By Freya, fourth year, MEng (Hons) Chemical Engineering

Edinburgh is a beautiful and vibrant city with so much to do. When you find the time away from your studies to explore, there are many fantastic options. However, as a student, it’s nice to keep in mind some affordable options, so, in this blog, I will discuss some of my favourite, and budget-friendly, things to do in the city!

The Meadows

First, and a classic, is the Meadows. For those of you who might not know, the Meadows is a large green space in the centre of Edinburgh, just outside the George Square campus. Whether the sun is out or not, you will always find people in the Meadows. It is a lovely spot for a long walk, or to eat your lunch after a stint in the University’s Main Library and if you happen to go at the right time, you can see people slackline walking and even fire dancing.

Dean Village

This is another great place for a walk. Tucked away, just out of the city centre, Dean Village is one of the oldest villages around Edinburgh. Dean Village is a nice, tranquil place, away from the noise of the city. It is a perfect place to wander with friends, look at historic buildings, or take a stroll down the river.

Arthur’s Seat

A must-do in Edinburgh is climbing Arthur’s Seat. So much so, that as a fresher I was told that unless I climbed Arthur’s Seat in Fresher’s Week, I’d fail all my exams (a University of Edinburgh superstition). Coincidentally, students are advised not to visit Edinburgh Castle for the same reason!

The view from the top of Arthur’s Seat is spectacular, especially if you manage to catch the sunset. It’s a great place to visit with friends, and while you’re at it, fulfil a tradition.

Edinburgh Castle

Although, if you’re not one for superstitions, I would also recommend a visit to Edinburgh Castle. While, on the surface, this does not seem to be a budget-friendly option, with a Young-Scot Card, tickets are only £1! If you’re interested in Scottish history at all, it’s a good day out. Notable mentions are Mons Meg (the cannon that goes off at 1 PM every day), the Scottish Crown Jewels, and the Stone of Destiny.

National Museum of Scotland

Another fantastic, indoor option (as the weather in Edinburgh isn’t always the best for outside activities!) is the National Museum of Scotland. Free to enter, and home to a variety of exhibitions, it is an easy way to spend a day out.

Calton Hill

Finally, this is one of my personal favourites. Home to many iconic Edinburgh monuments, Calton Hill is a lovely place for a walk. Situated in the centre of Edinburgh, from the top you get a great view of the city, from the coast to the castle. Calton Hill is also the site of many iconic photos of the city. This is one of my favourite places to take visitors and exchange students to show them the city.

Edinburgh is one of my favourite places, and I enjoy taking my time to explore the city. I hope this blog provided some inspiration for anyone looking for something fun to do at the weekend!

Sightseeing in Edinburgh on a student budget / School of Engineering Blog by blogadmin is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution CC BY 3.0

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