Endless entertainment in Manchester
Packed with cultural attractions, sports and all the stores and restaurants you could ever need, Manchester's big-city vibes in northwestern England mean endless fun, whether you prefer exploring historic sites, hiking in local parks or attending concerts and festivals. Days here are spent hopping between museums themed around science and the arts, floating down the River Irwell on sightseeing cruises and heading to one of the stadiums for a big soccer match. Along with endless activities to pursue, you'll find a wide range of Manchester vacation rentals await, from convenient apartments in the center of the city to cozy cottages with gardens.
Museum-hopping in Manchester
With more than a dozen museums in the area highlighting everything from transportation to art and design, you'll never be short of something to do. The Museum of Science and Industry is a great place to take kids, with interactive exhibits housed in an old railroad station. The Manchester Museum covers anthropology, archeology and natural history, with tours available and plenty of family-friendly activities and events. Sports fans should head to the National Football Museum, where you'll find a hall of fame for the beautiful game, high-tech exhibits and chances to test your own soccer skills.
Take a tour in Manchester
With so much to do in Manchester, taking a city tour is a great way to get an overview of the big attractions and must-see spots, and you can opt to sightsee by bus, boat or foot on guided walking tours. Hop-on, hop-off bus tours take you to spots like Manchester Town Hall and the National Football Museum, allowing you to get off where you like to see the sights or snap some photos, while river cruises float along the Irwell and the Manchester Ship Canal, a relaxing way to take in the city skyline.
Summer vacations in Manchester
Summertime in Manchester means bustling streets and tons of events, as visitors enjoy a vacation in the city while the weather is warm. Between June and September, afternoons average in the 60s, perfect for playing a round of golf, picnicking under shady trees in city parks or heading outside the central hub for hiking adventures in the gorgeous surrounding landscape. Since summer is a popular time to visit this area, you'll want to reserve your Manchester vacation rental early to ensure you snag your ideal dates. If you prefer to visit when it's less busy, there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy when the weather cools.
Out and about near Manchester
Riverfront Manchester offers plenty of parks, but for a real nature-filled adventure, head just east to the moorlands of the Kinder Scout National Nature Reserve and Peak District National Park. Grab a bike and hit some of the countryside trails in the area or take to the hiking paths and explore the scenic landscape. Pack a picnic lunch at your Manchester vacation rental to make a day of it. With lots of hills to climb, you're sure to find the perfect spot to watch the sunset as evening falls.
Transportation to and around Manchester
Fly into Manchester Airport (MAN), the closest airport, located 8.1 mi (13.1 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into John Lennon Airport (LPL), which is 27 mi (43.4 km) away.
If you're traveling by train, Manchester Oxford Road Station, Manchester Manchester Oxford Road Station and Deansgate Station are the main stations that serve the city. It's easy to get around Manchester by jumping on the metro at St Peters Square Station, Mosley Street Station or Market Street Station.