The home of football, Manchester is fit to burst with of a number of sporting attractions and events, and with a huge arts and culture scene, it's almost impossible to run out of things to see and do in Greater Manchester. After joining UNESCO's worldwide Creative Cities network as a City of Literature, Manchester's radical literature history has been catapulted into the limelight, with plenty of book-based attractions and events taking place year-round.
With a thriving LGBT scene, including the world famous canal street, LGBT travellers won't be disappointed. If it's rolling hills and beautiful countryside you're seeking, Greater Manchester has it in abundance, with over 500 square miles of inspiring countryside, crisscrossed by historical waterways and dotted with picturesque towns and fascinating attractions that make for great days out of the city.
If you're planning individual or group travel programmes, take a look at our group travel page featuring a whole host of North West attractions. Feeling lucky? Take a look at our competition page, or save some cash with our special offers.
As the crisp winter air settles across Manchester, there's no better time to wrap up warm and explore a destination full of culture, creativity and character.
Looking for Christmas lights near you in Manchester? From city-centre displays to festive light trails across Greater Manchester, discover where to see Christmas lights and find a light show in Manchester to add to your winter plans. Key Information: When: 20–22 November 2026 Where: Rochdale…
Looking for somewhere to watch the fireworks this November? From free displays in Manchester’s parks to a digital fireworks show in the city centre, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Bonfire Night across Greater Manchester in 2026. Events are taking place throughout the first week of November…
Christmas is a magical time for families, and there's nothing quite like seeing little ones meet Father Christmas. Whether you're looking for an immersive North Pole…
1. Experience the magic of A Christmas Carol at Lowry, where Matthew Warchus’ acclaimed production brings Dickens’ beloved festive tale to life with immersive staging…
Image Credit: Carl Sukonik Manchester's favourite Halloween creatures are having a birthday party, and the whole city is invited. Halloween in the City returns to Manchester city centre this October with a free weekender full of monster parties, live performances, a brand-new bake-off and the…
A local guide to Manchester’s music history, museums, galleries, theatres, food halls and heritage spots, with enough here to turn a quick visit into a proper city break. First time in Manchester? Quick answer: If it’s your first time in Manchester, don’t try to do it all in one day. The city…
Summer may be over, but family adventures certainly aren't. With school holidays to fill, special occasions to celebrate and plenty of memories still waiting to be made, January, February and March are the perfect time to plan a family escape. We know the start of the year can be a busy and…
Spooky season is almost here, and whether you’re looking for a trick or a treat, Greater Manchester has a whole host of events to help you celebrate in style. For little ones, the city region is once again getting a bewitching makeover as the iconic MCR Monsters take over the rooftops and streets.
Looking for Autumn activities that are fun for the whole family? Thankfully, Greater Manchester is buzzing this time of year with spooktacular events, outdoor adventures and free family fun. Beware as you walk through Manchester City Centre, because the MCR Monsters are back taking over the streets…
Christmas is the most magical time of year, but it can also be one of the busiest. Between festive shopping, social events and endless to-do lists, the new year offers the…
Manchester is one of those cities where almost every corner has a story – and usually, a great photo waiting to happen. From hidden streets and colourful murals to grand old libraries and canals, it’s a place made for wandering with your camera. Some areas feel straight out of a film set, with…
Only have 48 hours in Manchester? This itinerary takes you through some of the city’s best food, culture, architecture and neighbourhoods, with a mix of well-known sights and independent spots along the way. From breakfast and galleries to dinner, live music and late-night drinks, there’s plenty to…
Discover another side of Manchester, from independent shops and cosy cafes to some of the city’s most talked-about sandwich spots. Take a wander through the Northern Quarter and city centre, where you’ll find plenty to browse, eat and see what you stumble across along the way. Here’s a local guide…
Factory International’s programme at Aviva Studios offers a diverse array of bold art, inspiring performances, and engaging events designed for everyone. Whether you are passionate about culture, eager to explore new experiences, or seeking a unique outing with friends or family, this line-up…
Explore Manchester through the lens of our insightful blog posts. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, our curated content offers a unique perspective on the city's culture, events, and attractions. Dive into the stories that bring Manchester to life and discover the insider…
Unlock the essence of Manchester and its surrounding regions with our comprehensive guide series. Dive into curated insights, expert recommendations, and detailed itineraries designed to enhance your exploration. From city highlights to hidden gems, our guides offer a holistic…
Explore exclusive offers in Manchester with our guide to special deals and promotions. Discover a variety of discounts, packages, and unique promotions across accommodations, attractions, and dining. Whether you're planning a city break or a leisurely day out, our guide…
Explore curated itineraries for an unforgettable Manchester experience. From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, our guides offer the perfect routes for your visit. Plan your trip with our diverse itineraries.
Ready for an adventure? Uncover exciting contests offering amazing prizes in Manchester. From culture clashes to foodie feasts, find your perfect challenge and unlock unforgettable experiences.
From Parklife to Warehouse Project and Pride to ground-breaking performances in offbeat venues including the White Hotel and Hidden, Manchester is the home of Unmissable Music.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture of Manchester with our curated guide. Explore iconic galleries, captivating exhibitions, and the city's creative pulse. From street art to historic museums, our content celebrates Manchester's diverse cultural landscape…
Escape to the tranquillity of Greater Manchester's countryside with our guide. Discover picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and outdoor adventures just beyond the city limits. Explore walking trails, scenic drives, and hidden gems that showcase the natural beauty of…
Haunt MCR - Delve into the dark histories and spooky secrets of the area whilst also exploring all things alternative, Gothic and goth from across Greater Manchester
Discover Manchester's vibrant LGBTQ+ scene with our guide. Explore inclusive events, diverse venues, and supportive communities that celebrate the city's LGBTQ+ culture. Whether you're a local or visitor, our guide provides insights into the inclusive spirit that…
From Marx and Engels to John Cooper Clarke, Manchester has a radical literary history - and with events such as the Manchester Literature Festival and attractions such as the John Rylands Library and Chetham's Library, there's certainly a lot to explore.
Christmas is a magical time in Greater Manchester and the perfect occasion to combine a short festive break with a spot of Christmas shopping. With hundreds of high street and independent boutique shops to choose from, Greater Manchester attracts visitors from far and wide…
Dive into the heart of Manchester's sporting scene with our curated sports content. Explore exciting matchday experiences, iconic stadiums, and the city's passion for football and beyond. From historic moments to upcoming fixtures, our content is your gateway to the…
From British TV classics such as Coronation Street, to streaming hits like Fool Me Once, and Hollywood blockbusters including Captain America: The First Avenger and Sherlock Holmes, the city-region has rolled out the red-carpet to the world’s biggest stars.
The Visit Manchester Pass
With entry to iconic attractions and access to exclusive discounts across the city, make the most of your time in Manchester with a Visit Manchester Pass.