
Bristol Named One of the World’s Best Cities in 2025
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Bristol has just been ranked as one of the world’s best cities for 2025 by Time Out, securing spot 48 on the global list. Described as “Famously Bohemian”, Bristol is celebrated for its creative energy, vibrant culture, and rebellious spirit. It sits between Belfast and Mumbai on the list, with Cape Town in South Africa taking the top spot.
What makes Bristol so special? The city is renowned for its street art, underground raves, mega festivals, and DIY music scene. Now, it’s stepping into the global spotlight, with major events like the Rugby World Cup in 2025, and exciting new arrivals such as Box Hall – a street food hub – and Hotel Gotham, Bristol’s first five-star hotel emerging from a £20 million renovation.
Bristol’s festival scene continues to thrive, with iconic events like the Bristol Light Festival, Love Saves the Day, Upfest, and the International Balloon Fiesta returning each year. The city has also launched new festivals annually, from FORWARDS in 2022 to BS3 Live in 2024.
Bristol is also praised for its diversity, food scene, and arts and culture. Locals rate the food scene at 83%, and the city earned a 75% approval rating for its cultural offerings. This comes shortly after Bristol was named the happiest city in the UK by the Institute for Quality of Life, earning it the title of “Golden City”, we’ll take it!
For anyone considering moving to or studying in Bristol, there’s never been a better time. With its thriving arts scene, diverse community, and a calendar packed with exciting events, Bristol truly deserves its spot among the world’s best cities in 2025.
Published: 20.01.25 by Phoebe Clutton
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