Birmingham, often hailed as England’s second city, offers a compelling blend of historical significance and modern vibrancy. Nestled north of London in the West Midlands, this metropolis boasts a rich industrial past, a burgeoning culinary scene, and a wealth of cultural attractions. From world-class museums to diverse shopping experiences and a passionate Premier League football team, 48 Hours in Birmingham promises an unforgettable urban adventure.
This itinerary is designed to help you make the most of a brief visit, showcasing the city’s highlights, including the historic Jewellery Quarter and the tantalizing Cadbury World. Prepare to immerse yourself in the best of Birmingham’s museums, shops, pubs, and restaurants.
Day 1: Morning – Arrival and Cultural Immersion
9:00 AM: Check-in and Canal Views
Your Birmingham journey begins upon arrival by plane or train, with many visitors connecting through London. Head straight to the Hyatt Regency Birmingham, a centrally located hotel overlooking the city’s picturesque canal network. The hotel offers easy access to public transport from both the airport and train stations.
Settle into your room, perhaps opting for one with a canal view to fully appreciate the location. The Hyatt Regency boasts a fitness center, restaurant, and spa, but with only 48 Hours in Birmingham, you’ll likely be eager to explore.
10:00 AM: Coffee and Artistic Exploration
Start your day with a caffeine boost at the Floating Coffee Company, a charming café housed within a canal boat. From there, take a leisurely stroll to the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (BMAG), one of the city’s premier cultural institutions.
BMAG houses an extensive collection of British and international art, historical artifacts, and sculptures. Allocate at least two hours to fully explore its diverse galleries. After your museum visit, step into the Library of Birmingham, a modern architectural marvel that is worth seeing.
12:30 PM: Lunch at Dishoom
For lunch, reserve a table at Dishoom, a renowned Indian restaurant with locations across England. The Birmingham outpost, conveniently located near the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, offers a taste of authentic Indian cuisine in a stylish setting. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends, but you can try your luck with a last-minute booking.
Day 1: Afternoon – History, Shopping, and Retail Therapy
2:00 PM: Exploring the Jewellery Quarter
After lunch, venture into the historic Jewellery Quarter, situated just outside of central Birmingham. This vibrant district is home to an array of museums, including the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter, Newman Brothers Coffin Works, and The Pen Museum.
The Jewellery Quarter also boasts a thriving art scene, with numerous galleries and boutique shops. Discover unique pieces at St. Pauls Gallery and Artfull Expression, a boutique featuring jewelry from over 60 local designers. And of course, explore the many traditional jewelry stores offering a variety of stunning pieces.
4:00 PM: Shopping at the Bullring
Continue your shopping spree at the Bullring, a premier retail destination in the heart of Birmingham. This modern shopping center houses a wide range of brands, including Michael Kors, Whistles, Zara, and Kurt Geiger, as well as the iconic British department store Selfridges.
Adjacent to the Bullring is the Bullring Open Market, where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and other food items six days a week. The Bullring Rag Market offers a treasure trove of clothing and homeware. For a quick break, visit the Gran Cafe Selfridges for coffee or a sweet treat. Afterward, return to your hotel to freshen up for the evening.
Day 1: Evening – Cocktails, Cuisine, and Cuban Rhythms
6:00 PM: Cocktails at The Botanist
Start your evening with cocktails at The Botanist, a trendy bar known for its upscale drinks and stylish atmosphere. This establishment offers an extensive menu, featuring a wide selection of cocktails and other beverages. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks that capture the essence of Birmingham’s nightlife.
7:30 PM: Dinner at Isaac’s
For dinner, secure a table at Isaac’s, a New York-inspired brasserie offering both lunch and dinner, as well as bar snacks. The menu caters to diverse tastes, featuring upscale dishes like a seafood platter alongside casual options like roast chicken. Vegetarian options are also available. Complement your meal with a local draft beer, such as Attic Intuition, or choose from a selection of non-alcoholic drinks.
9:30 PM: Live Music at The Cuban Embassy
If you’re not ready to call it a night after dinner, head to The Cuban Embassy, a vibrant venue that combines a restaurant, bar, and live music venue. This popular spot is lively late into the night, offering a taste of Cuban culture in the heart of Birmingham.
The bar boasts over 120 rums from around the world, as well as Cuban-inspired cocktails. Enjoy live music six nights a week, with resident musicians playing Latin tunes in the downstairs bar and the house band, Rhythms Del Toro, performing on Fridays and Saturdays.
Day 2: Morning – Bottomless Brunch and Chocolate Delights
10:00 AM: Bottomless Brunch at Gas Street Social
Kick off your second day with a leisurely brunch at Gas Street Social, famous for its bottomless brunch option. This includes unlimited bellinis, mimosas, Bloody Marys, and beers, catering to both vegetarians and vegans.
Gas Street Social’s convenient location near your hotel means you can enjoy a relaxed start to the day. Bottomless brunch begins at 10:00 AM on weekends, but the restaurant also offers an all-day menu.
11:00 AM: Cadbury World
After brunch, take a short train ride from Birmingham New Street station to Cadbury World, the home of the world-famous Cadbury chocolate. Upon arrival, embark on a tour of the factory, learn about the chocolate-making process, and even try your hand at creating your own chocolate treats.
Cadbury World is a popular attraction for families and children, but adults will also appreciate the behind-the-scenes look at chocolate production. Be sure to visit the cafe and the world’s largest Cadbury shop for souvenirs. Once you’ve had your fill of chocolate, take the train back to central Birmingham.
Day 2: Afternoon – Football History and Historic Pubs
2:00 PM: Pub Lunch and Aston Villa Stadium Tour
After Cadbury World, enjoy a classic pub lunch at The Bartons Arms, a historic Victorian pub. Then head to Aston Villa, home of the Premier League soccer team Aston Villa F.C.
Even if there isn’t a game on, sports fans can take a tour of the stadium, one of England’s most historic pitches. Visitors can see the locker rooms, dugouts, and other areas, and even get exclusive photo opportunities. Tours, held on weekends and weekdays, should be booked online in advance.
4:00 PM: Walking Tour or Historic Pub Crawl
Finish your afternoon with a walking tour of Birmingham. Brum Tours offers Peaky Blinders-themed tours, pub tours, and historic treks.
Alternatively, create your own exploration of Birmingham’s history by visiting some of the city’s oldest pubs: The Old Crown, The Great Stone Inn, and Lad In The Lane. Grab a pint or a snack at one or all of these local establishments before returning to your hotel to prepare for the evening.
Day 2: Evening – Theater and Post-Show Bites
7:30 PM: A Show at the Birmingham Hippodrome
Book tickets for a show at the Birmingham Hippodrome. This venue hosts live music, comedy, theater, and more, with an ever-changing calendar of events. Other great Birmingham theaters include The Alexandra and the Birmingham Repertory Theatre.
Another favorite is Symphony Hall, home to the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Check for last-minute tickets at the box office if you haven’t booked in advance.
9:30 PM: Post-Show Meal
After the show, grab a bite to eat at Bacchus Bar, located in the city center near most of the theaters. It has an eclectic feel and an expansive menu of food and drink. Closer to your hotel, The Canal House is a hip bar and restaurant that stays open until late. It’s a great place to toast a successful 48 Hours in Birmingham.
