Manchester is a large city in the northwest of England, with a constantly growing economy. It is also one of the main tourist destinations in the United Kingdom.
A city of music and sport, Manchester is home to bands from Rock Oasis and The Smiths and receives fans from around the world who will honor their two great football teams.
Culture is also an important part of the city, highlighting the Whitworth Art Gallery and the HOME Arts Center. Bars and cafes, festivals, and events shape the modern face of one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.
Things to Do in Manchester
Castlefield: Urban Heritage
Since 1980, this neighborhood has been designated a conservation zone – a living museum of the city’s past. Tourists can admire the ruins of the ancient Roman fortress Masurium. The most recent developments include the Bridgewater Canal, which leads to a network of picturesque waterways that are now teeming with trendy bars and restaurants. Meanwhile, the Museum of Science and Industry shows the historical context of Castlefield.
Manchester Cathedral
This is a fundamental stop for travelers interested in history and architecture. Reconstructed largely after World War II, the building maintains its medieval atmosphere. You can admire the entire imposing structure in the visitor center before getting to know all the details of the vast interior.
Manchester art gallery
Works of art from past centuries are on display in this extensive art gallery, which welcomes almost half a million visitors a year. The building itself is remarkable, featuring both historic architectural styles and elaborate contemporary renovations.
Heaton Park
This is Manchester’s municipal park, with many sights and attractions scattered around its facilities. Reservoir, orange grove, golf course, and seemingly endless green spaces, the area is scenic and full of options. Take the nostalgic Heaton Park Tramway tram for a peaceful stroll or enjoy delicious food at one of the park’s restaurants. There are also boat trips, horse riding, and bowling available.
People’s history museum
Located in an old hydraulic pumping station, this museum shows a great deal of material about the working classes in the United Kingdom. The exhibitions portray an image of this diverse but united class of citizens. Discover the details of “a day in the life” and read about the struggle for unionization and rights. A history of democracy is the chain that unites all exhibitions, ensuring that you leave with a deeper understanding of the labor movement.
How to get to Manchester
Plane
Manchester Airport is 12 km south of the city center. Turkish Airlines and LATAM offer flights from São Paulo with a connection. TransPennine Express trains run regularly to Manchester Piccadilly Station and a single ticket costs GBP 5. The bus journey takes thirty minutes with National Express, and tickets start at GBP 4.3. Licensed taxis are also available, and the fare to the city center is GBP 25 to GBP 30, depending on traffic.
Train
Intercity trains from major cities in the UK, such as London, Glasgow, and Birmingham, terminate at Manchester Piccadilly station, in the city’s central south district. Good local transport links take you anywhere in Manchester and taxis can be found at the station’s taxi rank.
Cars
The M60 ring road surrounds the city and connects with several main roads. Take the M6 and M61 from Scotland and northern England, or the M6 and M56, if you leave London and the south.
bus
National Express and Megabus offer services to several cities in the UK, such as London, Newcastle, Liverpool, and Edinburgh. Fares start from GBP 7.5 for the National Express service from London Victoria to Manchester bus station on Chorlton Street, in the city center. Megabus costs GBP 24 from Edinburgh to Shudehill Interchange.
Getting around Manchester
Public transportation
Manchester is well served by local buses, the Metrolink tram service, and a rail network. The Ticket System One Day Saver is the best option for visitors and can be used on any bus or tram in the Greater Manchester area. An adult Day Saver costs GBP 5.6 and can be purchased online or at local stations.
Taxi
Licensed taxis are always available. Traditional black taxis can be found in rows in the city center and at stations and the airport. A five km trip costs GBP 24.you can book a Manchester airport taxi.
Cost of living in Manchester
Shopping streets
Explore the vintage clothing stores and record stores in the Northern Quarter or shop for top popular brands at the Arndale Center. If you’re looking for fashion clothes and accessories, the designer boutiques and department stores at Exchange Square and New Cathedral Street are ideal. Highlights include Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. Or venture further afield to the Trafford Center, one of the largest shopping malls in Europe.
Supermarkets and others
You’ll find Tesco, Morrisons, or Sainsbury’s branches throughout the city, as well as local grocery stores and specialty stores. A liter of whole milk costs GBP 0.79, and a dozen eggs cost GBP 2.45. Try pharmacy chains like Boots, Superdrug, and Lloyds for cosmetics, hygiene products, and baby care.
Where to eat in Manchester
Manchester’s Chinatown is one of the largest in the country and has a wide variety of restaurants. Try Yang Sing for Chinese food or Red Chilli for Sichuan and Beijing cuisine in a sophisticated setting. For those who like Indian food, Zouk Tea Bar & Grill is a great option. Expect to pay GBP 10 for a basic meal or GBP 50 for dinner in a fine restaurant.
