How to Prepare for Life After University 💡
Arts & culture in Edinburgh: a student’s guide
So, you’re thinking about studying in Edinburgh? Great choice (if we do say so ourselves!) — beyond the well-respected universities and lecture halls, this city is one big cultural playground waiting to be explored.
In this handy guide, we’ve broken down the city’s top cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, festivals and venues, so that you know exactly where to head to get your culture fix.
TL;DR: If you’re moving to Edinburgh for university, you’re in for a treat – expect free museums galore, iconic historical sites on almost every street corner and huge international arts festivals that draw people from around the world. It’s a city that never stops, where culture is part of daily student life.
Museums & galleries 🏛️
When you live in Edinburgh as a student, museums quickly become your go-to for low-effort plans. Rainy afternoon? Museum. Need a study break? Museum. Want something free that still feels productive? You get the idea…
National Museum of Scotland
Visiting the National Museum of Scotland is basically a rite of passage for students. It’s right near the University of Edinburgh, which means you’ll likely end up here between lectures at least once in your first term.
It’s free, huge and has a true mix of everything: Scottish history, science, fashion and completely random ancient objects you didn’t know you cared about. You don’t need to plan a visit – just turn up and wander. There’s also a rooftop terrace, which is sure to become your go-to chill spot when the sun decides to show up.
National Galleries of Scotland
The National Galleries of Scotland are actually three separate galleries: National, Portrait and Modern. As a student, you’ll probably gravitate towards the Modern galleries – they feel less formal, more open and a bit easier to dip in and out of.
The Portrait Gallery, though, is also worth visiting for the architecture alone. All three offer free entry, which makes them ideal when you want a break from coursework without spending a penny.
Other Edinburgh museums
Once you’ve settled in, you’ll start discovering the smaller museums that give Edinburgh its charming personality. The Surgeons’ Hall Museum, home to one of the largest and most historic pathology collections in the country, is intense but unforgettable – definitely one to take visiting friends to.
The Museum of Edinburgh is quieter and gives you a better understanding of the place you’re living in. And the Writers’ Museum is one of those magical hidden spots you’ll feel smug visiting – especially if you’re studying English or Literature.
Historical landmarks ♜
Living in Edinburgh means you’re surrounded by history. With castles, royalty and culture on your doorstep, your curiosity is sure to kick in, even if you don’t see yourself as much of a history buff.
Edinburgh Castle
Sitting majestically at the top of the Royal Mile on Castle Rock, you’ll see Edinburgh Castle from pretty much everywhere in the city – which means it quickly becomes part of your daily life.
Entry tickets are around £19.50 for students, so it’s not an every-week activity, but it’s well worth visiting early on. Once you’ve been, the city layout makes more sense, and the views are genuinely worth the climb – especially on an evening.
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is somewhere you’ll end up walking constantly without even realising it. Connecting Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace, this charming cobbled road is home to street performers, independent shops and hidden treasures.
It links major parts of the city, so whether you’re heading to campus, meeting friends or simply having a wander, you’ll pass through it regularly.
Holyrood Palace
At the bottom of the Royal Mile sits the Palace of Holyroodhouse – the official residence of the Monarchy in Scotland. This fascinating building is more polished than the rest of the Old Town, but that contrast is part of the appeal.
If you’re looking to get inside, tour tickets cost around £20, though most students end up spending more time in the surrounding public park. It’s an ideal spot when you need a tranquil place to relax and study – especially with the enchanting palace view!
Arts festivals 🎪
Edinburgh is certainly full of history and beautiful buildings – but it’s not just a pretty face. Its true charm lies in its culture, with a huge arts presence across the city.
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Edinburgh Festival Fringe
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the biggest arts festival in the world. Every August, punters from all over the world flock to the city to see some of the best artists and performers from across the globe.
If you’re starting university in September, you’ll just miss it (which will annoy you for about five minutes until you realise you’ve got the next three years to make up for it). Shows range from free to around £15, and half the fun is taking a chance on something random.
Edinburgh International Festival
Running alongside the Fringe is the Edinburgh International Festival. It’s slightly more formal, with theatre, opera and dance, but still accessible – especially with student discounts.
It’s a good way to experience something different without it feeling out of reach – and a great excuse to dress up and feel fancy.
Other arts festivals
Don’t fancy the sound of the Fringe? Not to worry – there are plenty other arty events in the city’s calendar that keep things interesting even outside peak festival season.
The Edinburgh Art Festival spreads contemporary art across the city, while the Edinburgh International Film Festival and Edinburgh International Book Festival keep things cultural throughout the year.
Live performance 🎭
Prefer the stage to the screen? From comedy and live music to nights at the theatre, you won’t struggle to find something to watch in the evenings in Edinburgh.
Theatre
Love a good show? Edinburgh has plenty of theatre options to keep you busy. The Royal Lyceum Theatre is one of Edinburgh’s top student attractions, especially with its more creative productions, and the Festival Theatre hosts larger shows and touring productions.
Student tickets can drop to around £10, which makes a midweek theatre trip surprisingly doable.
Music
For concerts and musical performances, places like the Corn Exchange and Usher Hall are super popular. But most students end up preferring smaller gig spaces and pubs, like the Caves.
That’s where you find new artists, cheaper tickets and a much more relaxed atmosphere. If you’re into live music, Edinburgh won’t disappoint.
Comedy
If there’s one thing Edinburgh is great for, it’s live comedy. Monkey Barrel Comedy and The Stand Comedy Club are two of the best-known spots in the city – but there are plenty more to choose from.
You can drop in for a show without too much planning, which makes them perfect for spontaneous nights out.
Edinburgh: a city of culture
Edinburgh’s cultural scene is one of the best things about being a student in the city – you’ll finish lectures and end up in a gallery, a gig or a random event you didn’t even know was happening.
If you’re planning your move to the city, take a look at our Edinburgh student accommodation options, including Arran House, Canal Point and Brae House. Living centrally with Yugo means all of this is on your doorstep, not a big trip across the city.
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