The list includes destinations across all continents and regions of the globe
Spanning more than 700 square metres, the vivid mural “Our Common Ground” by artist Oshii is now a striking feature of Bristol’s public realm(Image: PAUL GILLIS / Reach PLC)
Bristol has been named as a must-visit destination for 2026 by Lonely Planet, thanks to its vibrant street art scene. The city is the only one in the UK to feature on the travel guide’s worldwide Best In Travel list for next year.
A quick train journey – some take just 31 minutes – from Cardiff, even less from Newport, Bristol is renowned for its street art and it’s what Lonely Planet highlighted as a major attraction.
“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,” said Tom Hall, Vice President of Lonely Planet.
“We’re delighted to shine a light on one of the UK’s most exciting cities, showcasing the talents of local artists. Exploring the colourful, creative murals dotted around the city is the perfect first step in getting to the heart of Bristol.”
The city reportedly boasts over 250 street artworks at various locations. ‘Our Common Ground’, a large new piece covering part of the Centre, was revealed in September, although it received a somewhat mixed response.
Banksy, arguably the world’s most famous street artist and a native of Bristol, contributes significantly to the city’s reputation. Kathryn Davis, Chief Executive of tourism body Visit West, expressed her delight that Bristol had made it into Lonely Planet’s 2026 edition, highlighting the significant financial contribution the local arts scene brings to the city and wider region, reports Bristol Live.
“Our ever-evolving outdoor gallery draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year, contributing millions of pounds to the local visitor economy,” she stated.
“Visitors not only stay in hotels and join tours, but they also contribute significantly to the visitor economy at large… Crucially, this impact extends beyond the city centre, helping to drive economic benefits across the wider city.”
According to Visit West, tourism is worth £2.6bn to the combined economy of Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset. Around 45,000 people work in the ‘visitor economy’ of the region.
“We are thrilled that Lonely Planet has named Bristol in its Best in Travel 2026 for our city’s street art,” Ms Davis added. “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.
As well as the vibrant street art, Welsh visitors are always keen to cross the Severn for Bristol’s vibrant food scene, including St Nicholas’ Market, the Bristol Zoo Project and the famous Bristol Balloon Fiesta which takes place every summer.
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Earlier in 2025, the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park was named as one of the world’s most underrated destinations for 2025 by the world famous guide.
As well as beautiful peaks such as Pen-y-Fan and Cribyn which make stunning walks and hikes, the National Park is also home to nearby lively market towns such as Brecon and Hay-on-Wye, a tiny town home to over 20 bookshops and the host of the largest annual book festival in the world. There are also brooding ruins of castles and forts to be explored in the area which was designated as a national park in 1957.