Birmingham has a cultural vibrancy that makes it effortlessly contemporary, so taste all that’s on offer with this 48-hour guide to the city.

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Take a walking tour on day one

Many attractions and must-see places can be easily reached in the heart of the city, with the newly refurbished New Street Station in the centre.

Start at The Cube and take the bridge to explore the lively canal development of Brindleyplace and Ikon Gallery. Head over the suspension bridge, crossing into Centenary Square to find the Library of Birmingham. From there, you can walk to the Birmingham Tower Hall and Victoria Square, where the Museum and Art Gallery can be found, and or head over to St Philip’s Cathedral and Square.

Discovering Birmingham this way will show you why it has seen the largest growth outside of London and was in fourth position for most visited UK area in 2015 – http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/record-breaking-numbers-international-visitors-11386352.

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Eat and drink in style

Contemporary meets indie vibes at 200 Degrees, Colmore Row where you can stop for coffee near the Cathedral. If it’s a tasty tipple you’re after, Island Bar on Suffolk Street has over 70 rum drinks to tempt you. Diners on a Friday or Saturday can envelop themselves in live music and an electric atmosphere at the Digbeth Dining Club. Rest up in one of the many hotels around the centre, or even extend your visit by staying in the serviced apartments in Birmingham, such as http://birminghamservicedapartments.co.uk/deluxe-1-bedroom-birmingham-serviced-apartments/.

Shop ’til you drop

Shoppers are spoilt for choice with the likes of The Bullring, where the unique Selfridge building can be found, and the Mailbox, plus a host of boutique and independent arcades and stores.

Brunch, bus and history on day two

Relax near the water at Ju Ju’s Cafe for brunch, then see the sights using the bus service, or opt for a City Heritage tour. Later on, check out the city’s past by taking a visit to Coffin Works and the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter. Enjoy the fresh air afterwards with a stroll around Cannon Hill Park and the Wildlife Conservation Centre.

Splash out

Birmingham comes in at number two in the UK for the most Michelin-starred eateries. It would be a shame not to see what the likes of Carters of Moseley or Purnell’s have to offer.