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.
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.
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.
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
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
Royal Mile and Old Town Walking Tour
Big Bus Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour by Open-Top Bus
Harry Potter Tour & Edinburgh Castle Visit
Top hotels in Southside
The Scott
Quiet location, bus stop is just outside the Pollock Halls grounds. Walking distance to the city. It is an old building, very charming and well maintained. However, there is no lift , staircases are narrow , getting help to bring luggage up can be a bit of of a wait. Overall, always a lovely ...
Reviewed on 6 May 2026
The Scholar
The scholar is a nice hotel in a lovely setting surrounded by trees. I had a small single room but it worked for me for the price. Quite easy to get into Edinburgh cental from the bus stoop across the street, too.
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
our room was always hot and they even brought in a portable airconditionor but it did little and a we had a fan. The temperatures where cold outside but the windows did not open up enough to get it comfortable and I am usually always cold. There is always condensation on the windows. also. Other ...
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
Fantastic stay at Code, Staff extremely friendly and accommodating. Stayed in the deluxe double which was great and daily events list which was unexpected. Food great, cannot find fault in anything. Will definitely stay at code again next time in Edinburgh
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
Beautiful hotel with great pool and sauna. Location is ideal for exploring Edinburgh, highly recommend a trip to Murrayfield if you are a rugby fan it's a 20 minute walk from the hotel through some beautiful parks.
Reviewed on 11 May 2026
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
Great location, but very loud at night with the bars
Reviewed on 11 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.
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.
