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Destination:

Manchester

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4:53 AM

Manchester

Known as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, Manchester is one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the UK, with a unique character all of its own. Manchester welcomes visitors with its fine traditions of culture, music, sport and top class events. The city's vitality is expressed through its fascinating history, interactive attractions, magnificent architecture and most of all, the spirit of its people, ensuring that there’s always something to do in the Greater Manchester region.

Find your trip

Manchester United players
Manchester United Museum & Tour Centre
Sir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester

The Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour offers a behind the scenes look at the world's most iconic stadium: the Old Trafford. Come and sit in the managers' seat in the dugout, walk through the players' tunnel towards the hallowed turf, and find the seat of your favourite player in the dressing room. Get a feel for life in the Premier League and immerse yourself in an unrivalled story, the greatest football story ever told. Manchester United welcomes groups of all sizes, from all over the world every day to the home of Manchester United, from individuals and families to international group tours, providing the same world-class experience to all.

Manchester City Club and Stadium Tour
Manchester City Football Club
Etihad Stadium, Rowsley Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester

Go behind the scenes at the world's fastest-growing football club. On the Stadium and Club Tour, a professional guide will navigate an unforgettable and all-encompassing tour of the club and Etihad Stadium, which captures the very essence of Manchester City. The tour will showcase the pride, passion, and heritage of the football Club. It shows how everything that happens on and off the pitch contributes to making Manchester City the club it is today. Visitors can see how it feels to be grilled by the media in the press conference room hot seat, visit the inner sanctum of the City dressing room, and walk down the tunnel imagining the roar of 55,000 supporters cheering on their heroes. Finally, take in the view from new manager Pep Guardiola's seat in the dug-out - there's the opportunity to experience everything. Outside of the football season, the stadium hosts major national and international football events as well as summer concerts. Stadium tours are available, and the club has an excellent museum packed full of football memorabilia.

busy Manchester Arndale mall
Manchester Arndale
Market Street, Manchester

When it comes to shopping, it has to be Manchester Arndale. Find a huge selection of exciting shops from the leading high street names such as Apple, Next, River Island, Topshop and Wallis to lots of smaller, stylish specialists and food outlets - and all under one roof. Manchester Arndale is the Manchester city centre shopping centre. Located close to bus, tram and train networks it's easy to get to and, more importantly, easy to get home from when you've got mountains of shopping to carry home.

The Northern Quarter Restaurant and Bar, Manchester
Northern Quarter

If you are looking for the very latest street fashion, you should head for Oldham Street, the main street in Northern Quarter. It houses shops like Arc Gallery Store, where many young designers and artists exhibit their wares. Northern Quarter also has many small record shops and interior design shops for people who have an eye for trends. Artisans work at the Manchester Craft Centre in Oak Street. Affleck’s Palace, on Church Street, is also worth a visit if you are interested in design. Many of the leading young names in Manchester are brought together in this four-storey building.

Manchester Airport (MAN)

With three terminals handling over 23 million passengers each year, Manchester Airport is the UK’s Global Gateway for the North. Sixty-five airlines ensure Manchester Airport is directly connected to over 200 destinations, and no more than one-stop away from anywhere in the world. The airport has a combined railway and bus station, with departures to Manchester and the rest of the country. The train to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 20 minutes. Airport buses to Manchester depart every half hour. Taxis and car hire companies are also available at the airport. Direct trams link the airport to the city centre and Victoria station — your gateway to national rail services — every 12-15 minutes. Remember to purchase tickets from the machines on all platforms prior to boarding or tap in using your contactless card or device, making sure to tap out when you finish your journey. For weekend trips, multiple destinations, or family travel, consider a Travelcard for great value.

Passport & Visa

Starting from January 8, 2025, the United Kingdom has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for visa-exempt travellers. Initially, this applies to citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and others. From April 2, 2025, this requirement will extend to European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) citizens, including those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The ETA permits short-term visits of up to six months for tourism. Travellers must apply for the ETA online or via a mobile app before their trip. The process involves providing personal details, passport information, and answering a series of questions. The ETA costs £10 and is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Most applications are processed within three working days, but it's advisable to apply well in advance of travel. However, travellers planning to work or study in the UK for more than six months will need to obtain the appropriate visa. It is essential to consult the UK Government's official website to understand the specific requirements and ensure a smooth journey. Please note that the ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. Border officials retain the authority to grant or deny admission upon arrival.

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