What to do in Edinburgh for free

There are many experiences visitors can have in the gorgeous city of Edinburgh, my favorite city in the UK. Some of them can cost more money than others; it all depends on the kind of experience you want to get from the city. If you are short of money, and you want to visit Scotland and get to know its capital, I am going to give you a few suggestions to visit some incredible places, without having to spend a fortune. 

While there, you can’t miss Edinburgh’s city center. It is divided into two districts; Edinburgh Old Town and New Town, both of which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can go for a walk down Princess Street in New Town - the main shopping area in the center of the city, where you can find lots of shops and restaurants. And of course, you should definitely visit Ed[inburgh’s castle](https://www.livetheworld.com/post/an-erasmus-trip-to-the-gorgeous-city-of-edinburgh-f75m) - it stands out as the most famous symbol of the Scottish capital and walking up there is totally worth it. Even if you don’t want to pay for the entrance of the castle, you must walk up, since the views of the city are truly amazing.

The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh

If you are a plant lover, and if you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of Princess Street, then I have the perfect place for you to visit. The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is the place where one of the world’s richest collections of beautiful plants lives. More than 13.500 species have been built up over centuries of exploration! It is located about a half hour walk from the city center or a short bus ride away. The entrance to the gardens is free, and you shouldn't miss out on visiting the Victorian Temperate Palm House, Rock Garden, Poppy Meadow, and Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden, where you’ll find plenty of different plants you won’t stop looking at.

The Scottish National Gallery

If you love museums and art, then you have to spend some time visiting the Scottish National Gallery, probably one of the best free museums in Edinburgh. This is an extensive collection of paintings and other art pieces, which date from the Renaissance to the beginning of the 20th century and include Scottish and international artists. It includes masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Constable, Turner, Monet, Van Gogh and Gauguin amongst other artists. Its location is excellent since the Scottish National Gallery can be found just off Princes Street in the city center. 

Check out flights to go to Edinburgh in summer, because flying there from Spain -and not only- is quite cheap now. Edinburg is one of the loveliest cities I have ever been to since there are quite a lot of activities you can do for free that you will undoubtedly love!