On a budget?
Useful information for those on a budget
Where to Stay
For those who cannot afford hotels there are a number of alternative options including traditional Scottish Bed and Breakfast, self-catering options and back-packer hostels. For information and advice on these options visit the following websites:-
- Hostel Bookers
- Budget BackPackers
- Visit Scotland (select Edinburgh and Bed and Breakfast for a list of available options)
- Self Catering
- Late Rooms - Offers special rates and discounts for independent travellers
Eating and drinking
Our Scottish water is world famous and freely available from every tap.
There are a host of restaurants and bars where you can eat. Head to the University sector for cheap cafes and bars.
Trip Advisor the web-based travel review company offers recommendations on accommodation and restaurants if you are on a budget Getting about
Edinburgh is a compact city and easy to navigate. Why not hire a bicycle to explore the city via the traffic-free National Cycle Network Route 75.Cycle Scotland offers cycle rentals from £15.00 per day
The Airlink 100 operates a frequent bus service (every 10 minutes at peak times) between Edinburgh Airport and the city centre, with designated stops en route. Journey time is about 30 minutes and tickets cost £3.50 single and £6.00 return. CLICK HERE
Bursary Scheme
The IPCRG operates an invitation-only bursary scheme managed through its member countries.
Free attractions - Edinburgh
- Edinburgh is blessed with some excellent museums and galleries to satisfy all tastes. The National Galleries of Scotland are open between 10am-5pm, FREE to enter, and housed in five beautiful buildings across the city.
- The Royal Botanic Garden is over two centuries old, and makes for a beautiful afternoon stroll. Explore acres of local and exotic plants. The garden is free, though there is a small admission fee to the Glasshouses. The garden is open daily from 10am and is just one mile (1.6KM) from the city centre
- Why not head to Holyrood Park which is located about one mile east of Edinburgh Castle. It’s 251m to the top of the hill, known as Arthur’s Seat, and offers spectacular views across the city and the Firth of Forth over to Fife. Allow about 2 hours up and back down and it is breezy at the top both in winter and summer.
- Take a walk in Princes Street Gardens, take time to watch the world go by and marvel at the imposing Edinburgh Castle above you.