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:
13. Lake Annecy, France
Recommended by Time Out as a tempting alternative to the French Riviera. There are stunning views of the French Alps, as you can see in this photo of the Alpine lake. It’s near the beautiful town of Annecy which is described as a blend fo France, Switzerland and Venice with lakeside gardens, medieval alleyways and canals. | lukaszimilena - stock.adobe.com
14. Matera, Italy
One of the oldest Italian settlements wit a Unesco World Heritage site, the city of Matera is three hours away from the Amalfi Coast and Naples. It is carved into rocky mounts in the souther Basilicata region. You can travel back in time in the old town and see whiy filmmakers find Matera such a great place. The cave dwellings are truly remakable and set it apart from many Italian destinations. | davidionut - stock.adobe.com