Discover Manchester

Welcome to the official tourism site of Greater Manchester where you can search for things to do in Manchester and find out what's on, as well as getting inspiration for your visit to this fantastic city region.

Youthful, diverse, energetic and bursting with character; Manchester is one of the most exciting places to visit in the UK right now where everybody and anybody is very warmly welcomed.

Manchester has been named as one of 25 global destinations to be included in the Where to Go 2024 list by prestigious US travel publication AFAR, has been named in the New York Times’ 52 Places to Go list for 2024 and is the only UK city in National Geographic's influential ‘Best of the World’ list which annually sets out 25 of the must-see places to visit around the globe.

Known throughout the world as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, Manchester has a proud history in science, politics, music, arts and sport. And today the city combines this heritage with a progressive vision to be a city that delivers surprise and delight in equal measures. 

Manchester city centre is jam-packed with unique and eclectic restaurantsbarsshopsmuseums, gallerieshotels and places to stay whilst the surrounding Greater Manchester boroughs offer a patch-work of visitor experiences including quaint market towns, traditional pubs and beautiful green spaces and waterways to be explored on foot or bike. The city region is easily navigated, with great transport links both in and around Greater Manchester.

Furthermore, a packed calendar of world-class events and festivals – from the landmark Manchester International Festival to the enchanting Manchester Christmas Markets – mean there’s always another reason to visit Manchester.

Christmas is a magical time in Greater Manchester and the perfect occasion to combine a short festive break with a spot of Christmas shopping.

Choose your Manchester

Manchester experiences designed for you.

    Explore All

    Essential experiences

    Family friendly

    Urban adventurers

    Culture lovers

    Sophistication seekers

    This week in Manchester...

    Whether you're a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor eager to explore, our carefully curated selection of events will ensure your week is filled with unforgettable moments.

    The Visit Manchester Pass

    Pass logo

    10% off during September

    With entry to iconic attractions and access to exclusive discounts across the city, make the most of your time in Manchester with a Visit Manchester Pass.

    Visit Manchester Pass app

    Reasons to buy

    10% off during September

    • Entry into 12 of Manchester's top attractions including Coronation Street, Manchester City Football Club, RHS Garden Bridgewater & more
    • Over 30 discounts and offers
    • Save money and explore Manchester

    What's on in Manchester - Highlights

    Sam Fender

    Indie from the North Shields singer-songwriter and guitarist. After starting his career as an actor…

    06 Dec 2024

    Manchester highlights

    Some of the must-see attractions, experiences and places to stay in Manchester

    AO Arena

    The AO Arena Manchester, managed and operated by ASM Global, is one of the busiest venues in the…

    Selfridges

    Selfridges Exchange Square is located in the heart of the city and offers a luxury shopping…

    Sexy Fish

    In the heart of Manchester, Sexy Fish is an Asian restaurant and bar specializing in…

    Experiences to book now

    Discover these bookable activities to make the most of your trip to Manchester

    Places to stay in Manchester

    Make yourself at home at one of Manchester's great hotels or serviced apartments.

    View more hotels

    Explore Manchester's neighbourhoods

    Find out about some of the districts that make Manchester such a diverse region.

    View All

    Rochdale

    Rochdale is a borough in the north of Greater Manchester, comprising of Heywood, Middleton, Milnrow…

    King Street

    King Street has long established itself as the premium shopping destination in Manchester with…

    Get to know Manchester

    Read more articles
    • Clock icon1 minute read

    Festive Family-Friendly Shows in Greater Manchester

    Hero Image: Snowman Enterprises Limited Join Manchester for one of the many festive shows taking place across the city region - you're in for a treat as it's a jam-packed schedule. Expect theatre shows, light displays, and candlelight concerts, there's something for the whole family this festive…

    Read More

    Ice Skating this Christmas in Greater Manchester

    It's time to get your skates on! Whether you're channeling your inner Torvill and Dean, or simply clinging onto the sides for dear life, ice skating is a must at Christmas. We've pulled together the best locations in Greater Manchester to gather friends and family together for some festive Ice…

    Read More

    Christmas Feasting in Greater Manchester

    The season of Christmas Feasting has finally arrived. Indulge with your loved ones in an array of offers such as Set Menus or Festive Afternoon Teas and be spoilt for choice this festive season. Below we have pulled together a Christmas Feasting Roundup to get you in the festive spirit: Join…

    Read More

    What's on at the Trafford Centre this Christmas 2024

    Step into an immersive wonderland of fun at the Trafford Centre this Christmas. Wander through twinkling light trails, skate under the stars, and embark on a festive adventure to remember. Here's what you and the little ones can enjoy: Trafford Centre proudly presents a Broadway-style extravaganza…

    Read More

    The Best Experiences and Gifts in Greater Manchester

    Whenever Christmas, birthdays or big occasions come around, some people are just impossible to buy for. Even if you know them like the back of your hand, knowing what they might want as a gift can feel like an impossible task. Thankfully, Manchester and its businesses has your back, with many of…

    Read More

    Most popular articles

    View All

    Visitor Information

    View All

    Share and follow Visit Manchester on Instagram

    Follow us everywhere