Things To Do
in Bristol

Bristol, located in the southwest of England, is a vibrant city known for its rich maritime history and diverse cultural scene. It boasts a blend of traditional and contemporary architecture, highlighted by the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. The city is also renowned for its street art, particularly the works of Banksy.

With a bustling waterfront and a variety of festivals, Bristol offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, which showcases local art and history, followed by a stroll through the nearby Queens Square.

afternoon
:

Head to the Harbourside area for lunch at a local eatery and visit the M Shed to learn about Bristol's industrial past.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant on the waterfront, followed by drinks at one of the city's many pubs.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike up to the Clifton Observatory for stunning views of the suspension bridge and the Avon Gorge.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bristol Zoo Gardens to see a variety of animals and exhibits, then relax in the adjacent Clifton Downs park.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant in the Clifton area before experiencing Bristol's live music scene at a local venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🚇Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night$150
🚌Taxi ride$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and artistic scene
  • Diverse culinary options
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Can be expensive compared to other UK cities
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours

Places to Visit in Bristol

Visit one of these nice places.

Clifton Suspension Bridge

An iconic symbol of Bristol, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the Avon Gorge and the surrounding landscape.

Bristol Harbourside

The waterfront area is perfect for capturing colorful boats, lively markets, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Street Art in Stokes Croft

This area is famous for its street art, featuring large murals and graffiti that provide fantastic backdrops for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bristol

Bristol's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional British fare and innovative cuisine, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Bristol Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cider

Bristol is famous for its cider, with many local varieties available to taste in restaurants and pubs.

Must-Try!

Bristol Cream

A type of sherry that is rich and sweet, often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

St. Nicholas Market

A bustling market featuring a variety of food stalls offering international dishes, local produce, and artisanal products.

Wapping Wharf

A trendy development with a collection of shipping containers housing street food vendors, perfect for casual dining.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bristol experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July. Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year, with the wettest months being October and November. Visitors should be prepared for occasional rain and varying temperatures, especially in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queuing

Bristolians value politeness and patience; forming an orderly queue is expected in public places.

Personal Space

Respect for personal space is important; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated and considered polite in all interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bristol is generally a safe city, with a low crime rate compared to other UK cities. However, like any urban area, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services.

Tipping in Bristol

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, especially if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are common. Cash can be used but is not always necessary.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and numerous outdoor festivals, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists, and you can enjoy outdoor events, open-air cinema, and the vibrant festival scene.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage make it a picturesque time for walks and photography.

Winter

Winter brings chilly weather, but the city is decorated for the holidays, with Christmas markets and festive events.

Nightlife Guide

Bristol at Night

Bristol's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from lively pubs and bars to nightclubs and live music venues. The city is known for its eclectic music scene, with genres ranging from jazz to drum and bass. Popular areas for nightlife include the Harbourside, Stokes Croft, and Clifton, where you can find everything from casual settings to upscale venues. Many bars host events featuring local DJs or live bands, ensuring a fun night out.

Hiking in Bristol

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cotswold Way

A long-distance walking trail that runs through the picturesque Cotswolds, offering stunning views and charming villages along the route.

Avon Gorge

A scenic walking area with trails along the cliffs and river, providing stunning vistas of the gorge and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Bristol by plane.

Bristol Airport

Located approximately 8 miles from the city center, Bristol Airport offers a range of domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bristol is a highly walkable city, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance of each other, particularly in the city center. The flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make it easy to explore on foot. Additionally, pedestrian-friendly areas and parks enhance the walkability experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Bristol is home to a large student population due to the presence of several universities, contributing to the city's vibrant and youthful atmosphere.

Art and Music Enthusiasts

The city attracts a diverse group of artists and musicians, fostering a creative community that thrives on innovation and cultural exchange.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Bristol has a strong football culture, with two professional clubs, Bristol City and Bristol Rovers, attracting passionate local support.

Rugby

Rugby is also popular in Bristol, with the Bristol Bears competing in the top tiers of English rugby and drawing in large crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bristol can be congested, particularly during rush hours. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, making it easy to navigate without a car. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bristol.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free

Many restaurants offer gluten-free options, and local markets provide gluten-free snacks and meals.

Vegan

Bristol is known for its vegan-friendly eateries, making it easy to find plant-based options throughout the city.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Bristol is provided by the National Health Service (NHS), which offers a range of medical services to residents and visitors. Emergency services are available at local hospitals, and there are several clinics and general practitioners throughout the city. Visitors from outside the UK should ensure they have travel insurance, as NHS services may not cover all costs for non-residents.

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Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

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