Southampton travel guide

Classic architectural houses in the city centre of Southampton, United Kingdom
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Introduction to Southampton

Southampton Common, SeaCity Museum, and Mayflower Park have one thing in common - they're all three very good reasons to visit Southampton, England. Southampton has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. This city and major port in Hampshire, South-East England, United Kingdom is a travel destination everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Boasting a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of over 271.2 thousand people, the city of Southampton is truly one of the main highlights of England.

Easily accessible from Southampton airport, Southampton is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in England any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Southampton as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Southampton is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Southampton below!

History of Southampton

Southampton, a key city in England, has a rich and vibrant history that dates back to the Stone Age.

Its strategic location on the south coast made it an important trading and military outpost for the Romans, who named the settlement 'Clausentum'.

During the Middle Ages, Southampton flourished as a hub for wool trade and shipbuilding. The city's prosperity led to the construction of its iconic city walls, which still stand today.

Southampton's significance continued into the modern era, playing a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution and as the launching point for the ill-fated Titanic.

Today, Southampton's history is reflected in its myriad of historical sites, including the Tudor House and Garden, the medieval Bargate, and the SeaCity Museum. This city truly provides a fascinating journey through England's past.

Top services in Southampton

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Southampton, England. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 214 airlines that fly to England. Browse the 147 top-rated tours available to you in Southampton. Compare the rates and services of the 5 types of places to stay in Southampton and the 7 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Southampton.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Southampton, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Southampton on your vacation in England.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Southampton from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Southampton!

Best time to visit Southampton

The best time to explore Southampton, England, is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September, when the weather is comfortably warm, typically ranging between 15°C to 22°C. During this period, the city is vibrant with outdoor activities and cultural events, including the annual Southampton Boat Show in September, which attracts visitors worldwide. Moreover, the summer season allows tourists to fully enjoy Southampton's maritime heritage with trips to the Solent and the New Forest. However, for those who prefer avoiding peak tourist season and enjoy quieter sightseeing, the shoulder months of April and October also offer mild weather and fewer crowds. During these months, one can witness the beautiful transition of seasons in the city's numerous parks and gardens. Regardless of the time of year, the city's indoor attractions like the SeaCity Museum and the Tudor House remain open, making Southampton a year-round destination. Therefore, the ideal time to visit depends on personal preferences for weather, crowd levels, and activities.

Weather in Southampton

Southampton, located in the southern part of England, experiences a temperate maritime climate. This means that the city has mild summers and cool winters. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures usually range between 15°C to 22°C. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but summer is typically the drier season.

The winter months (December to February) in Southampton are usually cool, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C, rarely dropping below freezing. Snowfall is relatively uncommon, but not unheard of. The city can occasionally experience heavy rain and strong winds during the winter, especially when Atlantic depressions pass by. Spring and Autumn are transitional seasons, with moderate temperatures and a mix of sunshine and rain.

While Southampton's weather is generally mild, it is advisable for travellers to check the forecast before visiting as the English weather can be unpredictable. Layered clothing is recommended throughout the year due to fluctuating temperatures. Furthermore, carrying an umbrella or raincoat might be a good idea given the possibility of rain at any time of the year.

Local tip for visiting Southampton

The locals in Southampton, England, love to spend their weekends at the city's hidden gem - The Common. This insider tip will give you a taste of Southampton's local life and nature. The Common is a large public park located in the heart of the city, offering 365 acres of woodland, grassland, and ponds. It's a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre, enjoy a picnic, or watch local cricket matches, a quintessential English pastime. What makes this park special is the 'Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre,' an unnoticed spot that harbours a wide array of flora, fauna, and bird species. Be sure to pack your binoculars and a guidebook to enjoy birdwatching. And if you're lucky, you might spot a deer grazing peacefully. So if you want to experience Southampton like a local, spend a day at The Common, away from the typical tourist spots.

Learn more about England

There are many reasons to visit the city of Southampton, but a trip to England needs no explanation.

Exploring England, which spans 130,278 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. England offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Southampton Common, SeaCity Museum, and the Mayflower Park, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in England.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about England.

What to see in Southampton

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Southampton has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Southampton.

Top attractions in Southampton

Home to plenty of top attractions, Southampton is more than just a wonderful city in England. Southampton is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of England.

One fascinating sight in Southampton is the unforgettable Southampton Common. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Southampton.

Southampton Common is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at The Avenue, Southampton SO15 7NN, UK.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in England, check out our list of top attractions in Southampton below. Discover the best places to visit in Southampton, including the fascinating Southampton Common, SeaCity Museum, Mayflower Park, Houndwell Park, and Solent Sky.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Southampton.

Things to do in Southampton

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Enrich your travel experience in Southampton by joining tours and activities. Southampton offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Southampton below.

Most popular experiences in Southampton

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Southampton.

Southampton offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Ports of Call Tours, Bus Tours, and Private Day Trips are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in England.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Southampton by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Southampton

Travelers in Southampton can choose from 11 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Southampton one of the best travel destinations in England.

Southampton also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Southampton City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Walking Tour. This experience costs around 9 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Southampton. This Walking Tour is available in 1 language: English.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Southampton and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Southampton below.

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Search for things to do in Southampton

Discover the best things to do in Southampton. Choose from 147 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Southampton. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Southampton

Southampton, England, is a city steeped in history and culture, and its culinary scene is no exception. From street food to high-end restaurants, there is no shortage of delicious and diverse cuisine to explore. The city is particularly renowned for its seafood, with dishes such as fish and chips being a must-try for any visitor. The best places to eat in Southampton range from the bustling Oxford Street district, which boasts an array of international restaurants, to the vibrant Bedford Place, known for its trendy bars and eateries. The City Centre is home to a variety of street food vendors offering everything from traditional British pies to exotic international dishes. If you're in the mood for a fine dining experience, head to the historic and upscale Quay Fifteen on Shamrock Quay. Don't miss the opportunity to visit one of the city's traditional pubs, where you can enjoy hearty English fare such as bangers and mash or steak and ale pie. For dessert, indulge in a slice of classic British Victoria sponge cake at a local tearoom.

Best shopping in Southampton

Southampton, a vibrant city in England, is renowned for its diverse shopping options, seamlessly blending the modern and traditional.

WestQuay Shopping Centre, the best place to go shopping in Southampton, houses over 100 high-end and high-street stores, including Apple, Zara, and John Lewis. For a more boutique experience, visit Bedford Place, with its independent shops offering locally crafted goods, vintage fashion, and unique accessories.

The city also boasts of its enchanting open-air markets. Bargate Market offers a plethora of antique pieces, local artwork, and bespoke jewellery. Don't miss the weekly Farmers' Market for fresh local produce and mouth-watering delicacies.

If you're hunting for souvenirs, head to the Southampton Christmas Market. With over 40 chalets, it's a wonderland of handcrafted decorations, artisan foods, and warm mulled wine. Make sure to buy a piece of the iconic Hampshire blue and white pottery as a keepsake.

Parking is abundant in Southampton, with park and ride services available at most major shopping centres. Many shops also offer tax-free shopping for visitors from outside the EU. Enjoy your shopping spree in this dynamic city!

Best free things to do in Southampton

Immerse in the rich history and culture of Southampton without spending a penny. Start by exploring the Old Town, a charming area filled with half-timbered houses and ancient city walls. Don't miss the iconic Bargate, an impressive medieval gateway. Next, visit the Titanic Engineer Officers Memorial, a striking tribute to the engineers who lost their lives in the 1912 disaster. A stroll in the serene Riverside Park, with its picturesque views of the River Itchen, is one of the best free things to do in Southampton. For culture buffs, the city's art gallery, home to a splendid collection of modern British art, is a must-visit. If you're into maritime history, the SeaCity Museum offers free entry on certain days. Lastly, unwind at Southampton Common, a stunning 365-acre park with a wildlife centre, lake, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Vacation packages in Southampton

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The best and easiest way to visit Southampton is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in England.

Booking a vacation package to Southampton means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Southampton to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Southampton is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Southampton, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Southampton.

Find vacation packages in Southampton

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Southampton.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Southampton get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in England. Your customized holiday package to Southampton is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Southampton

To get to the city of Southampton the fastest way possible, travelers from outside England can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Southampton by booking flights with any of the 9 airlines that offer direct flights to Southampton airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Southampton airport are Azul, United Airlines, Air China, Ryanair, and WestJet. Go to this page to compare all flights to Southampton.

To reach the city of Southampton, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Southampton airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Southampton, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Southampton airport and Southampton below.

Find cheap flights to Southampton

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Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Southampton, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in England. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Southampton, England, in October.

The cheapest one-way flight to Southampton costs around 34 EUR and is offered by the airline easyJet.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to England and the city of Southampton from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Southampton

Travelers visiting Southampton in England can fly to Southampton airport directly from 826 destinations worldwide.

The airline that operates most flights to England is Scoot. Scoot offers 25 scheduled flight routes to England.

Discover the most popular flights to Southampton below. Click to view flights to Southampton, England from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Southampton

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An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Southampton is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Southampton usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Southampton offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Southampton and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Southampton planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Southampton, you'll find 5 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in England can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Southampton. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Southampton.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Southampton in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Southampton

A trip to the fascinating Southampton, England, means opportunities to relax at any of the 5 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 104 hotels, 93 vacation rental apartments, 18 cottages, 7 guesthouses and 1 bed & breakfast. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Southampton provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton Grand Harbour is one of the top picks of travelers in Southampton.

The hotel is located at West Quay Road and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Restaurant, and Swimming pool.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Southampton. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Southampton, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose ibis budget Southampton Centre. For approximately 68 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Double Room at this popular hotel.

Below is a list of all 5 different types of places to stay in Southampton. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Southampton

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Southampton for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 223 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Southampton provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Southampton are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Southampton.

Ennios Boutique Hotel offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Southampton. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Leonardo Royal Hotel Southampton Grand Harbour, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Southampton, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hotel ibis Southampton Centre, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Southampton. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Southampton

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Southampton on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Southampton that match the information provided.

Car rental in Southampton

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Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Southampton. Southampton has 7 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Southampton start from 39.67 EUR per day or 277.67 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Vauxhall Corsa.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Southampton, starting from 18.12 EUR per day or 126.83 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Southampton, England, below.

Popular types of car rental in Southampton

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Southampton to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Southampton can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore England at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Southampton is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Southampton is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Southampton.

Check out all options available in Southampton and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in England below.

Search for car rental in Southampton

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Southampton. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Southampton, England, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Southampton

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The city of Southampton is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in England. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that England has it all.

England is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in England that are as magical as the city of Southampton. The most popular travel destinations in England are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in England

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in England. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Southampton

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A taste of England through a visit to Southampton can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Southampton to another remarkable destination in England.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Southampton to other spectacular locations in England, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Southampton

Travelers in England can catch flights to domestic airports in Manchester, Newcastle upon Tyne, Nottingham, London, and Birmingham. Domestic flights in England are operated by 5 airlines: Aer Lingus, Eastern Airways, British Airways, LoganAir LM, and Blue Islands. There are around 10 scheduled flight routes operating to Southampton on a weekly basis.

From Southampton, travelers can book scheduled flights to 6 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Southampton depart to many top-rated destinations in England and are offered by Aer Lingus, Eastern Airways, and British Airways.

Search domestic flights from Southampton

Traveling to another city or region in England? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Southampton to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in England on the selected dates.

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