Southampton is a historic city in the county of Hampshire on the south coast of England between London and Portsmouth and many travelers choose to visit Southampton for its thriving port and famous boat show. The best way for international travelers to get to Southampton is to fly into London and travel to Southampton station on a train.
The first stop on many Southampton tourism routes is the port, the economic and tourist heart of the city. Besides receiving cargo ships from around the globe, it’s also home to several cruise terminals where ships depart for cruises as far as the Caribbean and Mediterranean. If you happen to have your trip to Southampton scheduled for September, you’ll be able to visit the Southampton International Boat Show, an annual favorite and the largest of its kind in Europe.
Next, venture inside the old city walls and discover the museums, shops, and restaurants of the city centre. Shoppers will want to head to the halls of the West Quay shopping center, while those looking for a show can catch a play or musical at the nearby Mayflower Theatre. Don’t forget to spend at least one night of your Southampton holiday having dinner and drinks at the charming bars and restaurants on historic Oxford Street.
If you’re not sure what to do during your Southampton vacation, try a visit to Leisure World, an expansive indoor complex of bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and venues, or see what’s on at the Southampton Guildhall. So whether you prefer a stroll by the sea or a more hopping nightlife scene, have a look below and begin organizing your holiday in Southampton.