Author:
Alice – @discoveny and discoveny.com
A gap year in the UK can be amazing, but the price puts people off. The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is packed with culture and history, yet despite it being an expensive city to visit, many of the best attractions are free. I live in Edinburgh and my insider’s guide will take you through some of the best-kept secrets in the city.
Museums and galleries:
Although small, Edinburgh has a great cultural scene with plenty of museums to pick from. Here are our favourites:
National Museum of Scotland: – with something to captivate everyone, the National Museum covers not only Scottish History but also has exhibits on nature, world cultures, art, design, science and technology. Spread throughout one bright, airy building, you’re sure to find something to captivate your interests no matter what your age.
The Scottish National Gallery: – located in the heart of the city, this is home to Scotland’s national collection of fine art that dates back to early Renaissance through to the early 19th century. Perfect to visit on a rainy day.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery: – come face to face with the people who shaped Scotland’s past, present and future at the National Portrait Gallery. The neo-gothic architecture of this building sits proud on the city skyline and is just as fascinating outside as it is in.
Sights:
St Giles’ Cathedral: – hard to miss whilst walking down the infamous Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral has stunning architecture and rich history. If you’re looking for something cultural to do in Edinburgh, a visit to the cathedral should be on the list. Remember to keep your voice down and avoid taking photos, St Giles’ is a working church and has been for over 900 years.
Calton Hill and Scott Monument: – this UNESCO World Heritage Site has some of the city’s best views. Just a short walk from Princes Street, you can enjoy the city skyline up close. Get up early for some of the best sunrises in the city, or bring a picnic to enjoy wonderful sunsets over the city.
Explore the Old Town: – a labyrinth of cobbled streets, narrow alleyways and hidden courtyards. No matter what the weather, these historical buildings ooze a mysterious and moody attitude, they’re even beautiful in the rain. Check out Victoria Street and Grassmarket for some of the best independent retailers in town, or walk down the Royal Mile for those tourist vibes.
Get outside:
Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh: – packed full of plants, the botanics is a wonderful way to spend the day wandering the beautiful grounds and relaxing in nature. Best enjoyed in the sunshine, however there are glasshouses to run into if you need to escape from the Scottish weather.
Arthur’s Seat: – there can’t be many cities with a volcano slap bang in the centre. The extinct volcanic summit of Arthur’s Seat is sensational, with 360° views over Edinburgh. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Edinburgh and well worth adding to your itinerary. There are plenty of other hikes from the city centre to explore, you can check them out here.
Dean Village: – an oasis of calm in the city, the Dean Village is just five minutes walk from the main shopping area of Princes Street. This UNESCO heritage site is quaint, calm and extremely beautiful. Don’t forget your camera.
There’s so much more to Edinburgh for those on a small budget. Check out the complete Local’s Guide to Edinburgh for more trip inspiration.
Alice:
AKA @discoveny
Alice is a tea-drinking, mountain-climbing lass from Yorkshire, UK. She started Discoveny in 2020 to encourage more sustainable ways of travelling. Alice has visited more than 25 countries and writes hiking guides, eco-travel tips and is an advocate for responsible travel. Alice currently works for the UK government, helping them to plant sustainable forests for carbon offsetting. She is currently living in Edinburgh. Read Alice’s blog posts here.
Travel doesn’t have to destroy the planet! From trip planning, to transport, to enjoying the destination, Discoveny will help you make sustainable travel fun! Equip yourself with the knowledge and know-how to do good for our planet and those we share it with at www.discoveny.com