Landmarks in Portsmouth

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Portsmouth - Things to do in Portsmouth

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Portsmouth. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

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14 Available Tour Excursions in Portsmouth

Free Cancellation
(9 reviews)

We're excited to turn your ordinary day into an extraordinary adventure with our exclusive private and custom bike tours! Get ready to set off on a memorable journey through stunning landscapes on our luxury bicycle tour—one that will leave you eager for more! Whether you're exploring the rich history of our charming coastal city or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery, you'll get to pedal through cozy side streets, hidden inlets, and vibrant harbors. You'll discover breathtaking views and secret spots that make this area truly special! We’ll plan for you. No matter if you're a history lover or just looking for a fun experience, this tour has something special in store for you. Our carefully planned itinerary will highlight the very best of what this beautiful region has to offer. Don't miss out on the chance to explore the beauty of the coast with your own guide! Arrive 30 minutes early to get fitted to your bike and receive bike safety rules.

Price: $125.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(6 reviews)

Pedal along the Atlantic coastline, discover charming harbor towns, and soak up the sun on some of New Hampshire’s most beautiful shores. This is a small and intimate ebike tour for coastal enthusiasts and individuals eager to explore 17+ mile coastline on a pedal-assist bike in approximately 3.5-4 hours. Glide along the shoreline and beaches while observing three operational lighthouses, picturesque islands, serene inlets, and exquisite coastal mansions. Led by an expert guide, you will traverse along Route 1A, which closely follows the Atlantic Ocean, stopping at the historic sites not visible from the car. Your guide will share historical insights and local stories about the areas maritime history and fishing industry that shaped the region. This experience offers a combination of coastal beauty, a seaside village atmosphere, historical insights, and scenic stops along the pristine beaches. Stops for coffee + toilet. ****We require a 24-48 hour notice to charge the batteries****

Price: $195.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(2 reviews)

Highlights: • Immerse yourself in New Hampshire’s spring and summer foliage, pedaling through vibrant woods and serene marshes. • Enjoy a peaceful, car-free ride along the scenic New Hampshire Greenway, perfect for families and nature lovers. • Spot wildlife along the trail, from turtles and wild turkeys to familiar songbirds in their natural habitat. • Ride easily on flat, well-maintained crushed stone and gravel paths, ideal for a relaxing and stress-free cycling adventure. • Take in quiet wooded clearings and winding marshside paths, the perfect escape from city life and daily routines. Enjoy a peaceful ride along the scenic Greenway on this guided rail trail tour. Pedal through tranquil natural landscapes as you follow a former railroad corridor known for its flat, easy riding and relaxing atmosphere. Led by an expert guide, you’ll ride approx. 14+ miles along a crushed-stone trail, passing wetlands, wildlife, and wide-open clearings. This is a great way to unplug and reconnect.

Price: $80.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1 reviews)

Your very unique, immersive adventures are the only ones of their kind. We, unlike other companies, provide your very own remote, interactive, live host to assist and encourage you along through your phone. We are an Austin, TX-based global custom event design company offering scavenger hunts and other events in 300+ cities in North America and beyond. Our specially hand-crafted adventures are equal parts tour, creative challenge, detective hunt, and social experiment! Guests get to discover in an alternate reality our favorite hidden gems off the beaten trail and creatively interpret fun art, history, and culture clues - for points! They get to enjoy fame and glory while appearing on our website’s international leaderboard, no matter what their score. They get to essentially race other teams in other cities, even if they don’t have competitors who have signed up in their city that day. Get ready to discover unusual oddities, laugh out loud, and make the experience your own!

Price: $21.60

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(138 reviews)

This easy-going tour blends sightseeing, storytelling, and riding. You and your guide will pedal along the Piscataqua River and the Atlantic Ocean for about 8-10 miles, exploring the coast, islands, harbor, and historic sites in both Portsmouth and New Castle Island. Your guide will lead you through Pierce and Four Tree Islands and along the historic South End, riding by working docks, boats, gardens, and quiet neighborhoods to New Castle Island. You will ride over scenic bridges and causeways, stopping at sites so your guide can share intriguing tales of the harbor, the islands, and the maritime history that has shaped this region. This tour offers an overview of the area, stopping at historic sites and hidden gems that many visitors miss. Ride by the river to New Castle Island, one of the most picturesque coastal towns. -See three iconic lighthouses -Ride through the charming New Castle village -Stop at the oceanfront of Great Island Common -Explore the coastal ruins of Fort Stark

Price: $80.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(11 reviews)

Introducing a Memorable Portsmouth Tasting Experience surrounded by history and architectural treasures For 90 minutes, immerse yourself in the story of a landmark that has stood since 1785. One bite at a time. Guided by the charismatic duo, Cassandra and Andrew, you’ll uncover layers of history woven into the walls of this Portsmouth gem. Savor curated wines from our collection, perfectly paired with gourmet bites from our five-star kitchen. Discover Rockingham's perfectly preserved architectural elegance, Meet the many historical figures who graced these rooms, Uncover its jazz-filled past, and perhaps even sense a whisper from its more spectral residents. This isn’t just a tasting. It’s a journey through time—one sip, one story, one delicious moment at a time. Perfect for foodies, wine lovers (over 21), and those who appreciate history and local experiences. Great activity for rainy days on the Seacoast. Private tours available.

Price: $80.00

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(14 reviews)

This is a great family-friendly easy tour that seamlessly blends history, architecture, public art, and local insights. Our city tour is guaranteed to satisfy your love of stories, history, and exploration. You and your guide will ride 6-8 miles in Portsmouth, along the quiet roads and into tucked-away neighborhoods, stopping at historic sites and landmarks. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the maritime history and the fishing industry that paved the way to Strawbery Banke, historic landmarks, the redevelopment of the waterfront, and the 18th-20th-century that shaped Portsmouth. -Pedal through Portsmouth’s North End and hear the stories that bring this historic Little Italy neighborhood to life. -Visit The Hill, where beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century homes reveal Portsmouth’s early history. - Enjoy the riverfront area of Prescott Park -Stop at Little Harbor and hear about the history of the historic Wentworth‑Coolidge Mansion. -African Burying Memorial

Price: $70.00

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(10 reviews)

**E-Bikes and youth options 20 and 24 inch on our site** Limited Quantities. Pedal your way through the breathtaking Portsmouth and the surrounding areas and NH landscape – no tour guide necessary! You set the pace, choose where to go, and decide when to stop for amazing photo opportunities! This rental experience gives you the freedom to explore Portsmouth and New Castle the way you want. Helpful PortCity Bike Tours staff member will assist you in deciding on a route - choosing between Portsmouth's many historic attractions, tasty restaurants, and breathtaking views will be your only worry. In addition to one of our high-quality hybrid bicycles, your tour includes a bag, helmet, emergency tire inflator, and lock. This is a reservation for a time slot. Meet 15 minutes prior to your tour at the Historic John Paul Jones House to get fitted with a bike, helmet, and safety vest. You’ll hear a short briefing about rules of the road, safety, and bike operation. Map and routes included.

Price: $50.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(8 reviews)

Explore the art and science of tea crafting with a unique experience at Portsmouth, New Hampshire's enchanting tea and apothecary shop. Join a seasoned clinical herbalist for a few hours to learn the delicate craft amid a selection of 250 diverse herbs. Discover the science behind the benefits that herbs offer to the body and delve into the intricate art of blending them together for a delightful taste. Throughout the class, you'll explore how to combine flavors, aromas, and healthful properties to curate truly unique and personalized tea blends. This experience promises not only a delightful sensory journey but also imparts a wealth of knowledge about the therapeutic qualities of herbs. By the end of the class, you will feel confident in the art of herbal tea craftsmanship. As a special takeaway, each participant will leave with a jar of Société tea.

Price: $100.00

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(66 reviews)

Explore the haunted locations of Portsmouth and discover it's spooky history with a self-guided GPS Audio tour on our walking tour app. Built in EMF reader in our app to detect ghosts while taking the tour. Go at your own pace and stop to browse the shops, grab a bite, or take a break. You'll see the the most infamous sites, haunted alleyways and historic buildings. Cere Bakery Sheafe Street Inn Deadwicks 111 State Street The Old Red Light District The Stops on the Underground Railroad The Rockingham John Paul Jones House Portsmouth Music Hall African Burial Grounds Portsmouth Brewery The Oldest Bank Building in the US You'll hear The Huntsman John Bellamy The Haunts of the Port City The Ladies of the Night that linger The phantoms of the Music Hall The Lady in White Old flirty ghosts Ghosts of Bank Robbers Past Witches of the North With a little luck you might even catch a ghost on camera! *This tour is on an app, it's all outside, it's not at the bakery :)

Price: $9.75

Duration: 0-1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(14 reviews)

Let’s Roam is your go-to app-led adventure hunt company, leading the way in thrilling exploration! Embark on a journey through the best landmarks and hidden gems, where you’ll tackle brain-teasing trivia and conquer exciting challenges. Whether you’re bonding with your team or sparking friendly competition, each adventure is an opportunity to discover new facts, create lasting memories, and immerse yourself in the spirit of adventure. Ideal for everyday excitement, unforgettable bachelorette parties, epic birthday celebrations, dynamic corporate team-building events, and more! With each player choosing a unique interactive role, our adventures ensure a personalized experience filled with laughter, camaraderie, and surprises. Best of all, our self-guided adventures via the app require no reservations—just pure, spontaneous fun!

Price: $14.99

Duration: 1 hours

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Localgrapher is the largest network of professional photographers and videographers with more than 600 destinations around the globe! Book your private photographer and guide in Portsmouth to capture your picture-perfect moments while visiting amazing sites! SOLO TRAVELERS Fancy an insta-perfect photoshoot from your Portsmouth vacation? Localgrapher has years of experience with fashion and solo travel photography! Make your memories last a lifetime and share them on social media or display them in your home to receive an avalanche of compliments. COUPLES If you are about to propose to your loved one, honeymooning or just exploring what Portsmouth has to offer, put the selfie stick aside and let Localgrapher’s superb photographers take care of the photos for you both. FAMILIES & GROUPS A family trip, wedding, bachelorette party or grand get-together? Forget missing someone from pictures, we’ll capture them all!

Price: $296.52

Duration: 0 hours

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Portsmouth promises an exciting adventure packed with history and discovery. Trace the city's past from John Mason's founding to its involvement in WWI, all while admiring Federalist architecture and solving riddles. Capture your journey with plenty of selfies and learn about local luminaries such as Thomas Bailey Aldrich and Ilene Woods. Experience the vibrant arts scene and explore the city's distinctive parks. Don't leave without snapping a photo with the iconic whale statue!

Price: $49.99

Duration: 2 hours

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Want to capture your amazing honeymoon? Family vacation while the kids are still little? Your perfect couples retreat from everyday busy life? A solo trip without asking strangers to take pictures of you? Stop searching, we got you here! We are the largest network of local vacation photographers in the world! Besides Portsmouth, we operate in over 700 destinations worldwide! We always make sure that every special moment of each client is captured well. We believe in our service and quality of our photos so much that we even offer a 100% money back satisfaction guarantee for your photo shoot. Which means, if you don’t like the result of your photo shoot, you can contact us within 7 days and claim your money back! So what are you waiting for? Become one of our hundreds of happy customers by treating yourself to this special experience! Your family and friends will love the result too!

Price: $296.52

Duration: 0 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: GBP
  • Languages: English
  • Climate: Maritime Temperate
  • Timezone: Europe/London
  • Population: Approximately 208,000 residents
  • Best Time to Visit: best time to visit Portsmouth is from late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors from the US, EU, and UK generally do not require a visa for short stays in Portsmouth as it is part of the UK. Citizens from many countries can enter visa-free for tourism or business for up to six months. Others may need to apply for a visa in advance or obtain an e-visa depending on their nationality. It is advisable to check the latest UK government visa policies before travel.

About Portsmouth

Portsmouth is a vibrant historic port city located on the southern coast of England in Hampshire. Known for its rich maritime heritage, Portsmouth offers visitors a unique blend of naval history, modern waterfront attractions, and cultural experiences. The city is home to the famous Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, where visitors can explore iconic ships such as HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. Its waterfront area features the striking Spinnaker Tower, providing panoramic views of the city and the Solent. Portsmouth’s compact city center is lively with shops, restaurants, and theaters, making it an ideal destination for both history enthusiasts and leisure travelers. The city’s coastal location also offers beautiful beaches and opportunities for sailing and water sports. Portsmouth’s accessibility from London and other parts of the UK, combined with its engaging mix of history, culture, and seaside charm, makes it a compelling destination for tourists seeking a memorable British coastal experience.

Portsmouth Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of New Hampshire
  • Duration Range: 2 to 10 hours
  • Group Size: Flexible group sizes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
  • Recommended For: The best time to visit Portsmouth is from late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers due to variable coastal weather. Respect local customs such as queuing and polite conversation. Portsmouth is generally safe, but usual travel vigilance applies. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable. Check event schedules in advance to enjoy local festivals and avoid peak tourist crowds.

Average Tour Price: $80

Lowest Price Tour: $55

Highest Price Tour: $200

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4. Enjoy Your Experience

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Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Top Attractions

1. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard – Explore historic naval vessels including HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum, showcasing Britain’s maritime legacy. 2. Spinnaker Tower – An iconic 170-meter tall observation tower offering spectacular views over Portsmouth, the Solent, and the Isle of Wight. 3. Gunwharf Quays – A vibrant waterfront shopping and entertainment complex with designer outlets, restaurants, and cinemas. 4. Southsea Castle – A historic fortress built by Henry VIII, offering insights into Tudor military history and scenic views of the sea. 5. Blue Reef Aquarium – A family-friendly attraction featuring marine life from local waters and tropical exhibits.

Popular Activities

Visitors to Portsmouth can enjoy a variety of activities including guided tours of historic ships, sailing and boating on the Solent, exploring museums and galleries, shopping at Gunwharf Quays, and walking or cycling along the seafront. Cultural experiences include attending performances at the Kings Theatre or New Theatre Royal. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Southsea Common for picnics, beach activities, or bird watching. Portsmouth also hosts festivals and events throughout the year, providing lively local experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Portsmouth is late spring through early autumn (May to September) when the weather is mild and outdoor attractions are fully accessible.

Portsmouth is easily accessible from London by train, with direct services from London Waterloo taking about 1.5 hours.

Yes, Portsmouth offers many family-friendly attractions including the Historic Dockyard, the Spinnaker Tower, and the Blue Reef Aquarium.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

Portsmouth’s food scene reflects its coastal heritage with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood such as fish and chips, oysters, and locally caught shellfish. Traditional British pub fare is widely available alongside modern international cuisine. Must-try dishes include Portsmouth’s famous seafood platters and locally brewed ales. Noteworthy restaurants include The Still & West, known for its harbor views and classic dishes, and Loch Fyne, specializing in fresh seafood. Dining customs are relaxed and friendly, with many waterfront venues offering alfresco dining.

Getting Around

Portsmouth is accessible by train from London and other major UK cities, with Portsmouth & Southsea station serving the city center. Local transportation includes buses and taxis, with a compact city center that is easily walkable. Ferries operate from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight and France. Car travel is possible but parking can be limited in busy areas. Costs for public transport are moderate, and cycling is a popular option for locals and tourists alike.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit Portsmouth is from late spring to early autumn for pleasant weather. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layers due to variable coastal weather. Respect local customs such as queuing and polite conversation. Portsmouth is generally safe, but usual travel vigilance applies. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though carrying some cash is advisable. Check event schedules in advance to enjoy local festivals and avoid peak tourist crowds.

Culture & Customs

Portsmouth has a friendly, maritime-influenced culture with strong ties to naval history. Social customs include polite greetings and queuing etiquette. The city celebrates events like the Portsmouth International Kite Festival and Victorious Festival, reflecting its vibrant community spirit. Visitors should be mindful of local respect for heritage sites and the environment, especially around coastal areas. Punctuality and courteous behavior are appreciated in social and business settings.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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