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 acclaimed theatre scene and lively festivals 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 theatre scene 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.
Festival Theatre
Enjoy a show at Festival Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's lively festivals and entertainment choices.
Things to do
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
Royal Mile and Old Town Walking Tour
Hadrian's Wall, Roman Britain & Borders from Edinburgh
Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets
Top hotels in Southside
The Scholar
The hotel is on the south campus of University of Edinburgh. Lovely grounds and away from crowded tourist areas but close enough to walk everywhere!
Reviewed on 2 May 2026
The Scott
Beautiful hotel with great decor.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
Very close to public transit. Very clean and comfortable.
Reviewed on 30 Apr 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
A few stains on rug and drapes but otherwise clean and great view of the castle.
Reviewed on 2 May 2026
CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
Clean room and clean sheets. WiFi could have been better. Friendly staff though. But could do with more showers and toilets.
Reviewed on 29 Apr 2026
Britannia Hotel Edinburgh
We loved everything
Reviewed on 2 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Southside
Newington
Historical sites, museums and cafes are just a few things travellers enjoy about Newington. Check out National Library of Scotland or Summerhall while you're exploring the area.
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.
