Southside Travel Guide
Edinburgh
Popular places to visit
University of Edinburgh
The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.
Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park is just one of the places to see in Edinburgh, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the fascinating museums and entertainment choices in this walkable area.
The Meadows
One of Edinburgh’s largest public parks is an attractive open space with tree-lined walkways, picnic areas and sporting facilities.
Dynamic Earth
You can study the exhibits at Dynamic Earth, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Edinburgh. Discover the area's acclaimed art galleries and notable monuments.
George Square
You can find out about the history of Edinburgh when you stop by George Square. Discover the area's acclaimed art galleries and shops.
National Library of Scotland
Scotland’s largest library is free to use. Don’t miss its exhibition of one of the world’s most important literary archives.
Things to do
Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour
Edinburgh: Palace of Holyroodhouse Entry Ticket
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer
Old Town Walking Tour History and Tales in Edinburgh
Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets
Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour
Top hotels in Southside
The Scholar
First visit to this hotel and we weren’t disappointed. Whilst some may think it is out of the way we really loved the location. Views of Arthur’s Seat, free on site parking, the family rooms were spacious with proper additional beds. The breakfast was served in the sister hotel which was stunning ...
Reviewed on 28 Oct 2025
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Friendly and welcoming staff, huge room, comfy beds, location
Reviewed on 31 Oct 2025
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
The location was really close to dining and shopping options as well as the landmarks. Highly recommend
Reviewed on 27 Oct 2025
CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh
Solid hostel, but the curtains on the top pods do little to keep out light as they don’t actually cover the pod. The charger port in my pod didn’t work to charge my phone or laptop and there was no convenient spot in the hostel to sit and charge my devices. There are 2 seats on one floor for the ...
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel
well located hotel, helpful staff and good bedrooms and bathrooms. Shame the hotel bar and restaurant were not open.
Reviewed on 28 Oct 2025
Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club
Lots of parking and comfortable beds. Rooms spacious and clean. We did have to queue for 20 minutes to get in for breakfast but it was good quality once we got in. Food in the brasserie was ok for dinner. We didn’t use the leisure facilities but they looked good. There is a games room but some of ...
Reviewed on 25 Oct 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Southside
Old Town Edinburgh
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Holyrood
While visiting Holyrood, you might make a stop by sights like Royal Mile and Scottish Parliament.
Grange
Travellers enjoy Grange for its restaurants and gardens. Consider checking out Carlton Cricket Club while you're in the area.
Marchmont
Marchmont is well liked for its bars, and you can visit sights like Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile if you have time to explore the area.
Edinburgh City Centre
If you're spending time in Edinburgh City Centre, check out sights like Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle and hop on the metro to see more of the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.
Tollcross
Tollcross is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Usher Hall and King's Theatre while in the area.
