The Cheapest Ways to Explore Edinburgh This Summer
Dreaming of a summer trip to Edinburgh without blowing your budget? The good news is that Scotland's capital is one of the easiest cities to explore affordably.
From free attractions and scenic walks to budget-friendly food and accommodation, there are plenty of ways to experience the best of Edinburgh for less.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend break, festival trip or Scottish adventure, here's how to make your money go further this summer.
1. Stay Somewhere Central
One of the biggest travel expenses isn't necessarily accommodation itself, it's the cost of getting around.
Choosing accommodation in a convenient location can save money on buses, trams and taxis throughout your stay. Areas such as Holyrood and Leith Walk offer easy access to Edinburgh's top attractions while often providing better value than city-centre hotels.
With Destiny Student Holyrood, Murano, Shrubhill and Burnet Point, many of Edinburgh's highlights are within walking distance, helping you spend less on transport and more on experiences.
2. Visit Edinburgh's Free Attractions
Some of the city's most famous attractions don't cost a penny.
Free things to do in Edinburgh include:
Arthur's Seat
Calton Hill
Dean Village
The Royal Mile
Princes Street Gardens
National Museum of Scotland
Scottish National Gallery
Holyrood Park
Stockbridge
The Water of Leith Walkway
You could easily fill an entire weekend without purchasing a single attraction ticket.
3. Walk Instead of Using Public Transport
Edinburgh is remarkably walkable.
Many visitors are surprised by how close together the major sights are. Walking between attractions not only saves money but also helps you discover hidden closes, historic streets and independent cafés you might otherwise miss.
Popular walking routes include:
Holyrood to the Royal Mile
Princes Street to Dean Village
Calton Hill to Leith Walk
Stockbridge to the Water of Leith
Arthur's Seat via Holyrood Park
Just remember to pack comfortable shoes for Edinburgh's famous hills and cobbled streets.
4. Eat Like a Local
You don't need to spend £20-£30 per person on every meal to enjoy Edinburgh's food scene.
Some of the city's best budget-friendly eateries include:
Oink
Mosque Kitchen
Alby's
Bonnie Burrito
Union of Genius
Many serve filling meals for under £10, making them perfect for travellers looking to keep costs down.
Leith Walk is particularly known for its excellent range of affordable restaurants, cafés and takeaways.
5. Pack a Picnic
Instead of dining out for every meal, pick up food from a local supermarket, bakery or deli and enjoy a picnic in one of Edinburgh's beautiful green spaces.
Some of the best picnic spots include:
Princes Street Gardens
The Meadows
Holyrood Park
Calton Hill
Inverleith Park
You'll enjoy incredible views while spending a fraction of what you'd pay in a restaurant.
6. Make the Most of Edinburgh's Festivals
Summer brings a packed calendar of events to Edinburgh, many of which can be enjoyed for free.
Even if you're not attending ticketed performances, you'll find:
Street performers on the Royal Mile
Outdoor entertainment
Festival atmosphere throughout the city
Free pop-up events and performances
Simply wandering through the city during festival season can be an attraction in itself.
7. Take Advantage of Free Views
You don't need to pay for observation decks to enjoy spectacular views of Edinburgh.
Head to:
Arthur's Seat
Calton Hill
Blackford Hill
The National Museum of Scotland rooftop terrace
These viewpoints offer some of the best panoramas in the city completely free of charge.
8. Explore Leith
Many visitors spend all their time in the Old Town, but Leith offers an affordable way to experience a different side of Edinburgh.
Explore:
The Shore
Independent cafés
Waterfront walks
Local shops
Vibrant street art
The area is well connected to the city centre and provides a more local perspective on Edinburgh life.
9. Book Direct and Book Early
If you're planning a summer trip to Edinburgh, booking early can help you secure the best value accommodation.
Summer is one of the city's busiest periods, particularly during festival season, and popular rooms can sell out quickly.
Booking directly with Destiny Student helps ensure you see the latest availability and access the best available rates for your chosen dates.
Why Edinburgh Is Perfect for Budget Travellers
While Edinburgh is home to world-famous attractions, it doesn't have to be an expensive destination. Between the free museums, scenic viewpoints, historic neighbourhoods and affordable food options, it's possible to enjoy an unforgettable city break without overspending.
By staying somewhere well located, walking between attractions and taking advantage of the city's many free experiences, you'll be able to experience more of Edinburgh while spending less.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Edinburgh expensive in summer?
Summer is one of Edinburgh's busiest seasons, but visitors can still enjoy the city affordably by staying in budget-friendly accommodation, visiting free attractions and exploring on foot.
What are the cheapest things to do in Edinburgh?
Climbing Arthur's Seat, walking the Royal Mile, exploring Dean Village, visiting the National Museum of Scotland and enjoying the views from Calton Hill are all completely free.
How can I save money on accommodation in Edinburgh?
Booking early and choosing affordable accommodation in well-connected areas such as Holyrood and Leith Walk can help reduce overall travel costs.
Is Edinburgh walkable for tourists?
Yes. Many of the city's most popular attractions are within walking distance of each other, making Edinburgh one of the best UK city break destinations for travellers exploring on a budget.
Looking for affordable accommodation in Edinburgh this summer? Stay with Destiny Student Holyrood, Murano, Shrubhill or Burnet Point and enjoy easy access to Edinburgh's top attractions, historic landmarks and festival venues while making the most of your travel budget.
