🎒🏰 Backpacker’s Guide to Edinburgh: Castles, Cobblestones & Cheap Thrills

#backpackeressentials Edinburgh is where Gothic charm meets hilltop hikes, and lucky for you, it’s totally doable on a backpacker budget! From iconic castles to scenic views, this Scottish gem is packed with culture, drama, and ways to stretch your pounds. ⸻ 🎒 Backpacker Essentials for Edinburgh 🧥 Pack a waterproof jacket – Scottish weather can flip in minutes. 👟 Comfy walking shoes – You’ll clock major steps on those cobbled hills. 🪪 Student ID or youth card – Score discounted museum and attraction entry. 💳 Contactless card or travel pass – For buses and trams (or just walk — it’s a compact city). 🥪 Snacks for hikes – Perfect for Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill picnics. ⸻ 🏰 Top Things to Do (on a Budget!) 🧗 Arthur’s Seat – FREE and epic. Hike up this extinct volcano for panoramic views of the city. 🎭 Royal Mile walk – Window shop historic closes, buskers, and ghost tours. 🏛️ National Museum of Scotland – Free entry + rooftop terrace views. 🌆 Calton Hill – Another free viewpoint, perfect for golden hour. 🏰 Edinburgh Castle (budget tip: view it from outside or book online early for discounts!) 🕯️ Dean Village – A magical, tucked-away riverside spot that feels like a fairytale. ⸻ 💸 Money-Saving Travel Tips 🏠 Stay in hostels like Castle Rock or High Street Hostel – Centrally located with beds from £15–£25. 🍲 Grab cheap eats in student-friendly areas like Southside and Nicolson Street. 🎫 Use the Edinburgh City Pass or National Trust membership if you’re seeing lots of paid sites. 🚶 Walk as much as possible – Edinburgh is made for wandering. 🕵️ Free walking tours – Learn the spooky & royal history (tip your guide!). 🧃 Shop at Lidl or Tesco Express – Great for budget meals or picnic supplies.