Manchester: Where to stay in the city of music, football and culture

Manchester is a city brimming with vitality, history, and incredible experiences to suit all tastes. Whether you're a football fan eager to see the legendary Old Trafford up close, or you enjoy museums, galleries, and the music scene, Manchester has plenty to offer. From its rich industrial heritage to its modern architecture, this city is waiting for you to discover it.

It's also the perfect place to unwind with a cup of coffee in the Northern Quarter, one of the city's most alternative areas, or to explore the local markets, restaurants and pubs that fill the city's lively atmosphere. What's more, if you're a nature lover, Manchester is close to the stunning Peak District, ideal for countryside excursions.

If you have more time on your trip, you can combine your visit to Manchester with a short getaway to London, which is just two hours away by train. See here how to find the best flight tickets to London and make your trip even more memorable!

The best areas to stay in Manchester

1. Manchester City Centre

If you want to be at the heart of the action, then Manchester city centre is the ideal choice. Most of the attractions, such as the Manchester Art Gallery and the John Rylands Library, are located here, while shopping streets and restaurants are all within walking distance. It's also perfect for walks, shopping, and enjoying the city's nightlife.

Advantages:

• Close to all major attractions
• Wide choice of restaurants, cafes and bars
• Easy access to public transport

Disadvantages:

• Can be noisy due to traffic and nightlife
• Hotel prices tend to be higher

Suggested hotels:

The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
A luxurious hotel with impressive architecture and modern amenities. It is located near St. Peter's Square and features a spa, indoor pool, and gym. Ideal for those seeking a premium experience.

• Average cost: 220€ per night

Motel One Manchester-Piccadilly
An affordable option with modern design and comfortable rooms. Located next to Piccadilly station, making it very convenient for travel within and outside the city.

• Average cost: 90€ per night

King Street Townhouse
A small boutique hotel with a beautiful rooftop terrace and stunning city views. Ideal for couples and travellers seeking elegance and unique character.

• Average cost: 180€ per night

The Midland
A classic luxury hotel of historical significance. It combines elegant design with excellent amenities, including a spa and gym. Located close to all the city's major attractions.

• Average cost: 200€ per night

Hotel Gotham
An impressive hotel with a distinctive aesthetic inspired by the 1920s and 1930s. It offers excellent service and is suitable for those who love uniqueness and luxury.

• Average cost: 250€ per night

2. Northern Quarter

The Northern Quarter is Manchester's art and music district. If you love small cafes, independent shops, and street art murals, then you'll find the atmosphere that suits you here. It's also known for its vibrant nightlife, with bars and restaurants that attract a younger crowd.

Advantages:

• Lively, alternative atmosphere
• Many dining and entertainment options
• Ideal for those who love art and culture

Disadvantages:

• Can be noisy in the evenings, especially on weekends
• Some areas may be less well-maintained

Suggested hotels:

Abel Heywood Boutique Hotel
This small boutique hotel is located in the heart of the Northern Quarter and offers stylish rooms with modern design and personalised service.

• Average cost: 120€ per night

Holiday Inn Manchester – City Centre
An affordable option with all the amenities of a large hotel. It is located near the city centre and offers excellent value for money for those seeking comfort without spending a lot.

• Average cost: 100€ per night

The Cow Hollow Hotel
A distinctive boutique hotel with innovative design and an atmosphere that perfectly matches the alternative vibe of the Northern Quarter.

• Average cost: 150€ per night

Malmaison Manchester
An elegant hotel in a strategic location near the Northern Quarter, ideal for those who want to enjoy the nightlife while having comfort and style.

• Average cost: 170€ per night

Britannia Hotel Manchester
An economical option for those seeking basic amenities without spending too much. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at very good prices.

• Average cost: 80€ per night

3. Castlefield

Castlefield is one of Manchester's most historic and charming areas, known for its canals, beautiful walkways, and relaxed atmosphere. If you're looking for a quiet area to stay, with beautiful scenery and yet close to the city centre, Castlefield is the ideal choice. It's also one of the best areas for canal-side strolls and exploring Manchester's Roman roots.

Advantages:

• Quiet and picturesque area
• Beautiful scenery with canals and green spaces
• Close to historical attractions such as Roman ruins

Disadvantages:

• Fewer options for restaurants and shops
• May require a short walk to reach the city centre

Suggested hotels:

Hilton Manchester Deansgate
The Hilton Manchester Deansgate is a luxury hotel located in one of the city's tallest skyscrapers, offering stunning views of Manchester. The hotel features a gym, spa, and indoor pool.

• Average cost: 200€ per night

Great John Street Hotel
A luxurious boutique hotel housed in a former school, offering comfortable and elegant rooms. It's ideal for those seeking a relaxed stay with a sense of history.

• Average cost: 180€ per night

INNSiDE by Meliá Manchester
A modern and stylish hotel with excellent amenities, including a gym, spa, and restaurant. It is ideal for business travellers and leisure visitors alike.

• Average cost: 150€ per night

YHA Manchester
An ideal budget-friendly option for those travelling on a limited budget. YHA is a welcoming hostel with communal areas and simple yet comfortable rooms.

• Average cost: 60€ per night

The Oxnoble
An affordable and welcoming option, ideal for those who want to stay in a quiet area with quick access to the city centre. The hotel has a traditional pub on the ground floor.

• Average cost: 80€ per night

4. Spinningfields

If you like modern buildings, luxury boutiques and gourmet restaurants, then Spinningfields is the right area for you. This neighbourhood is considered Manchester's business and financial heart, but at the same time, it's full of life, with excellent bars and restaurants. If you want to combine comfort with entertainment, this area will not disappoint you.

Advantages:

• Modern and luxurious area
• Many elegant restaurants and bars
• Close to shopping centres and boutiques

Disadvantages:

• Accommodation prices tend to be high
• More geared towards business travellers than tourists

Suggested hotels:

The Lowry Hotel
One of Manchester's most luxurious hotels, The Lowry is famous for its refined atmosphere and excellent location. It features a spa, gym, and high-quality restaurant.

• Average cost: 250€ per night

Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel
Located on the banks of the River Irwell, it offers luxurious accommodation with easy access to the area's shops and restaurants. Ideal for couples and business travellers.

• Average cost: 180€ per night

The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
An outstanding luxury hotel with excellent amenities and a prime location in Spinningfields, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy the city in style.

• Average cost: 220€ per night

Motel One Manchester-Royal Exchange
An affordable yet comfortable option, ideal for those who want to stay in a central location without spending a lot. The rooms are modern and comfortable.

• Average cost: 100€ per night

INNSiDE by Meliá Manchester
A modern and stylish hotel with excellent amenities and elegant design. It is close to Spinningfields' best restaurants and bars.

• Average cost: 150€ per night

5. Didsbury

If you're looking for a quieter and greener area for your stay, Didsbury is an excellent choice. It's a little further out from the city centre, but offers beautiful parks, picturesque streets, and a more relaxed atmosphere. It's ideal for families or those who want to enjoy a more serene side of Manchester.

Advantages:

• Quiet and green area
• Close to beautiful parks, ideal for walks
• Family and couple friendly

Disadvantages:

• Approximately 20 minutes from the city centre
• Fewer nightlife options

Suggested hotels:

Eleven Didsbury Park Hotel
A small boutique hotel offering peace and relaxation in an elegant setting. Ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

• Average cost: 160€ per night

Didsbury House Hotel
Another luxurious boutique hotel with impeccable service and a relaxing atmosphere. It offers beautifully decorated rooms and is close to Didsbury Park.

• Average cost: 180€ per night

The Waterside Hotel and Leisure Club
This hotel offers comfortable accommodation with a gym, pool, and spa. It's located near the River Mersey and is ideal for those who love outdoor activities.

• Average cost: 120€ per night

The Ashcroft Hotel
A more affordable option for accommodation in Didsbury, the Ashcroft offers comfortable rooms and friendly service. Ideal for families and couples.

• Average cost: 80€ per night

Britannia Country House Hotel & Spa
A larger hotel with a spa and gym, offering excellent value for money. It's located near parks and rivers, ideal for relaxing walks.

• Average cost: 90€ per night

How to get to Manchester

Manchester is one of the most easily accessible destinations in Britain, with many direct flights from Greece and other European cities and of course from all London airports. Manchester Airport is one of the UK's largest airports and is approximately 20 kilometres from the city centre. From the airport, you can easily reach the heart of Manchester by train, bus, or taxi.

Flights from Athens and Thessaloniki

There are direct flights to Manchester from both Athens and Thessaloniki, with the flight lasting approximately 3-3.5 hours. The main airlines offering these flights are Aegean Airlines and easyJet, with frequent services throughout the year.

If you want to find the best prices for flight tickets, you can check and book your flights on travelo.gr, ensuring the most economical offers for your trip to Manchester.

Getting from the airport to Manchester city centre

Manchester Airport is well-connected to the city centre via various transport options:

• Train: The train is one of the fastest options, as the airport has its own railway station. Trains depart every 10-15 minutes and the journey to the city centre takes about 20 minutes.
• Bus: There are also many bus routes connecting the airport to the city centre and surrounding areas. The journey duration is approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Taxi: If you prefer comfort and privacy, you can take a taxi or use apps like Uber. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes and costs around 25-30£.

Don't forget that Manchester is also well-connected to other major UK cities, such as London, Liverpool, and Birmingham, via high-speed trains and long-distance buses. If you plan to travel to other cities, you can easily do so by train from the main station, Manchester Piccadilly.

Manchester is a city that has it all: vibrant nightlife, fascinating history, stunning architecture, and plenty of activities for everyone. Whether you're travelling for sport, culture, or simply to enjoy a different experience, you'll find exactly what you're looking for.

The areas we suggested offer a wide variety of accommodations – from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options – and cater to all tastes and budgets. Manchester is easily accessible and, with this guide, you'll have all the information you need to make the best choice for your stay.

Don't forget to book your flight tickets and your hotel early to secure the best prices, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Manchester!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is the best for accommodation at the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you're looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic city centre. For a quieter stay at a good price, prefer neighbourhoods slightly outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodation with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first introduction to the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy the gastronomy, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base-and-day-trips holiday, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without tourist throngs.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, real guest reviews, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a tourist-friendly destination. As with any trip, caution is advised for personal belongings in crowded areas and on public transport, and use reliable means of transportation. Highly-rated accommodations are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.