Cowes, at the northern tip of the island is divided by the River Medina into West Cowes and East Cowes. West Cowes, as a yachting centre, enjoys international status during Cowes Week. Osborne House, just south of East Cowes, was the home for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Further inland towards the centre of the island, and at the navigational bottom of the River Media, lies Newport, the largest town and 'capital' of the island. Newport, over the years, has been developed into the main shopping centre for island residents but still retains many pleasing 18th century houses, a roman villa and the church of St Thomas contains the grave of Princess Elizabeth, daughter of Charles I.  Carisbrooke, originally the principal town of the island has an interesting church but is better known for its fine Norman castle that dominates the skyline.

Alum Bay, at the extreme tip of the island, is famous for its coloured sands; nearby the Old Battery has been recently restored by the National Trust to provide splendid views of the famous Needles. Freshwater, a small village has long been associated with the poet, Tennyson; a memorial is located on Tennyson Down. Yarmouth, an attractive small ferry port and yachting centre provides vehicular access to and from the mainland.

At the east of the island tourism is concentrated between the towns of Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor. Ryde is a large resort containing many attractive 19th century buildings. Sandown, with its fine sands, is home to the Isle of Wight Zoo where Bengal Tigers are bred in captivity. Nearby Shanklin is more serene and attractive where Shanklin Chine, a deep ravine, contains many species of rare plants. Ventnor, possibly the most attractive resort on the island, is home to the Botanical Garden that contains a large collection of sub-tropical plants and a museum on smuggling history. Godshill, is the show village of the island attracting tourists during the summer months to admire the thatched cottages grouped round the church.