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 entertainment choices 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.
George Square
You can find out about the history of Edinburgh when you stop by George Square. Discover the area's lively festivals and notable monuments.
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.
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: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky
The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling
Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide
Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, the Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery
Top hotels in Southside
The Scott
We did not eat breakfast at the hotel, but we thoroughly enjoyed our stay in this boutique hotel. The staff was very friendly and helpful.
Reviewed on 31 Dec 2025
KM Apartments
Great area outside of the city which is great if you don’t want to be in the middle. The room was clean and overall will stay there again!
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
This was a great hotel in all aspects. It's a cost effective hotel, with an awesome location as well. The rooms were clean and very spacious (us Americans love our big spaces! LOL) We had some issues with parking after we had already returned home, and the hotel costumer service, specifically the ...
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Lovely welcome and a lovely surprise that room was ready early. Great location but room so quiet despite central location. 5 stars recommendation
Reviewed on 4 Jan 2026
Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh
All good
Reviewed on 5 Jan 2026
Britannia Hotel Edinburgh
Staff was kind and helpful Room was clean- no maid service during stay but could go to front desk for more items Breakfast is buffet and was not kept very hot Only one or two outlets for charging
Reviewed on 6 Jan 2026
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.
