6 min readPlanning to spend a few days in the city? Here's a list of must-sees in Bristol to get you started...
Day one: The Harbourside
Grab a coffee by the Harbourside and visit M Shed, a museum telling the story of Bristol’s past and present, before climbing aboard The Matthew on the quayside nearby.
The ship is a faithful replica of the one John Cabot sailed to discover America in 1497 and does regular trips around the harbour, as well as afternoon tea cruises and trips further along the River Avon.
Image - The Matthew
Feeling peckish? Grab lunch at Harbour House, Mud Dock, No.1 Harbourside or Riverstation – all overlook the water and have outdoor seating.
Or you could explore the waterfront district of Wapping Wharf just behind M Shed, packed full of exciting independent businesses, including over 20 restaurants in shipping containers.
Image - Cargo 2 in Wapping Wharf. Credit: Hey What!
Walk via Millennium Square or take a Bristol Ferry to Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the world’s first luxury cruise liner, fully-restored to its Victorian glory. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the ship and don’t miss the chance to visit the Being Brunel museum.
In the evening, wander down historic King Street (known locally as the Beermuda Triangle due to its abundence of excellent craft beer bars) to Bristol Old Vic, the UK’s longest continuously working theatre, which boasts the stunning Kitchen + Bar at Bristol Old Vic.
Image - Kitchen + Bar at Bristol Old Vic
Top tips
- Bristol is home to many award-winning restaurants and one Michelin-starred restaurant, book well in advance if you want a table!
- The street food scene in Bristol is second to none, see which markets are running during your visit.
- One of the best ways to see Bristol is from the water. Take a look at the boat trips on offer.
Image - COR in Southville
Day two: Clifton, Cargo and Cocktails
Head up to the beautiful Georgian quater of Clifton for the Suspension Bridge and fascinating visitor centre.
You can then browse the independent shops of Clifton Village before having lunch at one of the many great restaurants and cafés in this pictureque neighourhood. The beautiful decor at Bar 44, KIBOU or The Ivy Clifton Brasserie are the perfect options for those looking for something a bit special, or indulge in some top quality comfort food at The Clifton Sausage. Don't miss a chance to take in the grand vistas of the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Avon Gorge from the floor-to-ceiling windows at Goram & Vincent, the large terrace at The White Lion or the rooftop seats at Clifton Observatory's 360 Cafe.
Break up your day of exploring with some relaxation. Swim in the outdoor pool and enjoy luxury spa treatments at The Lido. There's also a great poolside restaurant here if you're feeling peckish!
In the afternoon, pop into the University of Bristol Botanic Garden and after, head to Cabot Tower on Brandon Hill for fantastic city views.
Image - Cabot Tower
Then it's time for a spot of retail therapy in Bristol’s Shopping Quarter, home to Harvey Nichols and many well-loved high street names as well as independent shops, cafes and restaurants across Broadmead and Cabot Circus.
Pop into St George’s Bristol or Bristol Beacon to hear world-class musicians and performers throughout the week, or if you time it right, you might even catch a lunchtime concert or recital at Bristol Cathedral.
Image - Bristol Beacon
If you're planning on seeing a show or gig, it's worth checking our pre-theatre dining suggestions, many of which do a great value early bird menu. Check out our list of upcoming theatre shows in Bristol.
End your evening with a nightcap at The Milk Thistle, The Clockwork Rose or The Granary Club. Or if you're more of a night owl, don't miss a chance to experience Bristol’s legendary live music scene and top DJ sets in the pubs and clubs.
Top tips
- Check the music listings before you visit.
- Sports fan? See which teams are playing while you're here.
Image - Milk Thistle
Day three: Street food and street art
Start the day exploring the galleries and latest exhibitions at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery on Park Street and the esteemed Royal West of England Academy nearby.
For lunch, take your pick from the much-loved vendors at St Nicholas Market in the Old City - the market is one of the top foodie hot spots in Bristol. Just around the corner you can try some local beers and ales at Strawberry Thief (who also have a huge selection of international beers) or Hort's Townhouse. There's also the 6 O'clock Gin bar and shop on the Glassboat nearby if you want to bring some local tipples home with you!
Image - St Nicholas Market
Before you leave, don’t miss the amazing street art in various areas of the city, with hotspots including Nelson Street in the city centre, North Street in Bedminster and along Stokes Croft, best discovered on a street art tour.
Or you could end your trip on a high by seeing a real-life Concorde at Aerospace Bristol.
In fact, two nights might not be enough…
Top tips
- Check out our guide to having a Banksy-themed weekend in Bristol.
- Browse our list of the latest exhibitions coming to the city.
- Explore some of the oldest parts of the city in our most historic museums and buildings.
Image - Upfest in Bedminster
Handy travel tips
Maximise your time in the city by following these pointers...
- Arrive early. Make the most of your weekend by checking in on Friday afternoon.
- Get organised. Book restaurants or tours in advance – popular spots can get very busy.
- Leave the car at home. Walking, cycling, ferry, bus and local trains are the best ways to get around.
- Be tour savvy. Take an open-top bus tour and see all the sights in one hit.
- Stay longer. Here for business? Why not add on time to get out and explore this wonderful city.
For more ideas plus details of amazing festivals and events year-round, check out our What's On Calendar.
Read more
- Get the inside scoop on the city with our Local's Guides to Bristol neighbourhoods.
- Have a day out of the city with our guides for day trips to the east, west, north and south of Bristol.
- Keep to your budget with this list of Free Things to do in Bristol.
Image - An aerial view of the Clifton Suspension Bridge & Clifton Village
