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 art galleries and fascinating museums 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 entertainment choices and shops.
National Library of Scotland
Scotland's biggest library is home to one of the world's most interesting literary archives.
Festival Theatre
Enjoy a show at Festival Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.
Activities
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
Harry Potter Tour & Edinburgh Castle Visit
Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands
Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, the Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery
Our pick of the best Southside Hotel Deals
The Scholar
Just a really lovely stay. Room we got was a little smaller than the others- don’t get the end room. But Abacus was great as was the breakfast and staff were really accommodating
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
The Scott
It’s a bit far from the old town, but it’s such a beautiful place that it’s totally worth it. The breakfast is fantastic, and you can even enjoy a whiskey tasting with one of their specialists. Overall, it was a wonderful stay.
Reviewed on 9 Mar 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Really great location with extremely kind and helpful staff!!
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
Wi-Fi did not work and not enough USB charging options for a family of 4.
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Moxy Edinburgh Airport
Convenient for Edinburgh Airport, 5 minute walk to the terminal building. Friendly staff at check in. Room modern and clean, good sized shower. Only downside was the heating system. Even turned down to lowest setting room was very warm overnight. The fan could not be turned off from the room so ran ...
Reviewed on 11 Mar 2026
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Yes
Reviewed on 5 Mar 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 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 Dynamic Earth.
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 George Square 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.
