Islamabad

Arriving at Islamabad Airport

When flying from Birmingham Airport (BHX), your flight will arrive at Islamabad International Airport (ISB). The airport is located roughly 25–30km southwest of Islamabad city centre and is Pakistan's largest and most modern aviation hub. It features one main, purpose-built passenger terminal handling both domestic and international arrivals. As the primary gateway to northern Pakistan, there are plenty of onward travel options to choose from. Direct flights to Islamabad take approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes.

The fastest and most comfortable transfer between Islamabad Airport and the city centre is by car or taxi, taking around 30 to 45 minutes via the Srinagar Highway depending on traffic. For a cheaper public transport transfer, you can take the Orange Line Metrobus, which runs on a dedicated lane from the airport terminal to Faiz Ahmed Faiz Station (where you can connect to the Red Line for central Islamabad) in about 45 minutes. Buses depart every 5 to 15 minutes between roughly 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM. If you arrive overnight or prefer door-to-door service, you’ll find official taxi desks inside the arrivals hall alongside designated pickup zones for ride-hailing apps like Yango and inDrive.

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What to expect in Islamabad

A scenic blend of striking modern architecture, rich heritage and lush green spaces, Pakistan’s peaceful capital is one of the most welcoming and picturesque cities in South Asia. From exploring iconic tourist attractions in Islamabad to hiking the Margalla Hills, there are countless things to do in Islamabad and memorable places to visit in Islamabad for travellers of all interests.

Urdu is the national language and is widely spoken across the city, while English is also an official language and is commonly understood throughout hotels, restaurants and major sightseeing spots. The locals will warmly appreciate you making an effort with their language though! Try these phrases to get you off on the right foot: Jee haan (yes), nahi (no), meherbani (please), shukriya (thank you) and maaf kijiye (excuse me).

Islamabad has a humid subtropical climate, characterised by hot, rainy summers during the monsoon season, pleasant spring and autumn months, and cool, crisp winters.

Culture in Islamabad

Pakistani culture is steeped in hospitality, family, poetry, traditional crafts, music and vibrant cuisine. Situated at the crossroads of ancient trade routes near the historic Gandhara civilisation, the region has flourished with heritage and artistry for centuries.

The major religion in Pakistan is Islam, and Islamabad is home to the world-renowned Faisal Mosque—an architectural masterpiece nestled against the Margalla Hills and one of the largest mosques in the world.

Fly from Birmingham to Islamabad and enjoy some of the most impressive landmarks in South Asia, including the Pakistan Monument, one of the most iconic places to visit in Islamabad. Shaped like a blooming flower representing the country's provinces and territories, it stands as a proud symbol of national unity. Exploring landmarks such as Faisal Mosque, the Pakistan Monument and the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum ranks among the top things to do in Islamabad and highlights the finest tourist attractions in Islamabad.

Pakistani cuisine is celebrated around the world for its rich spices and bold flavours. One great thing about visiting the capital is that you can sample regional specialities from every corner of the country. Fly to Islamabad and try freshly grilled Seekh Kebabs or aromatic Chicken Karahi served with warm garlic naan, and for dessert enjoy a bowl of Kheer (a creamy, cardamom-infused rice pudding topped with pistachios).