Clifton captivates visitors with its stunning Georgian crescents and the iconic Suspension Bridge spanning the dramatic Avon Gorge. This affluent Bristol area blends historic charm with upscale boutiques and fine dining establishments. The welcoming village centre features cobbled streets lined with independent shops and charming cafés. The expansive Clifton Downs offers panoramic city views and peaceful green space perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. Explore architectural gems like the Observatory perched above Brandon Hill or discover the neighborhood's boutique shopping scene. Most attractions are within walking distance, though be prepared for the hilly terrain.
Bristol's Harbourside transforms the city's historic floating harbour into a vibrant waterfront destination. Once a working dock area, this maritime district now houses cultural treasures like M Shed museum and Arnolfini arts centre. Millennium Square hosts lively events while converted warehouses showcase creative businesses. Take a scenic stroll along the pedestrian promenade or hop on a harbour boat tour. Waterfront restaurants and bars offer everything from casual pub fare to upscale dining. The Watershed media centre and We The Curious science museum provide perfect entertainment options for rainy days.
Step back in time as you wander the medieval streets of Bristol Old City. Ancient cobblestones lead to St. Nicholas Market where local artisans display their crafts under a Victorian glass roof. Historic pubs and trendy restaurants occupy timber-framed buildings that have stood for centuries. The area blends maritime heritage with modern culture at every turn. Bristol Bridge offers glimpses of the harbour where tall ships once docked. Church spires pierce the skyline while galleries and traditional alehouses invite exploration on foot.
Redcliffe blends medieval charm with creative energy along Bristol's historic waterfront. The magnificent St. Mary Redcliffe church stands proudly among cobbled streets and converted warehouses. Mysterious caves tunnel beneath while ancient city walls tell stories of maritime glory. Stroll along the Floating Harbour to discover colourful houseboats and waterside cafes. Art lovers will appreciate the contemporary Arnolfini arts centre and studios housed in industrial buildings. The area offers easy access to Bristol's highlights while maintaining its distinct historic character.
Stokes Croft thrives as Bristol's cultural quarter where colourful street art transforms every wall into an outdoor gallery. Banksy's famous works stand alongside vibrant community murals in this alternative area. Creative energy flows through independent cafes, vintage shops, and art spaces housed in converted industrial buildings. The area buzzes with artistic spirit through venues like The Canteen community hub and PRSC gallery. Diverse restaurants reflect Bristol's multicultural identity while lively music venues keep the scene vibrant after dark. Getting around is simple with frequent buses and excellent walkability.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Bristol
Cabot Circus Shopping Centre
8.8/10 (1,383 reviews)
Cabot Circus dazzles with its striking glass roof sheltering over 120 shops. Browse fashion boutiques, dine at diverse restaurants, or catch a film at the cinema for a complete shopping experience.
Clifton Suspension Bridge
9.2/10 (1,269 reviews)
This Victorian engineering marvel spans the Avon Gorge, offering free access to breathtaking views of Bristol. Visit the illuminated bridge after dusk for a spectacular nighttime perspective of this iconic symbol.
Bristol Hippodrome Theatre
8.4/10 (303 reviews)
This grand Edwardian theatre hosts West End productions on one of the UK's largest stages. Arrive early to enjoy the Piano Bar and admire the unique retractable dome before your show.
Photo by Rob F
Open Photo by Rob F
Ashton Gate Stadium
8.4/10 (132 reviews)
Home to Bristol City FC and Bristol Bears rugby, Ashton Gate blends 19th-century heritage with modern amenities. Experience the electric atmosphere of 27,000 passionate fans during evening matches.
Photo by Visit England
Open Photo by Visit England
SS Great Britain
9.2/10 (315 reviews)
Step aboard Brunel's groundbreaking SS Great Britain, the world's first iron-hulled, propeller-driven steamship from 1843. Experience Victorian maritime life through restored cabins in this floating time capsule.
The Mall at Cribbs Causeway
8.6/10 (229 reviews)
The South West's premier shopping hub houses over 150 stores across two spacious levels. Enjoy high-end retailers like John Lewis and H Beauty, then refuel at one of the diverse dining options.
Bath Racecourse
7.8/10 (55 reviews)
Britain's highest flat racecourse sits 780 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of Somerset's countryside. Enjoy the races from the Langridge Stand with its elegant canopied roof garden.
Aztec West Business Park
7.0/10 (25 reviews)
Aztec West Business Park houses 120+ companies in a prime location by the M5 motorway. This landscaped complex offers amenities including restaurants, a convenience store, and salon services for professionals.
"A terrible hotel which I will never visit again. The parking permit they provided did not work at the time of exit and I ended up paying around 60 pounds from my pocket. Despite sending repeated emails with the receipts, no response or refund yet!"
"On arrival I was asked for my ID or credit card in the name I booked under. I purposely didn't bring any as I was in Bristol and there are certain cities I don't bring ID to - Bristol is one. I paid in advance to avoid needing to bring ID or the credit card. I had my booking number and email confirmation. I was told when checking in I needed evidence of my ID. On my Expedia booking it used the words 'may need ID', not that it was mandatory. I was eventually able to check in after logging into my...
"The hotel was clean, staff were very pleasant and helpful. Hotel location is convenient, but for foot passengers travelling with baggage, it's not so good. You have to walk a fair distance down a winding pathway, then push or pull your baggage up the hill for your return. When it is raining, this is very unpleasant. Not happy with this at all."
"Nice clean hotel located in the middle of the Harbourside.
Room was clean, bed comfy with a good shower.
Breakfast was plentiful.
Small grievance - did pay over £400 for 2 nights so assumed breakfast was included. Had to pay another £60 so nearly £230 a night is a little pricey.."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You'll find cheap prices on Expedia for your Bristol break. However, a range of factors like the length of stay, the season and your choice of hotel will influence how much your holiday to Bristol costs.
What are the cheapest months to go to Bristol?
You're likely to find lower rates and better availability in December, January and February. Take a look at our cheap Bristol holiday packages and you could score some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Bristol?
To get the most out of a Bristol holiday, we suggest booking for 2 days. Divide your time between discovering Old Vic Theatre, Clifton Downs and Observatory and other well-known attractions, as well as exploring neighbourhoods like Bristol Floating Harbour and Redcliffe. If you've got some spare time, include a day trip in your Bristol holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Bristol?
Bristol has all the ingredients you need for a memorable break — nature, dining and culture are just the start. Whether you want to visit attractions such as Cabot Circus Shopping Centre and Ashton Gate Stadium, or take the path less traveled, there's plenty to experience on your Bristol holiday.
How to find the best Bristol package deals?
Begin your search for a Bristol package deal by entering your destination and preferred travel dates under our "Packages" tab. Then add some filters, like "Popular locations" and "Amenities," to tailor the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with irresistible savings. If you don't find the perfect Bristol package deal right away, just change your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Bristol adventure underway.
Is it cheaper to book a Bristol holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to arranging flights and accommodation separately. Better still, you can customise your Bristol escape to fit your exact style. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Explore our bundles to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Bristol?
Secure fantastic discounts by reserving your flights in advance with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, take advantage of our last-minute deals for a spur-of-the-moment Bristol adventure.
How to plan a trip to Bristol?
Pick the perfect time to travel: Your schedule, preferred season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Bristol.
Budget wisely: In addition to the cost of your stay, you'll need to consider other expenses. These include food, flights and transportation. Also, set aside a little extra for unexpected expenses that could crop up during your trip to Bristol.
Decide your trip length: Think about how much time you'd like to spend exploring Bristol. Plan your days so you can get to all the experiences and attractions you're interested in at a leisurely pace.
Combine your airfare and accommodation: After you've nailed down your dates and duration, book the right Bristol holiday package for you.
Experience Bristol's vibrant shopping scene at Cabot Circus Shopping Centre, featuring a mix of shops, entertainment, and dining. St Nicholas Market offers a charming atmosphere with local goods and street food, while The Mall at Cribbs Causeway combines family-friendly activities with a variety of retailers.
Recreation
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the Bristol Hippodrome Theatre, where you can enjoy captivating performances and immerse yourself in Bristol's cultural scene. For music lovers, Colston Hall offers an array of concerts that promise an entertaining evening. Meanwhile, unwind at Saltford Golf Club, where you can play a round of golf amidst picturesque landscapes.
Adventure
Experience the thrill at Delta Force Paintball North Bristol, where you can engage in exhilarating paintball battles with family and friends. For water enthusiasts, The Wave offers an exciting surfing experience, while West Country Water Park provides a fun-filled day of adventure and entertainment for all ages.
Nightlife
Bristol's nightlife is vibrant, with the Harbourside offering stylish bars and live music venues. Explore the bustling Stokes Croft for eclectic pubs and street art, while Clifton boasts chic cocktail bars. Don't miss the iconic Motion for club nights featuring top DJs and a lively atmosphere.
Find the best attractions in Bristol
Bristol offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and scenic experiences, perfect for tourists seeking culture and exploration. Key attractions include modern universities, urban parks, and historic churches, catering to a variety of interests. Whether you're after an enriching city experience or a leisurely day in nature, Bristol and its surroundings promise a memorable getaway.
Aztec West Business Park: Experience a vibrant urban park with a blend of family-friendly amenities and outdoor spaces. It's an ideal spot for leisurely walks and picnics, all while enjoying the dynamic city atmosphere.
We The Curious: Dive into a world of science and culture at this interactive museum. Perfect for families, it offers engaging exhibits and hands-on activities that spark curiosity and inspire young minds.
Old Market: Explore this lively town neighbourhood that showcases Bristol's rich history and contemporary culture. Wander through eclectic shops, cafes, and bars, all within a bustling city vibe that reflects the local community.
Best time to go to Bristol
The best time to visit Bristol can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Bristol falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Bristol falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Bristol
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Bristol.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January to March) for more affordable package holidays to Bristol.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.