Chichester, a cathedral city in West Sussex, has been highlighted as a must-visit destination for 2027, with Expedia reporting a 30% increase in traveller interest compared to last year. It is the only UK city to feature on Expedia's 2027 Destinations of the Year list, which highlights the fastest-growing travel destinations.
Why Chichester is drawing attention
Expedia's research, which combined a survey of 26,000 travellers, first-party data and social listening, identified Chichester as a standout location. The city's appeal lies in its well-preserved Roman walls, medieval architecture and thriving arts and culture scene. Expedia noted: "Chichester is a market town on the West Sussex coast, packed full of culture and history, where searches have increased 30% compared to last year. See the renowned modern art collection inside Chichester Cathedral, catch a show at its acclaimed theatre and enjoy world-class sailing and cycling."
Chichester's city centre follows a Roman grid that converges at the 16th-century Market Cross, with four distinct areas: North Street, East Street, South Street and West Street. The 900-year-old Chichester Cathedral and the neighbouring Bishop's Palace Gardens are just steps away.
Independent shops and historic streets
According to Visit Chichester, the city is home to almost 200 independent shops, alongside weekly markets and unusual boutiques. These can be found tucked among historic alleyways known locally as the city's 'pallants' and 'twittens'. The city's 3rd-century Roman walls, built around AD 200 and standing over seven metres tall, are said to be among the best-preserved Roman defences in England.
Visitors have praised the city's compact layout and variety. One traveller said they "loved Chichester", describing it as a "great place with a mix of multiple & independent shops, restaurants & cafes." Another called it "wonderful, compact and an interesting city" with "lots of art and culture". A third commented: "What a lovely place to walk around and look at the shops. Nice place to have a meal, quite a selection of restaurants. Sat listening to the man playing music in the street, nice calm atmosphere."
Expedia's 2027 Destinations of the Year
Chichester joins an international list that includes South Lake Tahoe, California (195% increase), Hyogo, Japan (95%), Punta del Este, Uruguay (65%), Sedona, Arizona (55%), Busan, South Korea (50%), Holbox, Mexico (45%), Perugia, Italy (35%), The Tweed, New South Wales, Australia (35%) and Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada (35%).
With its pedestrian-friendly high streets, Georgian facades and timber-framed buildings, Chichester offers a mix of history, shopping and dining that travellers recommend exploring over a day trip or a longer stay.
