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

Greater Manchester’s Rising Stars

Manchester’s musical talent reaches far and wide, covering a multitude of genres and styles. From pop and R&B, to hip-hop and drill. With some inspiring talent making a name for themselves, we’ve found just a few rising stars you should know about before they become household names. Listen to their…

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Unmissable Music in Manchester: April 2024

1. The Black Keys at Co-op Live Multi-Grammy Award-winning rock band, The Black Keys, will be playing Co-op Live during it’s opening week on 27 April, and will be joined by Circa Waves. The rock and roll duo are preparing to release their 12th studio album Ohio Players, on 5 April 2024. Catch…

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Top 10 Instagrammable Hotels in Manchester

Get your camera ready to capture some great pictures at our most Instagrammable hotels in Manchester! From chic interiors to stunning views, you're sure to have a stay you won't forget. The Midland Hotel Set in the heart of Manchester, this Grade II listed building exudes elegance and history.

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Things to do during the week in Greater Manchester

Stopping over in Manchester for the night? Looking to make the most of it even if it is only a brief visit? Below we have pulled together a range of exciting activities you can get stuck into. 1. Manchester Wine Tours Are you wanting to get a better feel of Manchester as a whole? Do you love wine?

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RHS Urban Show: Growing in the City

What is urban gardening? This, and other key questions surrounding the growing urban gardening movement will be raised at the inaugural RHS Urban Show, from 18 to 21 April at the Depot Mayfield in Manchester. In a major milestone for the Royal Horticultural Society as it celebrates 220 years of…

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Ancoats: A comprehensive guide

East of Manchester’s popular Northern Quarter is Ancoats, an area of the city that has been transformed almost unrecognisably in recent years. Only almost, though: unmoved are the former factories that characterise ‘the world’s first industrial suburb’, deconsecrated church and Grade II listed…

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Celebrate Holi in Manchester, The Festival of Colours

Enjoy a day full of colours and laughter at Holi, the festival that turns streets into a vibrant canvas. Imagine spending the day dancing, throwing vibrant powder, and splashing water balloons with friends and strangers alike. If you're up for an unforgettable experience, come join us at one of the…

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Festival of Libraries returns for 2024

133 libraries taking part ~ free events programme ~ Wednesday 12 June to Sunday 16 June 2024 Manchester City of Literature is preparing to celebrate the joy of libraries with Greater Manchester and the world when the Festival of Libraries takes place from Wednesday 12 to Sunday 16 June 2024.

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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.

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…

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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