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 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
I enjoyed my stay at Apex Grassmarket , with excellent castle views from my room. Kudos to the Front desk in particular for locating my Apple charger which I left behind upon checkout. I really appreciate it
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Rooms were nice and spacious especially for the UK. Everything was very clean and the amenities were great. Good location too.
Reviewed on 10 Dec 2025

Moxy Edinburgh Airport
Room was immaculate, quiet and convenient
Reviewed on 7 Dec 2025

CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
Great location and breakfast
Reviewed on 7 Dec 2025

Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh
We come every year and as always everything was good. Staff friendly rooms clean and breakfast good.
Reviewed on 9 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Southside

Old Town Edinburgh
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Edinburgh Castle to Parliament House – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.

Holyrood
While visiting Holyrood, you might make a stop by sights like Scottish Parliament and Royal Mile.

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 Queen's Hall if you have time to explore the area.

Edinburgh City Centre
If you're spending time in Edinburgh City Centre, check out sights like Edinburgh Castle or Scott Monument 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 Forth and Clyde and Union Canals Trail while in the area.
