Bristol Travel Guide

Discover Bristol, one of the most vibrant cities in West Country, with our comprehensive guide. Explore must-visit places, food & drink scene, local culture, safety tips and more.


Introduction to Bristol

Bristol is a city located in the county of Somerset, in West Country, England. Known for its rich maritime history, street art, and vibrant cultural scene, the city has transformed into a buzzing metropolis and attracts visitors from all over the world.

With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Bristol is a favorite destination among travelers. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best of Bristol, from its top-rated attractions and outdoor adventures to its bustling food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and everything in between.

List of Places to Visit in Bristol

Here is a list of must-visit places in Bristol:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Bristol Museum and Art Gallery
  • Brunel’s SS Great Britain
  • Clifton Suspension Bridge
  • M Shed
  • The Red Lodge Museum
  • The Georgian House Museum

Natural Attractions of Bristol: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bristol Zoo Gardens
  • The Downs
  • Brandon Hill Nature Park
  • Avon Gorge and Clifton Observatory
  • Leigh Woods
  • Blaise Castle Estate

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bristol

Bristol is surrounded by some spectacular natural landscapes and green spaces, making it the perfect city for exploring on foot or by bike. Here are some of the most popular hiking and biking trails in Bristol:

  • Avon Gorge Walk
  • The Bristol and Bath Railway Path
  • The Malago Greenway
  • The Whitchurch Way
  • The Two Rivers Way
  • The Strawberry Line

Best Things to Do in Bristol: Activities and Tours

From street art tours and food tours to hot air balloon rides and boat trips, Bristol offers plenty of great activities and tours. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Bristol Street Art Tour
  • Bristol Balloon Fiesta
  • The Bristol Food Tour
  • Bristol Ferry Boat Trip
  • Clifton Observatory and Caves Tour
  • Bristol Blue Glass Factory Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Bristol

If you’re planning to spend a week in Bristol, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1 Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, Bristol Zoo Gardens, Brandon Hill Nature Park
Day 2 Brunel’s SS Great Britain, Clifton Suspension Bridge, The Red Lodge Museum
Day 3 M Shed, The Georgian House Museum, Avon Gorge and Clifton Observatory
Day 4 The Bristol and Bath Railway Path, The Malago Greenway, and The Whitchurch Way
Day 5 Blaise Castle Estate, Leigh Woods, and The Downs
Day 6 Bristol Street Art Tour, Bristol Blue Glass Factory Tour, and Clifton Observatory and Caves Tour
Day 7 Bristol Ferry Boat Trip and Bristol Balloon Fiesta

Food and Drink Scene of Bristol

Bristol has a thriving food and drink scene, with an excellent selection of restaurants, pubs, and cafes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Bristol Patty
  • Bristolian Fried Chicken
  • Clifton Sausage
  • Harvey’s Bristol Cream
  • Bristol Cream Sherry Trifle
  • Bristol Sweet Mart Pani Puri

Local Beverages

  • Ashton Press Cider
  • Bristol Beer Factory
  • Wiper and True
  • Moor Beer Company
  • The Bristol Distilling Co

Where to Stay in Bristol: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bristol has a great selection of accommodation options at different price points. Here are some recommendations:

  • The Bristol Hotel
  • Radisson Blu Hotel Bristol
  • YHA Bristol Hostel
  • Rock n Bowl Hostel
  • The Washington Hotel
  • The Old Manor House Hotel

What to Buy in Bristol: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bristol is home to many independent stores and unique markets selling a range of products from local designers and artisans. Here are some of the best places to shop for souvenirs and local products in Bristol:

  • St Nick’s Market
  • Gloucester Road
  • Wapping Wharf
  • Bristol Blue Glass
  • Clifton Arcade

Local Culture and Customs of Bristol

Bristol is known for its vibrant street art scene, with many famous murals and installations to be discovered throughout the city. Bristolians are proud of their independent spirit and are passionate about music, culture, and the arts.

Best Time to Visit Bristol

The best time to visit Bristol is between May and September when the weather is mild, and there are many outdoor events and festivals. However, the city has something to offer visitors all year round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bristol

Do:

  • Explore the street art
  • Visit the local markets
  • Take a hot air balloon ride
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Take a boat trip along the River Avon

Don’t:

  • Ride your bike on the pavements
  • Leave your trash behind in public spaces
  • Be disrespectful of the local culture

Safety and Health

Safety in Bristol

Bristol is a relatively safe city, but visitors should always take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas.

Health in Bristol

Bristol has several hospitals and medical facilities for visitors in need of medical care. It’s always advisable to have travel insurance in case of emergencies.

Getting to Bristol: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bristol is well connected to other parts of the UK and Europe via various modes of transport.

Airports Near Bristol

  • Bristol Airport

Bus Stations Near Bristol

  • Bristol Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train
  • Taxi
  • Car

How to Get Around in Bristol

Bristol has an efficient public transport system, including buses and trains, with many of the main attractions within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also rent bikes to explore the city’s scenic trails and routes.

Where to Go Next from Bristol: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bristol is the ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding areas in West Country and beyond. Here are some recommended nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Bath
  • Cheddar Gorge
  • Mendip Hills
  • Weston-Super-Mare
  • Wells

Conclusion

Bristol is undoubtedly one of the most vibrant and entertaining cities in the UK. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and abundance of outdoor activities, Bristol makes for a great destination for travelers of all ages and interests. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to Bristol and enjoy all the city has to offer.

Bristol Cathedral Bristol Cathedral The centre of Bristol seen from a balloon The centre of Bristol seen from a balloon Bristol's Millennium Square at night Bristol's Millennium Square at night A boat in the sunset at Bristol Harbourside A boat in the sunset at Bristol Harbourside Bristol Temple Meads station's frontage is quite unique Bristol Temple Meads station's frontage is quite unique Despite being voted one of the most picturesque railway lines in the United Kingdom, the line from Bristol to Severn Beach also runs through the industrial area of Avonmouth. At St Andrews Road, a coal silo dwarfs the station. Despite being voted one of the most picturesque railway lines in the United Kingdom, the line from Bristol to Severn Beach also runs through the industrial area of Avonmouth. At St Andrews Road, a coal silo dwarfs the station. The The "Matilda", one of a fleet of ferries which provide transport around the Bristol Docks. Part of the Harbourside development at night. It can be well worth a walk along the dockside after dark! Part of the Harbourside development at night. It can be well worth a walk along the dockside after dark! Aerospace Bristol Museum Aerospace Bristol Museum Isambard Kingdom Brunel's steam ship the ''SS Great Britain'' was built in Bristol, and is now preserved in dry dock. Isambard Kingdom Brunel's steam ship the ''SS Great Britain'' was built in Bristol, and is now preserved in dry dock. Millennium Square, part of the At-Bristol complex, an interactive science museum. Millennium Square, part of the At-Bristol complex, an interactive science museum. The Bristol Balloon Fiesta takes place at Ashton Court The Bristol Balloon Fiesta takes place at Ashton Court Bristol Balloon Fiesta Bristol Balloon Fiesta Fireworks at the Harbour Festival Fireworks at the Harbour Festival The Cabot Circus shopping centre. The Cabot Circus shopping centre. Christmas Steps Christmas Steps St. Nicholas Market St. Nicholas Market The Llandoger Trow The Llandoger Trow The hilltop parish church of St Michael the Archangel in Dundry, built from yellow, oolitic limestone and commanding views for miles around The hilltop parish church of St Michael the Archangel in Dundry, built from yellow, oolitic limestone and commanding views for miles around