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 acclaimed art galleries 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 entertainment choices and shops.
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 acclaimed art galleries and entertainment choices.
Things to do
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer
Palace of Holyroodhouse Admission Ticket
Turkish Airlines Lounge by Plaza Premium Group at Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Edinburgh: Rosslyn Chapel, the Borders & Glenkinchie Distillery
Top hotels in Southside
The Scholar
Had a great breakfast and staff was super friendly
Reviewed on 5 Mar 2026
The Scott
Brilliant stay, breakfast is epic. Staff are super friendly and helpful and an unexpected birthday treat which was lovely. Thanks for a fabulous stay.
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Great location and very helpful and attentive staff. The rubber duckie was a fun perk too.
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Moxy Edinburgh Airport
Room wasn’t the cleanest, area around the kettle were all stained and there was
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Yes
Reviewed on 5 Mar 2026
Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh
The staff are friendly welcoming and helpful. The room is big enough for us and we enjoyed the scenery
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 Pickering's Gin Distillery 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.
