Manchester is a vibrant and culturally-rich city that draws thousands of tourists each year. From museums to galleries, parks to trendy bars and restaurants, this northern gem has a lot to offer. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there is always a new area to explore or an attraction to discover. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best attractions and things to do in Manchester, so you can get the most out of your visit and experience the best the city has to offer.

The 5 Best Things to Do This Weekend in Manchester

1. Private Selfguided Tour
2. 48 Hours Self Guide
3. City Highlights Exploration Game
4. National Football Museum Admission Ticket
5. Music Scene

The 5 Best Things to Do This Weekend in Manchester

1. Private Selfguided Tour

Explore Manchester independently and at your own pace with a private self-guided audio tour. Download the app on your smartphone upon booking and enjoy three weeks of unlimited access to the tour. The tour includes highlights such as Chinatown, Royal Corn Exchange, Manchester Cathedral, and more, with in-depth audio narration guiding you through the city’s history and behind-the-scenes stories. GPS maps will keep you on track, eliminating the worry of getting lost. This tour is perfect for independent travelers who want the freedom to explore one of England’s most vibrant cities on their own terms. All entrance fees to attractions mentioned during the tour are included as well as map directions, GPS routes, and stops for each tour. Meet-up details will be provided upon booking. Experience Manchester like never before with a private self-guided tour.

2. 48 Hours Self Guide

Discover Manchester at your own pace with this 48-hour self-guided tour. By downloading an app on your smartphone, you’ll gain access to two whole days’ worth of content, including information and insider facts about the city’s major sights and hidden gems. Popular highlights include the Whitworth Art Gallery, The John Rylands Library, and the Imperial War Museum North. Enjoy the freedom of exploring Manchester independently, with the app’s built-in map and images ensuring that you won’t get lost. Learn all about the city’s history, famous residents, and secret spots, and feel free to start and stop the tour according to your own schedule. This experience includes images and maps, 48 hours of uninterrupted content, and a smartphone with headphones. Choose a meeting point to kick off your adventure, and explore Manchester in your own way!

3. City Highlights Exploration Game

Get ready to explore Manchester’s top sights in a unique way with this self-guided mobile exploration game. Solve puzzles and follow clues to discover landmarks like the Football Museum and Piccadilly Gardens. Play on your own or compete in groups and meet at the finish line. Learn about the fascinating story of Manchester’s cute symbol and discover the history of a former asylum. This outdoor escape game and treasure hunt is the perfect way to experience Manchester’s highlights. The tour includes a city exploration game available on your phone, 24/7 customer support, and entry tickets to attractions. Please note this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

4. National Football Museum Admission Ticket

Your ticket to the National Football Museum in Manchester is your key to an unforgettable soccer experience. Explore all four floors of the museum, including ground floor where you can take a photo with the FA Cup and Premier League trophies and enjoy the latest pop-up art exhibition. On Level 1, discover must-see memorabilia, including the trophy won by England in 1966, and learn fascinating history about the England team.

Join the guided tour, starting at Level 1, to get a deeper insight into the museum’s collections. Level 2 houses all the interactive challenges, including the Penalty Shootout. And, on Level 3, you’ll find temporary exhibitions that change twice a year and offer an in-depth look at soccer through art, photography, and technology.

So, whether you want to relive the drama and emotions of famous matches, test your skills with Penalty Shootout Challenge, or get up close with historical memorabilia, the National Football Museum is the place to be for a true soccer fanatic. Book now to secure your admission ticket to this iconic attraction.

5. Music Scene

Explore the vibrant music scene of Manchester on this private and personalized 3-hour tour. Follow in the footsteps of famous Manchester bands like the Buzzcocks, Joy Division, and The Smiths and discover iconic venues including the Free Trade Hall and Piccadilly Records. Your knowledgeable guide will share secrets of the local music scene while stopping for refreshments in historic pubs and live music venues. Learn what puts Manchester on Britain’s music map and experience the city’s rich musical heritage firsthand. Transportation options include walking, public transport, or private taxi (recommended by your guide). Food and drinks beyond the included refreshments are additional. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to explore Manchester’s hidden musical gems.

Everything You Need to Know About Manchester: FAQs

Manchester is a city located in the northwest of England, and it is one of the largest and most culturally diverse destinations in the UK. Whether you’re visiting Manchester for the first time or you’re a returning traveler, this article aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this vibrant city.

1. What are the top tourist attractions in Manchester?

There are plenty of fascinating places to visit in Manchester. Below are some of the most popular tourist attractions that should be on your must-see list:

A. The Manchester Museum:

The Manchester Museum is known for its vast collection of archaeological and natural history artifacts. The museum is located at the University of Manchester, and it houses more than 4.5 million objects that span millions of years. It is free and open to the public.

B. The John Rylands Library:

The John Rylands Library is a Grade I listed building that is famous for its impressive Gothic architecture, as well as its vast collection of rare books and manuscripts. Free guided tours are available.

C. Manchester Art Gallery:

The Manchester Art Gallery is home to one of the UK’s most impressive collections of art, with over 25,000 objects ranging from paintings and sculptures to decorative arts and textiles. Admission is free.

D. Old Trafford:

Old Trafford is the home stadium of Manchester United Football Club. Guided tours are available, giving visitors an inside look into the club’s rich history.

2. When is the best time to visit Manchester?

The best time to visit Manchester is during the summer months of June to August. The weather is usually warm and sunny, and outdoor events are plentiful. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers, as Manchester is notorious for its unpredictable weather.

3. How do I get around Manchester?

Getting around Manchester is easy, with a range of public transport options available, including buses, trams, and trains. There are also plenty of taxis and rental cars available. Walking and cycling are also popular options, especially in the city center.

4. What are some popular neighborhoods in Manchester to visit?

Manchester is home to many interesting neighborhoods that offer unique cultural experiences. Below are some of the most popular neighborhoods to visit:

A. The Northern Quarter:

The Northern Quarter is known for its bohemian vibe, independent shops, and arts scene. It’s a great place to explore local street art and grab a coffee at one of Manchester’s many independent cafes.

B. Castlefield:

Castlefield is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, where you’ll find a network of canals, historic buildings, and tranquil green spaces. It’s a great spot for a relaxing walk and a picnic.

C. Chinatown:

Manchester’s Chinatown is one of the largest in Europe, and it’s home to an array of Chinese restaurants, supermarkets, and shops. It’s a great place to experience traditional Chinese culture and cuisine.

5. What can I expect from Manchester’s nightlife?

Manchester is famous for its buzzing nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and music venues catering to all tastes. Some of the most popular nightlife districts include the Northern Quarter, Deansgate Locks, and the Gay Village.

Conclusion

Manchester is a dynamic and culturally rich city that has plenty to offer visitors. From its impressive museums and galleries to its picturesque canals and buzzing nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Manchester. With its excellent public transportation, diverse neighborhoods, and friendly locals, it’s a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

The 5 Best Things to Do This Weekend in Manchester

Are you planning a weekend getaway to Manchester and wondering what the best things to do are? Manchester is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage that offers many exciting activities to locals and visitors alike. The city has a lot to offer, and there is always something going on, no matter the time of the year. To help you make the most of your weekend in Manchester, we have compiled a list of the five best things to do.

1. Visit the Museum of Science & Industry

If you are a fan of science and the history of industry, the Museum of Science & Industry is the perfect place for you. This museum is located on Liverpool Road in Castlefield and is housed in buildings that were once part of the world’s first passenger railway station. In the museum, you will explore Manchester’s rich scientific and industrial heritage with interactive exhibits, workshops, and live demonstrations. Visitors can see exhibits on themes such as textiles, aviation, and communication, and there is something for visitors of all ages.

2. Take a Tour of the Etihad Stadium

For football fans, a tour of the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City, is a must-do. The tour takes you behind the scenes at the stadium, including the dressing rooms, tunnel, and dugouts. Visitors will also get to sit in the manager’s seat and learn about the club’s history from their knowledgeable tour guide. The tours are offered daily, and booking is essential, especially during peak football season.

3. Explore The Northern Quarter

The Northern Quarter is located in the heart of Manchester City Centre and is a fashionable and trendy neighborhood that is home to some of the city’s best independent shops, bars, and restaurants. The area is known for its street art, vintage clothing stalls, and record shops. If you love exploring new places, you could spend hours in the Northern Quarter, discovering its quirky architecture and buzzing atmosphere.

4. Visit John Rylands Library

John Rylands Library is an impressive neo-gothic building located in Deansgate. It was opened to the public in 1900 and houses one of the world’s finest collections of rare books and manuscripts. The library is open seven days a week and offers visitor tours where visitors can learn about the library’s history, architecture and explore the collections. The library also has free Wi-Fi, numerous reading rooms, and a café for visitors to relax and enjoy the space.

5. Go to the Manchester Art Gallery

The Manchester Art Gallery is a public gallery that boasts a diverse and world-class collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art. The gallery has 13 separate display areas that showcase various themes, such as contemporary art, the Pre-Raphaelites, and Arts and Crafts. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gallery or use the interactive guide app for self-guided tours. The gallery is free to enter, but a small fee is charged for special exhibitions.

Final Thoughts

Manchester is a city that never sleeps, and there is always something going on. The above suggestions are just a starting point, and there are many more things to do and see in Manchester. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, Manchester has something for everyone. We hope that this list of the five best things to do this weekend in Manchester will help you plan your itinerary. Remember, always check the exact opening times, and pre-book where possible to avoid disappointment.