Bristol

CitySouth West, England

Bristol is a CITY in South West, England.

Bristol is a vibrant city in southwest England, known for its rich maritime history, creative arts scene, and iconic landmarks like the Clifton Suspension Bridge. The city boasts a unique blend of historic charm and modern innovation, with attractions such as the SS Great Britain, Bristol Cathedral, and the bustling Harbourside area. Bristol is also famous for its street art, much of it by the anonymous artist Banksy, and its lively festivals, including the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. The city's cultural diversity is reflected in its eclectic food scene, from traditional pubs to international cuisine. Bristol's green spaces, like the Downs and Leigh Woods, offer scenic escapes within the urban landscape.

Best time to visit Bristol

The best time to visit Bristol is from May to September when the weather is warmest, and outdoor events like the Balloon Fiesta take place. Spring and early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be chilly but festive with Christmas markets.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Overcast
Temperature
9°
Feels like
5°
Humidity
74%
Wind
20 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Condition
Overcast
High
17°
Low
10°
Average
13°
Rain
24 mm

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Autumn colors, cozy vibe

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

BRS

Bristol Airport

International

13 km away

CWL

Cardiff Airport

International

70 km away

LHR

London Heathrow

International

170 km away

Getting around

"Bristol has an efficient public transport system including buses, trains, and ferries. The city is bike-friendly with numerous cycle paths and a bike-sharing scheme. Walking is a great way to explore the compact city center. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also widely available."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre, cafes, and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

44

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Generally safe; watch for bike theft and occasional scams near tourist spots.

Night safety

7/10

Generally safe; watch for bike theft and occasional scams near tourist spots.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Bristol is generally safe, but like any city, it's wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas and at night. Avoid leaving valuables unattended. Cyclists should be cautious as bike theft can occur. Emergency services are reliable and responsive."

Entry and health

Health information

"Bristol has excellent healthcare facilities, including the Bristol Royal Infirmary. Travelers from the EU can use a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or the new UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). Non-EU visitors should have travel insurance. Tap water is safe to drink."

Culture

Local customs

"Bristolians are known for their friendly and laid-back attitude. The city has a strong independent spirit, with many local businesses and a thriving arts scene. Tipping in restaurants is customary (10-15%). Bristol has a vibrant pub culture, with many historic pubs offering local ales."
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Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15 | a cheap local meal costs ~$15

Hotels

$80-150 | budget hotels range $80-150/night

Local transport

$2.50 | local bus ride ~$2.50

Cost notes

Prices in GBP; approximate USD conversions.

Timezone

Europe/London +00:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

0.5 million

Area

110 km²

Government

Unitary Authority

ISO code

BRS

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Bristol

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