Birmingham is a vibrant and diverse city with plenty to offer. Whether you’re moving from elsewhere or just curious about what the city has to offer, this guide will help you explore the best things to do in Birmingham city centre.
1. The Bullring and Grand Central - a shopping paradise
The Bullring isn't just any old shopping centre; it features the iconic Selfridges building and some of the most popular high street shops like Zara, Bershka, and Sephora, so you can find everything your heart desires. There are also loads of chain restaurants plus activities like Toca Social and Lane 7 so you can make a full day of it.
2. Birmingham's canals
Birmingham's infamous canals have come a long way since the 70s, they're now a peaceful escape from the city centre with natural walks heading towards Selly Oak or Smethwick. If you're looking for waterside bars or restaurants there are plenty around Brindley Place to soak up the atmosphere. Or to explore the canal network you could go on a kayak or boat tour.
3. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is an amazing place to visit with a wide range of art and historical artefacts on display. Featuring contemporary art to renaissance pieces, Egyptian mummies and more - there’s something for everyone. Check their website for the latest exhibitions and special events.
4. Birmingham Library
This enormous and iconic library is a Birmingham landmark. The Library of Birmingham is free to enter and it's free to become a member if you live in the West Midlands, so you can read to your heart's content. The Secret Garden is a must-visit, with panoramic views of the city, a peaceful place to relax.
5. Victoria Square and the Floozie in the Jacuzzi
No day out in Brum is complete without a visit to Victoria Square, sit on the steps and have a picnic while gazing at one of Brum's favourite sculptures - the Floozie in the Jacuzzi. Or in the winter you can enjoy the Frankfurt Christmas Market, the square hosts a lively crowd dancing and singing along with classic songs.
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6. Bullring rag market
Next to St Martin's Church is the bullring rag market and open markets. This is a great place to buy cheap fruit and veg, or browse through the stalls inside, selling everything from clothes to kitchenware.
7. Go to the theatre
The city centre is packed with theatres! You'll find large-scale touring musicals and ballet at Birmingham Hippodrome, plays at Birmingham Rep and intimate fringe shows at The Old Joint Stock Theatre. Also, look out for The Alexandra Theatre, The Old Rep, and The Crescent.
8. Explore Chinatown and Birmingham's Gay Village
Follow the rainbow from Smallbrook Queensway down to Chinatown and the Gay Village. Focussed around the Arcadian and Hurst Street, this area (Southside) has loads of great Asian supermarkets, restaurants and entertainment. Hurst Street is also a focal point for Birmingham's LGBTQ+ community with plenty of bars where you can party until the early hours.
9. Eat your fill
Birmingham's city centre is full of restaurants for every taste. While it might be a bit much on a student budget there are Michelin-starred restaurants (Simpsons and Adam's), delicious Caribbean food (Mellow's, Aidan's), so many halal options, plus all the great chains from Nando's to Wagamama and everything in between. See where you can get some of the best student discounts here.