Bristol travel guide

Bristol Tourism | Bristol Guide

You're Going to Love Bristol

With a population of 17,835, Bristol is a must-see destination in Virginia, United States. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Consider staying at least one whole day in Bristol to see all of its attractions.

Where to Eat in Bristol

If you’re looking for affordable options, Taste, Wood-Fired Kitchen (22940 Beaver Creek Ln) and Vivian's Table at The Bristol Hotel (115 Country Music Way) are great picks.

When to visit Bristol

Bristol in December
Estimated hotel price
$105
1 night at 3-star hotel
Bristol in December
Estimated hotel price
$105
1 night at 3-star hotel

How to Get to Bristol

Plane

When flying to Bristol, you’ll arrive at Blountville Tri Cities TN/VA (TRI), which is located 15 miles from the city center. Airlines that fly from the United States to Bristol include Air France, Aeromexico and Delta. The shortest domestic flight to Bristol departs from Chicago and takes around 5h 23m.

Car

Another option to get to Bristol is to pick up a car rental from Charlotte, which is about 121 miles from Bristol. You’ll find branches of Hertz and Easirent, among others, in Charlotte.

Plane

When flying to Bristol, you’ll arrive at Blountville Tri Cities TN/VA (TRI), which is located 15 miles from the city center. Airlines that fly from the United States to Bristol include Air France, Aeromexico and Delta. The shortest domestic flight to Bristol departs from Chicago and takes around 5h 23m.

Car

Another option to get to Bristol is to pick up a car rental from Charlotte, which is about 121 miles from Bristol. You’ll find branches of Hertz and Easirent, among others, in Charlotte.

Airlines serving Bristol

KLM
Good (852 reviews)
Delta
Good (4,613 reviews)
Air France
Good (984 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (4,958 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (2,119 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (2,469 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (5,859 reviews)
Alaska Airlines
Excellent (5,650 reviews)
JetBlue
Good (1,605 reviews)
Korean Air
Excellent (773 reviews)
Avianca
Good (1,329 reviews)
Aeromexico
Good (812 reviews)
American Airlines
Good (5,795 reviews)
Sun Country Air
Good (137 reviews)
Virgin Atlantic
Good (504 reviews)
WestJet
Good (1,928 reviews)
Allegiant Air
Good (439 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Bristol

If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include Budget Host Inn Bristol and Red Roof Inn Bristol.

Where to stay in popular areas of Bristol

Most booked hotels in Bristol

The Sessions Hotel, Bristol, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
3 stars
Excellent (9.3, 186 reviews)
$186+
The Bristol Hotel
4 stars
Excellent (9.2, 286 reviews)
$150+
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Bristol
2 stars
Excellent (9, 327 reviews)
$145+
Courtyard by Marriott Bristol
3 stars
Excellent (8.4, 395 reviews)
$152+
Hampton Inn Bristol
2 stars
Excellent (8.4, 214 reviews)
$164+
Quality Inn and Suites I-81 Exit 7
2 stars
Good (7.9, 736 reviews)
$86+

Renting a car in Bristol

Renting a car in Bristol costs $58 per day, on average.

It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 15% cheaper than airport locations in Bristol.

Expect to pay $3.94 per gallon in Bristol (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $47.24 and $62.99. The most frequently booked car type in Bristol is Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Full-size rental cars (Chevrolet Malibu or similar) are, on average, 53% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.

Renting a car in Bristol costs $58 per day, on average.

It’s generally cheaper to rent your vehicle outside the airport: locations in the city are around 15% cheaper than airport locations in Bristol.

Expect to pay $3.94 per gallon in Bristol (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $47.24 and $62.99. The most frequently booked car type in Bristol is Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Full-size rental cars (Chevrolet Malibu or similar) are, on average, 53% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.