OVERVIEW

Are you looking for a holiday destination, where you will be able to get a wonderful combination of natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and modern architecture coupled with mouth-watering delicacies? If you answer YES to all the above questions, then by all means you should come and visit Islamabad. Being Pakistan''s administrative capital, it is a well-planned ultra-modern city. Previous visitors here have extensively commented on the city''s welcoming atmosphere and the warm and hospitable nature of the residents. You might be on the lookout for an outdoor adventure, cultural exploration or simply a peaceful retreat at the foothills of mountains, Islamabad has it all.

Are you already feeling eager to come and pay a visit here? Well, you have surely come to the correct website. We at Pack and Fly have assisted innumerable tourists plan in detail their travel to cities around the world. Our motivated and capable agents will be able to help you plan in threadbare detail all aspects of your trip. Be it booking tickets on business class flights or economy flights between Birmingham and Islamabad or and planning your stay in any hotel in the city, we are the one-stop destination for it all.

Islamabad - A fully planned, modern city 

Islamabad is the capital of the country. The city has its own set of advantages. Its unique features are outstanding engineering planning, notable modern architecture and being covered by vast spaces. Some of the notable attractions which you can visit while sightseeing here are the Faisal Mosque, Lok Virsa Museum, and the Pakistan Monument. The feeling of community and brotherhood between the city''s residents who hail from different, ethnicities and cultural backgrounds. It stands as a testimony to what modern-day Pakistan is.

Festivals of Islamabad

Islamabad plays host to a variety of festivals, both religious and secular. You will surely be left amazed by the enthusiasm and zeal of the city''s population when it comes to participating in the festivities. Some of the most popular ones are:

Islamabad Art Festival: The festival aims to celebrate diversity and creativity in all forms of visual and performing arts. IAF aims to bring artists from Pakistan and across the world together on one multi-disciplinary platform with a global outreach. Emerging artists will have an opportunity to interact with established and highly-respected artists, and exhibit their work together on this collaborative platform. 

Eid-ul-Fitr: One of the most famous festivals in Pakistan is Eid-ul-Fitr. It marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, and is celebrated with joy, feasts, and communal prayers.

Pakistan Chocolate Festival: This yearly celebration, which takes place in March each year, celebrates everything chocolate! Some of the most well-known chocolate companies in Pakistan provide a variety of food outlets. Here guests can sample, unwind, and indulge in chocolate goodies.

Islamabad Street Food & Music Festival: Held in December, this festival is a celebration of Islamabad''s traditional food, music and culture. Usually held across three days, the event brings the city’s top street food vendors under one roof. In addition, music and other live entertainment are on display throughout the three days of the event.

Best time to come to the city?

The best time to visit Islamabad is in April, October and November when the maximum daytime temperature ranges from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius and you get 10 hours or more sunshine.

Not only tourists, the city is also frequented by dignitaries, diplomats and administrators from all corners of the world. Do you also fall under this category of travellers? If yes, then you can book your ticket on first class flights or business class flights by taking help from our capable experts. So what are you waiting for? Just plan your travel from Birmingham to Islamabad with us to get experience of a lifetime.

DISTANCE FROM ISLAMABAD AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

The Islamabad International Airport (IATA: ISB) serves the needs of Islamabad''s residents. However, 30 kilometers separates the international airport from the city centre. Arriving at strange times? You can be confident that transportation will be available to get you to your destination. Regardless of the airline class you are on—premium economy flights or business class flights, you will surely be able to find conveyance. Book cheapest flights from Birmingham to Islamabad with us and get attractive deals on your next trip.

ISLAMABAD AIRPORT TRANSPORT

The main city is well connected to Islamabad International Airport . As a result, you can travel from the airport to the city center easily. Depending on your specific requirements, you can choose the one which is most convenient for you:

Taxi: A popular way of travelling from the airport to the city centre, taxis operate from the airport 24/7 and 365 days a year. However, the price for a taxi ride from the airport to the Islamabad city is about roughly £7.

Uber, Shared Taxi: If you''''re searching for a less expensive choice, you might choose to take an Uber or a shared taxi. Take a shared taxi to save money. The only thing to keep in mind is that the fares might show a significant uptick during rush hour. 

First Class Flights: Is your mode of transportation is first class travel? You can ask the management to arrange for transportation to and from the airport. Because almost every airline that offers flights in this category offers pick-up and drop-off services to passengers.

FLYING TIME FROM BIRMINGHAM TO ISLAMABAD

When you travel between Birmingham to Islamabad, it will take you about 12 hours if your airline has only one stopover and roughly 30-34 hours if you stop at more than 1 transit destination. Since the distance between the two cities is considerable, so no airline operated direct flights on this route.  

Some of the common stopovers when you fly from Birmingham to Islamabad are listed right below:

Dublin

Berlin

Istanbul

Dubai

Budapest

Over the years millions have travelled along this route. Rarely has it happened that a passenger’s luggage has been misplaced as adequate safeguards exist to ensure that goods travel to the proper destination.

ATTRACTIONS IN ISLAMABAD

Looking to explore the attractions of Islamabad? Well, you have come to the correct location. Over the years, innumerable tourists have been left amazed by the city''s attractions. Given below is a small list of places in the Pakistani capital which are popular with tourists.

Daman-e-Koh: A beautiful picturesque spot overlooking the beautiful Margalla Hills, this tourist attraction provides all visitors with beautiful panoramic views over Islamabad. If you visit the city on a beautiful clear day, then you also have the opportunity to get clear views of places South of the Salt Range. To reach this location, you can either take the city minibus or just hike on the steep path located behind Marghzar Zoo for about 30 minutes.

Margalla Hills: A part of the Himalayan foothills, this covers an area of roughly 12,605 hectares. The hills are full of hiking trails that go through the forested valleys. If you are a fan of the great outdoors, then you can decide to come here. The walks can be steep, so you should carry along with you an ample amount of fluids so that you do not get dehydrated. 

Truck Workshops: Located close to the Rajah Bazaar or the Railway Workshop Road, there are numerous workshops dedicated to repairing trucks and decorating them with vibrant art which typifies Pakistani Road Transport. You will be left in total awe by the creativity of Pakistani artists and mechanics who leave no stone unturned to ensure that each truck becomes an artistic masterpiece.

Taxila Museum: The place for all history buffs to pay a visit to. The museum houses innumerable finds from the original Taxila site, especially from the Kushan era. Some of the most notable items on display are Buddha sculptures with intriguing Mediterranean faces, beautiful temple artwork, silver and bronze artefacts and beautiful gold coins. The museum staff take great care to ensure that all items are kept free of blemish. Photography is forbidden within museum premises. However, to remind you of the good times spent you can purchase souvenirs from the attached store.

Pakistan Army Museum: The Pakistani Army Museum is close to the Army library and is a must-see for weaponry and war history enthusiasts. This museum displays arms and ammunition from the Mughal Era and up to modern weapons. Some of the main draws of this museum are weapons dating back to prehistoric times, swords, sophisticated firearms like automatic and semi-automatic firearms, Stone Age hand Axes, and some armament from the war which was fought in Afghanistan in the 1980s.

Your trip to the city will be incomplete if you do not visit the above-mentioned attractions. You will be getting first-hand exposure to how citizens lead their lives and the evolution of the city through the decades.

SHOPPING IN ISLAMABAD

Looking for insights into how citizens live? Well, then what better way than going shopping in its streets. Interact with citizens first hand, savour mouth-watering street food and pick up memorabilia to remind you of times spent. When in Islamabad, the places written below are definitely the ones which you can pay a visit to:

F-6 Markaz: Situated at the foothills of the Margalla Range, this is the main market catering to the needs of the citizens of the F-6 locality. Similar to the Aabpara Market, this is one of the most famous venues where you can go and purchase souvenirs to serve as a reminder of the good times spent while sightseeing in Islamabad.  It also doubles up as a commercial area with bakeries, greengrocers, restaurants like KFC, and Pizza Hut and general stores. Tourists visiting it previously have heaped laurels on the delicious street foods served in the area.

Safa Gold Mall: A shopping mall which has obtained commendation as the city''s premier shopping, dine-in and entertainment destination. A family-friendly mall, where you can go have an enjoyable time. The main draws of this mall are the bowling alley, ice-skating ring, stores selling a variety of brands at affordable rates and the food court where you can enjoy mouth-watering local and international fare. Nice and clean with shopping being really easy, visiting it is recommended by all who might be travelling with young children or adolescents.

Esajee''s: Way back in 1965, Esajee & Sons became one of the first firms to establish food retail stores in the new upcoming city of Islamabad. Over the years it has ventured into the gourmet food, personal care and gift items segments to appeal to the affluent class in the city. Painstaking efforts are made to ensure that the quality of produce, meats and groceries is always top-notch. This combined with staff who are friendly and helpful go a long way in making your shopping experience memorable. The convenience of finding all requirements - from daily essentials to speciality items will surely keep you coming back for more.

Islamabad Farmers Market: The Islamabad Farmers Market only selects quality vendors that will abide by international organic norms. Open on Saturdays from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM, this is a wonderful place to meet local organic farmers and purchase local, seasonal fruits, vegetables and small-scale organic products. One of the added reasons why it is so popular with tourists is because you can come to enjoy a hearty meal prepared using ingredients free of artificial colourings or preservatives. 

Alico Antiques: Renowned for having an extensive collection of antiques and antiquities, which includes jewellery, pottery, artwork, and furniture. These antiques'' distinctiveness is one of their primary draws. These unique pieces, in contrast to mass-produced goods, highlight the artist''s ingenuity and talent. They can spark discussion starters and give your place a unique touch. Many tourists looking for avant-garde pieces of art have come here and purchased mementoes to take home with them. If you too are interested to buy these unique treasures, then this is the store to come visit.

Shopping in the city is enjoyable since there is an inescapable excitement hovering in the air. In Islamabad, the colorful display of goods and the hum of voices bargaining are the things that contribute to the uniqueness of these markets.

NIGHTLIFE IN ISLAMABAD

Islamabad offers the perfect fusion of contemporary and traditional cultures and comes to life at night. From charming hill stations to lively shopping centres, you will find something for your liking in this hip and happening city.

The Cave Lounge: Located in F-6 Markaz, this is one of the trendiest clubs in the city. The owners of the club have taken great care to ensure that it becomes the perfect setting where you can go and have an enjoyable time with your colleagues. The dimly lit interior, combined with smooth music and a large variety of drinks will ensure that the setting is ideal to have a merry time.

The Warehouse: Containing a spacious club featuring a dance floor, DJ booth and a big variety of seating areas like Cave Lounge, this too is a very popular spot with the younger crowd of the city. Thanks to the intelligent and diligent efforts of the staff, the Warehouse has obtained top ratings on many platforms covering developments in the party circuit in Islamabad. This is the best venue for enjoying a night of dancing and merrymaking in the Pakistani capital. 

Kuch Khaas: Islamabad is also home to a thriving music scene showcasing the talents of artisans and musicians from both within the country and abroad. The best part of this venue is that you will be able to enjoy live music performances done by local brands and solo artists covering a wide range of genres. Hands down, the intimate setting followed by passionate performances will help create the setting for an unforgettable nocturnal experience.

Music Mela: An annual music festival, organized every year in December featuring a diverse line-up of artists, performers and music lovers from all corners of the Indian sub-continent. Containing a lively atmosphere, and performances by talented artists specializing in a variety of genres, this is a must-attend event for all music enthusiasts and tourists coming to the city. 

Monal Downtown: Situated in Centaurus Mall, this is a really popular restaurant where you will surely be able to get stunning views of the city. Operating till late at night, this outlet serves a large variety of cuisines, including Pakistani, Chinese, Italian and Continental. From the heights, you will be able to take in breath-taking sights of the city while tasting mouth-watering preparations done by the city’s talented chefs.

You might be looking to taste mouth-watering Mughlai cuisines, or just have an enjoyable time relaxing in a cafe, this city has it all. You will be able to have a merry time once the sun goes down here.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN ISLAMABAD

Like any foreign country, you should keep with you copies of the local currency, if you wish to go sightseeing in a relaxed fashion. Business establishments and tourist attractions accept only the tender, the Pakistani rupee from customers. The venues described below are most suited to go and exchange currency.

Currency Exchange in Airport: A handy place to go get cash exchanged. The airport offers currency exchange services, however the sole disadvantage is that the exchange rates might not be favourable.

Banks: If you want to exchange money, then it’s a good idea to go to the banks written below. Roughly an exchange rate of 2-3% of the entire amount being exchanged will be taken from you.

• Meezan Bank
• HBL
• Faysal Bank
• Bank al Habib

Travellers cheques: If on holiday, vacation, or business you can also inquire about purchasing travellers cheques.

Currency exchange Outlets: Highly popular with tourists, these are verified locations where you can visit to exchange cash. The most popular ones in the city are:

GREAT EATING PLACES IN ISLAMABAD

The restaurants in Islamabad are well known for serving a variety of flavours. You might be looking to taste quintessential Pakistani cuisine or international flavours, be assured of getting it all in this city. The restaurants which you can visit while holidaying here are:

The Smokey Cauldron: Located right in the heart of the commercial F-6 district of Islamabad, this restaurant draws inspiration from the Harry Potter novels. No stone has been left unturned to provide all visitors to the restaurant with an authentic medieval European feel as they dine on great food. The themed eatery stands out as a one-of-a-kind establishment in the city and provides all visitors with an unforgettable dining experience.

Khiva Restaurant: The owners of the restaurants are veterans in the business. Serving Mughlai, Uzbek and Afghani cuisines which are fit for an emperor, this restaurant provides a culinary experience which will surely take you back to the Middle Ages. The only thing to keep in mind is that you need to be dressed in formal or semi-formal attire while coming here as great care has been taken to ensure that the ambience here is regal. A lovely place for getting together involving groups and families.

Kabul Restaurant: A highly acclaimed eatery in the F-7 Markaaz area where you will be able to enjoy an exquisite selection of Central Asian and Middle Eastern dishes in a traditional setting. You can either dine indoors or outdoors as the hotel provides both options. Special emphasis on keeping the ambience quintessentially Afghan. So the interior décor, food presentation and menu will ensure that you leave the outlet fully content after tasting a hearty meal.

Des Pardes Restaurant: If you wish to taste authentic Mughlai and Continental dishes then you should surely think of giving this dining spot a visit. Being committed to traditional cooking techniques, it offers everybody an immersive cultural experience in a cosy dining atmosphere. Some of the dishes which you should try out are the Chicken Achari Handi and Cheese Naan. 

Bar B.Q. Tonight: A restaurant is dedicated to serving authentic Pakistani cuisine with focus on preparing Bar be bar-be-que dishes. The menu comprises a variety of grilled meats which are marinated in exotic herbs and cooked to perfection on open flames.  This is the venue to visit to get an exceptional yet economical dining experience.

You might be looking to get a quick bite, or a more elaborate dining experience in Islamabad, will not disappoint you. While here you will surely find something to satisfy all your gastronomical desires.

HOTELS STAY IN ISLAMABAD

Come to Islamabad for the holiday of a lifetime. As a result, it''s highly popular with everybody for everybody looking for a wonderful holiday. There are many attractions both in the city and around it. Planned to perfection by the administrators, simply head on to this destination and a have memorable experience. In conclusion, find suitable accommodation in Islamabad, irrespective of your budget.

Rahat villas apartment (5 Star)

Address: MV96+49M, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

Live in luxury befitting royalty in this amazing hotel. Coming on a business trip? Without a doubt, effectively accomplish your aims of coming to Islamabad. Thousands have come before you and have taken wonderful memories along with them. Make full use of facilities like the projector, conference room and cafeteria. In other words, the one-stop destination for all to have a memorable experience while in the city.

Rose Lodges Guest House (5 Star)

Address: New Rose Lodges Guest House, House No 446, Street 51, G-9 Sector, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

Experience 5-star luxury, that too at highly competitive rates. In other words, this is the unique selling point of this hotel. Management works hard. As a result, the hotel ranks very high on multiple parameters of evaluation. An amazing combination of good food, cleanliness as well as prompt service. In conclusion, Rose Lodges Guest House is the best hotel to stay Islamabad.

Oriole Luxury Hotel (5 Star)

Address: 52 Street 55 House 52, Sector G9/4, G-9 Sector, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

Located close to popular tourist attractions, a luxurious venue to stay. In addition, it''s situated close to the airport. Coming at odd hours like early morning or late night? Surely come stay here. Complementary pickup and drop-off services are provided for all guests. Additionally, management works hard to raise the bar higher.  Also, it has obtained top ratings on multiple parameters of evaluation. Be assured of a comfortable, memorable stay and a wonderful time spent within its premises.

Best Western Premier Islamabad (4 Star)

Address: 6 Club Road, Islamabad 6 Club Road, Islamabad, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

The best combination of comfort and cost in Islamabad. In other words, a major favourite of tourists coming to the Pakistani capital. Located close to the main tourist attractions in the city. Without a doubt, the best place to put up for sightseeing. Rated as the best on many platforms covering developments in the tourist circuit in the city.  In conclusion, come up here to enjoy exploring the city.

Hotel One Super, Islamabad (4 Star)

Address: Main Aga Khan Road House # 36F-6/4, F-6 Sector, 44000 Islamabad, Pakistan

The best hotel to come put up after a tiring day spent sightseeing. Without a doubt, your stay here can be extremely memorable. Contains a variety of facilities such as an attached bar, food court, gym and sauna. Popular with dignitaries, businessmen and other men of stature coming to Islamabad. Because of the staff''s intelligent and diligent efforts, the hotel has been declared one of the best places where you can come stay.

Grand Islamabad Hotel (3 Star)

Address: St 1, MPCHS E-11/1 MPCHS E 11/1 E-11, Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan

Travel in a thrifty manner? Well, go put up in the Grand Islamabad Hotel. In addition, to being cheap all facilities are provided at really reasonable rates. Decide to put up here, if you are coming at odd times. Without a doubt a favourite with female and solo travellers.  Because of these features, all guests have a lovely time staying here.

Are you are backpacker, a family man or a business tycoon? Islamabad will not disappoint you. Head over to Islamabad and have an amazing time exploring.