As a city that combines history, culture and modern vitality, Edinburgh attracts tourists from all over the world. However, many people are worried about the high cost of traveling in this charming city. In fact, Edinburgh does not only meet the needs of high-end tourists. It also provides a wealth of options for tourists with limited budgets, especially in terms of dining. Tourists can enjoy delicious Scottish cuisine without breaking the bank.

First of all, it is recommended that you choose local markets and street food as your first choice for dining. In Edinburgh, many local markets offer fresh, affordable ingredients and delicious snacks. For example, Edinburgh’s Royal Mile Market and farmers’ market are not only a good place to experience local life, but also a place to taste local traditional foods such as Haggis, Tattie scone, etc. The food in these small stalls is not only delicious, but also much cheaper than the formal menu in the restaurant.

In addition, if you don’t want to spend too much money on a full meal, you can choose to find affordable options in Edinburgh’s “Pub lunch”. Many local pubs offer affordable lunch sets, which usually include traditional Scottish dishes such as smoked fish and mashed potatoes, cream stews and meat pies. These packages are usually cheaper than regular restaurants, and the portions are generous, so you can enjoy the food without spending too much.

If you want to taste more of Scotland’s specialties but don’t want to spend too much on high-priced bars, try some local breweries. There are many small breweries in Edinburgh that offer unique craft beers and handmade spirits, which are usually cheaper than bars and can give you a unique local flavor experience. Not only can you taste the various beers carefully crafted by the brewers, but you can also enjoy more fun in the live atmosphere of the brewery.Eating and Drinking on a Budget

1. Local Markets and Street Food One of the best ways to enjoy affordable food in Edinburgh is by exploring local markets and street food stalls. The Royal Mile Market and farmers’ markets in the city are great places to experience local life and try traditional Scottish foods like Haggis and Tattie scones. These street food vendors offer delicious meals at prices much lower than what you’d find in formal restaurants.
2. Pub Lunches If you don’t want to spend too much on meals, opt for “Pub lunch” deals, which are offered at many local pubs. These lunch menus often include traditional Scottish dishes like smoked fish and mashed potatoes, creamy stews, and meat pies. The portion sizes are generous, and the prices are more affordable than typical restaurants.
3. Local Breweries and Distilleries For those looking to sample Scotland’s renowned drinks without the hefty price tag, Edinburgh has several small breweries and distilleries offering unique craft beers and hand-made spirits at prices lower than those in high-end bars. Visitors can enjoy a taste of local flavors while also learning about the brewing and distilling processes.

Accommodation Tips to Save Money

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for travelers, but there are several ways to find affordable options in Edinburgh:

1. Budget Hotels and Hostels Edinburgh offers many budget-friendly hotels and hostels that provide easy access to the city center and major attractions. Chain hotels like Premier Inn and Travelodge offer standardized services at reasonable prices.
2. Airbnb and Short-Term Rentals If you prefer more privacy, consider renting a property through platforms like Airbnb. Many short-term rentals in Edinburgh are reasonably priced and often include kitchen facilities, allowing you to save on food costs by preparing your own meals.
3. Youth Hostels For backpackers, Edinburgh has some excellent youth hostels that are not only affordable but also provide communal kitchens, allowing you to cook your own meals and further reduce expenses.
4. Book Early If you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons, such as summer or during events like the Edinburgh Festival, it’s essential to book accommodations well in advance. Using price comparison websites like Booking.com or Agoda will help you find the best deals.

Transportation Tips to Save Money

Transportation in Edinburgh can also be affordable if you follow a few strategies:

1. Walking and Bicycle Rentals Edinburgh is a walkable city with many attractions close to each other, so walking is a great and free way to explore. Additionally, Edinburgh has an easy-to-use bike rental service through Lothian Buses’ “Hire a Bike” scheme, which allows you to rent bicycles and enjoy the city on two wheels.
2. Public Buses The city’s public transportation system is well-developed, and a “Day Ticket” allows you to ride the buses as many times as you like within a single day, making it a cost-effective option for those who plan to use public transport frequently.
3. Taxis and Ride-Sharing If walking or biking isn’t ideal, taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber are available. Ride-sharing tends to be more affordable than traditional taxis.
4. Hop-on Hop-off Bus While the “Hop-on Hop-off” sightseeing buses are not the cheapest option, they do offer a convenient and reasonably priced way to see the city’s main attractions. With a day pass, you can explore multiple sites and hop on and off the bus as needed.

Eating and Drinking Savings Tips

1. Supermarkets and Self-Catering Many major supermarkets in Edinburgh, such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons, offer affordable prices on a wide variety of ingredients. You can purchase some basic items and cook your own meals at your accommodation, saving significantly on dining expenses.
2. Street Food Stalls and Local Markets Edinburgh has plenty of affordable street food vendors and markets where you can taste authentic Scottish cuisine at lower prices. You’ll find street stalls offering traditional dishes like Haggis, Scotch Pie, and Fish and Chips, all of which are much cheaper than eating at a restaurant.

Recommended Locations:

2. Edinburgh Farmers’ Market: This market offers fresh local produce and tasty snacks at affordable prices. It’s an excellent place to sample local food without spending much.
3. Street Vendors near Royal Mile: You can often find stalls selling Haggis, Fish and Chips, and other traditional dishes at moderate prices, offering a taste of local flavor.
4. Lunch Deals Many restaurants offer lunch specials, which allow you to enjoy high-quality meals at a much lower price compared to dinner. Consider dining during lunch hours to enjoy more affordable traditional Scottish dishes.

Recommended Restaurants:

3. The Royal McGregor: This restaurant offers reasonably priced traditional Scottish meals, especially during lunch hours. It’s a great option for budget-conscious visitors.
4. The Dogs: Though slightly more upscale, The Dogs offers an affordable lunch menu with delicious dishes at reasonable prices.
5. Drink Savings Tips If you’re a whisky enthusiast, you’ll be happy to know that Edinburgh is home to many whisky bars and lounges. However, to avoid spending too much, there are several ways to enjoy whisky on a budget. Many bars and whisky lounges offer tasting events where you can try different whiskies at a lower price. Some even provide free tastings or whisky explanations, allowing you to learn about the drink’s history and production while keeping costs low.

To avoid higher costs, it’s a good idea to skip bars in tourist-heavy areas where prices tend to be higher. Instead, opt for local bars where locals frequent. These places typically offer more affordable prices, and you can still enjoy a wide selection of whiskies. You might even get the chance to taste some local whisky brands that are not available in more touristy spots.

In addition to whisky, many bars in Edinburgh serve local craft beers and cocktails. You can explore the wide variety of Scottish ales and locally crafted beers at reasonable prices, allowing you to sample a different kind of local flavor.

Recommended Bars:

4. The Bow Bar: Known for its extensive whisky collection, this bar offers a cozy atmosphere with reasonably priced drinks. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a variety of whiskies, including unique local brands.
5. The Royal Oak: This bar often hosts live folk music performances, creating a relaxing ambiance where you can enjoy a wide selection of whiskies, local ales, and other drinks. It’s also budget-friendly and provides a genuine Scottish experience.

Lastly, consider visiting during “Happy Hour” when many bars offer drink discounts, including on whiskies and cocktails. It’s a great opportunity to try out different drinks at a more affordable price while soaking in the local atmosphere.

Edinburgh is a city full of charm and history, but it doesn’t have to be expensive to enjoy its beauty and culture. By using these budget travel tips for accommodation, transportation, dining, and entertainment, you can experience the best of Edinburgh without breaking the bank. From affordable meals at local markets and pubs to walking and cycling tours, you’ll find that a memorable trip to Edinburgh can be achieved on a budget. With a little planning and the right choices, you can have an unforgettable experience in this wonderful city.

Tags: Low Budget, Save Money, Travel Guide