72 Hours in Manchester - Family Itinerary

As one of the most exciting places to visit in Great Britain, the city of Manchester is full of energy, character and diversity. There’s no doubt that Manchester is a world-renowned destination, having been featured as one of the ‘World’s 29 Top Cities to Visit’ in 2025 by The Sydney Morning Herald, and one of the ‘Best Places to Go in the UK in 2025’ by Conde Nast Traveller.  

Manchester is the ideal destination for families, with incredible attractions, special events and unique experiences to enjoy, guaranteed to create treasured memories. If you’re in need of some inspiration to start your adventure, we’ve compiled an itinerary packed with suggestions for the perfect family trip.  

Combine this with the Visit Manchester Pass to make the most of your visit. This essential digital ticket provides free access to the city’s iconic attractions, including Manchester City Football Club, SEA LIFE Manchester, LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Manchester, Chester Zoo and the National Football Museum. You’ll also enjoy exclusive discounts at hotels, restaurants, shops and experiences.*

This doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of what’s on offer, so what are you waiting for? Manchester is ready to welcome you. 

Visit Manchester Pass 

Look out for the * symbol on attractions and restaurants that are included in the Visit Manchester Pass. Terms and conditions apply. 

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

A city full of innovation and creation, you could choose from one of Greater Manchester’s free attractions to kickstart your visit to the city:

Science and Industry Museum

Discover world-changing ideas with science shows, exhibitions and interactive galleries.

Child with phone taking photo of dinosaur skeletan at museum

Manchester Museum

As one of the UK’s biggest university museums, you can explore the incredible collections and meet…

Museum of Illusions

Enter the fascinating world of illusions where nothing is ever quite as it seems.

Lunch

There are so many spots to stop to grab a bite in the city. Why not try one of the following:

Franco Manca

A cosy pizzeria packed full of character – and pizza of course!*

Gooey

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

Afternoon

Manchester is known as the Home of Football, so spend some time visiting one of Manchester’s two famous football stadiums or discover the stories behind the sport at the National Football Museum. Entry to the National Football Museum and Manchester City Football Club Stadium tour are also included in the Visit Manchester Pass*

National Football Museum

Learn about the beautiful game with exhibitions, interactive games, tours and more.*

Group of fans inside football stadium on a tour

Manchester City Stadium and Club Tour

See the magic of City brought to life with this immersive tour.*

Manchester United to welcome visitors back to its Museum & Tour as Old Trafford reopens

Manchester United Stadium and Club Tour

Go behind the scenes at the world’s most iconic stadium; Old Trafford.

Evening

After a fun-filled day, you’ll be ready to refuel. The Corn Exchange is a vibrant food hall offering flavours from around the world. Take your pick from:

Group of friends eating food in food hall

Mackie Mayor

This cosmopolitan food hall offers something for everyone with a range of artisan vendors.

The Real Greek

The Real Greek offers an authentic menu and great ongoing deals for children. *

Riva Blu

Enjoy Southern Italian authenticity at Riva Blu, plus a fun DIY pizza station for children.

Sixes Social Cricket

The World's first immersive cricket dining experience brings Great British BBQ to Manchester.

Morning

On your second day in Manchester, hop on the tram across to The Trafford Centre; the perfect place for a family fun day out:

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Manchester

The ultimate indoor LEGO playground, offering an inspirational day out for all the family.*

Family walking through tunnel of aqurium with children pointing at animals

SEA LIFE Manchester

Get up close to thousands of creatures including sharks, jellyfish, and green sea turtles.*

Inside of a shopping mall in Manchester with people walking and glass roof

The Trafford Centre

More than just shopping, there’s also bowling, mini-golf and a cinema to enjoy!

Lunch

After an action-packed morning, head back into the city centre for something to eat. You could choose from:

Mackie Mayor

This cosmopolitan food hall offers something for everyone with a range of artisan vendors.

Black Milk

One of the city’s best spots for treats and desserts with shakes, brownies, cakes and more.

Afternoon

Challenge the family to a little friendly competition. Try your hand at adventure golf, see if you can escape Manchester’s real, live escape room, or explore the city on a treasure hunt:

Child playing crazy golf on indoor course

Treetop Adventure Golf

Play a game of mini golf against a backdrop of crumbling temples and raging waterfalls.

2 people in escape room taking on challenge and laughing

Breakout Manchester

Can you escape? Solve the puzzles and try to beat the clock.

Group of people looking at treasure hunt app on phone

Treasure Hunt Manchester

Have an adventure and discover the city by solving clues and following treasure maps.

Evening

After exploring more of Manchester, you’re bound to be ready for food. Choose from:

person holding burger with cheese and salad

Hard Rock Café

Enjoy freshly prepared American classics at the Hard Rock Café.

Evelyn’s

Evelyn's is a casual dining room and bar with a menu inspired by flavours from around the world.

On your final day, why not explore a little further afield and head out into Greater Manchester. Choose from some of our top attractions, all of which are included in the Visit Manchester Pass*