Sian Victoria © - Corn Exchange, Manchester

Manchester sightseeing, landmarks & tourist attractions

Manchester's industrial past has evolved throughout the years to become recognised as one of the most vibrant, buzzing cities in the country. As a city that truly has character, Manchester is steeped in rich history, yet remains trendy with new entertainment and leisure spots popping up all over the city.

Whether you're one for historical sights and architectural attractions or prefer exploring the restaurants and bars in the city, Manchester is a city that has it all. So, I've created a Manchester city guide of some of the best things to do in Manchester, featuring its famous sights and hidden gems. And, even better, everything on the list is completely free, meaning you can explore the city and make the most out of your visit without having to spend a thing.

Although of course I do recommend leaving a donation on your way out to show support to these great venues that must be kept going. So, here’s a few suggestions on how to spend a day in Manchester, inspired from my most recent visit to the city. There’s also guided walking tours in Manchester if you fancy exploring with a local to discover hidden gems.

1. Walk with dinosaurs at The Manchester Museum

Sian Victoria © - Portland Street, Britannia hotel, Manchester

Sian Victoria © - 53 King Street, Edwardian Baroque, Grade II listed building, Manchester

If you're visiting Manchester especially with children, I'd recommend heading to The Manchester Museum in the heart of the city. The Museum has attractions perfect for all ages, with dinosaurs soaring above those below, botanical attractions, and you'll even be transformed into outer space.

Plus, interesting historical facts throughout the museum will help fuel your knowledge.

Around every corner in this museum, there's something to take your fancy. This would be perfect if you visit the city on a day when it's raining, as you can still be entertained by the amazing sights the museum has on offer.

2. Enjoy fine art at Manchester Art Gallery

Sian Victoria © - Manchester Art Gallery

With free admissions, this art gallery is conveniently located in the city centre and will immediately catch your eye with its beautiful exterior showcasing some of the best architectural designs that have been seen throughout history.

Perfect for any art-lovers taking a trip into central Manchester, the gallery is home to over 25,000 pieces of art. Explore the gallery and see infamous collections, created by some of the greats of the art world throughout the past and present. And visit the exhibitions the gallery puts together to see the creativity of those local to the area.

The Art Gallery is worth a visit – even if you don't have a passion for art, you will undoubtedly enjoy perusing the gallery and seeing the amazing pieces the establishment has to offer.

3. Discover rare books at Manchester Central Library

Sian Victoria © - Manchester Central Library

If you're a book lover, you should head to the Manchester Central Library. Established just under 100 years ago, this library is another example of Manchester's amazing architectural history.

Its two-story oval design makes it totally unique and worthy of a picture. As the second-largest library in Britain, you can explore over 100,000 books with an immense variety of collections.

Even if you aren't big on reading, it's worth a visit just to see the design of the library itself. No matter your age, you're sure to enjoy a visit to the library, whether it's for its extensive collection of books or beautiful décor.

4. Stroll along Manchester's scenic canal paths

Sian Victoria © - Beetham Tower, Rochdale Canal, Manchester

Sian Victoria © - Rochdale Canal, Manchester

While the city centre shouldn't be missed when visiting Manchester, it can be overwhelming. When needing a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, you can walk along any of Manchester's scenic canal paths, perfect for a warm sunny day or mild evening.

As the city is near the Pennines, there's certainly no shortage of canals, meaning you can have as long or as short of a stroll as you like. If wanting to stay close to the city centre, visit The Wharf canal. Perfect for just a short walk, you can see the sights of the city by the waterfront, such as the beautiful Gothic-style Town Hall.

However, the most famous canal within the city is the Bridgewater Canal. Being a perfect spot for a stroll since the 18th century, this canal runs across the country and is rich with history.

There's no shortage of scenic walks in the city, so if you want to see some of Manchester's sights without the fast paced living, you should take a stroll along one of the many waterways.

5. See architectural beauty at Manchester Cathedral

Manchester Cathedral is a perfect example of the gothic architectural style, with pointed arches, stained glass windows and intricate furnishings and décor. Located in the Medieval Quarter, where some of the most stunning, historical buildings in the city can be found. The Manchester Cathedral should be on your sightseeing list.

Visit for free and take in the incredible sights within the building. Its furnishings are reflective of the cathedral's medieval heritage, with a vaulted ceiling, beautiful arches and ornate carvings that are truly beautiful. Pop into the cathedral when visiting the city and marvel at its design.

6. Experience culture in Chinatown

Sian Victoria © - Arch of Chinatown, Manchester

In the heart of the city centre lies Chinatown, home to Asian cuisine in authentic restaurants and places to shop. It's the second-largest Chinese Quarter in the UK, meaning there's no shortage of sights to see, visit and places to eat.

Take a walk through the district and be amazed at the sights. See the picture-worthy paifang archway, complete with vibrant colour and ornate, traditional decorations, and other architectural odes to China throughout the neighbourhood.

Manchester's Chinatown would also make a fun visit on Chinese New Year, with a festival featuring street food and market stalls, live performances, and the iconic dancing dragon, with red lanterns adorning every street.

When looking where to dine on an evening in the city, I'd suggest walking into Manchester's Chinatown and trying out some of the delicious dishes they have on offer.

7. Peruse Albert Square in the heart of the city

Sian Victoria © - Mitre Hotel, Corn Exchange, facing Manchester Cathedral

Sian Victoria © - St Anns Church & Richard Cobden Statue, Manchester

Albert Square is home to a multitude of sights and landmarks in Manchester yet is perhaps most recognisable for the Town Hall. Noticeable for its beautiful Gothic architectural style that couldn't be more striking, it's one of the most iconic attractions in the city.

Peer at the variety of historical statues and monuments in the square, such as the Albert Memorial – immediately capturing your attention with its Gothic arch structure, Prince Albert is commemorated in marble and is worth seeing.

There's no shortage of things to see in Albert Square, and it's located conveniently near the Old Trafford Stadium and an extensive range of restaurants.

8. Take in the beauty of the Corn Exchange

Sian Victoria © - Manchester Town Hall Clock Tower

The perfect spot for foodies, Manchester's Corn Exchange was built in the mid 19th century and is a beautiful example of Edwardian architecture.

Today, it's a popular leisure complex with a vibrant mix of restaurants and entertainment. If you are a foodie than there’s plenty of fun Manchester food tours so that you can eat your way around the city with other tourists and a local who knows all the best independent places to go.

You can take in the wondrous beauty of the Corn Exchange without having to spend a penny, with gorgeous terrazzo flooring, Victorian tiling, and spiralling staircases to name just a few of the ornate furnishings in the building.

To conclude

Well, there we go. A selection of just a few of the best tours & things to do in Manchester that this vibrant city has on offer. If you visit Manchester, let me know what you get up to and if you try out any of the things I've suggested to do – I'd love to hear about it.

If you’re planning a city break than you may be interested in my Hotel Brooklyn Manchester review. It’s a new four-star NYC themed hotel within walking distance of all these landmarks and tourist attractions. I booked a two-night stay at Hotel Brooklyn with breakfast, and it was the perfect location for exploring. And if all that sightseeing gets you hungry, you may want to check out my vegan food in Manchester post to discover some tasty hidden gems.

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