Begin with Bolton's thriving city centre. There are plenty of restaurants to enjoy as well as many high street shops for some retail therapy. 

There is a historical air to the city and the heritage is exhibited in the local museums, such as Bolton Steam Museum and Bolton Museum, Aquarium and Archive. You can even trace your family history at the History Centre.

For sports fans, the Reebok Stadium is home to Bolton Wanderers Football Club. Tickets can be bought online or from the stadium if you fancy a day on the terraces.

Fun for all the family, Bolton has a cinema and bowling lanes, and you can also make your way to Go Ape to experience a tree top adventure. Not far from the city centre is the traditional Victorian park, Queens Park. With picturesque lakes, ornamental gardens and open spaces, the park is a great day out in the summer.

For those looking for entertainment, Bolton has a great nightlife, with fantastic bars and clubs. Try your luck at the city's casino or bingo, or if you're looking for a more cultured evening, head to the Victoria Hall to see performances by choirs, bands and orchestras.

Collect your hire car from a convenient downtown location around Bolton. To find the best deal on car rental in Bolton, use our search tool and book in advance.

Just a 20-minute drive away, Manchester city centre is easily accessible from Bolton. Shoppers will enjoy the high street, which has an eclectic selection of shops, and the Trafford Centre which is a great day out with restaurants and entertainment and, of course, shops. 

Take a walk down the famous cobbles of Coronation Street on 'Coronation Street: The Tour', visit the Manchester Museum or take a stadium tour at the Etihad Stadium or Old Trafford - home to Manchester's Premiership football rivals. 

The Capital of Culture 2008, Liverpool is just a 45-minute drive from Bolton and has a whole host of activities and attractions to entertain you.

Take a Beatles Tour, visit the museums and galleries, spend a day shopping, and wine and dine yourself in the bars and restaurants. Liverpool is also near to the coast and boasts some beautiful beaches for you to enjoy. 

If you fancy a break from the city buzz, then head to the countryside and explore the beauty of the West Pennine Moors.

Wherever you find yourself venturing to, Bolton is a great place to base yourself and see the delights of the north west.