Art / Street Art
Bristol named one of best places in world to visit in 2026
“No city in Britain uses its urban landscape as a canvas quite like Bristol.”
So says the prestigious Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2026 which names Bristol as the only UK city among the top destinations in the world to visit because of its street art.
Banksy is of course singled out for special mention but so are Bristol’s numerous other artists who transform our city into a colourful outdoor art gallery.
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Bristol Mural Collective, a street art collective for women, recently organised a paint jam in solidarity with Palestine – photo: Rob Browne
“Bristol’s city walls are adorned with vibrant murals by Banksy and hundreds of other internationally acclaimed artists, many of whom are from Bristol too,” says the guide.
“With street art tours, self-guided trails, the biennial Upfest street art festival, spray art workshop experiences and street art-themed hotels, there are many businesses contributing to the draw for visitors.”
Jody and Andy Council worked for weeks on a new mural overlooking Charlotte Street – photo: Martin Booth
Lonely Planet vice president Tom Hall said: “Bristol’s street art scene makes for a fantastic inclusion in Best in Travel, Lonely Planet’s annual celebration of essential journeys and experiences for the coming year.
“As well as showcasing the talents of local artists, we’re delighted to shine a light on one of the UK’s most exciting cities.
“Exploring the colourful, creative murals dotted around the city is the perfect first step in getting to the heart of Bristol.”
North Street and environs are some of the best places in Bristol to appreciate street art – photo: Martin Booth
Visit West CEO Kathryn Davis added: “Bristol is renowned for its progressive spirit, creative energy and strong sense of independence, so it’s only fitting that its streets are alive with vibrant colour and powerful street art…
“Visitors not only stay in hotels and join tours, but they also contribute significantly to the visitor economy at large.
“They support live music and festivals – including the iconic Upfest – shop in retail areas, visit attractions, dine in restaurants and bars, and immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
“Crucially, this impact extends beyond the city centre, helping to drive economic benefits across the wider city.
“We are thrilled that Lonely Planet has named Bristol in its Best in Travel 2026 for our city’s street art.
“We look forward to welcoming many more visitors this next year and beyond, to discover the humorous, playful, political and subversive street art in and around the city.”
Explore some of the best street art within the city centre on a walking tour of the Old City and Castle Park with Bristol24/7 Editor Martin Booth. For more information and to book, visit www.yuup.co/experiences/explore-bristol-s-quirkiest-corners
Main photo: Martin Booth
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