Travel Guide Manchester
Manchester, nicknamed the capital of northern England, is famous for its musical heritage and footballing history. The city also boasts iconic neighborhoods, impressive museums and a lively nightlife. A visit to the Manchester Tourist Guide reveals a city full of contrasts. This city of art, music and fashion is home to the likes of Oasis, The Smiths and Take That, as well as movements such as Arts & Crafts. Don't miss a few festivals, including Manchester Pride and the gourmet Manchester Food and Drink Festival!
"On the sixth day, God fashioned Manchester", proclaims the wall of Affleck's Palace. This quintessentially British yet singularly distinctive city has some unique sites to visit. It's a crossroads of history, culture and authenticity embodied by its passionate inhabitants, the Mancunians. Never short of words, they cherish their city, which they often describe as the best in the world. The architectural mix of modern and Victorian, such as Beetham Tower, is striking, as is the variety of its neighborhoods: from the artistic Northern Quarter to historic St Peter's Square, the lively Gay Village on Canal Street and vibrant Chinatown.
Indeed, the Northern Quarter, with its cobbled streets, independent boutiques and street art-covered walls, bears witness to the city's rich musical history. This rehabilitated former industrial district is teeming with small boutiques, trendy bars and more or less alternative cultural spaces. Or take a stroll around the beautiful monuments of St Peter's Square. St Peter's Square is another focal point of the city, with major landmarks such as the Town Hall and Manchester Central Library. You'll also discover Canal Street, a pedestrian street and the center of Manchester's Gay Village, where LGBT bars line up. Nearby, immerse yourself in bustling Chinatown!
To the north, NOMA is also undergoing major restructuring. The reborn docks are home to contemporary museums and TV studios. And sports fans are well catered for, with major stadiums including Man Utd's Old Trafford and Man City's Etihad Stadium, and the National Football Museum.Manchester. Indeed, you're in the home of two soccer giants: Manchester United and Manchester City, making it a must-see for sports enthusiasts.
Then check out the city's industrial heritage, beautifully preserved at the MOSI - Museum of Science and Industry, where you can explore the impact of the Industrial Revolution on Manchester and the world. And, for a breath of fresh air, a walk along the restored canals or a visit to Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest parks, is ideal. Our Manchester Travel Guide also reveals some of the finest places to stay in Manchester after all that sightseeing.
Finally, sample the local cuisine, influenced by a cosmopolitan population. From traditional British dishes to the delights of Chinese cuisine, gourmets will be delighted in the city's best restaurants ! Manchester is a vibrant metropolis, proudly rivaling its neighbor Liverpool. It's a destination that's both historic and trendy. Whether you're a music lover, a soccer fan or simply a traveler in search of new discoveries, Manchester will not leave you indifferent.
What to visit Manchester?
Suggested addresses Manchester
When to go to Manchester?
This great student and cultural city is alive and kicking all year round. So when should you go to Manchester? Apart from December, when the weather is really unpleasant, you can visit Manchester all year round. The best time to visit Manchester is undoubtedly summer. The days are long and sunny (despite a few typically Mancunian showers), and the city is full of activities. It's high season, so prices can be higher and attractions busier. If you visit Manchester in July, expect a lively, festive atmosphere. The big soccer matches see a huge influx of visitors, as does Manchester Pride at the end of August. Plan your stay with these dates in mind.
Weather at the moment
Manchester has a temperate oceanic climate , with cool summers and mild winters. Precipitation is regular throughout the year, but rarely very heavy. The hills surrounding the city can be very snowy, and access to them blocked. Temperatures in Manchester fluctuate from 7°C in December to 21°C in July. The wettest period is from early October to early January. The most pleasant time to visit Manchester is from May to September.
The English have refused to join the Eurozone. The currency in Manchester is the pound sterling (£). Manchester is much less expensive to live in than London, one of the most expensive cities in the world. If you stay in a youth hostel and don't eat out in the big restaurants, your stay will remain very affordable. Credit cards are accepted everywhere. You can also stay like a lord, in the lap of luxury. Finally, tipping is common but not compulsory, often around 10% in restaurants.
For citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, a valid passport is required for an escapade not exceeding 6 months. Only those with (pre)settled status, under the Withdrawal Agreement between the UK and the EU, will be able to use their ID card, at least until 2025. Don't forget to confirm your entry details as your trip approaches.
For travelers from outside the EEA, procedures differ. Obtaining a visa for Manchester depends on where you're coming from, and the purpose and duration of your visit. So it's vital to inform yourself in advance. Short breaks, such as tourist trips, generally require a standard visitor's visa.
Before setting off for Manchester, we strongly recommend that you consult the official website of the relevant British embassy or consulate for up-to-date information and details of the procedures involved.
Sanitary conditions in Manchester are similar to those in France, and hygiene is very good. Tap water in Manchester is safe to drink.
There are no specific vaccination requirements for tourists to Manchester. However, you should ensure that you are up to date with the most common vaccinations, such as tetanus, diphtheria and measles. For those coming from regions where certain pathologies are recurrent, additional immunizations may be suggested. A pre-travel medical consultation is recommended! Under the aegis of the National Health Service (under the aegis of the National Health Service, free treatment in the event of accident or emergency, on presentation of their passport. Social protection is provided by local authorities, sometimes in conjunction with local NHS providers and organizations. Check beforehand that the hospital or doctor in question is an NHS provider. Remember to obtain a European Health Insurance Card from your health insurance fund. European Union nationals can benefit from free treatment by having their doctor temporarily register them on the NHS register. Find out more beforehand. Conditions may change.
Practical information
- When to travel?
- Weather forecast
- Budget
- Formalities
- Health
- How to travel by yourself?
- How to get organized?
- Getting around
Media
How to go to Manchester? Our advice & tips
Many tour operators offer package holidays to Manchester. The most common are getaways (3 days and 2 nights or 4 days and 3 nights) and long weekends. Prices vary according to the means of transport chosen and the time of booking. Last-minute offers remain the most attractive. In Manchester, there are plenty of heritage, sports and music tours to choose from.
Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destinationNo worries about traveling alone to Manchester. It's best to fly into Manchester rather than transiting through London, unless you want to take advantage of your stay to integrate two days in the capital, but your budget will suffer! In Manchester, you'll easily find accommodation and be able to organize your meals and visits. However, it's best to speak English. Nevertheless, the maps and documents provided by tourist offices will help you. You can also download mobile applications !
The quickest and most convenient way is to use the subway , with its 7 lines and 100 km of track. The 90-minute, 15-stop sightseeing bus tour, including The National Football Museum, the MediaCity UK, the Old Trafford ( Red Devils Stadium), is interesting. The subway connects directly to the airport. Manchester is also criss-crossed by numerous bus routes. Cabs are very British, but a little expensive. You can also get around on the canals.
