Birmingham climbs Europe's 100 Best Cities list for 2025: Here's where and why

Birmingham has bagged itself a spot on Europe’s 100 Best Cities for 2025 — sliding in at number 30. Not too shabby, right?

The annual ranking, pulled together by global consultancy firm Resonance, looks at everything from quality of life and culture to a city’s online buzz. Think Google reviews, Instagram hashtags, and even Tripadvisor scores — if people are talking about it (and loving it), it counts.

To be in the running, cities had to have over 500,000 people — so we’re talking the heavy hitters. The list is basically a who’s who of European hotspots, and Brum held its own among the continent’s big names.

Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with BirminghamWorld’s free newsletter

While other UK cities landed higher, Birmingham’s placing is still a solid nod to its growing rep. With its ever-changing skyline, indie food scene, music heritage, and let’s not forget the Commonwealth Games glow-up, it’s clear Birmingham is on the rise.

Want to see who else made the cut? The full top 40 is worth a scroll — but for now, Brum can give itself a well-earned pat on the back.