Itineraries for Your Trip to Bristol
3 Days in Bristol for First Timers
Bristol is often overlooked by visitors to England’s West Country, most of whom head straight to the Georgian city of Bath, a quick train ride away. When I lived and studied in Bath, my friends and I would often head over to Bristol to get away from the tourist crowds and to take advantage of the city’s greater abundance of shopping and nightlife. Although we ended up spending time in Bristol by virtue of its proximity to Bath, we quickly discovered that the city was a fantastic getaway spot in its own right.
Always be prepared for rain, no matter the season.
If you only have time for one thing, make it the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
Get your bearings in Bristol with a guided tour of the Old City and Bristol Harbour. You'll learn about the city's history and architecture as you make your way past many of Bristol's landmark buildings.
In the afternoon, spend some time checking out the SS Great Britain, which was once the largest passenger ship in the world. Then make your way over to the Clifton neighborhood, known for the massive Clifton Suspension Bridge as well as for its upscale shops, restaurants, and terraced houses.
Bristol has long been celebrated for its street art, and the elusive artist Banksy has certainly left a mark on the city. Learn about the city's street art scene and have some fun with a self-guided street art scavenger hunt that you can play on your smartphone.
In the afternoon, head over to the nearby city of Bath, famed for its Georgian architecture and historic Roman Baths. While you can get there by train from Bristol's Temple Meads railway station, a guided tour that includes transfers from your hotel is a convenient and enriching way to do it.
Add some adventure to your last day in the area. Start your morning off with a special treat: a hot air balloon flight over the countryside. Then return to Bristol to take in views from the Bristol Harbour while you try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding.
Spend your evening getting to know Bristol's thriving pub scene. For an insider's take, consider a guided pub tour, led by a local who knows the best places to eat and drink in town.
