Manchester-2-day-itinerary

Manchester in 48 Hours: A whirlwind tour

This itinerary offers a taste of Manchester’s vibrant culture, history, and nightlife. Adjust it to your interests!

Day 1: History & Culture

  • Morning:

    • Stay: Choose from stylish hotels in the city center like The Lowry Hotel or King Street Townhouse for luxury, or budget-friendly options like Hatters Hostel or Ibis Manchester Centre.

    • Breakfast: Grab a hearty breakfast at Federal Cafe Bar (known for its brunch) or Foundation Coffee House (delicious pastries and coffee).

    • Explore:

      • Manchester Art Gallery: Admire Pre-Raphaelite masterpieces and contemporary art. (Free entry)
      • John Rylands Library: Marvel at the stunning neo-Gothic architecture and rare book collection.

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at The Old Wellington Inn or sample street food at Mackie Mayor, a beautifully restored Victorian market hall.

    • History:

      • People’s History Museum: Learn about the fight for social justice in Britain. (Free entry)
      • Manchester Town Hall: Admire the magnificent Victorian Gothic building. Take a free guided tour.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner: Indulge in modern British cuisine at Hawksmoor Manchester or try the acclaimed Northern Quarter restaurant, The Refuge.
    • Nightlife: Experience Manchester’s buzzing nightlife in the Northern Quarter, with bars like Night & Day Cafe and The Whiskey Jar offering live music and a lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Football & Shopping

  • Morning:

    • Breakfast: Start your day at Takk, known for its Scandinavian-inspired brunch and cozy atmosphere.

    • Football:

      • National Football Museum: Dive into the history of football with interactive exhibits and artifacts. (Entry fee applies)
      • Old Trafford Stadium Tour & Museum: Experience the home of Manchester United, learn about their legacy, and walk the pitch. (Book in advance)

  • Afternoon:

    • Lunch: Grab a bite at Evelyn’s Cafe Bar near the National Football Museum for delicious sandwiches and salads.
    • Shopping: Explore the Arndale Centre for high street brands or venture to Afflecks Palace, a quirky independent emporium in the Northern Quarter.

  • Evening:

    • Dinner: Enjoy authentic Indian cuisine at Bundobust (known for its craft beer pairings) or sample the innovative dishes at HOME’s restaurant overlooking the canal.
    • Performance: Catch a show at the Royal Exchange Theatre, renowned for its unique in-the-round stage and diverse productions.

Things to know:

  • Transport: Manchester has an efficient tram and bus network, making it easy to get around. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel.
  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable weather with layers of clothing. An umbrella is always a good idea!
  • Safety: Manchester is generally safe but exercise usual precautions against pickpockets in crowded areas.

Tips:

  • Download the Transport for Greater Manchester app for real-time information on trams and buses.
  • Book tickets for popular attractions and football matches in advance.
  • Take advantage of free museums and galleries like the Manchester Art Gallery and People’s History Museum.
  • Explore the Northern Quarter for independent shops, cafes, bars, and street art.

Other things of interest:

  • Manchester Cathedral: Visit this historic landmark with its stunning stained glass windows.
  • Science and Industry Museum: Learn about Manchester’s industrial heritage through interactive exhibits.
  • Canal Street: Experience the vibrant gay scene in Manchester’s Canal Street district.

Enjoy your whirlwind tour of Manchester!