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 lively festivals and acclaimed art galleries 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 lively festivals and notable monuments.
George Square
You can find out about the history of Edinburgh when you stop by George Square. Discover the area's entertainment choices and notable monuments.
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
Edinburgh: Palace of Holyroodhouse Entry Ticket
The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide
Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, the Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery
Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh
Loch Ness & the Highlands of Scotland
Top hotels in Southside
The Scholar
Everything was really well looked after, safe, quiet and clean.
Reviewed on 9 Dec 2025
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Fabulous room. Great pool and sauna. Super room view of the castle very comfortable beds
Reviewed on 16 Dec 2025
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
The hotel was centrally located and conveniently near the Edinburgh Christmas Market. Nice, clean hotel. The staff are friendly and super helpful. Would stay here again.
Reviewed on 11 Dec 2025
CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
Spent a night at the hostel. I really appreciated how clean and well kept the place was. Staff were all friendly. Definitely will return in the future.
Reviewed on 14 Dec 2025
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
Staff were amazing and excellent facilities
Reviewed on 14 Dec 2025
Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh
Comfortable beds, friendly staff
Reviewed on 12 Dec 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 Royal Lyceum Theatre while in the area.
