Planning a day trip to Manchester? You’re in for a treat as I’ve prepared an itinerary that allows you to experience the best of Manchester in a day. 

Whether it’s your first time in Manchester, or you’re planning a day out in the city, you can be sure of a treasure trove of attractions waiting to be explored. I’ve spent countless hours navigating the city streets and I’m excited to share my ultimate one day itinerary with you.

From Manchester’s eclectic mix of contemporary and historic attractions to football and shops, there is truly something for everyone. In my day Manchester itinerary, I’ll cover the best of what Manchester has to offer.

Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how much you can squeeze into just 24 hours.

What To Do In Manchester In A Day

First places to visit

Let’s start the Manchester in a day itinerary by heading to Manchester’s Central Library near St Peter’s Square. This circular building, dating back to the 1930s, is more than a book paradise. It also covers a vast archive of rare books and collections. This spot is handy if it’s raining or you want to keep the kids occupied for an hour. 

Another gem is Manchester Town Hall. This Victorian masterpiece is a beautiful building and definitely one to capture on camera. It’s currently being restored so you can’t see inside but there are several coffee shops nearby once you’ve marvelled at its beauty. 

Add to your day out in Manchester – the Northern Quarter. This vibrant neighbourhood is best known for its indie vibe, with countless vintage shops, hip cafes and vibrant street artworks. But, there are also lots of attractions in Manchester city centre that are close by, including the Football Museum and Printworks.  

Football 

There’s no denying that Manchester is a football-mad city. So, if you love football like me, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied in this 24-hour itinerary.

Manchester is home to two top-flight football teams – Manchester United and Manchester City. These two giants of English football have a rich history, and taking a tour of their home grounds should be on top of your list if you’re a footy fan. 

The revered Old Trafford stadium, home to Manchester United, has to be the first place you visit. Dubbed as the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ by Bobby Charlton, the stadium tour will take you through the journey of this iconic club, which has seen many ups and downs. 

You’ll get a unique insight into the dressing room, trophy room and players’ tunnel, taking you up close to those sites where unforgettable moments have been lived out. 

Hop onto a tram for a short journey across the city and you’ll arrive at the Etihad Stadium, the fortress of Manchester City. Stepping into the stadium, strictly designed for football, you’ll sense the ambition and drive that has propelled the club to the top of world football in the past decade. 

The interactive displays and engaging tour guides will tell you all about the transformation of the “noisy neighbours” into a force to reckon with.

If you have the time, head over to the National Football Museum, where you can try your hand at a penalty shootout and get clued up on the sport’s fascinating history.

Retail therapy

If you love shopping and are visiting Manchester in a day, then you’re in luck as the city is a hub of retail delights! With its vast number of independent boutiques, high street shops, vintage outlets and markets, head to King Street first to browse the lovely mix of high-end stores and independent boutiques. It’s where you’ll find designers like Hermes and Vivienne Westwood, along with a range of high-street names like Zara. 

Beyond King Street, Northern Quarter is the place to browse through independent record stores, retro clothing shops and quirky boutiques. Afflecks Palace in particular; a multi-storey emporium of wonders, well-known for its eclectic mix, is a must-visit. 

Last, but not least, the Arndale Market. While the market isn’t what it used to be, there are still some excellent stalls for food and drink lovers, such as those selling fresh local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. 

Where to eat

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Your journey around Manchester in a day wouldn’t be complete without delving into its diverse food scene. Whether it’s Michelin-starred restaurants, classic British pubs or exotic cuisine, there’s a plate to match every palate. 

If you want to experience different cuisines under one roof then head to Mackie Mayor – a food hall located in a restored Victorian market. It’s a bustling spot where you can enjoy everything from fresh seafood dishes to wood-fired pizzas. 

Alternatively, try Albert’s Schloss, where food mixes with live music, and good vibes. Here, you can savour authentic German grub and, of course, plenty of beers on tap. It’s both a delicious and fun addition to any 1 day Manchester itinerary.

Street food lovers shouldn’t miss out on the eats at GRUB, Manchester’s premier street food event. Located at the Green Quarter, it’s where local food traders offer a mix of food that both locals and tourists rave about. Plus, there’s even a secret beer garden!

Of course, any visit to Manchester certainly demands a trip to a classic British Pub. One of my personal favourites is The Marble Arch, close to the Northern Quarter and known for its traditional pub grub, local cask ales, and tiled décor. Not only is it a feast for your belly but it also transports you back in time with its Victorian ambiance.

Intrigued by fine dining? Book a table at Mana, in Ancoats – the city’s first restaurant to receive a Michelin star in 40+ years. Its innovative and beautifully presented dishes put a new spin on British cuisine. It’s a bit posh, a little avant-garde but totally worth it for a treat!

And if you’re here for the evening, then head to Flight Club on King Street for cocktails or Salt Dog Slims in Albert Square – an American bar with pool tables are worth hanging out in. Grab food, drinks and round off the evening with a bang. 

How To Get To Manchester

Travelling to Manchester city centre is a breeze, no matter where you’re coming from in the UK. 

If you’re opting for public transport, Manchester is well-connected by train with major cities like London, Birmingham, and Edinburgh. Direct services from London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly, operated by Avanti West Coast, can whisk you to the heart of Manchester in just over two hours. 

If you’re flying in, Manchester Airport is a major hub with excellent transport links to the city centre. The airport’s train station offers frequent services that can get you to central Manchester in about 20 minutes. For those who prefer the flexibility of driving, Manchester is well-served by several major motorways. The M60 ring road provides easy access to various parts of the city. 

Upon arrival, you’ll find convenient parking, though you may want to pre-book during peak times.

Manchester car parking

Here are some options for good car parks in Manchester city centre:

• NCP Spinningfields – Located near attractions like the Manchester Opera House and John Rylands Library, this car park charges around £28 for 8 hours. There are also NCP car parks on Stanley Street and New Bailey, offering rates around £14 for 4 hours and £24 for 24 hours.
• SIP Bootle Street – A smaller car park with 17 spaces, located at M2 5GU. It’s relatively affordable with rates such as £6 for 4 hours, £12 for 10 hours, and £17 for 24 hours. Note that there’s no parking available on Saturdays from 8 am to 2 pm.
• Bridge Street Car Park (M3 5AH) – Operated by Manchester City Council, this is a 24-hour short-stay car park near the River Irwell. Rates start at £4.50 for 1 hour, up to a maximum of £9.50 for 4 hours.
• CitiPark Dale Street – Situated at 75 Dale Street, Manchester, M1 2HG, this car park is in the heart of Piccadilly Basin, close to Piccadilly Station and the Northern Quarter. Rates range from £4 for up to 1 hour to £18 for up to 24 hours.

Additionally, on-street parking can be a cost-effective option for shorter visits, with free parking available after 8 pm and on bank holidays in certain areas.

Manchester Transport

A day tour of Manchester city centre is convenient thanks to public transport, especially the Metrolink tram service. The Metrolink is not only the UK’s largest tram network but also one of its most modern, boasting frequent services that connect key destinations throughout the city and beyond. 

It’s easy access to popular areas like MediaCityUK, Piccadilly Gardens, and Old Trafford. Additionally, the trams are designed to be accessible, with step-free access and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs.

The tram lines intersect at several key points, making it easy to switch routes if needed. For example, St Peter’s Square is a major interchange station, offering connections between various lines. This interconnectedness ensures that passengers can easily navigate the city, whether they are visiting the bustling shopping districts, heading to cultural landmarks like Manchester Art Gallery, or Northern Quarter.

The trams do get busy at peak times so you may want to avoid travelling then. They’re normally quieter at mid-morning, afternoon, and late evening (unless there is an event on within the city). 

Things To Do in Manchester in A Day: Roundup

So there you have it, my curated one-day itinerary to experience the best of Manchester. If you want to explore Manchester in a day, then add these to your plan of actions. 

From delving into beautiful architecture to getting a taste of the football culture, there’s something for everyone in this city. 

Whether you’re a history buff, a football fanatic, a shopaholic or a foodie, Manchester promises a day filled with unforgettable experiences. Don’t forget your camera, and be ready to fall in love with everything this city has to offer. Manchester, I assure you, won’t disappoint.