Birmingham Getting Around

Getting around Birmingham
An efficient public transport system makes getting around Birmingham fairy straightforward. Most Birmingham weekend break visitors will be happy to explore the central areas on foot. Sights and attractions away from the centre are easily reached by bus, metro or train.

Getting to/from Birmingham airport
Birmingham International Airport is just 8 miles from the city centre. Getting from Birmingham airport is simple. A free Skyrail train connects Birmingham International Airport with Birmingham International train station in just 2 minutes. From here, regular trains run to the very central Birmingham New Street station. The journey takes 15 minutes. Buses go to the main Digbeth coach station. Black taxis can take 5 passengers.

Walking
A reasonable amount of Birmingham city centre is pedestrianised or partially restricted to traffic. Many Birmingham sights and attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, and many of the city’s shopping, dining and nightlife areas are very central. Guided themed walks include heritage buildings and Birmingham canals.

Sightseeing tours
Several companies offer Birmingham sightseeing tours. Regular buses and open-top buses circulate the city, stopping at the principal sights, landmarks and shopping centres. Passengers can get on and off the bus as they wish throughout the day. A good way to see the main Birmingham landmarks in a short time.

Bus
Efficient buses cover the entire city centre and run out to the suburbs and beyond. One-day passes are available. Pay the driver with the correct fare. Details of routes, fares and times from Centro. The main Digbeth bus station is a short walk from the city centre.

Metro
Birmingham metro is of more use to commuters than tourists. The metro will take you to the Jewellery district and some of Birmingham’s markets. The Midland Metro runs from Snow Hill in Birmingham to Wolverhampton.

Train
Suburban trains are an alternative to buses for excursions outside the city. Central Birmingham stations serve London and major UK destinations.

Taxi
Birmingham cabs are traditional black cabs with room for 5 people plus luggage. They can be hailed in the street or at taxi ranks. Principal Birmingham taxi ranks include Hurst Street at the central Arcadian Centre, Birmingham International train station, New Street Station, Stephenson Street and Digbeth Coach Station. Taxis can be booked by phone. Taxis are metered. Surcharges for luggage, nighttimes, holidays etc.

Canals
Birmingham canals have an important place in the city’s history. Canal towpaths are popular for walking and cycling. There are several pleasant canal side cafes and pubs. Take a look at Gas Street Basin near Brindleyplace, an important junction between the Grand Union, the Worcester and Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon canals. Short canal trips set off from Brindleyplace.

Car
Birmingham has excellent motorway connections with the rest of the country. If you bring a car there is quite a lot of inner city car parking.

Birmingham City Breaks  Getting Around Birmingham

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