Fun things to do in Edinburgh for students
From exploring historic landmarks and world-class museums to relaxing in scenic parks, bustling bars and cheap eats, there’s no shortage of affordable things to do in Edinburgh. With our student guide to Edinburgh activities, you can find some of the best, budget-friendly experiences in the city.
Free things to do in Edinburgh
With a great blend of diverse history and culture, there are plenty of free activities to explore, so you can enjoy life in Edinburgh as a student without breaking the bank.
Head to one of Edinburgh’s many museums, which offer free admission to their permanent exhibits. Marvel at the decadent artwork and artefacts of the National Galleries of Scotland, City Art Centre and Museum of Edinburgh. Or learn about the history of the pivotal Scottish figures at the People’s Story Museum and The Writer’s Museum.
Public libraries, such as McDonald Road Library, also offer free entry. Here, you can enjoy some quiet time for a peaceful read. Hit the streets for some architectural history as you wander through Old Town, or venture into modern territory with some window shopping at St. James Quarter.
Popular parks and outdoor spots
When the weather perks up, you can enjoy many free outdoor attractions in Edinburgh, including plenty of beautiful parks and tranquil scenery. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to read, a scenic walk with friends, or just a change of scenery from your accommodation, the city has you covered.
Feeling adventurous? Hike up to the iconic Edinburgh landmark, Arthur’s Seat, an ancient extinct volcano, for captivating panoramic views of the city. Or stay closer to the ground and visit some popular student hangouts, such as The Meadows or Holyrood Park, for sporty activities or a chilled picnic. If you’re planning an outing further from home for your next weekend walk, make sure you put your student railcard to good use.
Edinburgh is filled with greenery and gardens for the nature-lovers. After long hours studying in the library, you can have a quick reset at Prince Street Gardens for the perfect break between lectures. Or, fully immerse yourself in nature at the Royal Botanical Gardens, offering free entry and a wonderful plant collection.
Top tourist attractions in Edinburgh
Packed with iconic tourist attractions, there are many fun things to do in Edinburgh as a new student, most of which are student-budget friendly and provide a rich history of the city.
Edinburgh Castle is a must-see tourist attraction, home to ancient artefacts and Scottish Crown Jewels, and it offers stunning city views. At the heart of Old Town, you can find the Royal Mile, which stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, so you can incorporate all the best tourist attractions in one day. Royal Mile has lots of shops and pubs to stop at when you’re feeling peckish. As a quick pitstop, don’t forget to check out Greyfriars Bobby & Greyfriars Kirkyard, an iconic statue of Edinburgh’s most beloved canine.
Places to eat in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is packed with student-friendly food spots, offering everything from cheap street food to café snacks and cosy pub meals.
Need to catch a quick bite in between lectures? Head to The Mosque Kitchen or Oink and enjoy a hearty meal for under £10. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, Ting Thai Caravan is a popular choice among students for its authentic and affordable Thai food. When you need to nurse the hangovers, Snax Café comes to the rescue, serving all-day breakfast and fry-ups.
Edinburgh is no stranger to the pub grub scene, with student favourites lining the streets at every turn. In Summer, The Pear Tree serves traditional pub cuisine in a buzzing beer garden. Winter months are perfect for cosy gatherings with live music and board games. Head to Sandy Bell’s for small bites and bar snacks or The Dog House for comfort food like loaded nachos. Highlighted as some of the best student pubs in Edinburgh, these spots offer regular deals and discounts for uni attendees.
Fun activities for students
Life in Edinburgh as a student is jam-packed with fun activities, especially at weekends or nights out. Whether you're looking for a chilled evening or an exhilarating night out, Edinburgh has a student-friendly option for every mood and budget.
For cinema lovers, The Cameo and Filmhouse offer discounted student tickets and memberships with perks like cheaper snacks and exclusive screenings. Craving some karaoke? Roxy Lanes on Rose Street is a fun spot with private booths and games, while The Karaoke Crawl combines pub-hopping with sing-alongs. On your next bar crawl, head to Dropkicks, Finnegans Wake, and Amber Rose, which all offer regular student discounts.
Looking for other fun things to do in Edinburgh? Visit entertainment hubs like OMNi Centre and Fountain Park, which offer bowling, trampolining, and cinema under one roof, with many student deals available across venues. Or, pack in some culture and grab discounted tickets to the Edinburgh Fringe, film festivals, and live theatre at Festival Theatre or The Studio.
Top Tip: Remember to bring your Student ID card with you to snag a bargain!
FAQs about student life in Edinburgh
Is Edinburgh expensive for students?
Depending on accommodation and lifestyle choices, Edinburgh is generally considered on the more expensive side for students, especially compared to uni cities like Newcastle or Manchester. Read through our helpful guide for top tips on student living costs and budgeting, so you don’t have to break the bank.
Why choose iQ Student Accommodation in Edinburgh?
Why choose life at iQ? Students choose our accommodation for the city-centre locations, all-inclusive pricing, various room types, and extensive onsite amenities. iQ Student Accommodation in Edinburgh is no exception, providing modern, purpose-built accommodations focusing on convenience, safety and community.
Can I take a virtual tour of iQ Edinburgh buildings?
Yes, our 360° online tours let you explore your chosen building online at your own pace - no booking required. View our iQ Student Accommodation in Edinburgh, including Elliott House, Fountainbridge, Grove and The Mont.
Where can I use my student discount in Edinburgh?
One of the great perks of attending university is gaining access to exclusive student discounts on everything from dining out to retail therapy. Our helpful guide will help you discover where you can use your Student ID card and how to access platforms like UNiDAYS and Student Beans.
