Things To Do
in Birmingham

Birmingham, United Kingdom, is a vibrant city known for its rich industrial heritage and diverse cultural scene. As the second-largest city in the UK, it boasts an eclectic mix of modern architecture and historic landmarks. The city is famous for its extensive canal network, which is the largest in the country, and its thriving arts and music scene.

With a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Birmingham offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Birmingham
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, where you can explore a range of art collections and local history exhibits.

afternoon
:

Head to the Bullring Shopping Centre for lunch and some retail therapy, then stroll through the nearby St. Martin's Church.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional British pub in the city centre, followed by a live music performance at the O2 Institute.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Cadbury World to learn about the history of chocolate making and enjoy some delicious samples.

afternoon
:

Take a relaxing walk in Cannon Hill Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and have a picnic.

evening
:

Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, then explore the nightlife in the vibrant Jewellery Quarter.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a fast food restaurant$8
🍕Pizza for two$25
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$120
🚌Public transport ticket$3
Coffee at a café$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Diverse culinary scene with international options.
  • Excellent shopping and entertainment facilities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Some areas may not be as safe at night.

Places to Visit in Birmingham

Visit one of these nice places.

Birmingham Canals

Capture stunning views of the picturesque canals, especially at sunset.

Library of Birmingham

The striking modern architecture of this library makes it a great subject for photography.

Birmingham’s Bullring

The iconic Selfridges building offers a unique architectural perspective, perfect for urban photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Birmingham

Birmingham's culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering a mix of traditional British fare and international cuisine.

Birmingham Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Balti

A type of curry that originated in Birmingham, served in a thin, flat, and typically metal dish.

Must-Try!

Birmingham Pork Scratchings

Crispy, seasoned pork rinds, often enjoyed as a pub snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Birmingham Street Food Market

A vibrant market featuring a variety of international food stalls, perfect for a casual lunch.

The Custard Factory

Home to independent food vendors serving artisanal treats and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Birmingham has a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild conditions year-round. Winters (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures ranging from 1°C to 7°C (34°F to 45°F) and occasional snowfall. Summers (June to August) are warmer, with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so carrying an umbrella is advisable regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing

Birmingham locals expect people to queue patiently and not push ahead in lines.

Politeness

Using 'please' and 'thank you' is highly regarded; showing respect is important.

Personal Space

Respecting personal space is essential; avoid standing too close to someone you do not know well.

Safety Guide

Safety

Birmingham is generally a safe city, but like all urban areas, it is wise to stay alert, particularly in crowded places. Avoid displaying valuables openly and be cautious when walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. It’s also recommended to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and keep them handy.

Tipping in Birmingham

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are popular for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Warm weather brings festivals and outdoor events, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage make it ideal for scenic walks and photography.

Winter

Cold and often rainy, winter brings festive markets, but be sure to dress warmly and check local events.

Nightlife Guide

Birmingham at Night

Birmingham boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous pubs, clubs, and live music venues. The city is known for its eclectic mix of bars, ranging from traditional British pubs in the Jewellery Quarter to trendy cocktail bars in Digbeth. Visitors can enjoy everything from live music to club nights, with many venues hosting events throughout the week. There are also plenty of options for late-night dining, ensuring a lively atmosphere well into the early hours.

Hiking in Birmingham

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lickey Hills

Located just outside Birmingham, the Lickey Hills provide a range of trails with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for walking and hiking.

Sutton Park

A large national nature reserve offering numerous paths through woodlands, heathlands, and wetlands, perfect for both casual walkers and more serious hikers.

Airports

How to reach Birmingham by plane.

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Located approximately 8 miles southeast of the city center, Birmingham Airport is the main international airport serving the city, offering flights to various destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Birmingham is a highly walkable city, especially in the city center where many attractions are located within a short distance of each other. The city has invested in pedestrian-friendly pathways and signage, making it easy to navigate on foot. While some suburbs may require public transport to get around, the central area is ideal for exploring on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

South Asian Community

Birmingham has one of the largest South Asian communities in the UK, contributing significantly to the city’s cultural diversity and culinary scene.

African-Caribbean Community

This demographic group has a rich cultural influence in Birmingham, particularly in music, art, and food.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Birmingham has a passionate football culture, with prominent teams like Aston Villa and Birmingham City, attracting large crowds to their matches.

Cricket

Cricket is another popular sport, with the Edgbaston Cricket Ground hosting international matches and county games, drawing cricket fans from across the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Birmingham can be congested, particularly during peak commuting hours. The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, which makes it easy to navigate without a car. The Metro tram service also connects key areas and attractions, providing an efficient way to travel around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Birmingham.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Birmingham offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, often clearly marked on the menu.

Gluten-Free Choices

A growing number of eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, allowing those with dietary restrictions to enjoy local cuisine.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

The UK has a public healthcare system, the NHS, which provides access to medical services for residents and visitors. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing 999. For non-emergency medical issues, there are several walk-in clinics and pharmacies throughout Birmingham that can assist with minor health concerns.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide