Weekend Adventure: 4 Days in Bristol, UK

Discover the Vibrant Heart of the Southwest with a Trip to Bristol!

22 April 2023

Bristol has a vibrant and bustling atmosphere that will surely captivate any tourist who visits the city. From its historic sites, such as the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain, to its incredible street art scene, there are so many things to explore in this city. Additionally, Bristol offers a great range of food and drink options, including its famous cider, which is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the city's unique culture.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival in Bristol

  • Check-in at the quirky and unique Brooks Guesthouse, located in the heart of Bristol's old town
  • Explore the historic Clifton Suspension Bridge, designed by the legendary engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel
  • Grab a quick bite at St Nicholas Market, one of the oldest and coolest food markets in Britain
  • Visit the Harbourside, a beautiful waterway that is home to many bars, cafes, and restaurants
  • Catch a show at the Bristol Hippodrome, one of the country's most beautiful theatres
Day 2

Bristol street art

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the cozy Source Cafe on St Nicolas Street
  • Wander through Stokes Croft, one of the city's most creative and vibrant neighborhoods, known for its street art
  • Take a street art tour to discover some of the most famous works of world-renowned artists such as Banksy and Inkie
  • Check out the Arnolfini, an innovative contemporary art space that overlooks the Harbourside
  • End the day with a craft beer at BrewDog, a popular brewery in the heart of the city centre
Day 3

Cultural history of Bristol

  • Head to the SS Great Britain, a legendary steamship designed by Brunel and housed in a stunning dry dock museum
  • Visit the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery for a fascinating journey through the city's cultural and historical heritage
  • Walk around the Floating Harbour, where you can see some of the city's most ancient buildings, including the St. Mary Redcliffe Church
  • Have a traditional British lunch of fish and chips at the award-winning Salt and Malt near the marina
  • Afternoon tea at the luxurious Spicer & Cole cafe in Clifton, a decadent way to take a break from sightseeing
Day 4

The great outdoors

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the cozy Coffee+Beer on Cotham Hill
  • Visit the Bristol Zoo Gardens, home to over 400 species of animals and known for its conservation efforts
  • Take a long hike on the beautiful Leigh Woods, a National Trust site that offers stunning views of the Avon Gorge
  • Discover the Clifton Observatory, an 18th-century tower with a camera obscura that offers one of the most spectacular views of Bristol
  • Head to the Cowshed for an unforgettable steak dinner, located in the trendy Whiteladies Road neighborhood
  • Bristol is a city of contrasts, from its rich history to its innovative creative scene. Whether you want to explore the local architecture, enjoy the street art, savor traditional British cuisine or explore the great outdoors, Bristol has something exciting to offer every kind of traveler.

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.

More travel plans

Bristol on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun

Visitors on a limited budget can enjoy Bristol's vibrant culture and historic landmarks with affordable options. Explore the famous street art and architecture with a free walking tour or visit the city's museums and galleries for as little as £5. Indulge in affordable cuisine from local markets and street food vendors or take advantage of budget accommodations such as hostels and budget hotels.

Weekend Romance: Bristol, UK Delights

A romantic trip to Bristol, United Kingdom promises to be a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern delights. Explore the cobbled streets and historic buildings of Bristol's picturesque harbor, while enjoying its vibrant food and drink scene. Indulge in an intimate stay at one of the city's cozy boutique hotels or bed and breakfasts, rounding off a memorable trip to Bristol.

A romantic long weekend in Bristol, UK

Experience the charming and quaint city of Bristol on a romantic getaway. Take a stroll alongside the beautiful Harbourside, indulge in local cuisine at one of the many eateries or explore the city's rich history and culture museums and galleries. End your evenings with a drink at a cozy pub or experience the nightlife at some of the city's trendy bars and clubs for an unforgettable trip with your loved one.

Bristol: Budget-Friendly Day Trip Guide

For budget-conscious travelers, Bristol, UK offers a great deal of charm and activities without breaking the bank. From wandering through street art in the world-renowned Stokes Croft neighborhood to enjoying waterfront views at the free-to-enter Harbourside, there's something for everyone in Bristol. Be sure to try a "pie and a pint" at a local pub and explore the city's rich maritime history at the free-entry M Shed museum.