Chichester, a picturesque cathedral city in West Sussex, is an ideal destination for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Known for its stunning cathedral, Roman heritage, and charming streets, Chichester offers a mix of culture, scenic beauty, and seaside escapes. Planning your trip with Holiday Extras makes your journey stress-free, covering everything from airport transfers to hotel stays.
This guide will take you through the top attractions, dining, day trips, and tips for making the most of your Chichester visit.
Why Visit Chichester?
Chichester is a hidden gem on England’s south coast. The city is small enough to explore on foot but offers plenty of things to see and do:
- Rich History: The Roman walls, medieval cathedral, and historic streets make Chichester perfect for history enthusiasts.
- Art & Culture: From festivals to galleries, the city celebrates the arts year-round.
- Proximity to the Coast: Nearby beaches and the South Downs provide stunning scenery.
- Walkable City Center: You can explore museums, shops, cafés, and historic buildings without needing a car.
With Holiday Extras, you can take care of all travel logistics in advance, allowing you to focus on enjoying Chichester.
Getting to Chichester
Chichester is well-connected, whether you’re arriving by train, car, or air:
- By Train: Regular services run from London, Brighton, and other nearby cities.
- By Car: Accessible via the A27 and A259, making it convenient for day trips along the south coast.
- By Air: The closest airports are Gatwick, Heathrow, and Southampton. Booking airport parking or transfer services through Holiday Extras ensures a smooth start to your trip.

Top Attractions in Chichester
Chichester Cathedral
The city’s iconic cathedral dates back to the 11th century. With its stunning Gothic architecture, medieval carvings, and tranquil cloisters, it’s a must-see. Visitors can also attend concerts or exhibitions that frequently take place inside this historic landmark.
Pallant House Gallery
A premier modern art gallery in Chichester, Pallant House showcases British art from the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as temporary exhibitions featuring international artists.
Roman Heritage
Walk along the well-preserved Roman walls and discover Chichester’s ancient past. Sites like the Novium Museum reveal the city’s Roman and medieval history through fascinating displays and artifacts.
Chichester Festival Theatre
One of England’s leading theatres, offering world-class performances, from contemporary plays to Shakespearean classics. Booking tickets in advance can be combined with Holiday Extras hotel packages for a seamless cultural experience.

Exploring Nature & Outdoors
South Downs National Park
Just a short drive from Chichester, South Downs offers breathtaking rolling hills, scenic trails, and wildlife spotting opportunities. Perfect for hiking, cycling, or photography enthusiasts.
Chichester Harbour
A designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the harbour offers walking trails, sailing, and birdwatching. It’s ideal for a relaxing afternoon by the water.
Bishop’s Palace Gardens
Adjacent to the cathedral, these gardens are beautifully landscaped and perfect for a peaceful stroll, picnicking, or simply enjoying the historic surroundings.
Food and Dining in Chichester
Chichester’s culinary scene blends traditional British fare with modern dining experiences:
- Historic Pubs: Try classic dishes and local ales in charming settings.
- Riverside Cafés & Restaurants: Enjoy riverside views while sampling fresh, locally sourced food.
- Fine Dining: Chichester has multiple award-winning restaurants offering contemporary cuisine.
- Local Markets: The city hosts regular markets featuring artisanal produce, ideal for tasting local flavors.
Booking accommodations through Holiday Extras sometimes provides exclusive deals that include access to nearby restaurants or local dining discounts.
Where to Stay in Chichester
Chichester offers a wide range of lodging options:
- City Center Hotels: Perfect for exploring the cathedral, museums, and shops on foot.
- Countryside Guesthouses: Stay close to the South Downs and enjoy peaceful surroundings.
- Seaside Lodges: Nearby beaches provide a scenic backdrop for overnight stays.
Using Holiday Extras to book hotels, transfers, or parking ensures a convenient and stress-free visit.
Day Trips Around Chichester
Chichester’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring West Sussex and the south coast:
- Goodwood Estate: Famous for its motorsport events, golf course, and gardens.
- Arundel Castle: Just a short drive away, this medieval castle and its beautiful gardens are perfect for history lovers.
- Beaches: West Wittering and East Head offer sandy shores and water sports.
- South Coast Villages: Quaint villages like Bosham and Fishbourne are ideal for a scenic drive or leisurely walk.
Holiday Extras can help arrange transfers or car hire to make these day trips easier and more comfortable.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore Chichester Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace Gardens
- Afternoon: Visit Pallant House Gallery and Novium Museum
- Evening: Dinner at a riverside restaurant and a show at Chichester Festival Theatre
Day 2:
- Morning: Hike or cycle in South Downs National Park
- Afternoon: Visit Chichester Harbour for walking, sailing, or birdwatching
- Evening: Enjoy a traditional pub meal before heading back to your accommodation
Using Holiday Extras ensures your transport, parking, and lodging are all taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy your trip.
Travel Tips for Chichester
- Book Early: Secure hotels, transfers, and parking in advance through Holiday Extras.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Chichester is a walkable city with cobbled streets and historic paths.
- Check Event Schedules: Festivals, exhibitions, and theatre performances often require advanced booking.
- Bundle Services: Combine hotel, parking, and transfer options to save time and money.
- Plan for Weather: Bring layers and a light raincoat for coastal and countryside excursions.
Why Use Holiday Extras?
Traveling should be about relaxation, not logistics. Holiday Extras simplifies every aspect of your trip:
- Easy booking for hotels, airport parking, and transfers
- Flexible cancellation policies
- Exclusive bundle discounts
- Peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of
Whether you’re flying into Gatwick, driving, or taking the train, Holiday Extras ensures your trip runs smoothly.
Chichester offers the perfect mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and coastal charm. From exploring the cathedral and Roman heritage to enjoying riverside dining and scenic walks, there’s something for everyone.
By planning your trip with Holiday Extras, you can focus on making memories instead of worrying about logistics. Enjoy a stress-free, unforgettable trip to Chichester and discover why this charming city is one of England’s best-kept secrets.