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Attractions

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Free attractions and days out in Edinburgh

With free entry to many galleries, museums and attractions, you could easily fill your days in Edinburgh without spending a penny. And that's even before you've taken in the city's scenic outdoor spaces and some of its world-class festivals for free too.

Top free attractions

Don't just take our word for it - each of these free attractions in Edinburgh welcomes thousands of visitors a year. So there is guaranteed to be something worth stopping by for. Look out for more freebies once you get there - many attractions also hold regular guided tours free of charge.
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National Museum of Scotland

St Giles' Cathedral

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Two

Scottish National Gallery

Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

The Writers' Museum

Museums and galleries

There are plenty museums in the Old and New towns of Edinburgh - better get going!

On your bike Opens a new window

Discover Edinburgh's hidden cycling network.

Doors Open Days  Opens a new window

Visit all kinds of places for free during this festival in September.

Hit the beach Opens a new window

Take a stroll along Edinburgh's seaside coast.

Hidden gems  Opens a new window

Free things to do off the beaten track.

Acting up Opens a new window

Create your own movie moments at film locations across the capital.

Park life  Opens a new window

Head to Edinburgh's parks for picnics, panoramas, peaceful walks and playgrounds.

Free trails Opens a new window

See why the city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The National Museum of Scotland

Something for everyone to see, their collection is incredibly vast. Even the architecture on its own is something to keep you amazed and entertained for quite some time...and best of all it's free entry!
By micagius

Reviewed on TripAdvisor on 6 October 2015 by micagius

Snap it up

Cameras at the ready - these famous monuments and landmarks are prime spots for great shots. Edinburgh is such a photogenic city, with beautiful views, cobbled streets and historic details around every corner. Each has a fascinating story to tell too, and can, of course, be photographed for free.
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The Forth Bridges

Greyfriar's Bobby

The Ross Fountain

Arthur's Seat

Dean Village

The National Monument Opens a new window

St Bernard's Well

Edinburgh Castle Esplanade

Tour for free

That's right - even some tours and modes of transport are free in Edinburgh!

  • Old Town Tour
    Meet on the Royal Mile for Sandeman's popular free tour of Edinburgh's Old Town.
  • Potter Trail
    A magical free tour for the Harry Potter fan in your life - muggles welcome.
  • Gallery Bus
    Hop on this free bus to get between Scotland's National Galleries.
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Royal Mile, Edinburgh
 Looking down the Royal Mile on a sunny day in Edinburgh
Salisbury Crags, Edinburgh
 A couple enjoy the view of Edinburgh from Salisbury Crags
Edinburgh © Snowshill - Fotolia
 The Edinburgh skyline seen from Calton Hill © Snowshill - Fotolia
Edinburgh festival fireworks display at Edinburgh Castle
The People's Story Museum, Edinburgh
 Sign for The People's Story Museum, Canongate on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Start planning your visit today

Find out what there is to see and do in Edinburgh, what's on, accommodation and travel.

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Free attractions 

Cheap breaks 

A weekend in Edinburgh 

12 hidden gems in Edinburgh 

Walking in Edinburgh 

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