Manchester Travelers Recommend

Manchester United and Manchester City FC are Manchester’s two biggest soccer clubs, and the rivalry among local fans runs deep. Here are a few ways to see the players in action and experience top-flight soccer from the stands.

Football Matches

There’s no better way to experience the thrill of match day than by buying tickets to a game at one of Manchester’s two grand stadiums—Old Trafford for Manchester United or the Etihad Stadium for Manchester City Football Club. Fans should book tickets in advance and choose a package with upgrade options to ensure a better seat, access to the stadium lounge, or even free half-time drinks. 

Stadium Tours

Visit the Manchester United Museum at Old Trafford with a tour guide to admire the extensive silverware the Red Devils won under manager Sir Alex Ferguson, or travel back to the 19th century and learn the history of soccer at the Etihad Stadium’s exhibition hall. During your stadium tour, step behind the scenes and see the inner workings of a modern soccer club. Take a peek inside the dressing rooms, jog through the players' tunnel, visit the press room, or even walk out onto the field.

From its neo-Gothic masterpieces to its major stadiums, from its Industrial-Revolution history to its unstoppable music scene, Manchester is a city with many personalities. Three days provides just the right amount of time to discover them all—as well as take a scenic, out-of-town day trip. Here’s your ideal itinerary.

Day 1: Major Manchester Attractions

On your first day in town, get acquainted with Manchester’s top-tier attractions. Begin with a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which provides a seamless way to take in the city’s neo-Gothic architecture, learn about its industrial past, and discover standout sights such as Manchester Town Hall. After lunch, delve into Manchester’s museums. For art lovers, the Whitworth Art Gallery, Lowry, and Manchester Art Museum are all worthy contenders, while the National Football Museum, Science and Industry Museum, and Imperial War Museum North all cater to different interests. Speaking of football (or soccer), it isn’t a day in Manchester without a trip to either Old Trafford (Manchester United’s home base) or Etihad (Manchester City’s stomping grounds). Tour either legendary stadium before winding down with dinner at a traditional pub.

Day 2: Alternative Manchester

See Manchester from a local’s point of view, and dedicate your second day to discovering the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. The Northern Quarter is home to vintage clothing stores, record shops, cool restaurants, and trendy cafes—begin with breakfast in the area, and stick around long enough to drop by one of its of-the-minute craft beer bars at lunch. Alternatively, venture to Chinatown (one of the largest in Europe), stroll down vibrant Canal Street in Manchester’s Gay Village, or venture to hipster-frequented Chorlton—if you sign up for a private walking tour, you can visit exactly what interests you. As the day winds down, check in with Manchester’s legendary music scene. Some tour itineraries cater specifically to fans of local bands like The Smiths, while others provide a more general overview of the city’s key musical landmarks. Cap off your day with a gig to feel like a true Mancunian.

Day 3: A Lake District Excursion

For travelers looking for the perfect city escape, Manchester is conveniently located a quick trip away from the Lake District—made famous by authors Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. It’s also England’s most-visited national park. Swap the urban bustle for country scenery when you sign up for a day trip (and you won't need to worry about orchestrating transit yourself). Driving tours make it simple to discover Lake District highlights, from Windermere (England’s largest lake) to Tarn Hows (one of the park’s most-photographed corners). Alternatively, Manchester is near several other northern cities, among them Liverpool, Leeds, and Sheffield. All are just a quick journey away by car or train.

From its vibrant music scene and many museums to its destination-worthy restaurants and legendary football stadiums, Manchester is one of the UK’s most exciting and varied cities. Two days is just enough time to experience its highlights and enjoy numerous treks around town—here’s how to plan a winning Manchester itinerary.

Day 1: Sports and Sightseeing

**Morning:**On a 2-day trip, time is of the essence—which is why a hop-on hop-off bus tour is the perfect way to begin your Manchester sightseeing. In just a couple of hours, you wend your way through the city, spot highlights such as Manchester Town Hall, and soak up history. No navigating required.

**Afternoon:**Next, it’s time to indulge your competitive side. Soccer (call it “football” to fit in) is less a passion and more a religion here. Think carefully before you side with Manchester United (on a visit to Old Trafford Stadium) or Manchester City (based in Etihad Stadium), as allegiances run deep.

**Night:**To round out your first day, meet with a private guide for a customized tour of the city. From vibrant neighborhoods to cocktail bars, see Manchester through a local’s eyes. Don’t forget to ask for insider tips about restaurants in town so you can plan a post-tour meal.

Day 2: Music and Museums

**Morning:**Don’t believe the stale stereotypes—England’s dining scene has never been more exciting, and Manchester is one of the best places in the UK to eat. Begin your day with a multistop food tour in the cool Northern Quarter, and enjoy multiple samples.

**Afternoon:**Next, digest on a relaxed museum stroll. Manchester is home to numerous top-notch institutions, from the Manchester Museum and Whitworth Art Gallery to the Science and Industry Museum. For younger visitors, SEA Life offers an entertaining way to learn about undersea creatures.

**Night:**It’s no surprise that the hometown of Oasis and The Smiths knows a thing or two about music, and Manchester is still known for its many live music venues. Venture to a show to see up-and-coming acts, or take a walking tour to learn more about the city’s musical legacy.

England’s northern powerhouse, Manchester offers world-class museums, historic architecture, a wealth of culture, and plenty of sport. One day provides enough time for a whirlwind tour around town. Here are the essential stops to make on your day in Manchester.

Morning: Speedy Sightseeing

If you only have one day in town, then a hop-on hop-off bus tour provides an efficient way to kick off your Manchester excursion. The bus offers the perfect vantage point for admiring the city’s distinctive, neo-Gothic architecture. Hop on board at any of the numerous stops in central Manchester and zip past attractions ranging from the Manchester Town Hall and National Football Museum to the Museum of Science and Industry and Old Trafford Stadium. As you go, audio guides fill you in on the stories behind the sights.

Afternoon: Football (or Soccer) Fanatics

Speaking of Old Trafford: Manchester is a town that’s ruled by soccer—though they call it football here—and Manchester United is a big deal around these parts. Pay tribute to the Red Devils when you embark on a tour of Old Trafford. Learn about the team’s history in the on-site museum, see changing rooms and areas where the public is normally prohibited from entering, and even walk right out onto the field. Alternatively, venture to the nearby Lowry for a dose of arts and culture (or head east to Etihad Stadium, if your allegiances are with Manchester City).

Night: A Cultural Immersion

Manchester may be a sporty city, but it’s also celebrated for its vibrant music scene (this is the city that gave the world Oasis, Joy Division, and The Smiths, after all). In the evening, grab a bite in the city center before enjoying a dose of live music at one of the city’s top venues. For another entertaining option, live comedy shows are a nightlife staple and offer the chance to catch a range of up-and-coming comedians as they perfect their craft.