21 Cheap Things To Do in Edinburgh (That Are Actually Worth It!)
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Few places layer their past and present like Edinburgh. Castles, cathedrals, and centuries-old closes tell the story of a city that survived sieges and plagues, while world-class festivals, thriving cafés, and radical bookshops keep it fresh and forward-looking. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage city that still feels personal, intimate, and right out of a fairytale.
21 Cheap Things To Do In Edinburgh
Edinburgh may be one of Europe’s most atmospheric cities, but exploring its cobbled closes and sweeping skyline doesn’t have to break the bank. From free museums and historic landmarks to quirky bookshops and affordable eats, there are plenty of ways to soak up the Scottish capital on a budget.
As someone who has spend days wandering between the Old Town’s medieval alleys and the Georgian elegance of the New Town. I’ve found the city’s best-value experiences. Here are 21 cheap things to do in Edinburgh, each under £22 (as of 2025), that prove you don’t need deep pockets to enjoy Scotland’s storybook capital.
Old Town Core (Royal Mile + University Area)
1. Visit St. Giles’ Cathedral
Right on the Royal Mile, this Gothic cathedral is free to enter (donations are welcome). Inside, admire the massive stained-glass windows and the Thistle Chapel.
Cost: Free (with a suggested donation of £5)
2. Hidden Closes of the Royal Mile (Dunbar’s Close Garden)
Tucked just off the Royal Mile, Dunbar’s Close Garden is a little-known 17th century style garden that feels like you are stepping into another era. You’ll find hedged walkways, medicinal herbs, and a peaceful courtyard surrounded by high stone walls. Most tourists pass right by without noticing.
Cost: Free
Location: Just east of Ganongate Kirk, Royal Mile
3. Explore the Writers’ Museum
Dedicated to Scotland’s literary greats (Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson), this tucked-away museum is a must for book lovers.
Cost: Free
➡️ For more on literary greats, try The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour
4. Go on a Scottish Parliament Tour
Located at the bottom of the Royal Mile, the Scottish Parliament offers free guided tours that explain Scotland’s politics and the Symbolism behind its striking modern architecture.
Cost: Free — but book ahead online
Tip: Even if you skip the tour, pop into the public gallery when Parliament is in session
Are you looking for a Guided Walking Tour?
Bonus Foodie Stop- Sandy Bell’s Pub (Live Folk Music)
Sandy Bell’s Pub is a no-frills traditional pub near the university where locals pack in for authentic Scottish folk music sessions on most nights.
5. Climb Arthur’s Seat
This is a classic Edinburgh experience. Arthur’s Seat is the largest of three parts of an ancient extinct volcano located just east of the city center. It rises above Holyrood Park and offers spectacular panoramic views of the city.
Cost: Free
6. Stop at The Sheep Heid Inn
This is a 400 year old pub which is tucked away in Duddingston Village. This snug pub is known for it’s cozy fires, hearty food and bowling (skittle alley) upstairs.
Location: It’s located just behind Author’s Seat in Duddingston Villiage
7. Check out Greyfriars Kirkyard
This evocative graveyard is known for Harry Potter inspiration (names like McGonnagall and Tom Riddle appear on gravestones) and the legendary Greyfriars Bobby.
Cost: Free
➡️Looking for more on Harry Potter? Try the Original Harry Potter Locations Tour in Edinburgh
8. Check out Typewrongers Books
A tiny eccentric bookshop and typewriter repair shop, where you can go to browse shelves of books and try typing on vintage machines.
Cost: Free to Browse
9. Visit the National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a treasure trove of history and culture. You can explore everything from dinosaurs to Dolly the sheep.
Cost: Free to Enter (but special exhibits may cost extra)
Tip: Don’t miss the rooftop terrace where you can find some great views of the Castle.
➡️Enhance your visit with an Old Town Walking Tour with History and Tales of Edinburgh
Bonus Foodie Stop- Try a Pie at The Piemaker (South Bridge)
Located on South Bridge, The Piemaker is a local favorite and inexpensive place to try local Scottish cuisine. Traditional Scottish pies start around £2, and options include everything from steak & ale to macaroni cheese pies.
Cost: Around £2- £4
➡️ Are you interested in Edinburgh’s food scene? Check out this walking tour, Secret Food Tours
10. Visit the Hidden Gem of Summerhall
Summerhall is an old veterinary school which has been turned into a cultural hub with art exhibitions, quirky events and the famous Pickering’s Gin Distillery tucked inside.
Cost: Entry into the exhibitions is often free or up to £10
Bonus Seasonal Stop- The Meadows Cherry Blossoms
If you are visiting in late spring, this stop is a must. Meadows Park is popular, but when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, it becomes one of the favorite spots for locals to picnic. Either pack your own picnic or just stop by to check out this magnificent scene.
Cost: Free
Grasssmarket + West End Old Town
11. Browse Around at Armchair Books
One of Edinburgh’s quirkiest second-hand bookshops, Armchair Books is a chaotic, floor-to-ceiling maze of stories. It feels like Diagon Alley for book lovers.
Cost: Free to browse, most books are under £10
12. Grassmarket & Victoria Street Stroll
Grassmarket Square is full of history. It was once a marketplace and execution site, and it’s now lined with cafes and pubs. From here, stroll up Victoria Street, which is famous for its colorful curved facades that inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley.
Cost: Free to wander, drinks/coffee ~ £3-£5
Bonus Foodie Stop- Pulled Pork Roll at Oink (Victoria Street)
Famous for their hog roasts, Oink serves pulled pork sandwiches that are filling and affordable. Add haggis or stuffing for a true Scottish twist.
Cost: Around £6-10
Tip: Portions are generous. Even the “piglet” size will fill you up.
13. Take a Ghost or Underground Vault Tour
Edinburgh is famous for its haunted past, and tours offer the underground vaults or Grayfriars after dark are unforgettable.
Cost: £12-15
Princess Street Gardens + Central Edinburgh
14. Relax in Princes Street Gardens
A central green oasis with benches, fountains, and unbeatable castle views. Perfect for picnics or a coffee break between attractions.
Cost: Free
Bonus Seasonal Stop- Christmas Market
Held at Princes Street Gardens, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is magical with twinkling lists, mulled wine, bratwurst, and Scottish treats.
Cost: Free entry, snacks ~ £5-10
➡️ Check out this cozy holiday romance, taking place in Edinburgh around Christmas time: The Christmas Bookshop
15. National Galleries of Scotland
The Scottish National Gallery (on Princes Street) houses masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, Turner, and Monet.
Cost: Free entry, but special exhibits may charge a fee
Tip: The café overlooks Prince Street Gardens and is perfect for a budget-friendly coffee stop.
👉 For more things to do in Old Town, check out Old Town Edinburgh in One Day: Ultimate Itinerary and Top Things to Do.
16. Explore Calton Hill
Calton Hill’s monuments and skyline views make it a must do. From here you can see Prince Street, Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle, all in one frame.
Cost: Free (Nelson Monument tower climb is optional with a £6 fee if you would like to climb)
Tip: This is a great stop for sunrise and sunset photography
17. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
One of Edinburgh’s most unique attractions, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions blends history with fun. The Victorian-era “camera obscure” projects live moving images of the city on to a viewing table using mirrors and lenses. Inside, you’ll also find five floors of interactive illusions, mirror mazes, vortex tunnels, and light tricks that make it part museum, part funhouse.
Cost: Around £18.95 for adults (off-peak tickets are often cheaper)
Tip: Go on a clear day if you want the best experience of the rooftop views and the camera obscura demonstration.
New Town North + Stockbridge/Dean Village
18. Wander Dean Village & Water of Leith
Tucked away near Stockbridge, Dean Village looks like something from a fairytale. Cobblestone streets, old mills and the peaceful Water of Leith Walkway make it a charming escape.
Cost: Free
19. Enjoy Stockbridge Market
Held every Sunday, this artisan market is perfect for budget-friendly bites and browsing handmade crafts. You will find cheese stalls, artisan breads, local honey, and Scottish street food.
Cost: Free entry, food from £4-10
20. Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens are a peaceful retreat with 70 acres of themed gardens and rare plants. This is a perfect place for a quiet stroll away from the city bustle.
Cost: Free, but the glasshouses have a small charge
Tip: Especially beautiful in the spring and autumn
Edinburgh Castle (Technically Sits At The Top Of The Royal Mile)
21. Edinburgh Castle
Perched imperiously atop ancient Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is where legend, royalty, and raw stone collide. Its weather-beaten battlements guard centuries of stories ranging from royal palaces and war towers to the haunting echo of the One O’Clock Gun. As the crown of the city skyline, the castle invites you to step through time, stand where Scottish monarchs once stood, and behold sweeping views that command both awe and admiration.
Cost: Adults (ages 16-64) £21.50
Tip: Book your tickets in advance – tours often sell out
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
All of the hotels we are recommending, offer prime locations for exploring Edinburgh’s highlights:
- Walking distance to Edinburgh Castle (2-10 minutes)
- Royal Mile accessibility (5-minute walk)
- Princes Street shopping (on-site or 2-minute walk)
- Transport links (tram and train connections nearby)
- Restaurant districts (immediate access to Edinburgh’s dining scene)
These central locations will save visitors significant time and transport costs while providing authentic Edinburgh experiences right outside their hotel doors.
📍Budget Option: Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street)
Address: 121-123 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 4AD
Price Range: £80-120 per night
Rating: 4/5 stars
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice location, Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre boasts views of Edinburgh Castle and has the tramline to Edinburgh Airport right outside its doors. On-site amenities include a restaurant and bar serving light bites, plus an optional all-you-can-eat breakfast. While there’s no parking directly at the hotel (nearby spaces are available at Castle Terrace), you’ll be just steps from the city’s main shopping street and only a 2-minute stroll from Edinburgh Castle.
Book the Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre here!
📍Mid-Range Option: The Scotsman Hotel
Address: 20 North Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1TR
Price Range: £150-250 per night
Rating: 4/5 stars
Housed in a grand 1905 Edwardian building once home to The Scotsman newspaper, The Scotsman Hotel blends historic character with modern luxury on North Bridge between the Royal Mile and Princes Street. Its elegant rooms and unbeatable location offer the perfect base for exploring both Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town and graceful Georgian New Town.
📍Luxury Option: Gleneagles Townhouse
Address: 39 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD
Rating: 4.8/5 stars
Gleneagles Townhouse, set in a Georgian landmark on St Andrew Square, brings the iconic Gleneagles luxury experience to the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. With refined rooms, a restaurant spotlighting Scotland’s finest ingredients, a whisky-rich bar, and concierge-led local insights, it offers a sophisticated base for exploring the city.
Book the Gleneagles Townhouse here!
Frequently Asked Questions: Cheap and Free Things to Do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is packed with incredible experiences that won’t cost you much, and some are even completely free. To help you enjoy the city without stretching your wallet, I’ve put together answers to the most common questions about cheap things to do in Edinburgh.
Is Edinburgh expensive to visit?
Edinburgh can be pricey, but with free museums, cheap eats, and plenty of outdoor attractions, it’s very doable on a budget.
What Free things can you do in Edinburgh?
Climb Arthur’s Seat, visit the National Museum, wander Dean Village, or explore St Gile’s Cathedral. You can also look around the outside, and take pictures of Edinburgh Castle, as well as visit Princes Street Gardens.
What’s the cheapest time to visit Edinburgh?
Late Winter (Jan-March) is the cheapest for flights and hotels, while August (festival season) is the most expensive.
➡️ Staying for a few days? Check out, The 10 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh With & Without a Car
Wrapping Things Up: Edinburgh on a Budget
Edinburgh proves that some of the best things in life really are free (or at least under £22). From panoramic hikes and atmospheric kirkyards to cheap eats and lively markets, you can experience the city’s charm without draining your wallet.
So, grab a pie, climb a hill, and wander those cobbled streets. Edinburgh’s magic is for everyone.
