Bristol Trip Cost Calculator

Your Bristol Budget at a Glance

Bristol offers excellent value for a Southern English city. With iconic free attractions like Clifton Suspension Bridge, vibrant street food markets, and a famous cider culture, it’s possible to have an incredible trip without breaking the bank. Budget travelers can manage on $80-140 per day, mid-range travelers should expect $140-280 per day, and luxury seekers will spend $400+ per day.

Where Your Money Goes

Accommodation is moderate - cheaper than London but pricier than Northern cities. Food is excellent value at markets and independent restaurants. Transport is simple with a compact, walkable centre. Attractions include major free sights alongside quality paid museums.

Budget Traveler Tips

Stretch your pounds by:

• Staying in hostels near the Harbourside (from £22/night)
• Eating at St Nicholas Market and Wapping Wharf food stalls
• Walking the city and using the £2 bus cap when needed
• Exploring free attractions: Clifton Bridge, Banksy trail, Bristol Museum

Worth the Splurge

Even budget travelers should consider:

• SS Great Britain - Brunel’s revolutionary ship with year-long return ticket
• A proper cider tasting at The Apple Barge
• Day trip to Bath (just 15 minutes by train)

Best Time to Visit for Value

January to March offers the best deals on hotels. Mid-week stays year-round are significantly cheaper. The Balloon Fiesta weekend in August is spectacular but hotel prices spike dramatically.

Avoid these expensive periods:

• Bristol International Balloon Fiesta (August)
• Harbour Festival (July)
• Major concert weekends at Ashton Gate
• Christmas market season

Practical Money Tips

Tipping Culture

Standard 10-15% at restaurants if service isn’t included. Round up taxi fares. No tip expected at pubs.

Paying for Things

Contactless widely accepted. Cash occasionally needed at smaller market stalls. Free ATMs at banks throughout the city.

Tap Water

Bristol tap water is safe and excellent quality. Restaurants provide free tap water on request.

Getting There & Around

From Bristol Airport

• Flyer Bus A1 to City Centre: £8 single, £13 return (30 minutes)
• Taxi/Uber: £30-40 (25 minutes)

Getting Around

The city centre and Harbourside are very walkable. Buses cover the hills up to Clifton. The harbour ferry is a scenic way to travel. Bristol is bike-friendly with good cycle infrastructure.