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 fascinating museums 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 art galleries 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 fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries.
Things to do
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
Palace of Holyroodhouse Admission Ticket
Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets
Hadrian's Wall, Roman Britain & Borders from Edinburgh
Top hotels in Southside
The Scott
"This rustic yet modern building is in walking distance of historic Edinburgh. The room and amenities were excellent, service great, the sister restaurant had excellent food and drinks. Highly recommend this hotel."
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
The Scholar
"This was a great place to stay during our three nights in Edinburgh! I loved the location as it wasn’t in a super busy area but was close enough to everything that you could walk or take public transportation. The buses were easy to use, you could just scan your credit card when you got on. The restaurant ..."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
"Hallways were dingy and had a damp smell. Actual room was fine, just the shower was outdated. Overall didn’t feel clean."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
"The biggest issue was the room temperature. The room became extremely hot throughout the afternoon and evening and was very uncomfortable to stay in. We were unable to properly relax or sleep in the room due to the heat. In order to make the room even somewhat tolerable, we had to keep the windows ..."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
"Overall a disappointing experience. Only nice thing was the convenient location. When we arrived with 3 heavy bags, the lift to carry the bags up was broken. So we were forced to carry them up the stairs. We found that the sheets we slept on gave us itchy skin and receptionist told us the sheets ..."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
"Everyone was very friendly and helpful. Great Location and rooms."
Reviewed on 27 May 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Southside
Pleasance
When in Pleasance, you can plan a visit to Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
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.
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.
