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Birmingham

Located in the heart of England, Birmingham is the United Kingdom's second-largest city known for its rich historical and cultural prominence. Nicknamed "the city of a thousand trades" due to its remarkable growth during the Industrial Revolution, Birmingham boasts a blend of striking architecture from Victorian times to contemporary designs. Visitors flock to the city for its vibrant arts scene, fascinating network of canals, historic Jewellery Quarter, and the iconic Bullring Shopping Centre. Also renowned for the invention of Cadbury chocolate, a visit to Cadbury World is an absolute must for those with a sweet tooth. A melting pot of cultures, Birmingham also offers an internationally influenced gastronomy experience, making it an appealing destination for food enthusiasts.

3.3 /5

Based on 4 experiences

3.7 /5

Based on our research

3.5 /5

Based on safety reports

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Safety:Safe

Birmingham is generally regarded as a safe city for solo female travelers. The city center areas are well-lit and busy at all times, with a strong police presence. However, it's advisable to avoid some of the outlying neighborhoods during night time. Like any major city, it's important to stay vigilant, particularly at night and when using public transportation.

Transport:Easy

Birmingham has an efficient and comprehensive public transportation system, including buses, trains, and trams that connect all major areas of the city. Walking or cycling is also an option in the city center due to its compact size. If you prefer, taxis are easily available. However, like all big cities, it can be crowded in rush hours and special events. Learn the system, use an up-to-date navigation aid, and you can find it pretty straightforward to navigate

Things to do:Interesting

Birmingham, UK is a vibrant city full of various activities. It's home to a variety of art, music and culture with venues such as the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, The Symphony Hall and The Electric, the UK's oldest working cinema. Shopping lovers will enjoy the Bullring & Grand Central, the Mailbox or unique places like the Jewellery Quarter. The city also has a culinary scene on the rise with a mix of gourmet dining, unique bistros and excellent street food in the Balti Triangle or at Digbeth Dining Club. There's also plenty of green space to relax in, with parks like Cannon Hill and Lickey Hills. Don't forget the extensive canal network that goes beyond Venice - a perfect way for a peaceful urban exploration or a boat trip.

Food:Above average

Birmingham offers an impressive gastronomy scene that fully embraces the multicultural heritage of the city. There's something for all palates, ranging from traditional British cuisine, authentic Indian curries, to a variety of Asian and European dishes. The city is also praised for its fantastic street food culture. Despite this, choices for specific dietary requirements, such as vegan or gluten-free options, while available, could still be more varied.

Budget:Moderate

Birmingham is somewhat budget-friendly. The cost of living and travel is lower compared to cities like London, but higher than in some other parts of the UK. Accommodation can be found at a reasonable price, particularly if booked in advance, and there are many free or low-cost activities, such as visiting the city's many parks and museums. However, eating out and public transportation can add up if you're not careful.

Overall rating

3.3 /5

based on 4 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

2.1/5

Safety

3.5/5

Food

3.1/5

Budget-friendly

3/5

Moa (27)

United Kingdom

Solo travel experience

I studied in birmingham. School activities are quite nice as in sports and so on. I lived in a student area which mostly felt safe. Weather is always grey so far but hoping for better. Everything is fairly expensive

Posted: April 16, 2024Experienced: December, 2023

Things to do: 1/5Food: 1/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 4/5

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Solo travel experience

- stayed in Selina during my stay in Birmingham which was quiet but pretty nice hostel so that was sweet, didn’t really like the area though (walking around in early evening felt pretty unsafe) - had a yummy brunch and dinner and there was a realm of different types of food to eat - very walkable place and I’m sure there would be more to do in the summer but loved the vibes and the people so overall good experience !!

Posted: December 23, 2023

Things to do: 2/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 3/5

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Solo travel experience

Go to the top floor of the library to see the view of the city, stroll around the Jewellery Quarter and perhaps visit the local goldsmith museum. In the centre of Birmingham, there is a charming shopping gallery. In this gallery, there is a cosy place called Morridge, which is great for a moment of relaxation during a day of walking around the city.

Posted: June 20, 2022

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 3/5Safety: 5/5

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The Mailbox has several cool bars over the canal (you can then walk along Gas Street and to Brindley Place, as Jess mentioned earlier). The new library is a nice building, and the area around Victoria Square is very pleasant. Digbeth is also a very interesting place. Lots of great bars, restaurants etc. Ghetto Golf is good. Look for Digbeth Dining for street food. In addition, there are many independent places to eat on Bennett's Hill and around Victoria Square. There are bars on Temple Street. In the Jewellery Quarter, there are some original places. You could check out Electric Picnic - following the hints to get food. My favorite brunch spot is Medicine Bakery in Mailbox or on New St. Their food is amazing. Tokyo Izakaya restaurant is good for Japanese food, Tiger Bites Pig for Bao, and Meat Shack or Original Patty Men for burgers! 😋

Posted: November 5, 2022

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Meet local women in Birmingham who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Tabassam

About Me

I love to travel and would like to explore the world a little more. Can only go around winter time Live in Birmingham 32 years old would like to connect with like minded people

Speaking

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Angela

About Me

Hi, I'm Angela and I'm interested in art, backpacking, camping, caving, cinema, culture, cycling, digital nomad, events & social, food & cuisine, hiking, history, languages, live music, nature, photography, rafting, running, shoestring, sightseeing, skiing, solo travel, sunbathing, technology, trekking, van life and swimming

Speaking

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Stay with local women in Birmingham who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

amerah

Birmingham

Can host for:

7 days

About me

Hi - I’m amerah. Born and raised brummie. Seeking adventure and travel at any possible given opportunity. It’s the only thing that makes me feel alive! Obsessed with planes, culture & adventures 😍

Speaking

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Ally

Birmingham

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi ! I'm Ally! Ilove totravel and meet new people. My favourite thing is sitting in a cafe in some.beautiful city, reading my book and people watching. I love history, art and fashion, and I really love to see live music when I'm away !