7 days in Bristol, England: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Bristol, England, is a vibrant city that masterfully combines rich history, quirky street art, and exceptional dining experiences. This bustling metropolis boasts various landmarks such as the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, Brunel’s SS Great Britain, and the vibrant Harbourside area. Throughout Bristol, you’ll be enthralled by the eye-catching Banksy murals and mesmerized by the friendly locals who make your visit a memorable one.
Things to consider before arriving in Bristol
Bristol is excellent for history and art lovers – visit the M Shed museum and admire the famous street art scattered around the city.
Food enthusiasts will love the diverse culinary scene here – from local English pastries to the world-renowned Pieminister pies.
Unfortunately, Bristol’s weather can be unpredictable – make sure to pack accordingly and be prepared for your visit.
Bristol will appeal most to those who enjoy a mix of history, culture, vibrant nightlife, and a friendly atmosphere.
What to bring with you
1. Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be exploring many attractions on foot.
2. Layers, including a waterproof jacket – as mentioned, Bristol’s weather can change quickly.
3. A reusable water bottle – stay hydrated while exploring this amazing city.
4. A camera – capture the incredible street art, architecture, and lovely views Bristol has to offer.
Best time of the year to visit
The best time to visit Bristol is during late spring and early autumn, particularly between May and June or September and October. You’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a perfect atmosphere to wander around the city.
How to get into the city
1. By train: Bristol has two main train stations: Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway. Both are well-connected to London and other major cities in the UK. The journey from London Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes.
2. By bus: National Express and Megabus operate coaches from major cities across the UK to Bristol. The coach station is located in the central Marlborough Street.
3. By air: Bristol Airport (BRS) is located approximately 8 miles from the city center. From there, the Airport Flyer Express Bus service (A1) runs frequently, taking about 30 minutes to reach the city center.
7 day city guide trip in Bristol
Day 1 – Exploring the Historic Center
Start your day by walking along Harbourside, a beautiful waterfront area with plenty of cafes and restaurants. Then head to Clifton Suspension Bridge, one of Bristol’s most iconic landmarks. After that, visit St. Mary Redcliffe, a stunning medieval church located in the historic center of Bristol. End your day with a delicious meal at The Ox, where you can enjoy a mouth-watering steak.
Day 2 – Street Art Tour and Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Bristol is known for its vibrant street art, so take a tour with a local guide to discover hidden gems throughout the city. Then, head to Bristol Museum & Art Gallery, where you can admire a diverse collection of artwork, including pieces by local artists. For dinner, check out Poco Tapas Bar, a cozy spot with delicious tapas dishes.
Day 3 – Day Trip to Bath
Take a day trip to nearby city Bath, known for its stunning architecture and Roman Baths. Take a walking tour to discover all the hidden gems of this beautiful city.
Day 4 – Bristol Zoo Gardens and Dining at The Lido
Spend the day at Bristol Zoo Gardens, a fun attraction for all ages, with plenty of exotic animals and interactive exhibits. For dinner, head to The Lido, a beautiful outdoor pool turned restaurant serving delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
Day 5 – Bristol Aquarium and Bristol Old Vic
Start your day by exploring the underwater world at Bristol Aquarium, where you can see a variety of marine life up close. Then, catch a show at Bristol Old Vic, a historic theater with a variety of performances throughout the year. For dinner, check out Casamia, a Michelin-starred restaurant specializing in modern British cuisine.
Day 6 – Day Trip to Cheddar Gorge and Caves
Take a day trip to Cheddar Gorge and Caves, a stunning natural attraction with plenty of hiking trails and cave tours.
Day 7 – Shopping and Dining at Cargo
Spend your final day shopping at Cargo, a unique shopping district with independent boutiques and shops. For your last meal in Bristol, head to one of the many delicious restaurants in the area, such as Paco Tapas or The Lido.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Bristol
If you’re looking for a change of pace, consider taking a day trip to the nearby city of Gloucester, where you can visit the stunning Gloucester Cathedral and walk the beautiful docks. Alternatively, head to Cardiff, Wales, located just 45 minutes away by train, where you can visit Cardiff Castle and explore the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
