As the 2026 European Athletics Championships draws closer, Birmingham is preparing to host thousands of visitors from across Europe and the UK. Choosing the right area to stay in can significantly improve your event experience — making travel to the stadium smoother, helping you access key attractions, and ensuring comfortable downtime between sessions.
This guide breaks down the best places to stay in Birmingham during Athletics 2026, including the top districts, hotel options, travel times, and insider tips to make the most of your visit.
⭐ Why Accommodation Planning Matters for Athletics 2026
Demand will surge heavily around:
- Opening ceremony
- Semi-finals & finals
- Weekend sessions
- VIP hospitality events
Hotels will book up fast, especially near:
- Birmingham city centre
- Perry Barr (Alexander Stadium)
- Edgbaston
- Solihull / Airport corridor
Booking early guarantees:
- Better prices
- Closer locations
- Smoother daily travel
- More accommodation choice
🏙️ Best Areas to Stay in Birmingham for Athletics 2026
1. Birmingham City Centre (Best Overall)
City centre offers the highest convenience, especially for visitors without a car.
Why stay here?
- Fast shuttle buses to Alexander Stadium
- Walking distance to shopping, dining & nightlife
- Close to New Street, Moor Street & Snow Hill stations
Travel Time:
- 15–20 minutes to Alexander Stadium by shuttle or taxi
Great for fans who want everything close by and easy.
2. Jewellery Quarter (Best for Style & Culture)
The Jewellery Quarter is known for boutique hotels, creative spaces, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the city centre.
Why stay here?
- Trendy restaurants & cafés
- Quiet nights
- Fast access to city centre
Travel Time:
- 15–18 minutes to Alexander Stadium
Ideal for couples, digital nomads, and travellers seeking comfort + charm.
3. Perry Barr (Closest to the Stadium)
Perry Barr is the location of Alexander Stadium, making it the most convenient base for visitors who want to avoid long commutes.
Why stay here?
- Walkable to the stadium (depending on hotel)
- Very quick taxi or chauffeur transfers
- Quiet residential area
Travel Time:
- 5–10 minutes to Alexander Stadium
Great for families, athletes’ supporters, or visitors attending multiple daily sessions.
4. Edgbaston (Best for Calm & Green Spaces)
Home to parks, cricket grounds, and premium homes, Edgbaston is quieter and more residential.
Why stay here?
- Spacious accommodation
- More greenery
- Easy travel links
Travel Time:
- 20–25 minutes to Alexander Stadium
Great for slower-paced stays or longer visits.
5. Solihull & BHX Airport Hotels (Best for International Visitors)
Solihull and the Birmingham Airport area offer excellent hotels for travellers flying in for the event.
Why stay here?
- Perfect for early/late flights
- High hotel availability
- Quieter suburban environment
Travel Time:
- 25–30 minutes to Alexander Stadium
- 15 minutes to city centre via train/taxi
Ideal for international attendees, business travellers & VIPs.
🛎️ Hotel Types to Expect in Birmingham
✔ Luxury Hotels
Best for VIPs, business travellers, and guests seeking premium comfort.
✔ Mid-Range Hotels
The most popular choice for fans and families attending the event.
✔ Budget Hotels
Located around the city centre & surrounding districts — good for short stays.
✔ Apartments / Serviced Flats
Good for longer stays or groups who want kitchen space and extra privacy.
🚗 Travel Between Hotels & Alexander Stadium
Regardless of where you stay, travel to the stadium is straightforward.
Best Options:
- Shuttle buses (event days)
- Taxi or rideshare
- Chauffeur services (most reliable)
- Local buses
- Perry Barr rail link
👉 Internal link:
Birmingham Chauffeur Service – Luxe Transfers UK
For faster VIP movement or guaranteed arrival windows, a chauffeur service is strongly recommended.
🛣️ Travel Routes From Major Areas
City Centre → Alexander Stadium
15–20 mins
Jewellery Quarter → Alexander Stadium
15 mins
Solihull/BHX → Alexander Stadium
25–30 mins
Edgbaston → Alexander Stadium
20–25 mins
Perry Barr → Alexander Stadium
5–10 mins
👉BHX to Birmingham Transfers for Athletics 2026 Fans
🧭 Tips for Choosing the Best Hotel for Athletics 2026
- Book accommodation 3–6 months early
- Stay closer to the city centre if you want nightlife & transport access
- Solihull/BHX hotels best for early/late flights
- Perry Barr stays are the most stadium-friendly
- For VIP comfort, choose chauffeur transport to avoid stadium queues
🔗 High-Authority External Link
For official Birmingham visitor information:
👉 https://visitbirmingham.com/
🏁 Conclusion
Birmingham offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors attending the 2026 European Athletics Championships. Whether you prefer the buzz of the city centre, the charm of the Jewellery Quarter, the convenience of Perry Barr, or the peace of Edgbaston and Solihull, there’s something for every type of fan.
To make your stay even smoother, pre-book your daily travel — especially during major event sessions.
👉 Internal link:
Online Chauffeur Booking – Luxe Transfers UK
❓ FAQs
1. What is the best area to stay in Birmingham for Athletics 2026?
The city centre offers the best overall access, especially for first-time visitors.
2. What’s the closest area to Alexander Stadium?
Perry Barr is the closest and most convenient location.
3. Are there hotels near Birmingham Airport for the event?
Yes — Solihull and BHX hotels are ideal for international travellers.
4. Should I book accommodation early?
Yes, 3–6 months in advance is recommended due to high demand.
5. How do I travel from my hotel to the stadium?
Shuttles, taxis, chauffeur services, and trains all serve the stadium area.
