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The debating chamber in the Scottish Parliament
Photograph: Colin / Wikimedia Commons

The 6 best free things to do in Edinburgh

Looking for a way to soak up culture in the city without splashing out? These are the best free things to do in Edinburgh according to us

Huw Oliver
Arusa Qureshi
Written by
Huw Oliver
Written by
Arusa Qureshi
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We can all agree that it's great having plans in the diary but isn't it even better when those plans don't involve spending cash? There are many ways to empty your wallet in Edinburgh – from Michelin-starred restaurants to world-famous tourist attractions. But it's also possible to have a fun day out while you're on a budget. From museums and art galleries to gardens and educational outings, these are our top recommendations when it comes to spending absolutely nothing in the Scottish capital. Happily, the best free things to do in Edinburgh are also some of the best things to do full stop.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in Edinburgh

Free things to do in Edinburgh

  • Museums

One museum, two conjoined buildings. The modern half of this complex on Chambers Street opened in 1998 and tells you everything about Scotland from its geological and prehistoric past to its social and political present. The older half with the soaring Victorian atrium – massively refurbished over several years then reopened in 2011 – is more of a crowd-pleaser with galleries covering the natural world, science and technology, art and design, and more.

  • Museums

A local authority-run museum on the Royal Mile, this venue tells the story of playthings from throughout the ages: vaguely spooky dolls, marionettes, Meccano, mannequins in period costume, model trains, go-karts, bicycles, even a Dan Dare-branded radio station. It’ll make adults over a certain age go wobbly with nostalgia.

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  • Attractions

Scotland’s parliament has been in operation since 1999 and has occupied its Holyrood premises since 2004. The bold design here – by Catalan architect Enric Miralles – was always controversial but the best way to appreciate the exterior is to walk up nearby Salisbury Crags and see the complex from above. If you like it, you might find Miralles’s interior even better. Visits are free and allow access to the striking main chamber and elegant committee rooms.

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  • Attractions
  • Parks and gardens

Founded in the 17th century as a physic garden at Holyrood, the RBGE now has four sites across Scotland but the main one is here in north Edinburgh, covering more than 28 hectares. It has a world-class collection of plants, a selection of cafés, an art gallery and many rules – it’s not a public park – but sitting among the beautiful floral displays is still relaxing. 

  • Museums

Occupying the old Canongate Tolbooth where justice was meted out from the late 16th century onwards, this museum looks at ordinary Edinburgh citizens from the past century or two. From tenement life before the advent of modern amenities, through trade unionism, football and war, right up to the late 20th century, the tale is compellingly told through displays, tableaux and mannequins.

City too much? Take some time out here...

  • Things to do
  • Walks and tours

With a wealth of luscious green space surrounding its winding streets and historic castles, urban ramblers can certainly keep busy in central Edinburgh. But if you do get bored of all those city parks and fancy a proper escape, the serene landscapes around the Scottish capital may be more up your street – or hiking trail.

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