One of the great things about Portsmouth is how easy it is to get around if you visit without a car, as this well-connected city has excellent public transport links.
Whether you're arriving by coach, train, or ferry, or simply enjoying a stroll between attractions, the city is flat, paved and packed with things to see along the way.
Many of Portsmouth's most popular attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, from Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays to Old Portsmouth and Southsea Seafront. In fact, our Walkable Portsmouth itinerary has information on exactly this, showing just how close together (and easily navigable) some of the city's biggest attractions truly are.
Visitors often choose to leave their cars at home, or if they do drive in then the popular Park & Ride provides a quick and stress-free way to get to a number of stops, including Portsmouth and Southsea railway station in town, The Hard interchange, and Southsea Seafront. Park & Ride, located just off the M275 at Tipner, helps reduce congestion, saves time looking for parking, and provides an affordable and environmentally friendly way to explore Portsmouth
Walking not only saves money, but also gives you the chance to discover hidden gems, independent businesses and stunning coastal views.
A stone's throw from the seafront there are Castle Road shops, Palmerston Road and Marmion Road, or venture further in to discover Albert Road's pubs, restaurants and shops.
The city forms part of the King Charles III England Coast Path. The walking route starts at the Round Tower in Old Portsmouth, passing Southsea Castle and South Parade Pier, along to South Hayling - allowing you the chance to explore centuries of history across a relatively short distance.
To get your steps in but also learn a bit while you are on your way, there are several expert guided tours on offer. You can follow the last steps of Admiral Horatio Nelson in Old Portsmouth, discover the birthplace of Victorian author Charles Dickens or find out about the part Portsmouth played in D-Day.
Getting around the city by public transport is very straightforward. Portsmouth benefits from extensive bus routes (and has been highlighted as one of the best places in the UK for increases in bus usage over recent years), plus there are five railway stations in key places such as the city centre, The Hard and Fratton, making it easy to travel both within the city and from surrounding areas.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend break, a family day out or a longer stay, Portsmouth makes sustainable travel simple. With excellent public transport links, walkable attractions and plenty of alternative travel options, getting around can be part of the adventure itself!
