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.

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.

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.

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.
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

Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket

City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer

West Highland Lochs & Castles from Edinburgh

The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour

Loch Ness, Glen Coe & the Highlands from Edinburgh

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands
Our pick of the best Southside Hotel Deals

The Scholar
Towel had dirty marks. Usb ports in an awkward place to charge. Sockets in general poorly located. Very tight to walk to the other side of king size bed. Like the parking, comfortable bed, good breakfast, friendly staff.
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026

The Scott
Fantastic staff great hotel
Reviewed on 29 Mar 2026

Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
A wonderful stay at the holiday Inn ( near the zoo) very spacious, very clean and organised-by friendly professional team. Well connected to airport and city. I hope to return when visiting Edinburgh again.
Reviewed on 29 Mar 2026

Garner Edinburgh Haymarket by IHG
The people working there were SUPER friendly and professional... I asked them for directions and reservations to restaurants and taxi to go to the airport and every time they were spot on. The food is served at the bar next to them and it was buffet style very fresh and delicious.
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026

Moxy Edinburgh Airport
I was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable and convenient the facilities were, the room was spacious and I had a great night’s sleep
Reviewed on 30 Mar 2026

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
This was actually a two night stay - two separate, sequential reservations - which the staff dealt with just fine on check-in, though despite getting my keys renewed first thing on Day 2, the keys still did not work when I got back to my room - first world problems! Biggest issue was that the hotel ...
Reviewed on 29 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 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.

Marchmont
Marchmont is well liked for its bars, and you can visit sights like Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile if you have time to explore 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.
