Salisbury Crags
Dramatic cliffs with city views
Blackford Hill
Quieter hill with observatory views
Money-Saving Tips
- ✓Most national museums and galleries are free
- ✓The Royal Botanic Garden grounds are free - only glasshouses charge
- ✓Walking tours often work on a tips basis - pay what you can
- ✓Princes Street Gardens are free and perfect for picnics
- ✓Many churches welcome visitors free of charge
- ✓The Scottish Parliament offers free guided tours
- ✓Parks and viewpoints are always free
- ✓Some paid attractions have free hours - check websites