What to do in Manchester

Activities, attractions and tours

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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

Manchester Attractions

Venturing off to the Rainy City otherwise known as Manchester? Affectionately coined Cottonopolis, Manchester is one of Great Britain's favorite destinations. Whether you are popping over for a short visit or an extended stay, Manchester activities will keep you busy. Let Expedia help you to find things to do in Manchester and start planning your itinerary now.

While it's been said in every life a little rain must fall, the weather won't stop you from enjoying Manchester tours. As you plot out your Manchester excursions on the map, find the best local and tourist spots that are a must-see. If you enjoy the great outdoors and animal life, venture to Heaton Park, the Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden, and Bellevue Zoological Gardens. Are historical places at the top of your list in the Warehouse City? Attractions in Manchester include the People's History Museum, the Gorton Monastery, the Manchester Cathedral, and the Manchester Museum. Do you love all things athletic? Catch a game of soccer, otherwise known as football, at the Old Trafford football stadium or pop over to Urbis, the national museum dedicated to Britain's favorite sport, none other than football. If you're interested in seeing the grey hounds race, Belle Vue Stadium is the place to be. For a real thrill, catch the slopes at the Chill Factore, an indoor ski centre with snow year round.

You can count on expedia.ca when you are looking for adventure in Manchester. This is a city with quite a nightlife, from the Palace Theatre to Band on the Wall to the Cornerhouse, a building housing three cinemas, a book shop, bars, and art galleries. If you have eclectic tastes, the Manchester Opera House will give you an unforgettable experience with rich music and talented performers. Drop by the Ritz for live music or explore another culture at Chinatown. Manchester awaits you.

Use expedia.ca to your advantage as you make all of your travel arrangements to Manchester. From flights and rooms to car rentals, it's easy to find the deals and get your journey underway! Happy traveling!


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What to do in Manchester


Discover the most popular places to visit in Manchester

Explore areas of Manchester

Albert Square showing street scenes, a square or plaza and heritage architecture

Manchester City Centre

4.5/5(88 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

3.5/5(16 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 King Street Manchester and jump on the metro at Market Street Station to see more of the city.

Central Retail District

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Manchester

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 travellers 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 neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.32 kilometres from central Manchester is Manchester City Centre and Piccadilly is 2 kilometres 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 neighbourhoods, 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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