From scenic gardens and wildlife centers to the grave of Frankenstein's creator, live music venues and a vibrant nightlife scene, the attractions are varied in the heart of this city.
A noteworthy feature of Boscombe is its stunning beaches. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out O2 Academy Bournemouth and Boscombe Beach.
Get to know Westbourne by checking out its beaches, restaurants, and spas. Consider a visit to nearby sights like Bournemouth Beach or Durley Chine Beach during your time in the area.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Bournemouth
Bournemouth Beach
9.2/10 (2,317 reviews)
Seven miles of golden sand await along one of the UK's most beloved coastal destinations. Stroll the historic pier, enjoy water activities, or time your visit for the spectacular Bournemouth Air Festival in August.
Bournemouth International Centre
8.2/10 (763 reviews)
The Bournemouth International Centre hosts world-class concerts and conferences with sweeping views of Bournemouth Bay. Check their seasonal events calendar when planning your visit to this premier coastal venue.
Bournemouth Pier
8.6/10 (659 reviews)
Stroll along this historic seaside pier with panoramic views of the English Channel. Experience the PierZip, the world's first pier-to-shore zipline, or enjoy indoor climbing at RockReef activity centre.
Bournemouth Pavillion Theatre
8.0/10 (396 reviews)
This elegant Art Deco theatre has hosted notable performances since 1929, preserving its original 1920s styling. Enjoy West End shows, ballet, or comedy in the acoustically excellent auditorium.
O2 Academy Bournemouth
7.6/10 (224 reviews)
Formerly the Bournemouth Opera House, this historic theater showcases top artists with exceptional acoustics. Enjoy performances from multiple viewing levels while immersing yourself in the vibrant music scene.
Photo by Ian Youngson
Open Photo by Ian Youngson
Alum Chine Beach
8.8/10 (230 reviews)
This Blue Flag beach charms with soft sands and a pirate-themed playground for young adventurers. Stroll the promenade for stunning Isle of Wight views or explore the adjacent tropical gardens for a shaded retreat.
Southbourne Beach
8.8/10 (235 reviews)
Southbourne Beach offers pristine Blue Flag sands away from Bournemouth's busier shores. Take the historic Fisherman's Walk Cliff Lift for effortless access to this tranquil coastal retreat.
Vitality Stadium
6.8/10 (3 reviews)
Vitality Stadium offers an intimate football experience with fans close to Premier League action. The compact venue pulses with passionate supporters, creating an authentic British sporting atmosphere.
"The room was spacious and very clean. The staff were very courteous and always helpful. Breakfast was buffet with varieties of what to eat. The bar was icing on the cake with excellent service. Thanks to the management and 5 stars all the way."
"Rooms where cleaned daily they where spotless. Staff where amazing couldn't do enough for you. Breakfast was hot with plenty of choice. They replenished it on a regular basis. Plenty of parking"
"Very nice place to stay! Close to the town centre (10 mins walk), friendly staff and clean spacious rooms. They have a luggage room as well for anyone wishing to store their luggage before/after check-in/checkout-out."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
How much does a Bournemouth vacation package cost?
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Bournemouth getaway. However, factors like the season, choice of hotel and length of stay will determine how much your vacation to Bournemouth costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Bournemouth?
You can generally find lower prices and better availability in March, November and December. Check out our cheap Bournemouth vacation packages and you could get some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Bournemouth?
Allow at least 2 days for your Bournemouth vacation if you're hoping to immerse yourself in all that makes this place special. Explore popular areas, including Bournemouth City Centre and West Cliff. Then head to the top sights like Southbourne Beach and O2 Academy Bournemouth. With a well-planned itinerary, you can keep busy with room for some downtime too. Want to venture outside of Bournemouth? Consider fitting in a day trip or two.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Bournemouth?
Well known for its watersports, views and nature, a Bournemouth vacation offers something for everyone. Be sure to check out main sights like Bournemouth Beach and Bournemouth Pier, and consider renting a set of wheels for day trips to explore even more.
How to find the best Bournemouth package deals?
Start your search for a Bournemouth package deal by entering your destination and preferred trip dates under our "Packages" tab. Then add a few filters, like "Property type" and "Amenities," to tailor the results to your exact needs. You can also sort by "Package discount" and browse offers that come with irresistible savings. If you don't find the ideal Bournemouth package deal right away, simply tweak your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Bournemouth adventure underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Bournemouth vacation as a package?
Expedia vacation packages are designed to give you more bang for your buck. Bundle your car rental, flight and hotel into one great-value price and you could save hundreds of dollars. You'll usually snag a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still get the freedom to create a customized Bournemouth vacation by choosing your preferred type of stay, airline and car class.
When to book a vacation package to Bournemouth?
If you've got your Bournemouth vacation dates finalized, book as early as you can to grab some outstanding deals. With Expedia, you can generally reserve some flights up to a year in advance. Prefer spur-of-the-moment getaways? Our last-minute deals are perfect for jetting off on a whim.
How to plan a trip to Bournemouth?
Choose the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you like can all impact your decision on when to travel to Bournemouth.
Budget wisely: Besides the price of your accommodations, you should consider other expenses. These include flights, transportation and food. Also, put aside a little extra for unexpected costs that could arise during your trip to Bournemouth.
Organize your Bournemouth escape with our trip planning tool: Search for and book stays and experiences all in one place. You can also collaborate with friends and family to plan an unforgettable trip to Bournemouth together.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're more familiar with Bournemouth, you can figure out the right length of your break. Put together a draft itinerary and give yourself enough time for all the things you want to do.
Combine your hotel and flights: Epic destination, check. Length of stay, check. Now all that's left is to pick a Bournemouth vacation package that brings all your bookings together.
Book any excursions or activities: Now to the fun part — locking in everything you want to do and see. Browse some of the top things to do in Bournemouth and reserve your tickets early to save time (and maybe some dollars too!).
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Bournemouth vacation packages?
Your Bournemouth getaway is meant to be an escape from your busy life, not a reason for money worries. So to allow you that extra flexibility, we've partnered with online lender Affirm to bring you our Book Now, Pay Later vacations. Choose one of our vacation packages with payment plans and split up the total cost over 3, 6 or 12 months. Plus, there aren't any hidden costs or late payment fees to worry about.
Bournemouth is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering a range of activities such as theater, playgrounds, and mini golf. Visitors can enjoy a variety of fun and scenic outdoor activities, making it an ideal vacation spot. Additionally, consider day trips to explore the area further for a well-rounded experience filled with excitement and relaxation.
Shopping
Bournemouth offers a vibrant shopping experience at Castle Point Shopping Centre, featuring a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, visit New Forest Cider, located 10 miles away, for unique local products and delicious cider to take home.
Recreation
Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre offers a cultural experience with its stunning performances, perfect for a romantic night out or family entertainment. For sports enthusiasts, the Vitality Stadium provides an energetic atmosphere, while the Meyrick Park Golf Course invites you to unwind on its beautiful greens surrounded by nature.
Adventure
Splashdown Waterpark offers thrilling water slides and wave pools, perfect for families seeking adventure. Located 4 miles from Bournemouth, it promises a fun-filled day. For arcade enthusiasts, Giggles provides an exciting atmosphere with various games. Additionally, experience the outdoor excitement at Altitude High Ropes Adventure, featuring ziplining and rope courses.
Nightlife
Bournemouth's nightlife buzzes with energy, featuring the lively Halo nightclub for dancing and the relaxed Be at One for cocktails. For a cozy pub experience, try The Goat & Trike, where you can enjoy local brews and a friendly atmosphere.
Find the best attractions in and around Bournemouth
Bournemouth is perfect for an outdoor adventure, offering stunning beaches, a lively harbor, and the iconic Bournemouth Pier. Explore the beautiful Bournemouth Beach and visit the Bournemouth International Centre for a taste of local culture. Whether you're seeking a beach getaway or a vibrant city experience, Bournemouth has a variety of attractions that cater to all travelers. Don't miss out on the top sights along the beach for an unforgettable vacation.
Bournemouth Beach: Enjoy the stunning sandy shores of Bournemouth Beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the sea, or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. With vibrant beach vibes, it's perfect for relaxation and fun.
Poole Harbour: A short drive from Bournemouth, Poole Harbour offers breathtaking scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. It's ideal for sailing, picnicking, and enjoying picturesque views of the water and surrounding nature.
Bournemouth International Centre: Located in the heart of Bournemouth, this venue hosts various events and conferences. With its modern facilities, it’s a hub for business activities and a great place to network.
Best time to go to Bournemouth
The best time to visit Bournemouth is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Bournemouth
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Bournemouth.
Consider traveling to Bournemouth during the low season (January to February and November) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.