Free Things to Do in Edinburgh

THE 10 BEST Free Things to Do in Edinburgh

Best Free Things to Do in Edinburgh

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What travelers are saying

  • AngrySi
    Weston super Mare, UK84 contributions
    No trip to Edinburgh is complete without ascending the 350-million-year-old Arthur's Seat - and although the climb is hard work even for those of reasonable fitness, the views from the top make it well worthwhile.

    Choose your day carefully, though. Heat, rain or cloud can all diminish your enjoyment to varying degrees, so aim for a cool, clear day to make the most of your climb. You won't be disappointed!
    Written August 9, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DunelmArts
    Aberdeen, UK1,094 contributions
    My main reason for visiting the museum was the "Beyond the Little Black Dress" exhibition, which was excellent. This exhibition had an admission charge, but the rest of the museum is free, although donations are welcomed. Pick up a floor plan at the entrance which wil help you navigate the various collections. The areas with the interactive exhibits for children can get quite crowded, but other parts of the museum are relatively quiet.
    Written August 10, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Monti R
    Vancouver Island, Canada16 contributions
    We participated in a 2 hr walking tour of Old Edinburgh. Our guide Kenny, was both informative and entertaining. Would highly recommend this tour. Payment is by donation.
    Written July 31, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • DunelmArts
    Aberdeen, UK1,094 contributions
    Based in the Old Town the Royal Mile is a ‘Scots mile’ long, connecting two royal residences (the Castle and the palace of Holyrood House). It is home to parliaments old and new, law courts, a cathedral and churches, and a range of visitor attractions, walking tours, shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs. Consequently, it gets very busy with tourists, especially in the summer. Well worth a look, but be prepared for crowds!
    Written August 10, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ian L
    Perth, Australia532 contributions
    As long as you are reasonably fit, it's well worth slogging up the steep walkway. Great broad views of Edinburgh from different sides of the hill. Some interesting old monuments and buildings (including City Observatory) at the top of the peak as well. May have been the result of volcanic activities 340+ million years ago but feels pretty safe now. It's really enjoyable taking look at all the old buildings, viewpoints, Roman structures and monuments while at the top. And rug up, it's a bit cool and windy at times.
    Written August 11, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • MichaÅ‚ K
    8 contributions
    Beautiful place for a walk. Pretty close to the city center, but not overcrowded with turists. Perfectly maintained, a lot of space for children.
    Written August 4, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Lori M
    Augusta, GA184 contributions
    Beautiful and reverent. The stained glass windows and. Pipe organ were especially striking. Remarkably ornate and worth stopping in to see this architectural marvel.
    Written August 8, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ian L
    Perth, Australia532 contributions
    Beautiful greenery everywhere, ancient tombstones galore too. Great to walk through when crossing between old town and new. Offers fantastic views of Edinburgh Castle.
    Written August 11, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Andrew3003
    London, UK84 contributions
    Fantastic time at Grayson Perry : Smash Hits.

    We were extremely fortunate to come across this exhibition, and to be able to gain entrance on the first day of the show.

    Cannot recommend enough this exhibition, which I suggest is outstanding and unmissable.

    Our visit was very impacting and we were moved by many of the pieces in the exhibition and beyond fortunate to be able to also hear Grayson Perry give a talk on the opening day.

    Extremely well curated, I would rate this is one of the very best exhibitions that I’ve ever seen.

    The works are extraordinary in providing insight and reflection on Britain, and as is generally with the work of Grayson Perry, that reflection is on the social and economic backdrop of contemporary and past Britain.

    Feel extremely blessed and fortunate that we were able to visit, and strongly really strongly recommend anyone… everyone … to go and see.

    Suggest allowing at least three hours for the visit.
    Written July 23, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Pandabuddie
    United Kingdom924 contributions
    First time visit and spent a few hours looking at all the portraits. Well worth a visit if in the area. Staff and facilities excellent.
    Written July 11, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • MichaÅ‚ K
    8 contributions
    It is a very special park as you can wander in any direction possible. Beautiful view od the city. Unfortunately impossible to go higher with a buggy. We will definietly return to see it all.
    Written July 25, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ian L
    Perth, Australia532 contributions
    Simple wandering time is all that's required to enjoy for this scenic and relaxing landscape along the Water of Leith. We enjoyed a blue sky and gentle river, walking along the river from Dean Bridge in July. It is a very old but well maintained part of Edinburgh, just need to stay considerate of the residents living in the area. Make sure you have some reasonable walking shoes just because areas of the path along the river are not sealed. There are lots of interesting landmarks along the way, such as the Rhema Scotland church that is being converted into a function centre as well. On the corner of Queensferry Rd and Bells Brae there is a beautiful old stone house. And the lush green foliage along the banks of the Leith river are full of vocal birds. Not much in the way of cafes so take a bottle of water. This doesn't need a tour guide to enjoy!
    Written August 5, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Edith
    14 contributions
    Super cute area with fun shops! I really enjoyed walking through here. The atmosphere was great and even when walking back late one evening from dinner with my Dad, we felt safe.
    Written July 29, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Terry W
    Hamilton, Canada113 contributions
    Finally got to pay homage to the Bobby. Made sure I took the advice of the locals and didn't rub Bobby's nose as they hate it when tourist's do that. A busy place to get you're photo taken as everyone else wants to do the same. The statue is right across the street from the kirkyard.
    Written August 8, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Clevlander
    Springfield, IL4,885 contributions
    Historic cemetery and Presbyterian Church with such long and distinguished history. The place feels silent and solemn with people being respectful of the place.
    Written May 4, 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.