Because of its stunning views and intriguing history, Edinburgh has been featured in a number of well-known movies. To appreciate these not-so-hidden jewels, all you need is someone to steer you in the proper direction. There are a ton of attractions, parks, museums, and galleries to select from. These are 11 things to do in Edinburgh that are free and that you will undoubtedly enjoy.
1. Relax on Portobello Beach
A lovely seaside neighborhood called Portobello Beach offers two miles of sandy beaches to explore. The area, affectionately known as “Porty” by locals, is just a few miles from the heart of Edinburgh and offers some breathtaking views of the Forth. It is ideal for swimming or tanning when the weather is appropriate.
2. Hike Arthur’s Seat
The remnants of a long-gone volcano can be found in Holyrood Park as Arthur’s Seat. The age of lava samples from the location ranges from 335 to 341 million years. Because of its rich cultural history, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking vistas of Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat is well-liked all year long.
3. Join Free walking tours
Speaking about the Royal Mile and Grassmarket, you may witness a crowd of tourists enthusiastically following an individual with an umbrella who appears informed about Edinburgh. You may discover more about Edinburgh’s history on these free walking tours, which depart from the Royal Mile (although you might be asked to make a donation).
4. Visit the National Museum of Scotland
You may “experience the diversity of the natural world, world cultures, art and design, science and technology, and Scottish history, all in one spectacular building,” according to its website. Free admission is available to a world of historical riches that includes amazing Scottish archeological finds and medieval artifacts.
5. Stop at St Giles’ Cathedral
King David I first established St Giles’ Cathedral in 1124, and it has been used as a church for most of the last millennium. The stunning cathedral, which is in the center of Edinburgh, gained worldwide recognition when it was chosen as the location for her majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, to be laid to rest while visiting Scotland.
6. Stroll along Dean Village
Five minutes from Edinburgh’s Princes Street sits Dean Village, a former village. It was established in the eleventh century and provides tourists with a scenic promenade where they can take in the historic architecture and the tranquility of a place that has been dubbed “an oasis of peace in the city.”
7. Go to Leith
Leith is recognized as a vibrant neighborhood with a fine range of restaurants and bars that are popular among the locals, but there are also many free hidden gems here. Fans of Scottish cinema will delight in exploring the area to locate the locations used in renowned movies like Trainspotting or Sunshine on Leith.
8. Check out Summerhall
Summerhall is a thriving cultural town in the center of Edinburgh, according to their website. A location where intriguing, great, and inspiring things happen on a regular basis. Interesting visual arts programs are offered at this multi-arts location, which was formerly a veterinary college building and is free and open to the public.
9. Learn about Grassmarket and the Royal Mile
The Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle can be found at either end of the Royal Mile, which runs through the center of Old Town. Because of the processional routes that kings and queens took down this area, it is known as the Royal Mile.
Back in the day, like in 1477, one of Edinburgh’s most well-known marketplaces was the Grassmarket, which is also located in the Old Town. These places should not be missed, especially if this is your first time in the city.
10. See amazing art at Scottish National Portrait Gallery
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of Edinburgh’s most famous structures and is noted for its abundance of portraits, sculptures, and films that depict historical figures like Bonnie Prince Charlie, Mary Queen of Scots, and even modern figures like Karen Gillan. Visits must be scheduled in advance and are free.
11. Do some outdoor activities in Pentland Hills Regional Park
This trail is located southwest of Edinburgh and spans 35 square miles of stunning natural terrain. Many people think of the landscape and trails as “tough” since they provide a challenging but worthwhile trail for activities like hiking, mountain biking, orienteering, and even horseback riding. You’re also unlikely to run into any other hikers there, given how big the area is.
