Manchester ideas and inspiration

Planning a trip to Manchester? Browse our travel ideas to get some inspiration on what to see and where to visit in the region. Have a look at our list of 'top 5s', download an itinerary or read our famous "101 things to do in Greater Manchester" post on the Visit Manchester blog. If you're planning on staying in Manchester that bit longer then have a look at our day trip and excursion ideas to explore Northern England whilst staying in one of Manchester's top hotels.

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.

Latest Manchester blogs

Win a Festive break in Manchester

This Christmas, experience the magic of Manchester at the Musicals - A Christmas Party at the brand-new Co-op Live arena! Visit Manchester is giving away an unforgettable festive prize package for four people, including: - Four tickets to the 19:30 showing of Manchester at the Musicals - A Christmas…

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Unmissable Music in Manchester – December Gig Guide

From Disney on Ice and The Snowman to ground-breaking performances in offbeat venues including the Night and Day and Eagle Inn, Manchester is the home of Unmissable Music. Check out our roundup of events coming up in December. Through music, dance and spoken word, Movement is a dynamic…

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Top 5 Manchester film locations

Within the last 10 years, Manchester has become the media hub of the North, as we continue to see more Soap Operas, independent shows and big Netflix hits be filmed in and around the city. With the likes of Coronation Street originating from the North and being the longest-running Television Soap…

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Top Ten Film and TV shows shot at Space Studios

Manchester has long been a creative hub, and Space Studios Manchester is a testament to the city's growing reputation in the film and TV industry. From gritty dramas to high-octane blockbusters, this state-of-the-art production facility has attracted some of the biggest names in entertainment.

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Festive Family-Friendly Shows in Greater Manchester

Hero Image: Snowman Enterprises Limited Join Manchester for one of the many festive shows taking place across the city region - you're in for a treat as it's a jam-packed schedule. Expect theatre shows, light displays, and candlelight concerts, there's something for the whole family this festive…

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Ice Skating this Christmas in Greater Manchester

It's time to get your skates on! Whether you're channeling your inner Torvill and Dean, or simply clinging onto the sides for dear life, ice skating is a must at Christmas. We've pulled together the best locations in Greater Manchester to gather friends and family together for some festive Ice…

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Christmas Feasting in Greater Manchester

The season of Christmas Feasting has finally arrived. Indulge with your loved ones in an array of offers such as Set Menus or Festive Afternoon Teas and be spoilt for choice this festive season. Below we have pulled together a Christmas Feasting Roundup to get you in the festive spirit: Join…

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What's on at the Trafford Centre this Christmas 2024

Step into an immersive wonderland of fun at the Trafford Centre this Christmas. Wander through twinkling light trails, skate under the stars, and embark on a festive adventure to remember. Here's what you and the little ones can enjoy: Trafford Centre proudly presents a Broadway-style extravaganza…

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The Best Experiences and Gifts in Greater Manchester

Whenever Christmas, birthdays or big occasions come around, some people are just impossible to buy for. Even if you know them like the back of your hand, knowing what they might want as a gift can feel like an impossible task. Thankfully, Manchester and its businesses has your back, with many of…

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Explore the city with these trails

More ideas

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…

Proud, an audio-visual exhibition, created by Heard Storytelling, to celebrate Manchester’s LGBTQIA+ community.

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

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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.

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Reasons to buy

  • Entry into 12 of Manchester's top attractions including Coronation Street, Manchester City Football Club, RHS Garden Bridgewater & more
  • Over 30 discounts and offers
  • Save money and explore Manchester

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