This post has been sponsored by A&O hostels, and my stay was complimentary, but all words and opinions are my own.
Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, no matter what time of year you visit. It’s a city filled with culture and history, as well as great people, amazing food and drink, and plenty to do.
It does also have a reputation, however, of being one of the most expensive places to visit in the UK… but if you do it right and plan ahead, you can definitely do Edinburgh on a budget. Here are five little things you can do to help you indulge in an Edinburgh weekend break without breaking the bank…
Ditch the hotels and stay in a hostel
Hostels are a great way to save money on your trip, and being the bustling city that it is, Edinburgh has plenty to choose from, but a hostel doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Offering both shared rooms and private rooms, along with a cheap bar and organised activities, A&O Hostel Edinburgh City makes for the perfect budget option for all types of travellers (with amazing beds, might I add!). Rooms start at just £16 a night, and they’ve got you covered on all bases with beautiful bathrooms, USB charging ports above your bed, and a selection of toiletries and extras that you might have forgotten!
Use your feet and walk everywhere!
The main attractions of Edinburgh really are all within walking distance of each other, so there’s no need to spend your precious money on transportation. Instead, amble around the beautiful cobbled streets and take in sights on the way to each destination. You’ll probably even stumble across things you didn’t know were there! Just be warned… it’s super hilly, so you may want to take the odd break for a coffee (or pint!) en route if you’re not much of a walker.
Look for free things to do
Edinburgh is a city full of culture and history, and there are plenty of free things to do. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to free museums and galleries, and there are also plenty of parks and gardens in the city where you can sit and watch the world go by. As if that’s not enough, you can plan a long stroll or hike at places like Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat… spectacular views that don’t cost a single penny.
Eat off the beaten track
It’s no secret that Edinburgh is home to an abundance of amazing food and drink, and you’ll have no problem finding a restaurant or café that is sure to get your mouth watering. If you’re willing to stray from the beaten track, however, you’re more likely to find some hidden gems that don’t bump up their prices due to location.
Do some research and look for discounts online
There are a bunch of deals and discounts to be found online for Edinburgh attractions and restaurants, so make sure to do a little searching ahead of your visit. Sites like Groupon often have some great penny-saving deals, and plenty of places offer discounts when booking online. So whether it’s a gin tour you’re after, some adrenaline-fuelled fun, or just a nice cocktail offer takes your fancy, make sure to hunt out a discount. Even A&O Hostels will offer you a 10% discount when pre-paying online, so what are you waiting for?!!
So don’t let money be something that puts you off exploring Edinburgh. It’s an amazing city with a lot of historical attractions, great food and drink, and wonderful people, and with a bit of research and planning, you can have a great Edinburgh weekend break on a budget.