Things to do in Manchester

Activities, attractions and tours

St. Peter\'s Square which includes a square or plaza, railway items and heritage architecture
Manchester Art Gallery which includes interior views and art as well as an individual femail
Manchester
Manchester City Hall showing heritage architecture and interior views
Manchester City Hall which includes heritage architecture and interior views

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Most popular experiences in Manchester

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What to do in Manchester


Popular places to visit

Areas of Manchester

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

Manchester City Centre

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 showing a statue or sculpture

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
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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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Northern Quarter

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
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Gay Village

If you're spending some time in Gay Village, Canal Street and Alan Turing Memorial are top sights worth seeing.

Gay Village
Imperial War Museum North featuring interior views

Trafford Park

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

Trafford Park

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.