11 Best Things To Do in Manchester

Kick off your adventure with a guide to the best things to do in Manchester, a city that thrives on creativity, passion, and history. With legendary football stadiums and groundbreaking music venues, every corner has a story waiting to be discovered.

Feel the city’s energy as you stroll through the Northern Quarter, catch a live gig, or cheer alongside devoted football fans. To see more of what makes this city special, check out Manchester's largest selection of tours and experiences.

If you're curious about how to organize a well-planned trip, explore the expertly crafted itineraries in Manchester. And for a seamless journey, find the most convenient flights to Manchester and start your adventure hassle-free.

Get ready for a travel experience like no other! We’ve rounded up the top things to do in this incredible city, from famous landmarks to hidden gems.

11. Experience Manchester’s Craft Beer Scene on a Tour

If you love a good pint, the guided Manchester craft beer tour is about to become your new favorite thing. Instead of guessing where to go, let the experts lead the way as you explore top breweries and taprooms, tasting a mix of light, refreshing beers and bold, full-bodied brews.

Hear the stories behind each pint, meet passionate brewers, and get a real feel for why Manchester is a top spot for beer lovers. As you visit independent breweries, you can sample everything from smooth, easy-to-drink lagers to rich, dark stouts with hints of chocolate and coffee.

Sip and savor the best of Manchester’s craft beer scene—this tour is one of the best things to do in Manchester for beer lovers and curious travelers alike. It’s the perfect blend of great drinks, good company, and local culture—all in one unforgettable afternoon. 

10. Discover the Street Art of Manchester’s Northern Quarter

Dive into the city's creative soul on a street art tour in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. See works by major street artists and explore the evolving art movement.

Hear the stories behind each mural and discover how they connect to the city’s social and cultural fabric. The streets here are a canvas filled with bold political messages, surreal designs, and tributes to Manchester’s ever-changing identity. 

Explore beyond the usual tourist spots, diving into the history, culture, and creative spirit that make the city unique. If you're looking for something beyond typical sightseeing, this is easily one of the best things to do in Manchester.

9. Try Manchester’s Indoor Skydiving Experience

Try skydiving without jumping off a plane with an indoor skydiving experience in Manchester. This exhilarating activity lets you float in a powerful wind tunnel, giving you the same thrilling sensation of freefall—minus the heights. It’s fun, safe, and perfect for anyone looking to try something exciting.

No parachutes, no planes, just pure adrenaline! A professional instructor will guide you, so all you have to do is suit up and enjoy the ride. Even if you’re solo or with friends, this is an experience you won’t forget.

8. Stroll Through Manchester’s Scenic Salford Quays

City sightseeing tours in Manchester often include a walk through Salford Quays, a must for a mix of culture, history, and stunning waterside views. This vibrant district is home to world-class museums, buzzing restaurants, and some of the city's most striking modern architecture.

Shimmering reflections on the water, sleek bridges, and towering buildings make every turn worth a second look. Stop by The Lowry for world-class art and theater, dive into the impact of conflict at the Imperial War Museum North, or browse for bargains at Quayside MediaCityUK.

After exploring, take a break at one of the many waterfront cafes or restaurants, where you can relax with a drink and soak up the atmosphere. Enjoy the view of boats gliding across the water or catch a stunning sunset over the quays—the perfect way to wind down in this scenic part of the city.

7. Explore Manchester’s Chinatown

City tours in Manchester aren’t just about old buildings and landmarks—they can also take you through fascinating cultural spots like Chinatown. This lively neighborhood is full of amazing food, unique shops, and an energy that makes every visit irresistible.

The giant Chinese Arch welcomes you into lantern-lined streets filled with hidden noodle spots and bakeries serving fresh bubble tea and custard buns. Every corner tempts with sizzling woks, sweet pastries, and supermarkets stocked with exotic snacks. 

At sundown, Chinatown lights up with late-night dim sum spots and underground karaoke bars buzzing with energy. Neon-lit streets, great food, and lively music make it an exciting place to explore after dark.

Experience one of the best things to do in Manchester: soak up the sights, hear local stories, and, of course, sample some of the best food in the city. As an alternative, you can explore Chinatown as part of a private city walking tour in Manchester for an immersive journey.

6. Take a Manchester City Walking Tour To Discover Hidden Gems

A guided walking tour in Manchester's city center can take you beyond the usual sights, leading you through hidden alleys, secret spots, and places most visitors never find. It's the best way to dive into the city’s history, culture, and surprises!

Have you ever stumbled upon a mural with a story that stopped you in your tracks? That’s what this tour is all about. You’ll uncover street art, forgotten landmarks, and cool little corners packed with history and personality.

The guides don’t just list facts—they bring Manchester to life with stories about its industrial past, legendary music scene, and the people who shaped it. Every stop has a tale, and every turn keeps things exciting.

5. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery

Art lovers, level up your Manchester city break packages! A visit to Manchester Art Gallery is a must, whether you're into classic masterpieces or bold, modern works. The collection is packed with everything from Pre-Raphaelite paintings to thought-provoking contemporary pieces.

The gallery itself is just as impressive as the artwork inside. Its stunning architecture sets the scene for an inspiring visit, with light-filled rooms that make every piece stand out. Temporary exhibitions keep it fresh, with interactive displays that draw you in.

This is the kind of place where you can lose track of time in the best way possible. If you’re looking for a spot to admire, learn, or simply soak in the creative atmosphere, the Manchester Art Gallery is an unforgettable stop in the heart of the city.

4. Follow the Beat on a Manchester Music Walking Tour

A music walking tour in Manchester is like stepping into a living playlist. The city has shaped some of the biggest bands in history, from Oasis to The Smiths, and this tour takes you right to the places where music legends were made. 

You’ll hear wild gig stories, visit recording studios where anthems were born, and walk the same streets that inspired generations of artists. Every stop hits a different note and brings the city’s soundtrack to life, which is why this tour is one of the best things to do in Manchester for music lovers.

The experience doesn’t end with the past—Manchester’s music scene is still alive and thriving. As you explore, you’ll pass by buzzing gig venues, indie record stores, and street art tributes to the city’s biggest names. The energy is everywhere, making it easy to see why Manchester remains a music capital.

3. Tour the Manchester Museum

A private guided tour of Manchester Museum is the best way to explore one of the city’s most fascinating attractions. Home to everything from ancient Egyptian mummies to towering dinosaur skeletons, this museum has exhibits that bring history, science, and culture into focus.

The museum’s collection is as diverse as it is impressive. Walk through galleries filled with rare artifacts, come face-to-face with a T. rex, and explore exhibits that dive into everything from human evolution to the wonders of the animal kingdom. 

For history lovers and curious minds, this is one of the best things to do in Manchester. Explore solo or bring the family—either way, the mix of interactive displays and incredible artifacts makes this museum a must-visit.

2. Enjoy Family Day at Manchester Legoland Discovery Centre

Get your Manchester LEGOLAND Discovery Centre ticket for the ultimate family adventure. This indoor playground is filled with exciting rides, interactive zones, and millions of LEGO bricks waiting to be transformed. 

Thrilling 4D cinema experiences, hands-on workshops, and themed play areas keep the fun going all day. LEGO-themed rides bring the magic to life, while creative challenges put building skills to the test. Every corner of the center is designed to spark imagination and endless fun.

Spending a day here guarantees excitement for the whole family. Racing LEGO cars, exploring the miniature LEGO city, and letting creativity run wild make this experience unforgettable for all ages.

1. Visit the Manchester National Football Museum

Exploring the Manchester National Football Museum is one of the best things to do in Manchester for football fans. This museum is packed with legendary memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and incredible stories from the beautiful game. 

Interactive zones let you test your skills, whether in penalty shootouts, goalkeeping challenges, or classic commentary booths where you can call famous moments. Football legends, iconic matches, and behind-the-scenes access make it a must-visit.

Stepping into this museum isn’t just about looking at exhibits—it’s about feeling the passion that makes football more than just a game. If you're a die-hard supporter or just curious about the sport’s impact, this experience is packed with excitement from start to finish.