What to do in Manchester

Activities, attractions and tours

Manchester, UK. Photos taken near the Manchester ship canal.
A modern cityscape with a river, a bridge, and several high-rise buildings.
A waterfront cityscape with modern architecture, including a distinctive building with a curved roof and a cylindrical structure with a golden facade.
A cityscape with modern skyscrapers and a river in the background.
A cityscape with a prominent red brick building, a river, and a mix of residential and commercial skyscrapers.

Manchester Tourist Attractions & Activities

If you’re searching for an exciting holiday, count on Expedia.com.au to help you find interesting attractions, enlightening experiences, and tons of other fun things to do in Manchester AU$9. From first-rate tours to incredible deals on sightseeing trips – our extensive selection of local things to do and places to visit is just a few clicks away.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re travelling alone, alongside your main squeeze, or with your favourite friends or family members, Expedia has the inside scoop on what to see and do while in this corner of the world. And our search tool makes it simple to score the best deals around. So regardless of if you are on a tight budget or prefer to spare no expense, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for by browsing over 163 activities in Manchester, England.

The intuitive booking system here on Expedia.com.au makes planning your holiday easier—and more affordable—than ever before. And not only can you discover all the best Manchester attractions from AU$9, but you can also book flights, hire cars, and reserve hotel rooms all in just a few moments. A world of wonder awaits you and your travelling companions. Count on Expedia.com.au to help you plan the holiday of your dreams, and you’ll have the time of your life.

Activities


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What to do in Manchester


Stay near popular Manchester attractions

Our guide on where to stay in Manchester

Find the best Manchester areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Manchester
Learn more about Manchester

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.

Northern Quarter

Northern Quarter is known for its popular shops, and you can see some sights area like Market Street and Affleck's Palace.

Ancoats

While Ancoats may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Etihad Stadium and Manchester Arndale.

Castlefield

Castlefield is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Castlefield Bowl and Beetham Tower while in the area.

New Cross

While there might not be top attractions in New Cross, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Etihad Stadium and National Football Museum.


 

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 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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