Edinburgh is a beautiful city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural scenery. But with all the tourist attractions, it can be an expensive city to explore. However, there are still plenty of things to do in Edinburgh on a small budget. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best free or low-cost activities and sights in Edinburgh.
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Free City Tour
One of the best ways to get a quick overview of Edinburgh is to take a free walking tour of the city. Sandemans New Europe offers a 2.5-hour walking tour, which covers all the major tourist attractions in the Old Town, including the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and St Giles’ Cathedral. The tour is free, but donations are appreciated.
Climb Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano and the highest point in Edinburgh, providing a stunning panoramic view of the city. The climb takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your fitness level. The path to the top is well-marked and easy to follow, and the view is definitely worth the effort. Best of all, climbing Arthur’s Seat is completely free!
Explore Edinburgh’s Natural Beauty
Edinburgh is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, which is easily accessible from the city center. Take a walk along the Water of Leith, a scenic river that flows through the heart of the city. Alternatively, head to the Botanic Gardens, which are free to enter and offer a peaceful oasis in the city.
Enjoy a Spectacular View from Calton Hill
Calton Hill is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the city skyline, including the Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat. The hill is located in the city center and is easily accessible by foot.
Visit Free Museums and Galleries
Edinburgh is home to many world-class museums and galleries, and some of them are completely free to visit. The National Museum of Scotland, for example, has a vast collection of artifacts covering the country’s history, culture, and natural heritage. The Scottish National Gallery also offers free entry to its permanent collection, which includes works by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.
Affordable Accommodation
Finding budget-friendly accommodation in Edinburgh can be challenging, but there are several options available. Hostels are a popular choice among budget travelers, and Edinburgh has plenty of them. The Castle Rock Hostel, located just a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle, offers affordable dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities.
Cheap Eats
Eating out in Edinburgh can be expensive, but there are plenty of affordable options available. The city is full of budget-friendly cafes, restaurants, and pubs. For example, Mosque Kitchen serves authentic Indian and Pakistani cuisine at very reasonable prices.
Public Transportation
Edinburgh has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. A single journey on the bus costs £1.70, while a day ticket costs £4.00. The city also offers a bike-sharing scheme, which is an excellent way to explore the city while staying fit and saving money.
In conclusion, Edinburgh may be an expensive city, but there are still plenty of free or low-cost activities and sights to enjoy. Whether you want to explore the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, or natural beauty, there’s something for everyone. With a little planning and research, you can have an unforgettable Edinburgh experience without breaking the bank.
