Bristol named as a Top 50 world destination in new travel guide - it's the only UK city on the list

Bristol’s incredible street art has earned it a spot among the top 50 world destinations to visit in 2026 in the prestigious Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2026.

Bristol is the only UK city named on the list, and was praised for it’s ever-changing, ever-striking outdoor gallery.

The guide said: “No city in Britain uses its urban landscape as a canvas quite like Bristol” with “some of the best street art anywhere in Europe.”

The city is known as the birthplace of arguably the world’s most famous and elusive street artist, Banksy, who’s vibrant murals adorn the city’s walls alongside hundreds of other works by internationally acclaimed artists, many of whom are also from Bristol.

Bristol also boosts a wide range of street art tours, self-guided trails, spray art workshop experiences, the famous biennial Upfest street art festival, and street art themed hotels and businesses which continue to contribute to the draw for visitors.

Tom Hall, Vice President and Spokesman at Lonely Planet 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.”

Patricia Yates CEO of VisitBritain/VisitEngland added: "It’s no surprise Bristol is taking its place at the top table of destinations as one of Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026 with the city boasting world-renowned street art and an incredible foodie scene.

“This well-deserved stamp of approval will encourage domestic and international visitors to explore more of what Bristol and the surrounding area have to offer and discover the creative energy and warm welcome that awaits them."

Kathryn Davis, CEO of Visit West – the Local Visitor Economy Partnership responsible for tourism, including the Visit Bristol channels – said: “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.

“Our ever-evolving outdoor gallery draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year, contributing millions of pounds to the local visitor economy.

“We have many businesses that offer experiences supporting and championing artists and the street art scene, including Where the Wall who run Bristol Street art walking tours and stencil spray art sessions, Blackbeard 2 Banksy walking tours, Graft spray art workshops and even hotels such as Moxy Bristol and Clayton Hotel who embrace and celebrate the street art here in the city with commissioned murals in and around their properties, as well as museums, galleries and even Harvey Nichols.

“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.”

Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 is available for £14.99 from lonelyplanet.com or where all good books are sold.