For those who are not into Scotland must know that fact that Edinburgh as the capital of Scotland, there are plenty of things to see and do. For those who are looking for free things to do in Edinburgh then let me tell you the city can sometimes be a little pricey.
The city is full of culture which makes it one of the best location to visit as a result of which visitors may end up paying more. However, it not the case in each thing. Here is a list of some free things to do in Edinburgh!
Free Things To Do In Edinburgh
1. Scottish Parliament
Many international visitors don’t aware of the fact that Scotland has its own parliament and it’s situated in Edinburgh. Remember that it is closed during the summer months as Parliament is recessed. However, for the rest of the year, you can go on one hour guided tours of the buildings for free.
2. Scottish National Gallery
Scottish National Gallery is located on the Mound in the very midst of the city. Here you can view artworks by iconic painters. Little and ornate, this intimate gallery allows you to observe the paint flecks on a few of the most famous functions Scotland has to offer. Moreover, all these are for free!
3. National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is full of history and offers you the free chance to find out more about the town at a neighborhood level. Many visitors don’t know the fact that it is the home to the first ever successfully cloned animal Dolly The Sheep.
4. Greyfriars Kirkyard
This ancient churchyard of Greyfriars Kirkyard dates all the way back to the 16th Century. It is located near the Old Town part of the city. You will find a number of famous Edinburgh resident tomb over there. If facts to be believed JK Rowling got enough of her inspiration for names in the Harry Potter series by roaming around the graveyard and looking at the grave markers.
5. Dean Village
I think like me most of the visitors will love this place. The village is located just a short walk from the end of Princes Street. Dean Village was first built for mill workers, dating back to a time when much of Edinburgh’s exports were focused on the mill trade. These days the village is one of the best places in the city and host to some of the most exclusive addresses.
6. National Gallery of Modern Art
One of the best things about Edinburgh is that it is absolutely filled with free galleries and museums, including that of Modern Art. National Gallery of Modern Art is part of the National Galleries and offers completely free visit. Here, you can find treasures by Picasso and Matisse, among others.
7. St Giles Cathedral
Located in the heart of the Royal Mile, St Giles Cathedral has stood for Centuries. It is also known as the ‘High Kirk of Edinburgh’. It’s the main Christian place of worship in the city and also free to visit. This place is well worth a visit if only to admire the beautiful stained glass windows.
8. Cramond Island
Located on the edges of the Scottish capital, Cramond Island makes the perfect day trip from the city. Once house to a Roman settlement, this tidal island is uninhabited and perfect for a nature escape.
9. Portobello Beach
Edinburgh’s weather doesn’t allow that far sunbathing on the shore however you can enjoy your own little escape to the sea. Edinburgh is located on the fringes of the North Sea, so plan a vacation to the beach, stroll across the sand in Portobello Beach.
10. Botanical Gardens
You’ll find the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh near Dean Village. You can easily spot both common and rare flowers in this beautiful Botanic Garden. This garden space was found way back in 1670 and now it is regularly used for groundbreaking research and they are free to visit.
11. Harry Potter Sites
It’s well-known fact that JK Rowling lived in Edinburgh while writing much of the Harry Potter Series. This place is featured heavily as inspiration for the magical series. Take yourself on a self-guided Harry Potter tour of the city.
12. Fringe Festival
Most of the performances at the Fringe Festival are ticketed, however, some are free to view. You can easily access comedy shows, music performances and many other things for free. The Fringe Festival takes past in August every year and lasts for much of the month.
