Manchester ranks among one of the most popular cities in the United Kingdom alongside Edinburgh and London. It’s also notable for being a bastion for culture and evolving trends in various fields like the arts, music, science, and more.
While Liverpool is the home of the Merseybeat Movement (which spawned the likes of The Beatles), Manchester has the Band on the Wall, which played host to big names in punk music like Joy Division and The Buzzcocks. You’ll also find numerous independent record stores keeping the love for vinyl alive. Explore the bustling Northern Quarter to see some street art and discover chains of artisanal coffee shops. Wander around at night and get acquainted with vibrant subcultures and off-hour festivities, especially in music venues like YES and the Warehouse Project. Go on a food trip by going for a stroll around Ancoats.
If you’re looking to take spectacular photos to document your trip, then you can visit its architectural marvels and celebrated landmarks like the John Rylands Library, the Town Hall, the Royal Exchange entertainment complex, and Manchester Cathedral. You can also drop by institutions like the People’s History Museum and the Whitworth Art Gallery to see the masterworks of artistic luminaries. If you’re a fan of the Manchester United football club, you can indulge your fandom inside Old Trafford, the team’s home stadium.
Must-Have Apps for Tourists in Manchester
Manchester is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors. To make the most of your trip, consider downloading these essential apps:
Transportation
- Bee Network: This is the official app for public transport in Greater Manchester, covering buses, trams, and soon, trains.
- Citymapper: A comprehensive app for planning journeys using various modes of transport, including walking, cycling, and public transport.
- National Rail: For train information and ticket purchases.
Exploring the City
- Manchester Travel Guide and City Map: Offers a detailed map, highlights attractions, and suggests nearby restaurants and transportation links.
- Manchester Walking Tours: Provides guided walking tours with audio commentary.
- Parkopedia: Helps you find available parking spaces and compare prices.
Food and Drink
- TheFork: Offers discounts and reservations at restaurants.
- Deliveroo or Uber Eats: For food delivery.
Other Useful Apps
- Dice: For finding tickets to concerts and events.
- Manchester Evening News: Stay updated on local news and events.
- Gett: For booking black cabs.
Bonus:
- Airbnb or Booking.com: For accommodation bookings.
- Google Maps: Essential for navigation and finding points of interest.
By downloading these apps, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Manchester with ease and convenience. Enjoy your trip!
When is the best time to visit Manchester?