Birmingham is situated right in the heart of England and is the country’s second largest city. The city played a major role in the industrial revolution from the 1700s into the 1800s, when huge advances were made in the city’s factories in the fields of science and technology. The city is also famous for its network of canals and Brindleyplace, one of the city’s most exciting canal-side destinationsVictoria Square is a good place to start as many of the city’s major attractions are in easy reach. Enjoy the Pre-Raphaelite gems at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery and upmarket shopping and dining at the Mailbox, or head for the wonderful 18th century architecture of Birmingham Cathedral.Learn all about the Industrial Revolution and its impact on Birmingham at the Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where you will also find plenty to occupy younger visitors in its 10 themed hands-on galleries.Head west from the city centre to the Jewellery Quarter. Here you’ll find reminders of the industry that began here centuries ago, as well as contemporary shops selling hand crafted pieces. To the south of the centre, you can’t miss the futuristic looking Bullring Shopping Centre, with its metallic discs and excellent shopsIn the summer, the city’s music scene spring to life. From free concerts at the Birmingham Jazz Festival to recitals by world famous performers at Symphony Hall, music lovers are well catered for.For some peace and tranquillity away from the city, there are around 3,300 hectares of green space spread across the city. To the north is Sutton Park which boasts a golf course. To the south of the city you’ll find Sarehole Mill, where you can follow the famous Tolkien trail.Birmingham is rightly famous for its culinary scene which is influenced by its vibrant mix of African, Indian, Chinese and Caribbean cultures. To the south of the city you’ll find the Balti Triangle, where you’ll find Birmingham’s renowned delicious curries, or you have a sweet tooth, head to Cadbury World and sample and stock up on chocolates from this world famous producer..
Birmingham Travel Guide
Birmingham Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Birmingham
Birmingham City Centre
Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Birmingham City Centre. Check out top attractions like Birmingham Cathedral and Victoria Square, and jump on the metro at Grand Central Tram Stop or Corporation Street Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Edgbaston
Edgbaston is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Hagley Road and Birmingham Botanical Gardens while you're in town.
Coventry City Centre
Coventry City Centre is noteworthy for its museums, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Coventry Cathedral and Coventry Transport Museum.
Westside
Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Westside. Check out top attractions like Broad Street and National SEA LIFE Centre, and jump on the metro at Five Ways Tram Stop or Brindley Place Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Digbeth
Bars, shopping and historical sites are just a few things travellers enjoy about Digbeth. Check out Hurst Street or Birmingham Central Mosque while you're exploring the area.
Jewellery Quarter
Shopping, restaurants and theatres are just a few things travellers like about Jewellery Quarter. Sights like Museum of the Jewellery Quarter and Royal Birmingham Society of Artists are spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Birmingham area at Jewellery Quarter Tram Stop.
Reviewed on 7 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 5 May 2024
Reviewed on 7 Apr. 2024
Reviewed on 6 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Bullring Shopping Centre
An ultra-modern complex, this shopping destination is built on the site of a centuries-old marketplace, continuing Birmingham’s tradition of commerce and ambition.
Utilita Arena Birmingham
Catch an event at Utilita Arena Birmingham during your trip to Birmingham. Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Cadbury World
Enjoy interactive displays, learn about the history and sample the delicious chocolate and sweet treats at one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world.
Broad Street
During your visit to Birmingham, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Broad Street. Discover the top-notch restaurants and acclaimed theatre scene in this romantic area.
University of Birmingham
Enjoy the student vibe when you visit University of Birmingham during your travels in Birmingham. Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its lively bars.
The Mailbox
This chic retail gallery offers designer clothing, lifestyle goods, waterside restaurants and a television studio. p>
Activities
Dive with Sharks Experience at The Bear Grylls Adventure
Iconic Birmingham: A Journey Through Heart & Heritage
Private Birmingham City Walking Tour
Reviews of Birmingham
3/5 - Okay
It’s a busy city centre, not pretty but has great shopping centres, a good rail link to London. Do what you need to do then get out to the countryside
5/5 - Excellent
By order of the pesky blinders!
4/5 - Good
Went to Birmingham to watch the Ashes test match at Edgbaston. Event was well presented and run by the Warwickshire County Cricket Club. I would recommend to anyone thinking about going to a match there.
4/5 - Good
Only had one night there but really enjoyed the canal trip and the museum and art gallery.
3/5 - Okay
Not a place i would return to. Seen it.
3/5 - Okay
Didn't go to Birmingham