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 lively festivals and acclaimed art galleries in this walkable area.
The Meadows
One of Edinburgh's largest parks is the perfect spot to go and chill out on a sunny day or to get some exercise.
George Square
You can find out about the history of Edinburgh when you stop by George Square. Discover the area's entertainment choices and notable monuments.
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 lively festivals and notable monuments.
National Library of Scotland
Millions of examples of the written and printed word are held in this enormous repository of Scotland's past and cultural heritage.
Activities
The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky
Edinburgh: Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling
Edinburgh Castle Highlights Tour with Tickets, Map, and Guide
Full-Day Trip: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands from Edinburgh
Loch Ness & the Highlands of Scotland
Our pick of the best Southside Hotel Deals
The Scholar
Chose this hotel for location to city centre and Arthur’s Seat and for being dog friendly. Staff were extremely welcoming and helpful as well as being very accommodating to our dog. Perfect choice 😁
Reviewed on 29 Dec 2025
The Scott
This is the best hotel and experience i have stayed at we couldn't of asked for more. I arranged with Emma the manager to help me plan a proposal during our stay and she could not of been more helpful, along with all the other staff who were so kind to us on the day. The hotel and room itself were ...
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Charming boutique hotel. The room was spacious with two beds larger than we expected, more full size versus single which was a very good thing. The bathroom was functional. The breakfast included in the package was high quality and a great way to begin the day.
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Check in was exceptional - we didn’t take the breakfast option as we had an early flight to catch so opted to skip it. The room was lovely clean & spacious / we were celebrating our anniversary and had the surprise of a lovely Xmas duck to keep. It really was a lovely stay / we enjoyed the spa facility ...
Reviewed on 24 Dec 2025
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
It was ok
Reviewed on 27 Dec 2025
Delta Hotels by Marriott Edinburgh
Breakfast
Reviewed on 28 Dec 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Southside
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 Royal Mile.
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 Queen's Hall 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.
Tollcross
Tollcross is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Usher Hall and Royal Lyceum Theatre while in the area.
