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
"Hermoso lugar, muy bien atendido, todo impecable. Super recomendable. A unas 20 cuadras de la ciudad vieja (old town) de Edinburgo."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
"The room was definitely dated and there were three of us in the room and housekeeping only ever left two towels. We had to ask for extra a few times and toilet paper. The best part of this property is the restaurant. Great food and nice staff although on the slow side and not too attentive to guests. ..."
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
"Perfect location to everything we wanted to do in Edinburgh. Very friendly staff, very clean room and loved the parking. Will be booking there for our next trip!"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
"Great location and comfortable hotel. The staff was very helpful. We didn't do the breakfast but had a meal in the restaurant and the food was tasty and a good value for a hotel restaurant. The room was clean. The bathroom was a bit small but it was sufficient for what we needed. The location is ..."
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
"Location is excellent. 1 minute walk up some stairs and you are in the Royal Mile. Hotel was well maintained, but undergoing some construction, presumably to improve the landscaping which would be nice. One of the elevators did not work for the 3 days we were there which caused a wait a couple times. ..."
Reviewed on 29 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.
