Bristol’s Street Art Named One of the World’s Best Travel Experiences for 2026
Lonely Planet’s new ‘Best in Travel 2026’ guide celebrates Bristol’s creative edge alongside global hotspots from Kerala to Belgrade.
Every year, the travel experts at Lonely Planet release their Best in Travel list — a round-up of the most exciting destinations and experiences for the year ahead. And for 2026, one of the most inspiring spots on the list is right on our doorstep: Bristol.
Recognised for its world-famous street art scene, the city was chosen as one of Lonely Planet’s Top 25 Experiences in the World — putting Bristol in the same company as whale-watching in the Azores, stargazing in New Zealand’s Wairarapa, and partying at Grenada’s legendary Spicemas festival.
Banksy’s ‘Girl with the Pierced Eardrum’. Image from Visit Bristol.
Why Bristol Made the List
Home to the iconic Banksy, Bristol’s street art scene has evolved into a vibrant, ever-changing open-air gallery. From colourful murals on Stokes Croft and North Street to the tucked-away masterpieces found in side streets and under bridges, the city’s walls tell stories of creativity, activism, and community.
“Bristol is renowned for its progressive spirit, creative energy, and strong sense of independence,” said Kathryn Davis, CEO of Visit West. “Our ever-evolving outdoor gallery draws thousands of visitors each year to take part in street art tours, spray art workshops and to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural scene. We are thrilled that Lonely Planet has recognised Bristol’s street art in Best in Travel 2026.”
If you’ve ever joined a local street art tour, you’ll know what she means. From Banksy’s Girl with a Pierced Eardrum to Alex Lucas’ colourful mural houses, every corner of the city bursts with artistic expression — a reminder of why Bristol continues to lead the way for creative communities across the UK.
Global Destinations to Dream About
Alongside Bristol, this year’s Best in Travel list highlights a mix of bucket-list locations and unexpected gems:
Belgrade, Serbia – A rising star of European nightlife.
Kerala, India – A food lover’s dream for spice-rich culinary tours.
Phuket, Thailand – Returning to the spotlight for eco-luxury escapes.
Utrecht, Netherlands – A creative canal city with sustainable charm.
Cádiz, Spain – The coastal Andalusian gem with old-world romance.
Azores, Portugal – Whale-watching, wine and wellness in the mid-Atlantic.
The full list spans 25 destinations and 25 experiences across six continents — from hiking Tajikistan’s wild mountain trails to sleeping in a train carriage at Kruger National Park.
Shaun The Sheep Street Art by Cheo. Image from Visit Bristol.
For the Creative Traveller
If you’re someone who travels to be inspired — to wander through cities that wear their art and ideas on their sleeves — Bristol’s inclusion in Best in Travel 2026 feels like a proud moment for every creative soul who calls it home.
Whether you’re exploring your own city with fresh eyes or planning your next big trip abroad, Lonely Planet’s guide is packed with ideas to help you experience the world in colour.
Celebrate Bristol’s Creative Spirit with Bristol Girl
Here at Bristol Girl, we’ve always known there’s something special about this city. From its colourful walls to its community spirit, Bristol is full of people doing things differently and we’re here to help you find them.
Join our Bristol Girl community to discover local events, meet like-minded women, and explore more stories that celebrate the creativity, connection and independence that make Bristol one of the best places to live — and now, one of the best places in the world to visit.
Where to Get It
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 (£14.99) is available now at lonelyplanet.com and in all good bookshops.