Your Guide to Dundee: 10 Free Must-Dos

Dundee is bursting with places to explore—and you don’t need to spend a penny to enjoy a full day of fun, nature, and discovery. Getting around the city is easy with Xplore Dundee and even better—under 22s and over 60s travel completely free with a Young Scot card or National Entitlement Card (NEC).

Here's how to make the most of a free day out in Dundee, visiting some of the city's best spots without breaking the bank.

Stop 1 : V&A Dundee

Scotland’s first design museum sits right on the waterfront with free exhibitions, stunning architecture, and scenic views across the River Tay.
How to get there: Hop on the 5, 5A, 17, 18, 22 ,28, 32 & 33, hop of at the Caird Hall stop and it's a quick 5 minute walk to the V&A.

Stop 2: Slessor Gardens

Just behind the V&A, this open urban park often hosts free public events, installations, and peaceful green space to relax or picnic.
How to get there: It’s part of the waterfront area and walkable from all major city centre bus stops served by Xplore Dundee routes 5, 5A 17, 18, 22, 28, 32 & 33.

Stop 3: Dundee Law

Take in panoramic views of the city and beyond from the top of this extinct volcanic hill. It’s a great photo spot and a peaceful place to unwind.
How to get there: Ride the Discover Dundee open-top tour bus, or use local Xplore Dundee services (such as 2) and walk 10–15 minutes.

Stop 4: Broughty Ferry Beach & Castle Grounds

Enjoy a beach walk and explore the castle grounds (museum entry is also free!). You might even spot dolphins from the shoreline.
How to get there: Catch Xplore Dundee services 5 or 5A and 10.

Stop 5: Camperdown Park

One of the largest parks in Scotland, this area is perfect for a long walk, a play in the park, or spotting wildlife in the woods.
How to get there: Take Xplore Dundee service 28 and get off at the Asda, Myrekirk stop, and walk 10-15 minutes.

Stop 6: Magdalen Green

Visit one of Dundee’s oldest public parks, famous for its bandstand and peaceful open space. A great place to stop for lunch or a break.
How to get there: Use Xplore Dundee service 5 or 5A, 6 & 17 alighting near Perth Road. The park is a short walk from there.

Stop 7: Baxter Park

A leafy Victorian park with open space, play areas, and regular community events. Ideal for family fun or a casual stroll.
How to get there: Use Xplore Dundee service 5A,&  28  and get off near Baxter Park Terrace

 Stop 8:  University of Dundee Botanic Garden

Escape into exotic plant collections and glasshouses. It’s free to enter on selected days—check ahead on their website or social pages.
How to get there: Take Xplore Dundee service 5, 5A and get off near Perth Road / Riverside Drive. It’s a short walk up to the gardens.

Stop 9: Douglas Community Centre

Offers regular free youth activities, workshops, and family events in the heart of the community. Great for under 22s.
How to get there: Catch Xplore Dundee service 28 or 10 heading toward Douglas. 

Stop 10: Mills Observatory

The UK’s first public observatory—completely free during opening hours. Learn about astronomy, space, and stargaze from telescopes.
How to get there: Take Xplore Dundee service 5 & 22 and hop off at Balgay Cemetry stop, then walk up the hill to the observatory.

Getting Around with Xplore Dundee

Under 22 or Over 60? You ride free!
Thanks to the Scottish Government’s concession travel scheme, if you’re under 22 or over 60, you can use Xplore Dundee buses for free—just make sure you have your Young Scot Card or NEC.
 

Need help planning routes or checking timetables? Download the Xplore Dundee app.