A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Newcastle upon Tyne vs. Bristol for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a cultural, historical, and vibrant port city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bristol

Bristol is a friendly, authentic, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bristol than Newcastle upon Tyne. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Bristol is very popular for its big city activities, while Newcastle upon Tyne attracts visitors for its food and historical sights. Newcastle upon Tyne is famous for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Bristol is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and progressive environmental policies. It is also well known for The Bristol Harbour.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Bristol?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Bristol and Newcastle upon Tyne. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Bristol and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Bristol can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has some great museums and landmarks such as the SS Great Britain, M Shed, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and Cabot Tower.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

Bristol offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the classic British specialties such as bangers and mash or fish and chips. There are many restaurants, markets, and pubs where you can grab a relaxing meal and enjoy the British ambiance.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a large number of nightlife venues. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Bristol is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is diverse and inclusive. There are huge clubs that host well known DJs. There is also an underground music scene as well as local bars and even traditional speakeasies. Whether your interest is live jazz or upscale cocktail bars, there really is something for everyone.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for its historic old town charm. However, Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Newcastle upon Tyne is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

Bristol does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

Bristol is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to Clifton Village for the most upscale boutiques or the Bristol Shopping Quarter for a diversity of budgets and brands. Gloucester Street is famous for its independent shops or there are the student neighborhoods of Park Street and the Triangle which have a number of trendy shops.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Bristol. The city has a number of kid-friendly museums, activities, and playgrounds. For museums, check out the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery, the M Shed, or Aerospace Bristol. There are also boat rides and the Bristol Aquarium among other unique activities.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol Better for Couples?

Both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city for couples to visit. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Bristol is a nice destination for couples. There are romantic restaurants, fun bars, and unique museums that make for a variety of different date options.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a port city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a good port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

Bristol is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol Better for Students?

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

Bristol is a good port city to visit for students. It's a small and friendly city with enough diversity that it stays interesting and dynamic.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Newcastle upon Tyne is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The public transit in Newcastle upon Tyne can get you to most places easily. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Bristol has a few public transit options. Metrobus serves the greater Bristol area.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Bristol is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a very easy port city to get around on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

Bristol is very walkable. The city center is well designed for walking.

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Bristol Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bristol or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol. In our opinion, Newcastle upon Tyne has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Bristol. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bristol.

Families should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Bristol. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Newcastle upon Tyne, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Bristol. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Newcastle upon Tyne that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Newcastle upon Tyne than Bristol if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Newcastle upon Tyne.

One day in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Bristol, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Newcastle upon Tyne has to offer.

Many people visit Bristol for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bristol, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The destination of Bristol offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Newcastle upon Tyne. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bristol. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol, we can see that Newcastle upon Tyne is more expensive. And not only is Bristol much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bristol would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bristol and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Newcastle upon Tyne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Newcastle upon Tyne than you might in Bristol.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Newcastle upon Tyne Expensive? and Is Bristol Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

Bristol has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Bristol. Many travelers come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Bristol in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Bristol in the summer. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Bristol fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In July, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bristol. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Newcastle upon Tyne as well as Bristol. Many visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Bristol for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Bristol. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Bristol averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in October than Bristol. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol in the Winter?

Both Bristol and Newcastle upon Tyne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Newcastle upon Tyne for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Bristol because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold during winter. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally much colder than Bristol. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 3°C (38°F), and Bristol fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In January, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Bristol. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Bristol in the Spring?

Both Bristol and Newcastle upon Tyne during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Bristol this time of year.

Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Bristol in the spring. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Bristol fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in April than Bristol. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Bristol receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Bristol and Newcastle upon Tyne