Birmingham, England’s second-largest city, is a lively destination that perfectly blends industrial heritage with modern culture.
If you’re drawn to world-class museums, beautiful architecture, or innovative dining scenes, Birmingham offers an unforgettable weekend experience.
For visitors planning to explore Birmingham and the surrounding West Midlands region, Drivalia car hire at Birmingham Airport provides convenient access to all these attractions and beyond.
With flexible rental options available directly from the airport, you can easily plan day trips to nearby destinations whilst having the freedom to explore Birmingham at your own pace.
Here are the top five must-see attractions that showcase the best of this exciting city.
1. Jewellery Quarter
Step into Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, where centuries of craftsmanship come alive in the city’s most characterful district.
This designated conservation area is home to over 100 jewellery shops, workshops, and the fascinating Museum of the Jewellery Quarter.
Wander through the narrow streets lined with Victorian buildings, many of which still house working jewellers who continue traditional methods passed down through generations. The area also features excellent restaurants, independent cafes, and unique boutiques.
Take a guided tour to learn about the quarter’s rich history and watch skilled craftspeople at work creating beautiful pieces.
2. Cadbury World
No visit to Birmingham is complete without exploring its sweet connection to chocolate at Cadbury World in nearby Bournville.
This interactive experience takes you through the fascinating history of chocolate and the Cadbury family’s legacy.
Learn about the chocolate-making process, enjoy tastings of various Cadbury products, and discover how the company revolutionised both confectionery and worker welfare.
The attraction includes a 4D chocolate adventure, the world’s biggest Cadbury shop, and the chance to create your own chocolate treats. It’s a delightful experience that appeals to visitors of all ages and celebrates Birmingham’s industrial innovation.
3. Birmingham Back to Backs
Experience authentic Victorian working-class life at Birmingham Back to Backs, the city’s last surviving court of back-to-back houses.
These restored 19th-century homes, now managed by the National Trust, offer an immersive journey through different periods of Birmingham’s social history.
Guided tours bring the houses to life with period furnishings, costumed interpreters, and stories of the families who lived there.
You’ll gain insight into how ordinary people lived during Birmingham’s industrial boom, from the cramped conditions of the 1840s to the improvements of the early 1900s. The experience provides a moving and educational glimpse into the city’s working-class heritage.
4. Library of Birmingham
The striking Library of Birmingham stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to culture and learning.
This architectural marvel, opened in 2013, is one of the largest public libraries in Europe and features a beautiful gold-coloured facade that gleams in the sunlight.
Inside, you’ll find not only an extensive collection of books but also exhibition spaces, performance areas, and the spectacular Secret Garden on the seventh floor.
The library’s Shakespeare Memorial Room houses one of the world’s most important Shakespeare collections.
Take the lift to the outdoor terraces for panoramic views across the city, or simply enjoy the building’s innovative design and peaceful reading spaces.
5. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Located in the centre of the city, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is currently closed for essential electrical works and major redevelopment.
The museum, which houses one of the world’s finest collections of Pre-Raphaelite paintings, is expected to reopen in phases with full reopening anticipated by 2026.
When it reopens, visitors will once again be able to explore the museum’s varied exhibits spanning everything from ancient artefacts to contemporary art, making it a cultural cornerstone of the city.
The beautiful Edwardian Tea Room and special exhibitions will also return. Best of all, admission will remain free, making it an ideal attraction for future Birmingham adventures.
For visitors planning to explore Birmingham and the surrounding West Midlands region, Drivalia car hire at Birmingham Airport provides convenient access to all these attractions and beyond.
With flexible rental options available directly from the airport, you can easily plan day trips to nearby destinations whilst having the freedom to explore Birmingham at your own pace.