Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery

Houses the world's largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings alongside Roman artifacts, Egyptian mummies, and contemporary British art. The ornate Victorian building itself is worth seeing, with its grand staircase and original 1885 architecture. It sits in Birmingham's City Centre, close to the other main sights. It ranks among Birmingham's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Entry is free and 2-3 hours gives you a thorough visit.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: free access to one of britain's finest art Skip if: You're not interested in art or have limited time and prefer outdoor activities Cost: Free

Walk through grand Victorian halls filled with Burne-Jones masterpieces and ancient Roman coins. The Egyptian room features actual mummies, while the contemporary galleries showcase rotating exhibitions of modern British artists.

Accessibility: Full wheelchair access via lifts, disabled parking available on Chamberlain Square

Free access to one of Britain's finest art collections outside London. That puts it near the top of any Birmingham visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Library of Birmingham and Ikon Gallery - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Birmingham. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You're not interested in art or have limited time and prefer outdoor activities

• Start with the Pre-Raphaelite gallery on the first floor.
• Free lockers available at entrance.
• Café on ground floor serves decent coffee and light meals.

Insider tip: The Staffordshire Hoard display changes periodically - check what's currently on show

Photography allowed in most galleries except special exhibitions, no flash