Grand Central & Bullring
Home to almost any shop you can think of, the famous Bullring shopping centre (named after the pride of Birmingham - the beautiful Bull statue just outside the doors to the centre) and Grand Central are staples you must visit if you're in the city. Full of restaurants, well-known stores and floors and floors of things to do, you are guaranteed to not want to leave once you've made your way in! They're both super easy to find, too, with Grand Central being excellently located above the main train station for Birmingham, and the Bullring only a short five minute walk away.
The Mailbox
The Mailbox is Birmingham's answer to fine dining and shopping. It is a mixed use space, with luxury department stores, fun bowling experiences, lavish restaurants, and also the office and studios of the BBC, all in one stunning place. If you're tired of walking, the Mailbox is luckily located on the edge of one of Birmingham's many canals, so you can take one of the popular water buses right to the front door.
Great Western Arcade
The charming Great Western Arcade is neatly nestled right in the heart of the city - and seemingly hidden away if you're not looking directly for it! It is home to plenty of independent retail stores and cafes, and has a Victorian charm that will have you feeling as if you've been suddenly transported back in time. Whether it is whisky, cheese, or even a 'ye olde sweet shoppe' you're after, the Great Western arcade has it all.
Jewellery Quarter
If it's something sparkly you're shopping for, we highly recommend heading on over to the famous Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham. This iconic part of the city is historically known for - you guessed it - jewellery, and if you have the time to venture a little north of the Bullring you'll be greeted by hundreds of independent jewellers and wedding shops. It is the centre for all things jewellery, so if you're looking for a wedding ring, handcrafted bracelets, or even real gold jewellery at bargain prices, the Jewellery Quarter is the place you'll want to be.
Piccadilly Arcade
Much like the Jewellery Quarter and the Great Western Arcade, Piccadilly Arcade offers a chance to escape the busy roads of Birmingham City centre and enter a whole new world. It is tucked tightly into a cluster of regular looking buildings, but it is not hard to spot thanks to the exquisite shop front decor black with highlights of regal gold. It houses gift shops, beauty salons, independent boutiques and enough jewellery and fashion to last the whole day of browsing, so what are you waiting for?!
Birmingham Christmas Market
Every year as Christmas rolls around once more, so does the Birmingham Christmas Market - colloquially known as the German Market for its many traditional desserts, bratwurst sausages, and large jugs of German beer. It truly is a magical market, and it is a great way to see the city as it stretches from the famous Bull all the way to the newest library, where it ends with a Ferris wheel and ice rink! You won't go hungry or thirsty as you're making your way through the crowds, as there is a stall with sweets, doughnuts, creamy baileys hot chocolates and burgers at almost every turn. You're also sure to find some Christmas trinkets and gifts that will remind you of your festive Birmingham visit for years to come.