Bristol Transport

As Bristol is a very compact city, most of the urban attractions are easily accessible on foot and the harbour walkways provide access to the River Avon. Bristol Temple Meads Station is only a 15-minute walk from the city centre, while Clifton may be a bit of a climb for some people, making the public bus system a popular option for this route. Buses are regular and efficient and go to most areas of the city, while open-top tourist buses are the ideal way to get about and see the sites. Taxis are available 24 hours and those who are interested in Bristol’s maritime past might like to travel about between these sights by ferry boat taxi.

By bus

Buses are the cheapest and most convenient way to get around Bristol and as the city and its environs are so compact, most places can be reached in no time at all. First Bristol operates the main public bus system in Bristol and there are bus stops throughout the city, where you will find information on routes served and the timetables. First Bristol bus numbers 8 and 9 are the most useful services in the city, as they cover all the main tourist areas including: Temple Meads Station, the main Broadmeads shopping area and the city centre, for access to the harbourside. Services also run to the upmarket suburb of Clifton, where many of Bristol’s top hotels are located. Buses run frequently throughout the day and less often in the evenings, and you can buy single, flat-rate tickets, which are reasonably priced.

Taxis

Travelling by taxi in Bristol is recommended if you want to reach your destination quickly and in comfort. Taxis are not too expensive, as distances between destinations within Bristol are short and taxis run on meters. You will invariably need to use a taxi rank to catch a taxi in Bristol, as opposed to the traditional method of flagging one down.  These ranks are located at Temple Meads Station and on St Augustine's Parade in the city centre. In addition, taxis can be ordered by telephone if you are staying at an out-of-the-way place and there are several reputable taxi companies that can be relied on. You may have to pay extra charges if you are carrying a lot of luggage or if are travelling late at night. Additional passengers may also incur an extra charge.

By ferry

Travelling by ferry is an excellent way of seeing Bristol from a different perspective. Ferry services are run by Bristol Ferry Boat and stop at several important quays, from where popular shopping areas and attractions are easily accessible. Service also runs from the main railway station to the city centre.

Tourist services

Perhaps the best option for tourists wanting to travel around Bristol and see all the sights is to try an open-top, hop-on, hop-off Bristol sightseeing guided tour bus. Particularly useful for older visitors or those with specific needs, tourist buses operate throughout the day and run right through central Bristol, passing by most of Bristol’s famous landmarks and attractions. The best thing about the system is that you can buy a daily ticket and jump on and off when you like, leaving you time to explore whichever particular attraction that takes your fancy.

From the airport

The Bristol International Flyer is an express coach and the most popular means of getting from Bristol International Airport to the city centre. As there is no rail connection from the airport to the city, this service and the use of taxis provide the only real access to Bristol. However, if you are booked into a substantial Bristol hotel, they may provide a courtesy shuttle transfer service and it is worth checking if the hotel of your choice offers this service before you book a room.