Birmingham has been selected as a top European destination by global media giant Time Out.
Our city has been ranked alongside Italian beaches, a Spanish coast line and French mountains in the inspiring travel listing. The latest round up of European destinations recommended for tourists from Time Out is celebrating underrated travel destinations.
While everyone knows that the likes of Barcelona, Venice, Amsterdam and the Amalfi Coast are amazing - they can become overrun with visitors, and their popularity can push prices up too. In fact, according to Time Out, some of these mainstream travel hotspots have even started to ask tourists to stay away.
They’ve certainly got a point. There are so many fabulous destinations across Europe that are well worth a visit - and they’re so right with including Birmingham. This summer there’s a 10 day Birmingham Festival to celebrate the legacy of the Commonwealth Games too - so for those visitors who didn’t get the chance to enjoy the fantastic sports and cultural event last year, it means they’ve got another opportunity to experience the best Brummie perforances and hospitality.
Time Out gives a special shout out to Stirchley and Moseley for their independent restaurants, while recommending that tourists go beyond the city centre shopping centres, bars and museums. Leafy strolls along Harborne’s disused railway route on the Chad Valley are also mentioned along with a stroll through the Lickeys and a trip to Bournville.
Time Out said: “So here’s what we’re suggesting: this summer, save yourself the neck crane trying to glimpse the Mona Lisa. Skip the Vatican queues. Step out of the Sagrada Família crowds – and travel to some of the continent’s lesser-known destinations.”
Here’s a look at the 14 underrated tourist destinations they are recommending - including where Birmingham ranks:
1. Faroe Islands, Denmark
With stunning views, tumbling waterfalls, lusciously green mountains and quant towns these rocky Islands are recommended as the top underrated European destination. Six of the archipelago’s 18 islands are connected by tunnels too, so it’s a great place for a road trip. | Rob - stock.adobe.com
2. Tartu, Estonia
It’s known as the creative and intellectual centre of the Baltics - and it’s one of three European Capitals of Culture for 2024. You will find lively cafes, amazing architecture and outdoor summer festivals in Tartu. In December a whole Christmas City takes over the town with dazzing glass huts and ice rinks. | Dmitrijs Mihejevs - stock.adobe.com
3. Pamukkale, Turkey
Renowned for its mineral-rich thermal waters tumbling down the white travertine terraces this Unesco World Heritage Site is made from transluscent, snowly limestone naturally formed thousands of years ago. Its name translats as ‘cotton castle’. You can take a dip in teh pools and walk around the wonder - of take a hot air balloon for a view from above. There are Roman ruins to explore in the town, including an antique pool. | Adin - stock.adobe.com
4. Ponza, Italy
It’s a popular spot for locals in Rome who love the file mile rocky island where swimmers enjoy natural pools and ancient grottoes. There are sandy beaches too and plenty of fresh seafood at harbourfront restaurants. | satifal - stock.adobe.com