As the second-largest city in the UK, Birmingham is known for its vibrant industrial history, rich cultural heritage, and exciting mix of modern attractions and historical landmarks. Whether you're here for business, leisure, or a combination of both, Birmingham has much to offer. From the Bullring Shopping Centre to the striking Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the city's diverse attractions are within easy reach, especially with a rental car. When you arrive at Birmingham Airport (BHX), it’s convenient to pick up your hire car straight away, and you'll have the freedom to explore the surrounding regions. Birmingham’s central location makes it an excellent base for road trips to nearby cities, such as London, Liverpool, and Manchester, as well as for discovering charming countryside destinations in the West Midlands and across the whole of England - beyond. Birmingham Airport is the main international gateway to the West Midlands, located just 13 km (8 miles) southeast of Birmingham city centre, making it easily accessible by car. The airport has connections to a number of UK cities, such as London (Heathrow, Gatwick, London City, Luton), Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, Manchester, Newcastle, Cardiff and Bristol. It has a wide range of European destinations, including Spain, Italy, France, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus and Turkey, and also flies to the United States to New York JFK, New York Newark, Chicago and Orlando, Toronto in Canada and Dubai in the UAE. The airport is also well-connected with cities across the whole of the UK via major road networks, such as the M42, M6, and M5 motorways. Once you’ve collected your luggage, your hire car will be ready and waiting at the airport. If you plan to explore Birmingham’s bustling city centre or enjoy a relaxing day in one of its scenic parks, a compact or midsize car is ideal for easy parking and efficient driving. However, if you're heading to nearby rural idylls such as Cirencester and the Cotswolds or the Malvern Hills, a larger vehicle or SUV may be more comfortable for longer journeys and terrain variation.

Birmingham’s mix of cosmopolitan cityscape, historical sites, and surrounding countryside offers a dynamic driving experience. The city itself is home to many landmarks, such as the stunning Birmingham Cathedral, the Jewellery Quarter, and the famous Cadbury World. The surrounding region also provides a wealth of opportunities for exploration, from picturesque countryside villages to heritage-rich towns. If you're staying in Birmingham to explore the city, be prepared for typical urban traffic, especially during peak hours. The city is well served by roads, but navigating narrow streets and busy intersections can be a challenge. Thankfully, having your own car allows you to avoid relying on public transport and ensures you can explore the wider region at your own pace.