Bristol is a small city located in the south west of England. Known as one of the coldest cities in the whole of the United Kingdom, it is an important university centre and therefore has a lively and young character, with cultural and recreational events throughout the year. Well connected to the capital London, it is also easy to reach for a day trip. Its main attraction are the works of the internationally renowned artist Bansky, who has chosen the streets of Bristol as the setting for many of his works.
Planning a trip to England? Then here's a guide to planning a visit to Bristol: where it is, when to go and what to see!
Travel information: useful info
Inhabitants: 535,907
Language: English
Local currency: British pound (£) / €1.00 = £0.90
Climate: oceanic, with cold, wet winters and mild summers, average temperatures range from 5° in the coldest month (February) to 17° in the hottest month (July)
Time zone: GMT+1 (-1h compared to Italy)
Entry requirements: until 31 December 2020 valid identity card or passport; from 1 January 2021 possible new provisions following Brexit
Security info: crime level is moderate and just below the average of other major British cities. Before departure, consult the official Farnesina website
Nearest airports: Bristol International Airport (13 km away) connected by bus service (A1 and A2 buses, journey time 30 to 45 minutes, ticket £11.00 return, £7.00 one way.
Location
Bristol is theeighth most populous city in the UK and is located on the banks of the River Avon in the south west of England, 190 km from London. It is both a city and a county, surrounded by a large urban area of 902,877 inhabitants.
How to get there
From Milan or Rome: Bristol Airport is connected by direct flights to Italy and is served by major low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet, but also British Airways. Duration 2 h 50 min, from €40.00 one way - Compare flights from Rome or Milan
From the main Europeancapitals: linked to the main European cities by several direct, daily flights, operated both by low-cost airlines such as EasyJet and Ryanair, and by national airlines such as British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa and Air France. Duration varies depending on the city of departure, from Paris 1 h 15 min, from Berlin 2 h 5 min
When to go? Info on climate and best time
Month | Average temperatures (min/max) | Precipitation (days/mm) |
|---|---|---|
January | 2 / 8° | 12 days / 80 mm |
February | 2 / 8° | 10 days / 55 mm |
March | 4 / 10° | 11 days / 60 mm |
April | 5 / 13° | 9 days / 50 mm |
May | 8 / 17° | 10 days / 60 mm |
June | 11 / 20° | 9 days / 55 mm |
July | 13 / 22° | 9 days / 55 mm |
August | 13 / 21° | 10 days / 65 mm |
September | 11 / 19° | 9 days / 70 mm |
October | 8 / 14° | 12 days / 85 mm |
November | 5 / 11° | 13 days / 85 mm |
December | 2 / 8° | 12 days / 85 mm |
Climate: oceanic, with rather cold and rainy winters and mild, fairly wet summers. The average minimum temperature in winter is 3°, the maximum in summer 18°. Rainfall amounts to 800 mm a year, the wettest months being April, October, November and December.
Best period: summer, more precisely from mid-May to mid-September, when temperatures are generally good, although an umbrella and sweater should be brought along for the evening
Period to avoid: November to March, when temperatures drop and rainfall increases
Tips: in summer, fairly light clothes such as shorts, t-shirts and shirts are fine, but do not forget a sweatshirt, mackintosh and jacket for rainy and colder days. In spring and autumn it is recommended to dress in layers, while in winter bring warm clothes.
10 things to see in and around Bristol
Banksy's works: His original works are scattered all over the city, of which he is a native, so keep your eyes open and good hunting! The best way to appreciate them is via a walking tour of the city centre and street art
Clifton district: surrounded by greenery, it should be explored on a walking tour to admire the Victorian, Georgian and Regency style buildings. Stop for a tea break at one of the quaint cafés and enjoy the views over the city
Clifton Suspension Bridge: in the district of the same name, in an elevated position, is the Clifton Suspension Bridge over the River Avon and its gorge. Perfect place for one of the UK's most 'Instagrammable' shots
SS Great Britain: the first steamship of its kind. The tour includes explanations of her shipping routes and restoration work. You can even climb the main mast by climbing the rigging like a real sailor
Visit the harbour by ferry: the waterways around Bristol are navigable, offering an interesting and alternative view of the city. A scenic cruise to enjoy the city is therefore a must.
Bristol Cathedral: close to the floating harbour, it often hosts concerts and choral recitals. Guided tours are available
Old Town and St Nicholas Market: on Corn Street there is a permanent market that is a city institution, where you can find antiques, design and vintage items, street food and food from around the world
Bristol International Balloon Fiesta: held every August with markets, shows and street food and the main event where 150 hot air balloons rise from the ground at Ashton Court Estate
Cabot Tower: a 32-metre tower located on Branson Hill from the top of which you can see the whole city in 360°. On the top there are signs with the direction and distance to different places in England and the world
Bristol Harbour: the city harbour, where you can stroll around admiring the boats suspended over the water. There's also the Bristol Aquarium.
What to do in Bristol: excursions and tours
How much does it cost to visit Bristol? Prices, offers and advice
Not often included in UK travellers' itineraries, and being mainly a university centre, Bristol is undoubtedly cheaper than more famous destinations such as London.
As for the expenses you'll have to face here, the price for a double room starts at €45.00 per night, the abundance of clubs and street food makes spending on food the least of your travel budget. The city airport is well served by low-cost airlines, with flights starting at €41.00 one way.
Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €45.00 per room - see offers
Low cost flights: from €41.00 - look at the offers
Flight+ hotel: A/R flight + 6 days/7 nights from €352.00 per person - look at the offers
