Things to do in Manchester

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Water way canal area in Manchester ,North west England
Modern apartments on both side of river Irwell passing through Manchester city center, UK.
Panoramic view of Manchester, England, UK
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What to do in Manchester

Discover the most popular places to visit in Manchester

Old Trafford

Old Trafford

4.5/5(148 reviews)

Cheer on soccer players during an exhilarating match and tour this 75,000-capacity stadium, home to one of Britain’s greatest soccer teams.

Old Trafford
Espectacular view of this glamorous mall. Manchester United Kingdom

Trafford Centre

4.5/5(32 reviews)

During your trip to Manchester, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Trafford Centre. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

Trafford Centre
Manchester Skyline and Manchester Sport City

Etihad Stadium

4.5/5(22 reviews)

Catch an event at Etihad Stadium during your trip to Manchester. Discover the area's fascinating museums and shops.

Etihad Stadium
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Heaton Park

5/5(6 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Heaton Park, a lovely green space in Manchester. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theater scene.

Heaton Park
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Deansgate

4/5(11 reviews)

During your trip to Manchester, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Deansgate. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed theater scene in this family-friendly area.

Deansgate
Manchester_ManchesterArena_6079173-2

AO Arena

4/5(74 reviews)

Catch an event at AO Arena during your trip to Cheetham Hill. Discover the area's entertainment choices and shops.

AO Arena
Shadows of neo-gothic towers, spires and roofs from the main University of Manchester building showing up really well on the modern rotundity of University Place, opposite.

University of Manchester

4.5/5(66 reviews)

Enjoy the collegiate vibe when you visit University of Manchester, during your travels in Manchester. Make time to visit the area's shops, or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

University of Manchester
Piccadilly Gardens which includes a monument, a statue or sculpture and a city

Piccadilly Gardens

4/5(42 reviews)

Watch the world go by and take a look at Manchester’s most controversial architecture at the city’s busiest green space and transport hub.

Piccadilly Gardens
View from the footpath along Rochdale canal in the Castlefield area in the center of Manchester, England towards a historic steel railway bridge

Canal Street

4.5/5(12 reviews)

During your visit to Manchester, you can do some window-shopping at Canal Street. Experience the acclaimed theater scene and entertainment choices in this walkable area.

Canal Street

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Manchester

Albert Square which includes a city, street scenes and a square or plaza

Manchester City Centre

4.5/5(348 area reviews)

Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Manchester City Centre. Check out top attractions like Manchester Art Gallery and St. Peter's Square, and jump on the metro at St Peters Square Station or Mosley Street Station to see more of the city.

Manchester City Centre
Old Trafford, Manchester, England

Old Trafford

Consider a visit to Old Trafford and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in Old Trafford. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Trafford Bar Tram Stop or Old Trafford Tram Stop.

Old Trafford
Piccadilly Gardens showing rides

Northern Quarter

4.5/5(50 area reviews)

Taste craft beers and stroll down the lively streets of this alternative district, noticing the vinyl record stores, street art and indie fashion boutiques.

Northern Quarter
What a great find, equal to if not better than it's neighbour Cloudwater Barrel Store

Piccadilly

If you're spending time in Piccadilly, check out sights like Market Street or Rochdale Canal and hop on the metro to see more the city at Picadilly Gardens Station or Mosley Street Station.

Piccadilly
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Trafford Park

While you're in Trafford Park, take in top sights like Old Trafford or Imperial War Museum North, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Parkway Tram Stop or Village Tram Stop.

Trafford Park
#BvsCities Amazing city. This is Media City in Salford Quays. Amazing at night.

Central Retail District

While you're in Central Retail District, take in top sights like Royal Exchange Theatre and jump on the metro at Market Street Station to see more of the city.

Central Retail District

Popular day trips from Manchester

Adobe

Bolton

Warrington which includes heritage architecture

Warrington

Wigan Pier. Inside are actors and artefacts teaching visitors about Lancashire's coal mining past.

Wigan

Adobe

Wilmslow

#LifeAtExpedia Day with the ducks

Oldham

Peacock on petals

Prestwich

Autumn hit - Healy Dell Nature Reserve

Rochdale

Marple Flight Locks and Lockside Mill Cheshire England.

Stockport

Frequently asked questions

Is Manchester worth visiting?
With a blend of walking trails and cycling, there's no shortage of things to do in Manchester. While you're here, visit O2 Apollo Manchester, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Manchester?
Museum of Science and Industry and Manchester Museum are two awesome places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the shopping and dining options in Manchester while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Manchester?
Don't leave without exploring O2 Apollo Manchester, rated the top tourist attraction in Manchester.
Is three days enough to stay in Manchester?
You can easily tick off leading attractions like O2 Apollo Manchester, Manchester Palace Theatre and Manchester Opera House with a three-day stay in Manchester. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so linger longer and head to Greater Manchester.
Is Manchester a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Manchester, such as O2 Apollo Manchester and Manchester Palace Theatre, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometers from central Manchester is Manchester City Centre and Piccadilly is 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Manchester with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Manchester with kids.

What to do in Manchester for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Manchester, with activities for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Deansgate or Canal Street.
Are there free things to do in Manchester?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Manchester is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighborhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without reaching into your pocket. Manchester Cathedral is one place that doesn't have an entrance fee.

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