Are you thinking about visiting Southampton, UK? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Southampton worth visiting?
Southampton is worth visiting for one to three days so that you can explore everything that the port city has to offer. Most people have long considered Southampton as a place to stop in route somewhere else, but the city has started to come into its own. There are several great museums that bring maritime history to life including learning about the Titanic and the Mayflower. There is also a growing restaurant scene with a variety of culinary delights.
Southampton
Reasons to Visit Southampton
Museums
Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.
Food
While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.
Nightlife
The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.
Shopping
The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.
Authenticity
Southampton has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Southampton worth visiting in the Summer?
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).
The peak season for travel is summer in Southampton, so expect to see more tourists than usual. Even though this destination is not very touristy, in the high season it's busier than usual because this is when most visitors come here.
This is a great time of year to browse the museums and enjoy an evening out.
Summer Weather in Southampton
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 18°C (64°F) | 46 mm (1.8 in) |
| August | 18°C (64°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| September | 15°C (59°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
Is Southampton worth visiting in the Autumn?
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Southampton. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 12°C (53°F).
You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to take in the beautiful scenery and spend time at the museums.
Autumn Weather in Southampton
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 12°C (53°F) | 58 mm (2.3 in) |
| November | 7°C (45°F) | 55 mm (2.2 in) |
| December | 5°C (42°F) | 57 mm (2.2 in) |
Is Southampton worth visiting in the Winter?
This is the low season for travel in Southampton. This destination is not very touristy, so in the low season it can become fairly quiet.
The weather in Southampton can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 4°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the nightlife.
Winter Weather in Southampton
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 4°C (40°F) | 52 mm (2 in) |
| February | 5°C (40°F) | 35 mm (1.4 in) |
| March | 7°C (44°F) | 47 mm (1.9 in) |
Is Southampton worth visiting in the Spring?
The weather in Southampton can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 9°C (48°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Southampton, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is not very touristy, and in the shoulder season it can become fairly quiet.
This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and take in the beautiful scenery. Also, you'll be able to enjoy the evening activities.
Spring Weather in Southampton
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 9°C (48°F) | 45 mm (1.8 in) |
| May | 13°C (55°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
| June | 16°C (61°F) | 51 mm (2 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Southampton
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Southampton might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Southampton here or see if Southampton is expensive here.
Related
What is Southampton most famous for?
Southampton is most famous for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports. People visit this impressive port city for its great museums, food, nightlife, and shopping. It is often described as up-and-coming, waterfront, and dynamic.
What is the most famous sight in Southampton?
The most popular sight in Southampton is the SeaCity Museum. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Southampton on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the SeaCity Museum and other attractions here.
How touristy is Southampton? Is it a popular port city to visit?
Southampton is an off-the-beaten-path port city that many travelers overlook. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Walk the Secrets of the Titanic: Private Tour: $114
- Shuttle Service Southampton Cruise Terminals to Heathrow Airport and London: $153
- Isle of Wight Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
- Private cruise arrival from Southampton to London or airport: $159
- New Forest Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
- Full Day Private Shore Tour in Winchester from Southampton Port: $112
- Full Day Private Shore Tour in Windsor from Southampton Port: $160
- London to Southampton and Portsmouth Cruise: $191
How long should I spend in Southampton?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Southampton is one to three days. Since Southampton has activities such as shopping, museums, and dining, most people visit for up to three days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Southampton? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Southampton?.
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