Things to do in Birmingham
Birmingham, Britain's second-largest city, has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into a dynamic cultural hub with strong museums, inventive dining, and easier access than London
Plan your trip to Birmingham. Budget from £45-65/day. Where to stay, what to see, and what to skip. Honest guide updated for 2026.
Top attractions in Birmingham
15 must-see places
Activity guides for Birmingham
Curated activity guides and individual experiences
Getting around & travel tips
Practical advice for visiting Birmingham
Getting around
- West Midlands Metro trams £2.90 day pass covering city centre to Wolverhampton
- National Express West Midlands buses £4.60 all-day ticket within city zones
- Birmingham cycle hire £1 per 30 minutes with docking stations across centre
- Taxi rides typically £8-15 within city centre, Uber widely available
- Walking between major attractions takes 15-25 minutes maximum
Practical tips
- Tip 10-15% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Round up taxi fares to the nearest pound. Bar staff don't expect tips but appreciate them.
- Casual dress is fine everywhere. Bring waterproof jacket year-round. Smart casual required for upscale restaurants.
- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Birmingham
- Buy SIM cards at airport or high street shops like Carphone Warehouse. EE, Vodafone, and Three offer good coverage.
Trip essentials
At-a-glance reference for Birmingham
- Best time
- May through September offers warmest weather and longest daylight hours, with average temperatures around 18-22°C and occasional rain showers
- Currency
- GBP (£)
- Language
- English
Travel guides for Birmingham
Editorial travel guides
Frequently asked questions
Common questions travellers ask about Birmingham
May through September offers warmest weather and longest daylight hours, with average temperatures around 18-22°C and occasional rain showers
Birmingham city centre is generally safe during the day with good police presence. Exercise normal caution around New Street station late at night and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas of Digbeth after dark.
Budget around £45-65 per day for hostels and street food, £85-125 for mid-range hotels and restaurants, or £180+ for luxury.
West Midlands Metro trams £2.90 day pass covering city centre to Wolverhampton. National Express West Midlands buses £4.60 all-day ticket within city zones.
January and February bring cold temperatures around 2-7°C with frequent rain and limited daylight hours until 4pm
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