How to Enjoy Edinburgh for Free

Edinburgh, the capital and second largest city in Scotland, sits on that country's east-central coast. The city is known for its castles, pubs, woolen goods and as the home of authors from Sir Walter Scott to J.K. Rowling. It's also a very tourist-friendly city, filled with free things to see and do. Here are just a few.

Instructions

1. Visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Founded in 1617, this national garden moved to the northern suburb of Inverleith in 1820. The site features more than 34,000 plants of more than 17,000 species from around the world. Highlights include a woodland garden, the rock garden, a Scottish Heath Garden and the Victorian-style Palm House conservatory (pictured above). The Garden opens daily at 10:00 a.m.

2. Explore the Museum of Edinburgh. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, on the Royal Mile, the Museum of Edinburgh tells the history of the city from prehistoric times to the present. In addition to a variety of artifacts, books and letters, the museum is known for its collections of Scottish silver, pottery and colorful shop signs. The Museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Sundays in August from noon to 5:00 p.m.

3. Examine the effigies at the Brass Rubbing Centre. Located in Trinity Apse on the Royal Mile in the heart of the city, the Brass Rubbing Centre houses a collection of Scottish effigies and designs. it'll cost a few dollars to make a rubbings, but admiring the traditional Celtic designs is free.

4. Marvel at St. Gile's Cathedral. Another Royal Mile landmark, St. Gile's, founded in the twelfth century, is considered the mother church of the Presbyterian religion as it was founder, John Knox's church during the Reformation. St. Gile's is still an active parish, but it welcomes visitors to admire the intricate stone and woodwork and to worship.