Manchester’s old town is packed with attractions and can be explored quickly on foot, making it a great choice for newcomers. Staying in the city center is ideal, especially for those focusing on sightseeing. Manchester, like many European cities, is divided into various neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Below are some of the best areas to stay in based on your travel style.
Getting around Manchester is easy and affordable thanks to its tram system, which can take you almost anywhere in the city with minimal hassle. If your stay is particularly short, you might want to look into Day Use hotels on daybreakhotels.com. These hotels allow you to book a room for just a few hours, perfect for business travelers or those constantly on the move who need a brief rest without staying overnight.
Let’s explore the best zones to stay in Manchester:
City Centre: Manchester’s city center is compact, allowing you to tour the old town in about half an hour. Staying here is the best option if you want to see the main sights like Manchester Cathedral, the public library, and various museums. For those who prefer not to walk, the Metroshuttle bus service is a convenient way to get around the downtown area and visit other neighborhoods. The main train station in the city center also offers excellent connections to other cities like Edinburgh, London, Liverpool, York, and Chester, making it easy to explore beyond Manchester.
Northern Quarter: Located in the northern part of the city center, the Northern Quarter is a pedestrian-friendly area with more affordable accommodation options. It’s ideal if you want to save on hotel costs and also be close to Manchester Piccadilly station for easy excursions. This neighborhood is also perfect for groups of friends looking to enjoy Manchester’s vibrant nightlife in addition to sightseeing.
Salford: Near the city center and accessible by bridges across the river, Salford is technically a separate city but is closely connected to Manchester. Staying here puts you close to the historical center and offers a range of attractions like the town of Worsley, the Bridgewater Canal, Tudor house, and the Working Class Movement Library. Salford also has more than 60 parks, plenty of shops, cafes, and nightlife options. Known for its cuisine, it’s a great choice if you want a taste of local food.
Old Trafford: For football fans or those attending a Manchester United game, staying in Old Trafford is the best option. The stadium is located in this neighborhood, which is about half an hour from the city center by public transport. Although a bit farther out, accommodation here is more affordable. In addition to the stadium, you can visit the IWM North war museum and shop at the Lowry Outlet. The neighborhood has a variety of shops and restaurants and is relatively quiet when no games are scheduled.
Didsbury: If you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed place to stay, Didsbury is perfect. Though it feels like a small town, it’s only about 20 minutes from the city center by public transport. Didsbury is a wealthy area, ideal for a less touristy and more peaceful stay. It boasts beautiful green spaces like Didsbury Park and the Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden. The neighborhood also features a variety of cafes, bars, restaurants, and independent shops, making it an excellent place for those who enjoy this style of shopping.
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