Top-20 best things to do in Manchester

What is it?
An art museum in Manchester city center, famous for its outstanding collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings.

Why should you go?
With free admission and thousands of works to admire, the Manchester Art Gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers and an excellent option for everyone else on a rainy day. Its diverse collection spans over six centuries and includes over 46,000 objects of fine art, decorative art, and costume. You can marvel at works by famous 19th-century British artists, explore contemporary furniture and lighting design, and delve into the history of dress from 1600 to the present day.

Specialization
Art & Design

Perfect for
Hikers, nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts

What is it?
A historic library housed in one of the most impressive late-Victorian neo-Gothic buildings in Britain.

Why should you go?
The John Rylands Library is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to go in Manchester. Whether you are a book lover or not, this building is worth a visit, if only to admire its stunning interior with Harry Potter vibes. Get there to marvel at its magnificent architecture, explore one of the world's finest collections of rare books and manuscripts, or just pretend you are at Hogwarts. Best of all, you can do it for free.

Specialization
Books & Architecture

Perfect for
Architecture lovers, bibliophiles, photographers, Harry Potter fans

What is it?
The world's biggest museum dedicated to football's history from its early beginnings to the present day.

Why should you go?
If you are a massive fan of the world's most popular sport or even slightly interested in soccer, the National Football Museum should be on your list of things to do in Manchester city center. With four galleries to explore and six interactive games to play, it offers a fun-packed experience for everyone. You will discover the origins of football, see historic jerseys and trophies, and test your skills in the museum's penalty shootout simulator.

Specialization
Sports, History & Entertainment

Perfect for
Football fans of all ages

What is it?
One of the largest university museums in the UK, which houses over 4.5 million objects covering a wide range of topics.

Why should you go?
Situated at the heart of the group of neo-Gothic buildings of the University of Manchester, the museum provides almost endless opportunities for curiosity and wonder. This fascinating place is home to millions of items, from dinosaur fossils to elaborately decorated Egyptian mummies. You can easily spend hours exploring Ice Age animals, learning about archeological discoveries, and delving into the natural and cultural history of the world.

Specialization
Archaeology, Natural History & Anthropology

Perfect for
Families, history buffs, and anyone interested in archaeology and world cultures

What is it?
A large museum focusing on scientific and technological innovations that started life in Manchester.

Why should you go?
Located on the site of the world's first intercity passenger train station — Manchester Liverpool Road — the Science and Industry Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about innovations and ideas that change the world. As an Anchor Point of the European Route of Industrial Heritage, the museum covers a wide range of topics, from the Industrial Revolution to the development of computing and the evolution of video game consoles.


Specialization
History of Science & Technology

Perfect for
Families, science geeks, history buffs

What is it?
A historic public swimming pool and Turkish Bath complex turned into a heritage visitor attraction and events space.

Why should you go?
Opened in 1906 and sadly closed in 1993, the former Water Palace is still one of the fascinating things to see in Manchester, even though you can't actually swim in its beautiful pools today. The stunning Edwardian Baroque building boasts incredible stained glass and tile work you can admire for free and also hosts a wide range of events, such as film screenings, concerts, exhibitions, and festivals.


Specialization
Architecture & Entertainment

Perfect for
Architecture lovers and anyone interested in cultural events and activities

What is it?
The second-largest Chinatown in the UK and home to many Chinese shops, restaurants, and various festivals.

Why should you go?
If you are interested in Chinese culture or just fancy Chinese food, visiting Chinatown can be one of the most fun things to do in Manchester. Its colorful and ornate architectural arches, lanterns, and street decorations create a distinct cultural atmosphere and show the Chinese community's vibrant energy. You can explore this area on foot, look into numerous shops, try traditional meals, and catch one of the annual cultural events.

Specialization
Culture, Food & Shopping

Perfect for
Culture enthusiasts, foodies

What is it?
One of the most trendy and vibrant areas in Manchester, famous for its independent shops, bars, and galleries.

Why should you go?
Even if you are visiting Manchester for a short weekend break, you shouldn't miss a chance to explore the bohemian Northern Quarter. This historic area, turned into a buzzing hub for artists, musicians, and creative persons of all kinds, is the city's most popular place for a night out, thanks to its numerous indie bars. This neighborhood also boasts eclectic street art, unique restaurants, and quirky shops selling everything from vintage records to handmade crafts.

Specialization
Culture & Entertainment

Perfect for
Creatives, art lovers, foodies, nightlife enthusiasts

What is it?
An art museum that features a great collection of 60,000 artworks and boasts a picturesque location in a historic park.

Why should you go?
Situated in the beautiful setting of the relatively small but well-maintained Whitworth Park, the Whitworth Art Gallery is a good destination for anyone passionate about art and design. The museum houses an extensive collection of modern and historic fine art, prints, textiles, and over 5,000 examples of rare wallpapers. Get there to admire watercolors by William Blake, drawings by Van Gogh and Degas, and major works by Bacon and Freud.

Specialization
Art & Design

Perfect for
Art lovers

What is it?
A 600-year-old Gothic cathedral famous for its architectural features and a wide range of music events.

Why should you go?
Hidden away behind the city's main shopping area and high-rise office buildings, the beautiful Manchester Cathedral is a gem you need to see with your own eyes. It looks stunning from the outside, but its interior is even more impressive, with its stained-glass windows, 16th-century misericords, and sculptures of angels playing medieval instruments. Try to catch one of the free Saturday Coffee Concerts, ranging from classical to jazz, followed by free cakes and teas.

Specialization
Architecture, Religion & Music

Perfect for
Architecture lovers, music lovers, religious visitors

What is it?
The headquarters of the city's library and information service in Manchester, housed in an iconic round building.

Why should you go?
Since Manchester is named a City of Literature by UNESCO, its libraries are popular indoor attractions and points of tourist interest. Manchester Central Library, located in the heart of the city, is one of the largest in the UK and is famous for its striking rotunda form, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome. Today, it serves as a cultural and educational hub, where you can visit a unique circular Reading Room, explore exhibition spaces, and spend some time in a cafe.

Specialization
Books & Architecture

Perfect for
Bibliophiles, architecture lovers

What is it?
The city's most famous theater, which is housed in the stunning Victorian building and features a unique stage area.

Why should you go?
Whether you are a theater enthusiast, an architecture lover, or just a curious person looking for unique things to do in Manchester, the Royal Exchange Theatre is the right destination for you. Its historic building is as fascinating as its innovative shows, ranging from radically updated classics to bold new writings. Its main stage is surrounded on all sides by seating and covered by a striking glass and steel dome within the spectacular building's Great Hall.

Specialization
Performing Arts

Perfect for
Theatergoers, architecture lovers

What is it?
One of the city's most iconic landmarks regarded as one of the finest examples of Neo-Gothic architecture in the UK.

Why should you go?
Situated on Albert Square, this neo-Gothic masterpiece is a landmark not to be missed. The building of Manchester Town Hall was designed by the prominent English architect Alfred Waterhouse, who also created the Natural History Museum in London. Although Town Hall is now closed for an extensive restoration, it is still well worth a visit to admire its stunning clock tower and take some incredible pictures.

Specialization
Architecture

Perfect for
Architecture lovers

What is it?
A free-to-visit picturesque public park that is a part botanical garden and part wildlife habitat.

Why should you go?
The park, established in the late 19th century as a private garden, is now a green oasis, covering an area of about 21 acres of sheer beauty and one of the most Instagrammable spots around the city. A leisurely stroll, a picnic, or a photoshoot in the stunning setting of colorful plants and trees are some of the best outdoor activities in Manchester. The park also houses tennis courts, football pitches, and a family-run cafe.

Specialization
Nature

Perfect for
Nature lovers, Instagrammers, families

What is it?
One of the largest football stadiums in the UK and the home of Manchester United Football Club.

Why should you go?
If you are among the millions of Manchester United fans, catching a big match and visiting the historic Old Trafford stadium is one of the top things to do in Manchester. With a seating capacity of over 74,000, it is the second-largest football venue in the United Kingdom, and it boasts a rich history of hosting important events over the years. This iconic landmark also houses the club museum with memorabilia and interactive exhibits and offers exciting stadium tours.


Specialization
Sports & Entertainment

Perfect for
Football fans of all ages

What is it?
A modern state-of-the-art football stadium and the home to Manchester City Football Club.

Why should you go?
If you are on the Manchester City side in the Manchester derby, you shouldn't miss the chance to explore its home ground. The Etihad Stadium is famous for its high-tech architecture, striking asymmetrical shape, retractable roof, and world-class amenities. Get there to experience the excitement and energy of football matches, or visit the changing rooms and the player's tunnel with the stadium tour.

Specialization
Sports & Entertainment

Perfect for
Football fans of all ages

What is it?
The biggest municipal park in the North West, covering over 600 acres with a boating lake and a tramway museum.

Why should you go?
Opened to the public in 1902, this green oasis on the edge of Manchester has a rich history and offers a range of activities for everyone, from a curious child to a senior golf player. It features an 18th-century manor house, a boating lake, an 18-hole golf course, an animal farm, an adventure playground, and many more. You can admire wood sculptures and ornamental gardens, play lawn bowling, and even ride a volunteer-run tram.

Specialization
Nature, Recreation & Entertainment

Perfect for
Families with kids, nature lovers

What is it?
A theater and gallery complex housed in an iconic glass and metal building at Salford Quays in Greater Manchester.

Why should you go?
Situated on the beautiful waterside, the stunning building of The Lowry offers you a wealth of fabulous entertainment. Its theater stages host a range of performances, from West End musicals to puppet shows for kids. Its galleries let you enjoy the work of one of the nation's favorite artists, LS Lowry, and rotating exhibitions. There is also a big shopping mall with a cinema in a few steps, so you do not need to think about what to do in Manchester if you have a few more spare hours.

Specialization
Performing Arts

Perfect for
Theatergoers, art lovers

What is it?
A historic covered market with an indoor food hall housed in a beautiful listed building in Greater Manchester.

Why should you go?
Altrincham has a long story as an important commercial spot in the Greater Manchester area, and today it is experiencing its reinvention as 'the modern market town.' The beautiful Altrincham Market is now a vibrant center of community life. It is part market, part restaurant, and part town square, where you can eat, meet, drink, shop, watch, talk, listen, laugh — and repeat. Get there to try some of the region's finest food and buy unique contemporary craft.

Specialization
Food, Shopping & Entertainment

Perfect for
Foodies, shopping lovers

What is it?
An indoor snow sports facility in the Trafford Park area featuring the longest indoor ski slope in the UK.

Why should you go?
Sledding, skiing, and snowboarding are among the most fun things to do in Manchester, and Chill Factore makes synch activities possible even during the warm season. As one of Europe's largest indoor ski centers, it offers visitors of all ages unforgettable experiences on snow. It features a 180-meter-long main slop, a smaller slope for beginners, and the family-favorite Snow Park with four lanes to race down on the downhill donuts.

Specialization
Sports & Entertainment

Perfect for
Families, snow sports enthusiasts