Portsmouth

Travel Guide

A large sailing ship docked at a harbor with a dock labeled "Portsmouth Historic Dockyard".
A large, yellow and black ship with multiple masts and rigging, docked at a port with a building in the background.
A coastal cityscape with a prominent tower, a marina with boats, and a clear blue sky.
A coastal cityscape with a prominent tower, a large body of water, and a distinctive bridge.
A large sailing ship docked at a harbor with several smaller boats around it, under a twilight sky.

Get to know Portsmouth's maritime heritage, bustling neighborhoods, and outdoor trails that cater to all types of travelers.

Portsmouth is an ideal destination for family and city travelers. You can explore maritime history at HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. For entertainment, visit Gunwharf Quays for shopping, or catch a show at Kings Theatre. If you're interested in sports, Fratton Park is a well-known venue. Additionally, you can enjoy outdoor activities along the nearby Hayling Billy Trail and The Solent Way, both offering scenic footpaths.

While you're in Portsmouth, take the time to explore its diverse neighborhoods. Buckland is known for its beach and outdoor experiences, featuring Charles Dickens Birthplace, a historic house. In contrast, Portsmouth City Centre and Southsea are bustling areas for family and city experiences. Portsmouth City Centre boasts attractions like New Theatre Royal and St. John's Cathedral, while Southsea offers Southsea Hoverport and The D-Day Story, a military museum.

The best time to visit Portsmouth is from July to September when the weather is mild, mostly dry, and often sunny. This period can be busier with tourists, so you may want to plan ahead for accommodations and activities. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting outside these months when the city is less crowded, making it easier to enjoy the attractions at a more leisurely pace.

Where to stay in Portsmouth

Find the best Portsmouth areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Portsmouth
Learn more about Portsmouth
A building with a sign reading "Golden Horseshoe."

Southsea

Southsea is a destination visitors seek out for is beaches, lively bars, and seaside views. You might want to check out attractions like Fratton Park or Kings Theatre while you're exploring the neighborhood.

A statue of St. John the Evangelist in front of a large red brick church with two towers.

Portsmouth City Centre

Portsmouth City Centre is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Portsmouth Guildhall and New Theatre Royal while in the area.

A waterfront building named 'The Still & West' with a stone pathway leading to the water.

Old Portsmouth

You'll enjoy the monuments and historic sites in Old Portsmouth. You might want to make time for a stop at Square Tower or Round Tower.

Portsea

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Portsea and surrounding area, you can visit Mary Rose Museum and Gunwharf Quays.

North End

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in North End and surrounding area, you can visit Portsmouth International Port and Charles Dickens Birthplace.

Village Hotel Portsmouth

Village Hotel Portsmouth

4 out of 5
Lakeshore Drive Portsmouth England
Fully refundable
$64 nightly
The price is $76 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$76 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Portsmouth. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"The hotel itself was clean, east to find. Didn't try the amenities as that was an extra cost, as was parking. The room was basic but comfortable. The only thing I didn't like was the frosted window separating the bathroom to the bedroom. I don't want family, or in my case a friend, looking in while ..."

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Village Hotel Portsmouth
Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth - Gunwharf Quays by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth - Gunwharf Quays by IHG

3 out of 5
The Plaza Gunwharf Quays Portsmouth England
$80 nightly
The price is $96 total per night from Dec 6 to Dec 7
$96 total
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Portsmouth. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,017 reviews)
"Parking was great, staff where really friendly, room was great and breakfast was superb"

Reviewed on Nov 11, 2026

Holiday Inn Express Portsmouth - Gunwharf Quays by IHG
Portsmouth Marriott Hotel

Portsmouth Marriott Hotel

4 out of 5
Southampton Road Portsmouth England
$74 nightly
The price is $89 total per night from Dec 13 to Dec 14
$89 total
Dec 13 - Dec 14
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Portsmouth. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), room service, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
"Nice place except for the bed. It was like sleeping on the floor!"

Reviewed on Nov 9, 2026

Portsmouth Marriott Hotel
See all 521 properties in Portsmouth
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.
ANG Apartments

ANG Apartments

2 out of 5
65 Granada Rd Portsmouth England
Stay at this apartment in Portsmouth. Enjoy free WiFi and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Gunwharf Quays and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard are located ...
9/10 Wonderful! (6 reviews)
"Great location, loved the secure parking, which was worth the money due to permit parking in the area. Check in instructions could have been simplified, although in reality it was easy enough. Large, clean room with everything we needed for a great stay. The host was fabulous and nothing too much ..."

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2026

ANG Apartments
Gunwharf Quays Apartments

Gunwharf Quays Apartments

3.5 out of 5
Gunwharf Quays Residential Portsmouth England
Stay at this apartment in Portsmouth. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and cable TV channels. Popular attractions Gunwharf Quays and Portsmouth Historic ...
8/10 Very Good! (81 reviews)
"Loved everything about our stay , gorgeous view, only comment would be upgrade on furniture would be great as sofa not very comfy and looking a wee bit tired in places plus en-suite toilet was broken so did not use it but overall very happy and will definitely be back to stay with you in the future. ..."

Reviewed on Sep 10, 2026

Gunwharf Quays Apartments
Newly renovated stylish flat

Newly renovated stylish flat

Portsmouth England
Stay at this apartment in Portsmouth. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Gunwharf Quays and Portsmouth Historic Dockyard ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"The apartment was immaculate. Sara made sure everything went smoothly and thought of every detail. Very easy to communicate with."

Reviewed on Oct 19, 2026

Newly renovated stylish flat
See all properties in Portsmouth
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.

Stay near popular Portsmouth attractions

A modern urban waterfront with a tall glass building, a canal, and surrounding commercial buildings.

Gunwharf Quays

9.0/10 (947 reviews)
Stretching along the sea is one of Portsmouth's coolest areas, with plenty of shops, cafés, bars and restaurants as well as a contemporary art gallery.
See properties

Things to do

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Ticket

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Ticket

$61
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard Ticket
Bar & Club queue jump entry Party Pass to multiple venues in Portsmouth

Bar & Club queue jump entry Party Pass to multiple venues in Portsmouth

$13
per adult
Bar & Club queue jump entry Party Pass to multiple venues in Portsmouth
The rear of the House - but the front as you come from the sea

Osborne House-A driver guided tour of Victoria's Island Paradise

$1,099
per traveler
Osborne House-A driver guided tour of Victoria's Island Paradise
See all activities in Portsmouth

Frequently asked questions

Is Portsmouth worth visiting?
Portsmouth is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including Gunwharf Quays and the University of Portsmouth. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining experiences, with options like Asian and Italian cuisine readily available. The city is well-connected, offering convenient bus and train services for getting around.
When is the best time to visit Portsmouth?
The best time to visit Portsmouth is from May through September, when the weather is typically warmer and pleasant. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months from December through March are a good option, offering a cooler experience for travelers.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Portsmouth?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Portsmouth depend on what you want to see:

  • Southsea offers historical insights at The D-Day Story and Southsea Castle, plus sporting events at Fratton Park.
  • Old Portsmouth is rich in history with landmarks like Sally Port, Round Tower, and The Point.
  • Portsmouth City Centre features cultural venues such as New Theatre Royal and St. John's Cathedral, alongside the University of Portsmouth.

What is Portsmouth known for?
Portsmouth is known for its historic naval ship, HMS Victory. Travelers can also explore Gunwharf Quays for shopping and dining, and visit the University of Portsmouth. The city features distinct neighborhoods like Southsea and Old Portsmouth, and offers a strong Asian food culture for travelers to enjoy.
What is a good itinerary length for Portsmouth?
A good itinerary length for Portsmouth is two to three days to explore key highlights like HMS Victory, Gunwharf Quays, and the historic areas of Old Portsmouth and Southsea. An extended stay of four to five days allows for a day tour to the Isle of Wight, visiting Charles Dickens' Birthplace, and enjoying more of Portsmouth City Centre. See Portsmouth Activities.
How do you get around Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth, travelers can use buses and trains to get around, with key stations like Portsmouth Harbour Station and Portsmouth & Southsea Station providing convenient access. For more flexibility, rental cars are available in neighborhoods such as Southsea and Hilsea. Rideshare services also offer a practical option for exploring the city and its surroundings.
What are the top things to do in and around Portsmouth?
Portsmouth offers a rich blend of naval history, coastal recreation, and modern leisure:

  • Visit HMS Victory, a historic naval landmark.
  • Explore Southsea Castle, a historic fortress.
  • Stroll along Southsea Beach for seaside views.
  • Discover Gunwharf Quays for shopping and dining.
  • Take a day tour by bus and ferry to the Isle of Wight.

How do I plan a trip to Portsmouth?
To plan your trip to Portsmouth, book flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance, especially during busy periods. Consider staying in areas like Southsea, Old Portsmouth, or Portsmouth City Centre. Explore attractions such as HMS Victory or take a day tour to the Isle of Wight. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth you can find Indian cuisine, with dishes like rich curries, tandoori chicken, and fresh naan bread. Travelers can also enjoy other Asian options such as Chinese, Thai, and Japanese food. Additionally, there are Italian and Middle Eastern choices available, including kebabs.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Portsmouth?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Portsmouth by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Portsmouth with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Portsmouth trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Portsmouth?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Portsmouth can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Portsmouth trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Portsmouth trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Portsmouth trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Portsmouth trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Portsmouth?
If it's your first trip to Portsmouth, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Portsmouth hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Portsmouth hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Portsmouth

A marina with boats docked, buildings, and a calm water body reflecting the sky.

Fareham

A stone pier extending into a calm body of water, surrounded by a rocky shoreline and a distant bridge.

Havant

A small red and green train on tracks with houses and trees in the background.

Hayling Island

A marina with numerous sailboats docked along a calm waterway, under a partly cloudy sky.

Gosport

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