Bristol on a Budget: 3 Days of Fun!

Discover Bristol's charm without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Bristol on a limited budget offers an amazing opportunity to explore the city's rich history, culture, art, and music. With numerous free museums and parks, you can enjoy plenty of activities and sights without spending a penny. Additionally, budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses provide reasonably-priced accommodation options for the duration of your stay.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Old City

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the quirky Cafe Matariki, famous for its coffee and homemade pastries.
  • Walk around the Old City and admire the stunning Georgian architecture.
  • Visit St. Nicholas Market, a bustling indoor market with over 60 stalls selling everything from street food to vintage clothing.
  • Take a tour of the SS Great Britain, a historic steamship that revolutionized the way we travel.
  • Enjoy dinner at Pieminister, an award-winning pie shop with a variety of savory and sweet pies.
  • Stay at: Brooks Guesthouse a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the Old City, offering affordable and comfortable accommodations.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Have breakfast at Spicer and Cole, a stylish coffee shop with a cozy atmosphere and a delicious breakfast menu.
  • Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, a spectacular museum with a diverse collection that includes art, natural history, and archaeology.
  • See a show at the Bristol Hippodrome, one of the country's top theaters that stages productions of musicals, plays, and comedies.
  • Go to the Arnolfini, a contemporary art center that hosts exhibitions, performances, and events.
  • Have dinner at the River Cottage Canteen, a sustainable kitchen with beautifully cooked dishes that use only fresh, local ingredients.
  • Stay at: Travelodge Bristol Central Mitchell Lane a budget hotel located in the city center that offers clean and modern rooms at unbeatable prices.
Day 3

Waterside Attractions

  • Have breakfast at The Bristolian, a cozy independent cafe that serves up delicious coffee and all-day breakfast.
  • Take a boat trip around Brunel's famous Clifton Suspension Bridge and enjoy stunning views of the Avon Gorge.
  • Visit the We The Curious, a science and technology center that offers a hands-on interactive experience for all ages.
  • Explore the Harbourside, a bustling waterfront area that plays host to numerous events and festivals.
  • Have a farewell dinner at The Burger Joint, a trendy burger restaurant that offers a variety of burgers made with locally sourced ingredients.
  • Stay at: Rock n' Bowl Bristol a lively hostel with a great atmosphere, fun activities like bowling, and affordable dorms and private rooms.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Bristol by plane is to fly into Bristol Airport which is approximately 8 miles from the city centre. There are direct flights available from many locations across Europe and the UK, including London, Edinburgh, Amsterdam and Paris.

Car

The best way to get to Bristol by car is to take the M4 motorway from London or the M5 motorway from Birmingham. The journey time from London is approximately 2 hours and from Birmingham it takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is recommended to use a sat nav or map to navigate the city centre.

Train

The best way to get to Bristol by train is to take a direct train from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes and operates regularly throughout the day.

Boat

There is no direct boat service to Bristol, however there are many options for boat tours and river cruises available from Bristol Harbour. These provide a unique way to see the city and surrounding areas from the water.

Bus

The best way to get to Bristol by bus is to take the National Express coach from London Victoria Coach Station which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. There are also regular services from other UK cities including Birmingham, Manchester and Cardiff.

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