7 Night City Break Explorer Cruise on Anthem of the Seas from Southampton, England Rotterdam, Netherlands, Delfshaven Historic Center
The 7 Night City Break Explorer Cruise from Southampton, England visits Bilbao, Spain; Rotterdam, Netherlands; Bruges/Zeebruge (Brussels), Belgium; Southampton, England. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
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7 Night City Break Explorer Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Anthem of the Seas
Day 1 - Southampton, England
Day 2 - Cruising
Day 3 - Bilbao, Spain
Day 4 - Cruising
Day 5 - 6 - Rotterdam, Netherlands
Day 7 - Bruges/Zeebruge (Brussels), Belgium
Day 8 - Southampton, England
View Itinerary
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Delfshaven Historic Center
The waterfront Delfshaven historic center
This is your

7 Night City Break Explorer Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Southampton, England
Onboard
Anthem of the Seas
Day Port
1
Southampton, England
Departs at 5:00 PM
2
Cruising
Day at sea
3
Bilbao, Spain
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
4
Cruising
Day at sea
5 - 6
Rotterdam, Netherlands
From Day 5, 12:00 PM - Day 6, 7:00 PM
7
Bruges/Zeebruge (Brussels), Belgium
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
8
Southampton, England
Arrives at 5:30 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Your ship Anthem of the Seas

Your ship
Anthem of the Seas
View Itinerary
Anthem of the Seas, Aerial view with North Star
An aerial view of Anthem of the Seas with North Star
Get to know
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas® isn't the same old song. It's a thrill ride that packs in cutting edge experiences— like North Star®, which gives you 360-degree views from 300 feet above sea level. And flavor firsts, like creative fare at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Plus showstoppers like We Will Rock You.

UPGRADE YOUR PLAY

Defy gravity with a free-falling experience on Ripcord® by iFLY®. Practice your surf skills on the FlowRider® surf simulator. Score views 300 feet above sea level in North Star®. And witness a spellbinding show in Two70®.
Basketball at Daytime
SeaPlex at Sunrise

SeaPlex®

The largest indoor active space at sea is only on Royal Caribbean®. Basketball and bumper cars — it's the first time you'll ever play like this on a cruise.  
Quantum of the Seas North Star Sunset
Quantum of the Seas North Star Sunset

North Star®

It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
iFly by Ripcord Little Girl Flying
iFly by Ripcord Little Girl Flying

RipCord® by iFLY®

There’s no rush in the world like skydiving — and on the RipCord® by iFLY® simulator you can feel the freedom of freefall without even leaving the deck.
Instructor Jumping on Flowrider
Man Jumping Mid Air on Flowrider

FlowRider®

Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.

A CULINARY CAPITAL AT SEA

This is a culinary scene to rival many metropolitan cities. Get your family-style fix at Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, and sip cocktails crafted by robots at the Bionic Bar®. Venture down the rabbit hole at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Or dine like a VIP at Coastal Kitchen — exclusively for suites guests and Pinnacle Club members.
Wonderland Caramel Apple Berries Dessert
Wonderland Caramel Apple Berries Dessert

Wonderland

Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine is all about pushing the culinary envelope. Dishes are designed to tantalize your taste buds and present a visual feast. Find crispy crab cones topped with fluffy avocado mousse, gazpacho served with pepper spheres and bread foam, and dreamy desserts that will take your breath away. Pair your meal with cocktails described as “magical” elixirs crafted to deliver full-sensory experiences.
Jamie's Italian Epic Brownie
Jamie's Italian Epic Brownie with vanilla ice cream and caramelized amaretti popcorn on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver

At Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, sit down to Tuscan-inspired cuisine crafted by one of Britain’s most famous chefs. Seasonal ingredients meet authentic recipes in family-style dishes that range from homemade pastas and classic Italian entrees, to contemporary creations infused with rustic influences.
Greek Meze
Artfully arrange hummus appetizer platter served with pita bread. Quality Cruise Food Dining served in the Coastal Kitchen

Coastal Kitchen

Exclusively for suite guests and Pinnacle Club members, Coastal Kitchen fuses Mediterranean influences with farm-fresh flavors from California. Filled with Pacific Coast favorites and Med-inspired entrees, the menu here rotates to spotlight delicious, seasonal ingredients. And you can pair every bite with a glass or bottle of wine off a list that includes vintages from the sun-kissed valleys of Napa to the golden-green hills of Tuscany.
Chefs Table - Dining Room
Welcoming dining room with special dishes & spectacular wines. Fine dining at the best vacation cruise restaurant Chefs Table

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.

WHOA-WORTHY SHOWS

Settle in for the best of Broadway at Sea. Watch as cinema, pop culture and tech combine in Spectra's Cabaret. Embark on a musical journey of fantasy and illusion in The Gift. And rock out to Queen classics in We Will Rock You.
Symphony of the Seas Bionic Bar Woman Picking Drinks
Bionic Bar Woman Picking a Cocktail

Bionic Bar®

At Bionic Bar®, meet two robotic bartenders who know how to shake, stir, and mix up your night out. With moves as fluid as the Pimm’s in your cup, these mecha mixologists can create an almost endless combination of cocktails, from classic cosmos to custom-crafted sips designed by you.
We Will Rock You Broadway Show Rockers Fists Up Stage
A gang of rockers on stage with their fists up during a We Will Rock You broadway show on a cruise.

We Will Rock You

The Olivier Award winning musical We Will Rock You pits "real music" against futuristic pop, settling the score with killer Queen classics and rock anthems.
Two70 Starwater Show
Dancer and Singers Performing on the Starwater Show

Two70®

By day, it's an open area living room with panoramic views through windows two decks high. By night, the lights go down, the windows become screens and the space comes alive with aerialists, robots and much more. This is Two70® — a place that can take you anyplace.
Spectras Cabaret Show Stage Singers Neon Faces
Two singers on stage surrounded by neon faces during the Spectras Cabaret show on Anthem.

Spectra's Cabaret

Experiential cinema comes alive to pop culture anthems in this mindbending mix of music and tech. Welcome to Spectra's Cabaret.

Day 1: Southampton, England

Day 1
Southampton
England
View Itinerary
Southampton, England, The Bargate gatehouse
The Bargate medieval gatehouse in Southampton, England
Things to do in
Southampton
Departs at 5:00 PM
Located on England's South Coast, Southampton is a city full of surprises. Home to one of the largest ports in Europe, the city has a lot to offer people passing through for the day. Step back in time and explore the old town — walk along the medieval town walls, parts of which date back to 1290. Visit Bargate, a medieval gatehouse built by Normans in the 12th century. Check out SeaCity Museum and learn about what it would have been like to set sail on the Titanic in 1912 — Southampton is where the historic ship left port. Or venture out and explore the Hampshire countryside: Iconic Stonehenge is just a one-hour drive away.
Southampton, England, Stonehenge
View of Stonehenge in England

Prehistoric Adventure

Located just an hour from Southampton, Stonehenge is one of the most well-known prehistoric sites in all of Europe. Wander around the miraculous stone circle and transport yourself back in time when Neolithic engineers used only simple tools to build the huge monument — it's believed they hauled those massive stones over 240 miles from Wales without the use of machines.
Southampton, England, SeaCity Museum
The entrance to the SeaCity Museum in Southampton, England

A Port of Importance

Southampton is home to one of the largest ports in the UK and millions of travelers pass through each year. In 1912, the most famous of those travelers would pass through as they set out to America onboard the Titanic. Southampton's SeaCity museum gives you the opportunity to learn more about the events that happened aboard that famous ship.
Southampton, England, Tudor House
The exterior of the Tudor House in Southampton, England
Southampton, England, The Bargate Close Up View
Close up view of The Bargate gatehouse in Southampton, England

Play Knights in Armor

Step back into the medieval era and walk the old walls of the city. Built to protect the town from attack by sea, most of the wall is still standing, leaving visitors a spectacular view of Southampton and the sea. Watch as boats enter the port city, and see how it would have been if you were a knight on watch hundreds of years ago.
Southampton, England, Waterfront quayside
A waterfront quayside in Southampton, England
Southampton, England, Fish and chips
Traditional fish and chips in England

Local Cuisine

Head to the pub for a refreshing glass of ale to pair with crispy, mouthwatering fish and chips. If fried food isn't your thing, go in for a salad with fresh watercress, the peppery green that the Hampshire region is famous for. You'll also find upscale fare based on England's most-loved flavors: Try chicken with Indian-inspired vegetable pakora and tandoori puree or braised Hampshire beef with ale cream.
Southampton, England, Various Antiques
Various antiques at a market

Shopping

Shop for big-name brands galore at Westquay Shopping Centre, the premier shopping destination of the South Coast. Head to Bedford Place for independent shops and boutiques — the country's oldest traditional shoemaker is located here. On weekends, wander down the road to Bar Street to check out the local market for antiques, crafts, vintage accessories and jewelry.

Day 2: Cruising

Day 2
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Ripcord iFly Couple Flying Mid Air
Ripcord iFly Couple Flying Mid Air
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
North Star Pool Deck Aerial
North Star Raised Above Rear of the Ship

North Star®

It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
Flowrider Teenager Surfing
Flowrider Teenager Surfing

Solarium

Slip away to this adults-only indoor and outdoor retreat. The Solarium is your slice of paradise, with soothing whirlpools, warm sunshine and a refreshing water mist.
Mom and Son on Bumper Cars
Mon and Son Driving and Enjoying the Bumper Cars
Young Boy Enjoying the H20 Zone Water Blaster
Young Boy Enjoying the H20 Zone Water Park

H2O ZoneSM Water Park

Splish, splash, kids have a blast at this water park, loaded with interactive geysers shooting out from colorful, climbable creations, plus water cannons, pools, and waterfalls.
Kids Climbing up the Rock Wall
Kids Climbing on the Rock Wall Staring at the Ultimate Abyss

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.

Day 3: Bilbao, Spain

Day 3
Bilbao
Spain
View Itinerary
Bilbao, Spain Cityscape
A view of the Bilbao, Spain cityscape
Things to do in
Bilbao
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
The new and the old meet head-on in Bilbao — the unofficial capital of Basque country in Spain's northwest, near southern France. Once an industrial capital, the opening of the Guggenheim in 1997 propelled Bilbao into a hub of outstanding art, architecture and gastronomy. Today, modern trams travel on historic avenues like the Siete Calles ("Seven Streets") of Casco Viejo — Bilbao's medieval quarter, which today is dotted with boutiques, bakeries and outdoor cafes. Meanwhile, futuristic buildings like the titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum and the Gran Hotel Domine hang over the Nervion river that runs through the city. There's no other city with such a polarity of scenes in Spain. Get onboard a Spain cruise and see for yourself why Bilbao is the pride and joy of Basque Country.
Bilbao, Spain Hilltop Chapel
A hilltop chapel in Bilbao, Spain

Bilbao's Nature

Bilbao may be famous for architecture, but the rolling green hills, panoramic coastline and lush plazas will enchant you as well. Reach Mount Artxanda by cable car for sweeping vistas of the city. Walk by ponds and fountains at Parque de Dona Casilda de Iturrizar, and reach the riverside walkways for close-up urban views of Bilbao.
Insider tip
Don't miss Bilbao's outskirts — check out the coastal suburb Getxo, a 25-minute train ride away, which offers lush green mountains and ocean views.
Bilbao, Spain Downtown Architecture
Various buildings in downtown Bilbao, Spain that show the city's wonderful architecture

Bask in Basque Culture

Check out the Euskal Museoa and the Arkeologi Museoa for a look into the Basque Country's past. Cruise to Spain to stroll down medieval streets in Casco Viejo, the historical center of Bilbao, or down the Gran Via boulevard for a glimpse into the daily lives of locals, who are usually moving from one pintxos (tapas) tavern to the next.
Insider tip
Follow the locals and hop from one pintxos bar to the next, sampling a variety of dishes.
Bilbao, Spain Aerial View of City
An aerial view of the city of Bilbao, Spain

Artistic Heights

Take in the monumental beauty of the Guggenheim by first exploring the outside. You'll see how architect Frank Gehry blended titanium, glass and limestone to conceive elegant curves and sharp edges in this masterpiece of modernity. Then, head inside to see the other masterpieces created by legends like Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro and more.
Insider tip
Instead of taking a cab or renting a car, discover Bilbao more intimately by bike.
Bilbao, Spain Cod Dish
A filet of cod with side dished on a white plate

Local Cuisine

Food is a pastime in Bilbao. Sample bacalao al pil pil (cod with garlic), Marmitako (tuna and vegetable stew) and savory pintxos, the local version of tapas. Stop by El Globo and La Barraca for a quick bite-sized dish, or head to Mina and Azurmendi for Michelin-starred experiences.
Bilbao, Spain Bridge Crossing Over River
A bridge crossing over a river in Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao, Spain Botas Wine Flasks
An assortment of botas wine flasks

Shopping

In Bilbao, you do your shopping on historic streets and sprawling urban areas, with hidden gems in between. Go to the old town and look for the classic botas (wineskin flasks), txapelas (berets) or pañuelos (kerchiefs). Head north to the Abando district for modern shops offering more contemporary wares.

Day 4: Cruising

Day 4
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Jamie's Italian Bruschetta
Jamie's Italian Bruschetta Close-Up
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Parfait Dessert
Coastal Kitchen, cruise dining Parfait dessert bowl. Served with fresh berries and a thick & creamy Greek-style yogurt.

Coastal Kitchen

Exclusively for suite guests and Pinnacle Club members, Coastal Kitchen fuses Mediterranean influences with farm-fresh flavors from California. Filled with Pacific Coast favorites and Med-inspired entrees, the menu here rotates to spotlight delicious, seasonal ingredients. And you can pair every bite with a glass or bottle of wine off a list that includes vintages from the sun-kissed valleys of Napa to the golden-green hills of Tuscany.
AN, Anthem of the Seas, Wonderland restaurant, lime dish, culinary,
Grilled Veal Chop - Chops Grille
Grilled Veal Chop entree at the specialty, Chops Grille restaurant. Cruise vacation fine dining steaks served table side.

Chops Grille℠

For more than a decade, the chefs at Chops Grille have specialized in serving up quality, hand-cut meat. Dinner at this hallmark Royal Caribbean specialty restaurant goes far beyond the typical steakhouse experience, though, with reimagined classics like succulent Maine lobster, gruyere cheese tater tots, white truffle-scented mushroom soup, and of course, expertly prepared prime beef.
La Patisserie
La Patisserie Entrance with Outside Dining
Solarium Bistro Breakfast
Solarium Bistro Buffet Style Breakfast

Solarium Bistro Restaurant

Emphasizing fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Solarium Bistro offers a bright and breezy gastronomic getaway at sea. Serve yourself from stations piled high with Med-inspired dishes and savor every bite inside or al fresco beneath the sun — or the stars.
Cafe Two 70 Soup and Sandwich
Cafe Two 70 Soup and Sandwich Lunch

The Café @ Two70

The Café@Two70 is a gourmet marketplace where every meal comes with a side of captivating views. Choose from a variety of savory hot-pressed sandwiches, crisp custom-made salads, homemade soups and more — all packed up picnic-style, so you can enjoy them while looking out floor-to-ceiling windows in Two70® or anywhere else onboard.

Day 5 - 6: Rotterdam, Netherlands

Day 5 - 6
Rotterdam
Netherlands
View Itinerary
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Windmill
A several large windmills on a river in the Netherlands
Things to do in
Rotterdam
From Day 5, 12:00 PM - Day 6, 7:00 PM
Rotterdam is Europe's biggest port and one of the Netherlands' great surprises. Hit hard by World War II, the city was rebuilt gradually from the 1950s to the '70s — today, it's a lively, thriving metropolis that's home to a diverse, multicultural population. Get a taste of what the city used to look like at the Old Harbour or Delfshaven, a historic marina that survived the 1940 bombardment. Then, visit one of the many top-class museums, such as Boijmans, Van Beuningen or the Kunsthal in Rotterdam's Museum Park. Take a gander at the extraordinary cube houses and the sparkling market hall. Cruise to Rotterdam to relax at the Kralingse Plas lake and park, and snap a photo of the windmills.
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Colorful painted arch
The colorful painted arch of the Markthal

Marvel at Market Hall

Head to the Markthal, a striking landmark that accommodates 96 stalls and several restaurants. Sample local delicacies, such as delicious Dutch cheeses or fresh fish. The ceiling bears the world's largest artwork, the "Horn of Plenty" by Arno Coenen, depicting colorful fruit tumbling from a sky, grazing cows and flowers.
Insider tip
The Euro is the official currency in the Netherlands. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards.
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Oude Haven Harbor
View of the Oude Haven Harbor and Openlucht Binnenvaart Museum

Art En Plein Air

Stroll through Rotterdam's Museum Park and visit the Kunsthal, designed by architect Rem Koolhaas. It hosts regularly changing experimental modern art exhibitions. Close by is the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which displays world-class artworks by Dutch artists such as Piet Mondrian and Vincent van Gogh.
Insider tip
You can explore Rotterdam by foot, or take the tram, metro or bus.
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Delfshaven historic district
Boats docked at the Delfshaven historic district

Charm by the Canal

Head to Delfshaven, a picturesque marina and one of the few parts of the city that survived the 1940 bombardment. Admire the historic canal houses, and browse the art studios and boutiques full of antiques and bric-a-brac. Fuel up in one of the down-to-earth eateries, or sample some local craft beer in a brewery.
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Skyline
The skyline in Rotterdam, Netherlands
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Bitterballen dish
Eight bitterballen on a plate with a dipping sauce

Local Cuisine

From exotic foreign cuisine to traditional Dutch dishes, you can find something for every taste here. Rotterdam's internationally inspired comfort food is patatje oorlog, french fries covered in satay peanut sauce, mayo and diced onion. At a pub, order bitterballen, a deep-fried croquette of shredded meat and roux served with mustard. For dessert, try appeltart, a super-moist apple pie that's reminiscent of bread pudding.
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Cube Houses
Several famous cube houses in Rotterdam, Netherlands
Rotterdam, Netherlands, Ceramic shoes
An assortment of souvenir ceramic shoes in Rotterdam, Netherlands

Shopping

Shops in Rotterdam are open every day. The city center offers plenty of choice in the Beurstraverse, Lijnbaan and Meent, as well as the exclusive Van Oldenbarnevelt street. Witte de With is the cultural shopping street with a wide choice in art boutiques. For vintage clothes and art, go to concept store Toko 51. With your Netherlands cruise, keep an eye out for the signature Dutch trinket: a tiny set of decorative pottery clogs.

Day 7: Bruges/Zeebruge, Belgium

Day 7
Bruges/Zeebruge
Brussels, Belgium
View Itinerary
Bruges, Belgium Colorful Waterfront Homes
Various colorful homes reflecting on a canal in Bruges, Belgium
Things to do in
Bruges/Zeebruge
From 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Bruges offers the best of both worlds: a European cultural hub and, not far beyond, a seafront paradise. Often called the Venice of the North, the capital of Belgium's West Flanders province is lined with canals, bridges and historic buildings. One of Europe's best-preserved medieval towns, Bruges' historic town center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Belgium cruises give you access to the lively market square and see the Belfry of Bruges, a popular piece of Middle Ages architecture. Encounter the city's other personality in Zeebrugge — or "Bruges on sea." This international port and seafront resort is home to cafes, a beach and a marina.
Bruges, Belgium Market Square
The market square in Bruges, Belgium

Behold the Belfry

Standing 83 meters tall and founded in 1240, Bruges' Belfry tower is home to a carillon with 47 bells. Learn about the tower's history in the reception area, then ascend 366 steps up the narrow staircase for a breathtaking Bruges view.
Insider tip
There's always something happening at Markt in Bruges, whether it's amusement rides, performances or a market.
Bruges, Belgium Assorted Belgium Chocolates
An assortment of Belgium chocolates

Check Out Choco-Story

Belgium is synonymous with chocolate. Learn more about the history of chocolate at Bruges' chocolate museum, Choco-Story. Housed in the 16th-century Huis de Crone building, the museum lets you see chocolate being made. There's also a section dedicated to chocolate's health benefits.
Insider tip
If you're looking to get away from the crowds, check out the urban orchard Hof De Jonghe or the quaint, quiet Sint-Anna Quarter.
Bruges, Belgium Aerial View
An aerial view of Bruges, Belgium

Get a Seafront Education

Located in a former fish auction hall, at Seafront you'll learn about Belgium's fishing industry and this important world port. Check out the various activities and exhibitions — there are installations on Zeebrugge and World War II. Cruise to Belgium and visit the Russian submarine and West Hinder, the lighthouse-ship. Kids will love the pirate island and the ball pit.
Bruges, Belgium Buildings Lining Canal
View of a canal in Bruges, Belgium with buildings on both sides
Bruges, Belgium Fries with Mayonnaise
A container with fries topped with mayonnaise

Local Cuisine

Sample some classic Belgian fries, served with mayo rather than ketchup. Got a sweet tooth? Seek out Belgian waffles, or indulge in a delicious bowl of hot chocolate at The Old Chocolate House. Meanwhile, seafood is Zeebrugge's main food group of choice — the dish moules frites combines mussels with the city's signature fries.
Bruges, Belgium Buildings Street View
Street view of buildings in Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, Belgium Traditional Home Souvenirs
Various miniature traditional home souvenirs in Bruges, Belgium

Shopping

The best shopping in Bruges is within walking distance of the historic town center. Purchase chocolate at The Chocolate Line, Dumon or Choco-Story's gift shop. Pick up a miniature Bruges house at a traditional handicraft store. If you're visiting between March and November, explore the flea market along the Dijver every Saturday and Sunday.

Day 8: Southampton, England

Day 8
Southampton
England
View Itinerary
Southampton, England, Yachts docked at Ocean Village Marina
Yachts docked at the Ocean Village Marina in Southampton, England
Things to do in
Southampton
Arrives at 5:30 AM
Located on England's South Coast, Southampton is a city full of surprises. Home to one of the largest ports in Europe, the city has a lot to offer people passing through for the day. Step back in time and explore the old town — walk along the medieval town walls, parts of which date back to 1290. Visit Bargate, a medieval gatehouse built by Normans in the 12th century. Check out SeaCity Museum and learn about what it would have been like to set sail on the Titanic in 1912 — Southampton is where the historic ship left port. Or venture out and explore the Hampshire countryside: Iconic Stonehenge is just a one-hour drive away.
Southampton, England, Stonehenge
View of Stonehenge in England

Prehistoric Adventure

Located just an hour from Southampton, Stonehenge is one of the most well-known prehistoric sites in all of Europe. Wander around the miraculous stone circle and transport yourself back in time when Neolithic engineers used only simple tools to build the huge monument — it's believed they hauled those massive stones over 240 miles from Wales without the use of machines.
Southampton, England, SeaCity Museum
The entrance to the SeaCity Museum in Southampton, England

A Port of Importance

Southampton is home to one of the largest ports in the UK and millions of travelers pass through each year. In 1912, the most famous of those travelers would pass through as they set out to America onboard the Titanic. Southampton's SeaCity museum gives you the opportunity to learn more about the events that happened aboard that famous ship.
Southampton, England, Netley Abbey Ruins
The Netley Abbey ruins in Southampton, England
Southampton, England, The Bargate Close Up View
Close up view of The Bargate gatehouse in Southampton, England

Play Knights in Armor

Step back into the medieval era and walk the old walls of the city. Built to protect the town from attack by sea, most of the wall is still standing, leaving visitors a spectacular view of Southampton and the sea. Watch as boats enter the port city, and see how it would have been if you were a knight on watch hundreds of years ago.
Southampton, England, Calshot Castle
The historic Calshot Castle at the entrance of Southampton, England
Southampton, England, Fish and chips
Traditional fish and chips in England

Local Cuisine

Head to the pub for a refreshing glass of ale to pair with crispy, mouthwatering fish and chips. If fried food isn't your thing, go in for a salad with fresh watercress, the peppery green that the Hampshire region is famous for. You'll also find upscale fare based on England's most-loved flavors: Try chicken with Indian-inspired vegetable pakora and tandoori puree or braised Hampshire beef with ale cream.
Southampton, England, Various Antiques
Various antiques at a market

Shopping

Shop for big-name brands galore at Westquay Shopping Centre, the premier shopping destination of the South Coast. Head to Bedford Place for independent shops and boutiques — the country's oldest traditional shoemaker is located here. On weekends, wander down the road to Bar Street to check out the local market for antiques, crafts, vintage accessories and jewelry.

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