
108 Best Things to Do in Manchester
The top attractions in Manchester, UK, ranked by real travelers who added them to their trips.
Start planning
Plan your Manchester trip
Turn these Manchester highlights into a full day-by-day itinerary with maps and timings. Free to start.
Joined by 50,000+ travelers planning with Packy.
Ranked by travelers
What to do in Manchester
These are the attractions travelers add to their Manchester trips most often. Real stops, real order, ready to drop into your own plan.
1The Whitworth
Featured in 15 Manchester itineraries
This art gallery seamlessly integrates nature and art, showcasing a diverse range of modern and historic art within a stunning park setting.
Oxford Rd, Manchester M15 6ER, UKFree
2John Rylands Library
Featured in 13 Manchester itineraries
A breathtaking neo-Gothic library housing rare books and manuscripts, it's a haven for literature enthusiasts and offers a tranquil atmosphere for exploration.
150 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3EH, UKFree
3Science and Industry Museum
Featured in 13 Manchester itineraries
Dive into Manchester’s rich industrial heritage and explore fascinating exhibits from the world of science, technology, and industry.
Liverpool Rd, Manchester M3 4JP, UKFree
4Heaton Park
Featured in 13 Manchester itineraries
One of the largest municipal parks in Europe, Heaton Park offers stunning landscapes, playgrounds, and a petting farm, making it ideal for family outdoor adventures.
Bury Old Rd, Manchester M25 0EQ, UKFree
5Lowry
Featured in 13 Manchester itineraries
Experience vibrant cultural events and exhibitions, showcasing contemporary art and mesmerizing performances in a stunning architectural setting in Salford Quays.
Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ, UKVaries by event
6Manchester Art Gallery
Featured in 11 Manchester itineraries
Home to an extensive collection of fine art, this gallery provides a perfect blend of historical and contemporary works in a beautifully designed space.
Mosley St, Manchester M2 3JL, UKFree
7Fletcher Moss Botanical Gardens
Featured in 11 Manchester itineraries
A tranquil haven featuring beautiful gardens and diverse plant species. It’s a great spot for family walks, picnics, and enjoying nature's beauty.
18 Stenner Ln, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2RQ, UKFree
8Etihad Stadium
Featured in 9 Manchester itineraries
Home to Manchester City Football Club, this modern stadium offers fascinating stadium tours and an insight into Manchester's football culture.
Etihad Stadium, Etihad Campus, Manchester M11 3FF, UK£25
9Manchester Museum
Featured in 9 Manchester itineraries
Explore this eclectic museum housing a wide range of natural history exhibits, including dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, and Egyptian mummies.
Oxford Rd, Manchester M13 9PL, UKFree
10Platt Fields Park
Featured in 8 Manchester itineraries
A large public park featuring beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of space for picnics and walks. Ideal for families and nature lovers.
Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6LA, UKFree
11The Trafford Centre
Featured in 8 Manchester itineraries
A massive shopping and leisure complex featuring over 200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options under one roof.
The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17, UKFree
12Manchester Cathedral
Featured in 7 Manchester itineraries
This magnificent medieval cathedral features stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows, providing insight into Manchester’s spiritual history.
Victoria St, Manchester M3 1SX, UKFree
13The Quays
Featured in 6 Manchester itineraries
A vibrant waterfront destination featuring shops, restaurants, and the breathtaking MediaCityUK, perfect for a leisurely stroll or boat ride.
Salford, Manchester M50 3UB, UKVaries
14Dunham Massey
Featured in 6 Manchester itineraries
A beautiful National Trust property featuring a historic mansion, stunning gardens, and a deer park, perfect for walking and exploring.
Dunham Massey, UKEntry fee for house and gardens
15Chorlton Water Park
Featured in 6 Manchester itineraries
A beautiful park with a large lake, ideal for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and outdoor activities in a serene environment.
74 Maitland Ave, Manchester M21 7WH, UKFree
16Heaton Hall
Featured in 5 Manchester itineraries
A historic house set within Heaton Park, featuring beautiful gardens and a variety of outdoor activities suitable for families.
GPPW+CR, Manchester M25 2SW, UKFree
17Old Trafford
Featured in 5 Manchester itineraries
Home to Manchester United, this iconic stadium is a pilgrimage site for football fans around the world.
Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester M16 0RA, UK£25-30
18IWM North
Featured in 5 Manchester itineraries
A striking building exploring the impact of war on people and society, with engaging exhibits and stunning views over the quays.
The Quays, Trafford Wharf Rd, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 1TZ, UKFree
19Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
Featured in 5 Manchester itineraries
A unique mix of nature, historic canals, and industrial architecture, perfect for exploration.
Duke St, Manchester M3 4NF, UKFree
20Northern Quarter
Featured in 4 Manchester itineraries
Famed for its vintage shops, indie boutiques, and vibrant street art, this quirky neighborhood is perfect for unique finds and eclectic cafes.
Northern Quarter, Manchester, UKVaries
21Royal Exchange Theatre
Featured in 4 Manchester itineraries
Experience world-class theatre performances in this unique circular building with stunning interiors, adding to the cultural vibrancy of Manchester.
St Ann's Square, Manchester M2 7DH, UK£20-£50
22Bramall Hall
Featured in 4 Manchester itineraries
Visit this stunning 16th-century country house set within beautiful grounds, offering a glimpse into Tudor life. Engage in family-friendly activities and workshops throughout the year.
Hall Rd, Bramhall, Stockport SK7 3NX, UKFree
23National Football Museum
Featured in 4 Manchester itineraries
Celebrate the history of football with interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and enjoyable activities for fans of all ages.
Todd St, Manchester M4 3BG, UKFree
24Albert Square
Featured in 4 Manchester itineraries
A beautiful square surrounded by impressive Victorian architecture, perfect for photos and admiring the town hall.
Albert Square, Manchester M2, UKFree
25MediaCityUK
Featured in 4 Manchester itineraries
A vibrant media and entertainment hub featuring studios, shops, and restaurants, rich in modern architecture and cultural experiences.
MediaCity UK, Salford, Arrive M50 2NT, UKFree
26Ordsall Hall
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
Explore this beautiful Tudor-style hall with its fascinating history, interactive exhibitions, and beautiful gardens, perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.
322 Ordsall Ln, Salford M5 3AN, UKFree
27The Piccadilly Gardens
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A vibrant public space in the city center, ideal for relaxation, events, and enjoying Manchester's urban vibe.
1b Parker St, Piccadilly, Manchester M1 1RG, UKFree
28Castlefield
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
This picturesque area features ancient Roman ruins, canals, and lively bars, reflecting Manchester's rich history.
Castlefield, Manchester, UKFree
29Chinatown
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
Experience vibrant Asian culture with restaurants, shops, and the stunning Chinese arch—perfect for food lovers and explorers.
Chinatown, Manchester, UKFree
30Saint Anns Square
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A charming square with boutique shops, cafes, and a lively market atmosphere—great for leisurely shopping and dining.
St Anns Square, Manchester M2, UKFree
31Afflecks
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A quirky, indoor market that specializes in independent shops, vintage clothing, and unique gifts.
52 Church St, Manchester M4 1PW, UKVaries
32St Mary's RC Church
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
This neo-Gothic cathedral is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
St Mary's Church, 17 Mulberry St, Manchester M2 6LN, UKFree
33Tatton Park
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A historic estate with beautiful gardens, a deer park, and many events throughout the year.
Cheshire, Knutsford WA16 6QN, UK£8
34Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A charming park home to diverse plant collections and serene gardens, perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation.
100 Millgate Ln, Didsbury, Manchester M20 2SW, UKFree
35Wythenshawe Park & Gardens
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A huge park featuring gardens, a farm, and woodlands, providing ample space for relaxation and fun activities.
Wythenshawe, Manchester M23, UKFree
36Victoria Baths
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
An Edwardian swimming pool complex known for its stunning architecture and heritage tours.
Hathersage Rd, Manchester M13 0FE, UK£5
37Heaton Mersey Common
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A tranquil oasis offering a variety of habitats and wildlife, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching.
Mersey Rd, Heaton Mersey, Stockport SK4 3DE, UKFree
38Longford Park
Featured in 3 Manchester itineraries
A lovely park with tennis courts, playgrounds, and scenic walking paths, perfect for a relaxing afternoon in nature.
Ryebank Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Stretford, Manchester M21 9TA, UKFree
39Manchester City Council
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
This stunning Gothic Revival building is a must-see, rich in history and architectural beauty, proudly standing as Manchester's civic heart.
Town Hall, Albert Square, Manchester M2 5DB, UKFree
40The Bridgewater Hall
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A cultural hub in Manchester that hosts classical music concerts and other performances, renowned for its excellent acoustics.
The Bridgewater Hall, Lower Mosley St, Manchester M2 3WS, UK£15-£60
41Manchester Arndale
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
As one of the largest shopping centers in the UK, it offers a wide variety of shops, cafes, and entertainment options in one convenient location.
Manchester Arndale, Manchester M4 3AD, UKVaries
42Whalley Range
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A hidden gem featuring beautiful Victorian villas and parks, ideal for a quiet exploration of local life.
Whalley Range, Manchester M16, UKFree
43Chetham's Library
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
As one of the oldest public libraries in the English-speaking world, it offers a rare insight into literary history and charming architecture.
Long Millgate, Manchester M3 1SB, UKFree
44Reddish Vale Country Park
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A peaceful park featuring beautiful landscapes and walking trails, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature just outside the city.
Reddish Vale Visitors Centre, Reddish Vale Rd, Stockport SK5 7HE, UKFree
45The Monastery Manchester
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A breathtaking Victorian Gothic church with a rich history and beautiful architecture.
89 Gorton Ln, Manchester M12 5WF, UKFree
46Printworks
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A vibrant entertainment and shopping complex featuring restaurants, cinemas, and shops, ideal for an evening outing.
27 Withy Grove, Manchester M4 2BS, UKFree; activity costs vary.
47Etherow Country Park
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A stunning park with woods, a lake, and scenic walks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
George St, Compstall, Romiley, Stockport SK6 5JD, UKFree
48AO Arena
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A major venue for concerts and events with a vibrant atmosphere.
Victoria Station Approach, Hunts Bank, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M3 1AR, UKVaries
49Lymm Dam
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A picturesque spot perfect for a tranquil day outdoors, offering scenic walks, a serene dam, and opportunities for picnicking and wildlife watching.
Car park on Crouchley Lane - access the footpath from there or the A56 or Lakeside Road. No access via, Baycliffe, Lymm WA13 0QF, UKFree
50Manchester Central Library
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
A stunning, historic library located in the city center, perfect for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
St Peter's Square, Manchester M2 5PD, UKFree
51National Trust - Dunham Massey
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
An 18th-century mansion set in beautiful gardens and a deer park.
Dunham Massey, Altrincham WA14 4SJ, UKNational Trust Members: Free; Others: £14.00
52St. Peter's Square
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
This vibrant square showcases impressive architecture including the Central Library and the memorial to the Peterloo Massacre, perfect for people-watching and relaxation.
St Peter's Square, Manchester M1 5AN, UKFree
53Sale Water Park
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
This park features a large lake ideal for sailing, canoeing, and picnic spots.
Rifle Rd, Sale M33 2LX, UKFree
54Bruntwood Park
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
Offers open green spaces, playgrounds, and a small cafe, ideal for family outings.
bruntwood park, 6 Bruntwood Ln, Cheadle SK8 1HT, UKFree
55Worsley Woods
Featured in 2 Manchester itineraries
This ancient woodland is perfect for nature lovers, featuring scenic walks, diverse wildlife, and a tranquil atmosphere just outside the city.
Worsley, Manchester M28 2WP, UKFree
56Shambles Square
A vibrant area surrounded by bars and eateries serving delicious food and drinks, perfect for relaxing after exploring the city.
Shambles Square, 1-3 Cathedral Gates, Manchester M3 1SW, UKVaries
57Lowry Outlet
Enjoy performances and exhibitions at this renowned theatre while also taking advantage of the shopping options at the attached outlet mall.
Greater Manchester GB, 31 The Quays, Salford M50, UKVaries- 58
fielden park
A picturesque park perfect for relaxation, walks, and enjoying seasonal blooms, providing a serene escape from the city's buzz.
17 Kelstern Square, Longsight, Manchester M13 0XW, UKFree
59Fries & Guys Cheetham Hill
A large public park featuring beautiful gardens, children's play areas, and sports facilities, perfect for a leisurely stroll or outdoor activities.
591 Cheetham Hill Rd, Manchester M8 9JE, UKFree
60A57(M)
A popular shopping street that offers a mix of high street and designer brands, as well as unique shops and eateries.
A57(M), Manchester, UKVariable
61Deansgate
A bustling shopping street lined with high street brands, restaurants, and cafés—perfect for a retail therapy session.
Deansgate, Manchester, UKFree
62The Tree of Life
A stunning piece of modern art and a great spot for a peaceful break in nature.
Sackville Gardens, Sackville St, Canal St, Manchester M1 3EZ, UKFree
63The Rock House
An exciting climbing and bouldering venue for adventure enthusiasts of all ages.
40 Peel Green Rd, Barton upon Irwell, Eccles, Manchester M30 7AY, UKVaries
64The Bierkeller Manchester
Experience authentic Bavarian food and culture at this lively beer hall, perfect for a fun night out with friends.
The Printworks, Withy Grove, Manchester M4 2BS, UK£30- 65
Ancoats Urban Village Regeneration Area
A trendy neighborhood filled with independent cafes, restaurants, and art installations, offering a unique local vibe and great food.
Ancoats Urban Village Regeneration Area, Ancoats, Manchester M4, UKFree
66Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester
An extraordinary collection of historical vehicles, showcasing the transport history of Greater Manchester.
Boyle St, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M8 8UW, UKFree
67The Pankhurst Centre
The birthplace of the suffrage movement, offering exhibitions and programs about women's rights.
60-62 Nelson St, Manchester M13 9WP, UKFree
68Didsbury Park
A peaceful green space perfect for a leisurely walk, picnic, or enjoying the outdoors amid scenic views.
Wilmslow Road Didsbury, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5LS, UKFree
69Stamford Park
A beautifully maintained park with a lake, walking paths, and lovely green areas, perfect for a day out and relaxation.
235 Stamford St, Ashton-under-Lyne, Stalybridge SK15 1QZ, UKFree
70West Didsbury
Experience a charming district with independent shops, cafes, and bars, perfect for a relaxing day of exploration.
West Didsbury, Manchester M20, UKFree
71Walkden Gardens
Beautifully landscaped gardens featuring a variety of plants, perfect for leisurely strolls and family picnics.
Derbyshire Rd, Sale M33 3EL, UKFree
72Manchester Jewish Museum
Explore the rich history of Manchester's Jewish community in this beautifully restored synagogue and museum.
190 Cheetham Hill Rd, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M8 8LW, UKFree
73Etihad Campus
Visit the home of Manchester City Football Club and enjoy the interactive museum and stadium tour.
Etihad Campus, 13 Rowsley St, Manchester M11 3FF, UK£25
74Hulme Park
A peaceful green space perfect for relaxing walks and picnics.
Stretford Rd, Manchester M15 4ZY, UKFree
Enjoy an outdoor space known for live music events and cultural activities, surrounded by beautiful canals and historic industrial architecture.
Rice St, Manchester M3 4JR, UKVaries by event
Enjoy a green space filled with impressive sculptures, a relaxing lake, and beautiful walking paths connecting to The Whitworth Gallery.
Oxford Rd, Manchester M14 4PW, UKFree
77Didsbury
A charming suburb known for its independent shops, eateries, and beautiful parks, perfect for leisurely exploration and relaxation.
Didsbury, Manchester M20, UKFree
78Chorlton Green
A vibrant area featuring green spaces, independent cafes, and a bohemian atmosphere, ideal for enjoying local culture and nature.
Chorlton Grn, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21, UKFree
79St Joseph's Roman Catholic Church
A beautiful example of Gothic architecture, this church highlights the rich religious heritage and offers a serene atmosphere for contemplation.
The Presbytery, Portland Cres, Manchester M13 0BU, UKFree
80Rochdale Canal
Experience tranquil walks along this historic canal, ideal for walking, cycling, and discovering the local wildlife.
Rochdale Canal, United KingdomFree
Participate in this fun and challenging interactive experience based on the hit television show, perfect for groups and adventure seekers.
St Johns, Lower Byrom St, Manchester M3 4FP, UK£45
82Gorton Reservoir
An oasis of nature featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to relax.
Gorton Upper Reservoir,, Manchester M18 8XJ, UKFree
83King Street
A prestigious shopping destination featuring high-end boutiques and designer stores, perfect for an upscale shopping experience in the heart of the city.
King St, Manchester M2, UKFree
84Mackie Mayor
This beautiful food hall offers a variety of local and international cuisines in a vibrant setting, perfect for foodies looking to sample diverse flavors.
Smithfield Market Hall, 1 Eagle St, Manchester M4 5BU, UKFree entry, varying food prices
85People's History Museum
Dive into the social history of democracy in Britain with engaging exhibits that educate about people's rights and activism; perfect for history buffs.
Leftbank, Manchester M3 3ER, UKFree
86Fallowfield Loop
A scenic cycle and walking path that runs through the heart of Manchester, great for exercise.
Fallowfield Lp, Manchester, UKFree
87Merseyway Shopping Centre
Although primarily a shopping centre, it has surrounding parks and water features for relaxation.
54 Great Underbank, Stockport SK1 1PD, UKFree
88Victoria Park
A historic park with beautiful landscaping, sports facilities, and a children's play area.
Victoria Park, Manchester M14 5BY, UKFree
89Eagle & Child
Historic pub with a lovely beer garden, ideal for relaxing after exploring the area.
91 Higher Ln, Whitefield, Manchester M45 7EY, UKVaries
90Ancoats Green
A community park with green spaces, great for walking and local events.
Wadeford Cl, Manchester M4 6LP, UKFree
91Carrington Moss
A significant ecological area with walking paths and rich wildlife, perfect for nature walks.
Birch Rd, Carrington, Manchester M31 4BH, UKFree
92Norden
A picturesque village offering scenic views and access to walking trails in the surrounding countryside.
Norden, Rochdale, UKFree
93Bodey Medical Centre
Woodland area ideal for walking, bird-watching, and experiencing local nature.
Bodey Medical Centre, Ladybarn Court, 28 Ladybarn Ln, Manchester M14 6WP, UKFree
94Portland Street
A vibrant shopping street filled with diverse shops, eateries, and cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick stop for essentials.
Portland St, Manchester M1, UKFree
95Rivington Pike Tower
A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Rivington, Bolton BL6 6RU, UKFree
96The Lowry Outlet Mall
Experience great shopping at discounted prices in a vibrant outlet centre overlooking the waterfront.
The Lowry Outlet Mall, Salford M50 3AZ, UKFree entry; varies by shopping.
97Daisy Nook Country Park
Explore wooded areas, meadows, and water features just outside the city.
Stannybrook Rd, Failsworth, Oldham, Manchester M35 9WJ, UKFree
98Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
Explore the history of policing in Manchester, featuring intriguing exhibits including vehicles, uniforms, and fascinating local crime stories.
57A Newton St, Manchester M1 1ET, UKFree
99Artisan
A vibrant food spot known for its creative street food, artisanal produce, and lively atmosphere, perfect for food lovers looking to try local flavors.
Avenue North, 18-22 Bridge St, Manchester M3 3BZ, UK£10-£20
100Ancoats
Known for its rich industrial history, vibrant culture, and trendy eateries, Ancoats offers a unique blend of old and new.
Ancoats, Manchester M4, UKFree
101Ancoats Run Club
A historic pub famous for its cozy atmosphere, exceptional beers, and hearty food, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
82 Redhill St, Manchester M4 5BA, UK£15-£30
102Cathedral Church of St John the Evangelist
This magnificent cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere, making it a must-visit for both history buffs and casual visitors.
250 Chapel St, Salford M3 5LE, UKFree
103RHS Garden Bridgewater
A stunning new garden that showcases horticulture at its finest, with themed gardens and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Occupation Rd, Worsley, Manchester M28 2LJ, UK£15.00
104Tandle Hill Country Park
A scenic park offering breathtaking views, walking trails, and picnic areas, ideal for those who love the outdoors and want to enjoy nature.
Tandle Hill Rd, Royton, Oldham OL2 5UX, UKFree- 105
Chatsworth House
A magnificent stately home with breathtaking gardens, ideal for a day of exploration.
Chatsworth House, Lever St, Manchester M1 1LN, UKPaid entry
106Denton Golf Club
Challenging golf course set in beautiful nature, offering a great outdoor experience.
Manchester Rd, Denton, Audenshaw, Manchester M34 2GG, UKPaid entry
107Radcliffe Tower
An atmospheric medieval ruin, providing a glimpse into the past amid lovely green spaces.
Sandford St, Radcliffe, Manchester M26 2PG, UKFree
108Prestwich Forest Park
A peaceful forest area for walking and enjoying nature, perfect for nature lovers.
Park Ln, Whitefield, Prestwich, Manchester M45 7HL, UKFree
Keep planning
Plan your Manchester trip
Keep exploring