Things to do in Manchester

Activities, attractions and tours

Media City, Salford Quays, Manchester, Lancashire, England, United Kingdom
Imperial war museum North and the lowry theater in Manchesterduring sunset, England
Panoramic image Manchester city skyline touched by the golden color of the Sunset
Panoramic View of Manchester Skyline showing old warehouse and chimney.
Sir Alex Ferguson stand of Old Trafford football stadium, Old Trafford is the largest stadium home of Manchester united football club.

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What to do in Manchester

Popular places to visit

Old Trafford

Old Trafford

4/5(354 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
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Heaton Park

4/5(65 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Heaton Park, a lovely green space in Manchester. Experience the area's acclaimed theatre scene and entertainment choices.

Heaton Park
Trafford Centre

Trafford Centre

4/5(209 reviews)

During your trip to Manchester, you can enjoy retail therapy at Trafford Centre. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene.

Trafford Centre
Manchester Skyline and Manchester Sport City

Etihad Stadium

4.5/5(143 reviews)

Catch an event at Etihad Stadium during your trip to Manchester. Discover the area's acclaimed theatre scene and shops.

Etihad Stadium
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Deansgate

4/5(112 reviews)

During your trip to Manchester, you can do some window-shopping at Deansgate. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed theatre scene in this family-friendly area.

Deansgate
View of Manchester Central Convention Complex and Peterloo Massacre Monument, Manchester, Lancashire, England

Manchester Central Convention Complex

Learn about the events happening in Manchester Central Convention Complex during your trip to Manchester. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its fascinating museums.

Manchester Central Convention Complex
Piccadilly Gardens

Piccadilly Gardens

4/5(213 reviews)

Kick back and relax at Manchester’s most popular green space and transport hub, and marvel at the city’s most controversial architecture.

Piccadilly Gardens
University of Manchester

University of Manchester

4/5(168 reviews)

Enjoy the student 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
Old Trafford Cricket Ground

Old Trafford Cricket Ground

4.5/5(42 reviews)

Catch an event at Old Trafford Cricket Ground during your trip to Manchester. Attend a football match or simply enjoy the lively bars while you're in the area.

Old Trafford Cricket Ground

Areas of Manchester

Manchester City Centre

Manchester City Centre

4/5(2,186 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

Old Trafford

Travellers choose Old Trafford for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Trafford Bar Tram Stop or Old Trafford Tram Stop and check out top sights like Old Trafford.

Old Trafford
Northern Quarter

Northern Quarter

4/5(356 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
Imperial war museum North and the lowry theater in Manchesterduring sunset, England

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 of the city at Parkway Tram Stop or Village Tram Stop.

Trafford Park
Piccadilly

Piccadilly

When in Piccadilly and the surrounding area, you'll want to check out sights like Canal Street or Manchester Conference Centre and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Picadilly Gardens Station or Mosley Street Station.

Piccadilly
Didsbury

Didsbury

3.5/5(110 area reviews)

If you're looking for abundant dining options, a trip to Didsbury might be just the ticket. Explore top sights in the area like Wilmslow Road and get around town on the metro at Didsbury Village Tram Stop.

Didsbury

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 holidaying 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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