Portsmouth's Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

Discover Portsmouth's charms without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Portsmouth, dubbed as the birthplace of Charles Dickens, is a delightful coastal town well-suited for on a limited budget travel. Notable landmarks include the iconic HMS Victory and the historic Portsmouth Dockyard set on the picturesque coastline. Foodies can enjoy a range of fish and chips shops and cafes, while free activities such as visiting museums and strolling along the white cliffs provide a memorable experience.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Historic Portsmouth

  • Begin your day at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and check out the HMS Victory, the world's oldest commissioned warship.
  • Grab a quick bite from the Dockyard Cafe, which offers affordable options for breakfast and lunch.
  • Take a stroll down the cobbled streets of Old Portsmouth, stopping by the Portsmouth Cathedral for some photo ops.
  • Visit the Mary Rose Museum to see the remains of Henry VIII's flagship, and learn about life on board a Tudor warship.
  • Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at the quaint Pie and Vinyl, where you can indulge in savory pies and browse through vinyl records.
  • End your day by watching the sunset at the Southsea Beach, and reflect on your day's adventure.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Portsmouth by plane is to fly into either Southampton Airport or Gatwick Airport, and take a train or bus to Portsmouth. From Southampton Airport, you can take a train to Portsmouth and Southsea Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From Gatwick Airport, you can take a train to Portsmouth and Southsea Station or a National Express bus to Portsmouth, which takes about 2 hours.

Car

The best way to get to Portsmouth by car is to take the A3(M) or M27, depending on where you are coming from. From London, take the M25, then the M3, and then the A3(M). From Southampton, take the M27 and then the A27 towards Portsmouth.

Train

The best way to get to Portsmouth by train is to take a direct train to Portsmouth and Southsea Station. You can catch a direct train from London Waterloo, which takes about 90 minutes. There are also direct trains from Southampton, Brighton, and Bristol.

Boat

The best way to get to Portsmouth by boat is to take a ferry from either Jersey, Guernsey, or St. Malo. There are also cruises that stop in Portsmouth, such as P&O Cruises and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.

Bus

The best way to get to Portsmouth by bus is to take a National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station, which takes about 2 hours. There are also coaches from Bristol, Birmingham, and Manchester.

More travel plans

Island Hopping and Historic Delights in Portsmouth

Portsmouth, United Kingdom, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich history and array of kid-friendly attractions. Visit the iconic HMS Victory and dive into the fascinating world of naval warfare at the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. The D-Day Story Museum and the Blue Reef Aquarium are also must-visit places that will keep the entire family entertained and engaged.

A Romantic Day Getaway in Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a charming waterfront city located on the south coast of England. Couples can enjoy a romantic trip by visiting the iconic Spinnaker Tower, taking a stroll along Southsea Beach or exploring the historic Portsmouth Dockyard. This mix of modern and traditional attractions makes Portsmouth the perfect destination for a memorable romantic getaway.

Seaside Adventure: A Day Trip to Portsmouth

A trip to Portsmouth, United Kingdom as a tourist offers travelers a unique blend of history, culture, and seaside charm. Visitors can explore the famous naval heritage of the city through tours of the historic dockyard and the HMS Victory, while also enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants and strolling along the scenic Southsea Beach. Other popular attractions include the Spinnaker Tower, the Mary Rose Museum, and the vibrant nightlife of Gunwharf Quays.

Portsmouth Unwound: A Fun 3-Day Budget Trip

Portsmouth offers an incredible experience for budget travelers on a limited budget. Visitors can explore many of the city's historic landmarks for free, including the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the Mary Rose Museum. Additionally, there are plenty of affordable accommodations, restaurants, and public transportation options to make traveling budget-friendly.