So you’ve landed in Birmingham – or maybe you’ve lived here for years but haven’t yet figured out the art of getting around with ease. Good news: Birmingham and the wider West Midlands make it ridiculously easy to explore sustainably, simply, and without spending half your trip stuck in traffic.

Whether you're zigzagging through historic quarters, hopping to hidden foodie spots, or just trying to get from point A to point B, here's how to make the journey as joyful as the destination.
 


Walk this way: Discover the city one step at a time

Birmingham is one of the UK’s most walkable cities, so lace up your shoes and get going! From the moment you step out of New Street Station, you’re within a 5‑ to 10‑minute walk of major landmarks, gorgeous architecture, and Instagrammable alleyways.

The city centre is designed for enjoyable exploration on foot, with broad pedestrian zones, carefully maintained pavements, and many shared public spaces linking top cultural sites such as the Library of Birmingham, Brindleyplace, Birmingham Cathedral, and the International Convention Centre complex. With its flat terrain and well-signed streets, walking feels effortless – even for longer strolls through different districts.

If you’re looking for a stomp further afield, the rest of the West Midlands has a huge range of scenic routes to explore. And if you fancy a walk with a side of history, there are a whole host of unique walking tours to get involved with too.

Top tip: Don’t rush. If you’ve got some free time, turn off Google Maps and follow your feet. Head from the Library of Birmingham to the Jewellery Quarter via the canals for a scenic shortcut with plenty of pubs and surprises along the way.
 


Pedal power: See more, sweat less

Love travelling on two wheels? With canal towpaths, designated cycle lanes, and compact neighbourhoods, cycling is one of the fastest (and most fun) ways to get around.

Hire bikes via apps like West Midlands Cycle Hire, or BYOB (bring your own bike) and explore urban gems or nearby green escapes like Cannon Hill Park or the Rea Valley Route.

And for an even speedier commute on two wheels, why not hire an e-scooter in the city?

Insider tip: Early morning canal rides are stunning - and refreshingly quiet.
 


Hop, glide and go: Trams that actually make travel fun

The West Midlands Metro is what public transport dreams are made of - modern, clean, and electric. Trams connect Birmingham city centre to Wolverhampton, with stops at hot spots like the Jewellery Quarter and West Bromwich.

Why it’s great:

  • Environmentally friendly
     
  • Cheaper than you think (get a day pass or use a Swift card)
     
  • Great views from your seat


Pro tip: Head out of the city during golden hour. The route to Wolverhampton offers some beautiful views, especially as you roll past canals and open parks.
 


Brilliant buses: Not your average commute

The West Midlands has one of the most extensive and modern networks in the UK. Many buses are now low-emission or electric, and you’ll never be more than a short walk from a stop.

Helpful tool: Download the TfWM app to plan routes, track buses in real-time, and buy mobile tickets. No more rummaging for exact change.

Bonus tip: If you’re heading to foodie favourite Digbeth, the number 50 bus from the city centre gets you there fast - and runs until late.
 


Trains for explorers: Fast tracks to day trips

From the grandeur of Birmingham New Street to charming local stations, the train network across the West Midlands makes it super easy to ditch the car and discover somewhere new.

Day trip ideas by train:

  • Stratford-upon-Avon – Shakespeare’s hometown, 45 mins
     
  • Malvern Hills – For a countryside escape with serious views
     
  • Coventry – Rich in history, futuristic in feel, under 25 mins
     

Ticket hack: Travel off-peak and use a Railcard (if you’re eligible) to save big on fares. Combine it with bus or tram passes for even more savings.


Explore the region from a duck’s perspective

 

Bet you didn’t expect canals to be a legit way to get around – but with more miles of canal than Venice, Birmingham’s waterways are not just pretty, they’re practical.

Walk, jog, cycle, or even kayak and paddle board the towpaths to navigate from Brindleyplace to Gas Street Basin, the Jewellery Quarter, or even further afield to Edgbaston Reservoir. 

The network extends across the whole of the West Midlands, so if you’re looking to explore further afield, why not hire a canal boat and make a weekend of it?
 


Taxis: When you just want to be chauffeured

Sometimes, you need door-to-door comfort - especially with bags, brollies, or when you’ve stayed a little too long at the pub. That’s where TOA Taxis come in: fully licensed, reliable, and 24/7.

Why we rate them:

  • You can pre-book via app
     
  • Accessible options available
     
  • They're one of the most trusted taxi firms in the region

Top tip: Share a cab with friends and split the fare - often cheaper (and greener!) than each of you driving.
 


Park, then ride: Smart travel starts outside the city

Driving in? Fine. Parking in the centre? Less fun. Beat the stress and emissions with one of the Park & Ride options around the West Midlands.

Leave your car at a secure lot, then hop on a tram or train straight into the action – no circling for a space or worrying about permits.
 


Travel greener. Explore smarter. Enjoy more.

So there you have it – you don’t need a car to explore the best of Birmingham and the West Midlands.  Whether you're heading to indie theatres, historic gems, green parks, or live music venues, the journey there can be half the fun.

For routes, apps, maps and everything in between, get planning your travel in the region.