How to get around Manchester

Thanks to its relatively compact size, getting around Manchester is fuss-free and there are plenty of ways to explore the sights. Even better, some transfers in Manchester are free of charge.

There are numerous ways to reach the city centre if you’re flying into Manchester Airport (MAN). Manchester transfers are made easy by the frequent trains that take about 20 minutes to get you from Manchester Airport to Manchester Piccadilly train station.

Another quick and easy way to access Manchester city centre from the airport is by coach. A number of coach services operate from the airport including National Express, which offers good-value connections from the airport to both the city centre and the Greater Manchester area.

The airport also has taxis, Metrolink trams and local and regional buses that link it to Manchester city centre, the Trafford Centre, places in Greater Manchester, and the surrounding area. And whichever way you decide to travel, tickets can be bought at ‘The Station’, an integrated transport hub at the airport.

The Metroshuttle is a free bus service linking Manchester’s main railway stations and car parks to key areas across the city via three circular routes. All services travel on a loop from Piccadilly Station via locations such as China Town, Manchester Central, Deansgate, Spinningfields, and the Northern Quarter.

If you’re heading out to see a match at Old Trafford, or just to tour the stadium, the easiest – and most interesting – way to get there from Manchester is by hopping on a Metrolink tram from either St Peter’s Square or Piccadilly Gardens towards Altrincham.

Another budget-friendly option, once you’ve dropped off your bags at your hotel, is to walk. There’s no better way to get to know the city than on foot and there are themed walks available for free on the Manchester Walking Tour app.

Getting around Manchester’s historic canal-district-turned-hip-hangout, better known as Castlefield, is a doddle by bike, and there are plenty of options to get you on your way. Brompton Bike Hire at Piccadilly Train Station lets you hire a foldable bike from just £5 per day, plus a £1 annual fee. Simply create an account online, book a bike in advance and then pick up the bike directly from the dock.

Alternatively, to get a deeper insight into the area and Manchester’s industrial heritage, hop on a canal cruise with City Centre Cruises.