From Berlin to Bogota, many cities across the world boast an incredible street art scene . Once a blight on scenic tours, graffiti can now be the reason to visit a place. And there’s nowhere better to catch the cutting-edge than in the birthplace of Banksy, and where we all live, Bristol.
That’s according to Lonely Planet, at least, which is well-known for its travel guidebooks. Its latest, ‘Lonely Planet: Best in Travel 2026’, was released today (Monday, October 22) and, selected by a panel of experts, lists the top 25 places and top 25 experiences around the world right now.
From riding horses in the Andes to tucking into Keralan cuisine, Lonely Planet has a knack for finding the world’s most mindblowing tourist destinations. But even I’m surprised to see Bristol… But, as the only UK city to feature (although attending a Premier League game does, something you can’t do in Bristol), a strong case is made.
Why is Bristol among the world’s top travel destinations?
“Bristol’s street art scene makes for a fantastic inclusion in Best in Travel,” said Tom Hall, Vice President and Spokesman at Lonely Planet. “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.”
A city with a “penchant for color”, everything from Banksy to Upfest is mentioned to highlight Bristol’s “often thought-provoking and political, street art.” For graffiti spotting, it tells travellers to check out Banksy’s earliest work in “subversive” Stokes Croft, head to Nelson Street for “fascinating neck-craning murals giving character to brutalist buildings” and Bedminster for “artists from all over the world”
Patricia Yates, CEO of VisitBritain, adds: “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.”
‘Lonely Planet: Best in Travel 2026’ is now available in bookshops and online, and you can learn more here.