Lonely Planet has unveiled its worldwide Best In Travel list for 2026, with one UK city making the cut
Bristol has been named as a must-visit destination for 2026 by travel guide giant, Lonely Planet, thanks to its vibrant street art scene. The city is the only one in the UK to feature on the Best In Travel list for next year.
“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.
“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.”
The city reportedly boasts over 250 street artworks scattered throughout its streets. ‘Our Common Ground’, a massive new artwork that adorns part of the Centre, was revealed in September, although it received a somewhat mixed response.
Bristol’s own Banksy, arguably the world’s most renowned street artist, is a major draw. Kathryn Davis, CEO of tourism organisation Visit West, expressed her delight at Bristol’s inclusion in Lonely Planet’s 2026 edition, highlighting how the local arts scene significantly contributes to the city and wider region’s economy, 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 said.
“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 contributes £2.6bn to the combined economy of Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire and North Somerset.
Approximately 45,000 people are employed in the region’s ‘visitor economy’.
“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.”
A celebration event marking Bristol’s inclusion in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2026 will take place at The Canteen in Stokes Croft this morning (October 22).
Prominent local street artist Alex Lucas – known as Lucas Antics – will create a brand new mural to commemorate the occasion.