Often used as the starting point for European cruises, Bristol is a stunning port in its own right. The city itself is one of England’s top visitor destinations, especially in the summer when the major festivals are held. With mellow vibe, Bristol is the ideal place to spend a warm summer evening experiencing history and culture.

Bristol is one of the most culturally vibrant cities in England thanks to its variety of live events. During the summer, a number of festivals are held in the city. For example, the St. Paul’s Carnival in July celebrating African and Caribbean arts, or the August Bristol Balloon Fiesta featuring mass ascents of balloons from Ashton Court, a large country estate. Another big festival is the mid-July Bristol Harbour Festival. For three days the harbour is covered in live music, performances and maritime events. Finally, the summer ends with Bristol Open Doors Day in early September where hundreds of historic buildings open their doors for public tours.

While the festivals draw people to Bristol for the summer, there is so much to discover year-round in this stunning city. The floating harbor is the perfect start to a day in Bristol and is the star attraction of the area. From the harbor you can explore several of the historical sites in the city, take a ferry, or spend time in We The Curious, a fascinating interactive museum.

Whether shopping in Broadmead or exploring St. Nicholas Market, catching a show on King Street, or discovering famous street art by Banksy, Bristol is rich with activities and entertainment.  There’s something for everyone.