Birmingham is the second largest city in England, and stands as the largest in England's West Midlands region. With more than a million people living in the central region of the city, Birmingham is often busy, particularly with the increase in tourism over the past decade.

The city contains its own international airport – the Birmingham International Airport. Many cities from around Europe can directly reach Birmingham via the air. However, it is also possible to fly into Heathrow, then transfer by place, train or bus to Birmingham. Because it is such a large city, Birmingham hotels are quite diverse. Visitors can enjoy the comforts of five-star hotels in the city, or try to save money and choose a restful but cheap lodging instead.

Below is a list of the most visited and exciting attractions in Birmingham.

-    Cadbury Factory: Birmingham is home to the world renowned Cadbury Factory, one of the globes premier chocolate makers. Cadbury World, as it is known, offers historical tours of the company, provides free samples of chocolate, and allows tours of the factory floor. A must visit for any sweet toothed travellers.

-    Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: famous for its pre-Raphaelite pieces of artwork, the museum and art gallery of Birmingham hosts a wealth of exhibitions for visitors. Take a look back at the history of Birmingham, witness modern art marvels, and explore the future of this amazing city.

-    Thinktank: one of the most fascinating science centres in the United Kingdom, the Thinktank is a wondrous explosion of science and inquiry. Explore the many hands-on activities and machines that are found within the institution. There is also a popular IMAX theatre in the complex.

-    Birmingham Botanical Gardens: one of the best botanical gardens in the central and northern regions of England, Birmingham Botanical Gardens has a massive variety of flowers and plants to enjoy. It is found in the Edgbaston district of the city.

-    Birmingham Cathedral: also known as the St Philip's Cathedral, the Birmingham Cathedral is an Anglican church that was built in a Baroque architectural style during the early 1700's. It has been listed as a Grade 1 structure, adding to its distinctive façade and reputation.

-    Drayton Manor: the family luring theme park known as Drayton Manor is located just outside the city of Birmingham. Nevertheless, it is extremely easy to reach, but school holidays and weekends can bring large crowds to the park.

-    National Sea Life Centre: creatures from the deep are a regular crowd puller to the National Sea Life Centre. There are plenty of marine animals to witness in the establishment, including otters and turtles. Feeding times are available during the day, and opening times are generally between 10:00 and 18:00.

-    Sutton Park: golfing, fishing, cycling, bird watching, and many other activities can be enjoyed when visiting Sutton Park – one of the largest parkland areas in the city of Birmingham. The park was given status as a national reserve of England about 10 years ago, and has since been visited by hundreds of thousands of people.

-    The Bull Ring: one of Birmingham's pride and joys, the bull ring district is home to a number of major shopping areas. The Bull Ring Market Place is quite popular among visitors to the city, while the new Bull Ring Shopping Complex has been an increasingly important modern landmark for locals.

-    Aston Hall: this living museum is also an art gallery. Formerly a famous residence during the English Civil War, the building is still showing signs of the war, as visitors can see numerous cannonball holes in the walls of the mansion.