Southside Travel Guide
Tourist Guide





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
This elegant and picturesque public park is the perfect spot for a picnic, to play some sport, or enjoy a stroll.

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 biggest library is home to one of the world's most interesting literary archives.
Queen's Hall
Enjoy a show at Queen's Hall, a popular theatre in Edinburgh. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.
Activities

City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer

Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket

Hadrian's Wall, Roman Britain & Borders from Edinburgh

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour

Harry Potter Tour & Edinburgh Castle Visit
Our pick of the best Southside Hotel Deals

The Scholar
All great! Super convenient for Pollock and environs - and easy bus/taxi into centre.
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Apex Grassmarket Hotel
The location is ideal for seeing Edinburgh city centre. If you don't want the nightlife noise then stay somewhere else. The view of Edinburgh Castle from our room was perfect though they could have covered the small expanse of roofing to make it more visually appealing. And the windows don't open ...
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
The breakfast was amazing and I really enjoyed it I want to say thank you for all staff and they were very kind and good attitude Keep up it
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
Clean and welcoming room. Did not eat there but they did have a lot of daily activities that were included. Did the Beer Tasting and Taste of Scotland and they were amazing!
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
We had an amazing stay at this hotel! The spa, pool and sauna were great, especially after all the walking in Edinburgh. I would recommend this hotel to anybody vacationing here.
Reviewed on 23 Apr 2026

Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club
Beautiful property, helpful staff, and delicious food all helped to make it an enjoyable stay. The proximity to the airport is very convenient.
Reviewed on 23 Apr 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 Edinburgh Castle to Royal Mile – 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 Edinburgh Castle or Royal Mile and hop on the metro to see more of the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.
