72 Hours in Manchester

Manchester is one of the more exciting places to visit in Great Britain, whether you know Manchester for our world-class sports, iconic music, or history making ideas, the city is packed with a unique energy, culture and charm. Manchester is a vibrant city that is ready to be discovered! 

This 72-hour itinerary is here to help you settle in and explore at your own pace. Spend time exploring each distinctive neighbourhood the city has to offer. Check out historic galleries, interactive museums and immersive experiences. And of course, check out delicious foodie hotspots and evening entertainment options that make the city buzz every night of the week!  

Welcome to Manchester 

If you’re arriving into Manchester Airport, you can transfer by train, bus, taxi or pre-arranged car service to your hotel in Manchester city centre. 

Once you’ve reached Manchester city centre, it’s easy to get around on foot, or by bus, bike, tram or train. Look out for City Hosts, who are here to help if you need directions, public transport information, or details of events taking place. 

Morning  

After arriving in Manchester, spend the morning exploring the city - don’t forget to bring your layers and umbrella, just in case! You could choose from:  

Lunch

After a busy first morning exploring, grab a bite in a city where food and drink culture is thriving. You could choose from:  

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring football in a city that truly lives and breathes the game. Discover its deep roots in Manchester’s identity through interactive exhibits and stories, or pick a side and experience the passion for yourself. 

Evening 

After some time to unwind at your hotel, head back out to experience the city at night and see where the evening takes you. Manchester’s food scene is full of well-loved spots, so you’re never far from a great meal - here are a few places to get you started: 

Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill

Fazenda

Enjoy the full rodizio experience at Fazenda, where authentic South American cuisine meets a modern…

Overhead view of a wooden table filled with small sharing plates, including olives, grilled cauliflower, green peppers, croquettes and toast, alongside red drinks in glasses and a carafe, with “Canto” napkins and plates visible.

Canto

El Gato Negro’s younger sibling; serving up fast-paced, exciting Mediterranean-inspired tapas…

Morning

On your second day, head further afield and explore more of Greater Manchester. Choose from: 

White city hall with clocktower and blue sky

Stockport

One of the coolest boroughs around, full of independent bars, restaurants, shops and more.

View of Salford Quays with modern glass-fronted buildings and high-rise apartments along the waterfront, a pedestrian walkway with railings in the foreground, and a small boat on the water under a partly cloudy sky.

Salford Quays

A calmer, waterside contrast to the city centre, with wide open views and a relaxed atmosphere. At…

Aerial shot over Bury

Bury

Bury is a traditional market town just outside Manchester, known for its lively markets and strong…

Lunch 

You’ll be spoilt for choice with lunch options in the wider region, but if you’re heading back into the city centre, try one of the following: 

Table taken from abover with plates and bowls of Indian food

Dishoom

A firm Manchester favourite, Dishoom pays homage to the Irani cafés and food of Bombay.

Alternatively, treat yourself to one of the city’s food and drink tours. You could choose from: 

Evening 

With a thriving food and drink culture, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Manchester. Here are some suggestions:  

Table of Mediterranean food

Maray

Maray serves up show-stopping Middle Eastern small plates designed for sharing.

Morning

You won’t want to miss Manchester’s Northern Quarter. As the city’s creative neighbourhood, this cool, alternative hangout is filled with independent retailers of vintage fashion, music, art and so much more. Make sure you don’t miss: 

Lunch 

The Northern Quarter is packed with trendy eateries and tasty treats to try, including: 

Friends sat inside Gooey cafe with food

Gooey

Sweet and savoury food bursting with sticky, messy flavours you won’t find anywhere else.

Afternoon 

Take in some of the city’s finest arts and culture on your final afternoon in Manchester. Choose from: 

Evening 

As one of Great Britain’s most exciting foodie destinations, there’s every cuisine you can think of in Manchester. Choose from: 

Manchester, a city renowned for its vibrant nightlife and rich cultural scene, is home to a wealth of entertainment options for all to enjoy. If music’s your thing, there are gigs to enjoy every night of the week. Enjoy intimate shows in stunning venues like Albert Hall or Band on the Wall, or see the biggest artists around perform at the Co-op Live or AO Arena. Whilst in the city, you won’t want to miss Factory International’s extraordinary programme at Aviva Studios, or perhaps you’d prefer to see a West-End show at the Palace Theatre. Immerse yourself in the latest entertainment technology at X-GenVR , or test your skills with 18 holes at Treetop Adventure Golf. 

 

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