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Manchester: Travel Guide

Discover Manchester: A vibrant fusion of culture, history and innovation.

Summary

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General information

Manchester, an iconic city in the North West of England, fascinates visitors with its rich industrial history and varied cultural influences. Between its historical heritage and its thriving art scene, Manchester offers a unique experience around every corner.

POPULATION

Manchester's diverse and vibrant population reflects its history as an industrial center. With a mosaic of cultures and communities, the city is open and welcoming to all.

CLIMATE

Manchester's climate is typically temperate, with mild summers and cool winters. Showers are frequent throughout the year, which gives the city its characteristic atmosphere.

CURRENCY

The official currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP).

LANGUAGE

English is the primary language spoken in Manchester, but due to its cultural diversity you may also hear a variety of other languages.

A bit of history

Manchester's history is deeply rooted in the events that have shaped the UK and the world over the centuries. From the Industrial Revolution to the emergence of a thriving cultural scene, here's a more detailed look at Manchester's fascinating history:

Medieval times and industrialization : Originally Manchester was a small medieval town, centered around its church and market. However, it was in the 18th century that the city underwent a drastic transformation with the onset of the Industrial Revolution. Rich coal deposits and proximity to the sea led to the emergence of the textile industry, making Manchester a major center for cotton production. Factories and spinning mills quickly proliferated, attracting a large workforce and contributing to the city's rapid growth

Innovations and labor movement : Manchester has become a hotbed of industrial innovation, with inventors and entrepreneurs developing new machinery and production methods. However, this period was also marked by difficult working conditions and economic inequalities, which contributed to the emergence of the labor movement. Iconic figures such as Friedrich Engels documented the living conditions of workers in their writings, which helped raise awareness of social issues and promote workers' rights.

Trade and growth : In the 19th century, Manchester became a major trading center thanks to its role as a hub for the textile industry. The Manchester Canal, completed in 1761, improved the connection with other parts of the country, allowing the transport of goods and the growth of trade. The city was also a pioneer in the development of the railway, further strengthening its economic position.

Music, culture and sport : Music has always been at the heart of Manchester's identity. In the 1960s and 1970s, the city saw the emergence of groups such as The Smiths, Joy Division and New Order, which marked the alternative music scene. But it was in the 1980s and 1990s that the city rose to global fame with the rise of the 'Madchester' scene and bands like The Stone Roses and Oasis.

Urban renewal and diversification : At the end of the 20th century, Manchester undertook a major program of urban renewal to revitalize former industrial areas. New cultural spaces, such as the Northern Quarter, have sprung up, attracting artists, entrepreneurs and creatives. The city has also established itself as an educational and technological center, with the presence of several universities and innovative companies.

Today, Manchester is a vibrant metropolis that combines its industrial heritage with a vibrant arts and culture scene. Its fascinating history continues to be reflected in its streets, museums and events, offering visitors a unique insight into its past and its constant transformation.

Manchester

What to visit in Manchester?

Explore the treasures of Manchester as you discover its heritage, modern attractions and vibrant nightlife.

Manchester Museum

John Rylands Library

Northern Quarter

Old Trafford

When to visit Manchester?

The best time to visit Manchester is from May to September. During these months, the weather is generally more pleasant, and you can enjoy festivals, outdoor events and tourist attractions.

What to do around Manchester?

Explore the surroundings of Manchester for enriching getaways and natural discoveries.

Lake District

Quarry Bank Mill

Chester

Tatton Park Gardens

Our selection of accommodation in Manchester

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Our selection of Restaurant in Manchester

Discover a variety of flavors through our selection of restaurants in Manchester.

dishoom

Hawksmoor Manchester

The Ivy Spinningfields

Chinatown Teppanyaki

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The events not to be missed in Manchester

Immerse yourself in the cultural life of Manchester by attending these unique events.

The Edinburgh International Festival

Manchester International Jazz Festival

An annual music gathering featuring world-renowned artists.

The Hogmanay

Manchester International Festival

A major arts event showcasing various art forms across the city.

Transport in Manchester

Bus and Tramway (Metrolink)

Buses and the Metrolink are operated by TfGM. You can buy individual tickets, day tickets or discounted transport cards. Buses run regularly, with frequent schedules during peak hours.

Train

The trains are operated by different railway companies. Tickets are available for single journeys or monthly/annual subscriptions. Manchester has excellent rail links, allowing quick travel to other cities in the UK.

Metro (Metrolink)

The Metrolink is ideal for traveling throughout the city. Hours are regular, and tickets can be purchased at vending machines or online.

Taxi

Taxis are generally available in busy areas of the city. Uber and other ride-sharing services are also accessible through mobile apps.

Bike

Manchester has cycle lanes and dedicated paths for cyclists. You can rent bicycles in several places in the city. Be sure to follow road safety rules by using a helmet and respecting the rules of the road.

The cost of living in Manchester

0
Average Salary in Manchester
High cost of living 65%

Be prepared to plan your budget to make the most of your time in Glasgow.

Accommodation

Housing costs in Manchester vary depending on location and type of accommodation, but in general rates are relatively affordable compared to some other major cities in the UK.

Food

You'll find a range of dining options to suit different budgets, from food markets to upscale restaurants.

Transportation

Public transport is affordable in Manchester, with daily or weekly tickets available to make getting around easier.

Activities

Entertainment costs in Manchester vary, but with a rich cultural scene there is something for every budget.

Things not to miss in Manchester

Practical information

Manchester is generally considered a safe city for travellers. However, caution is still recommended, especially in high traffic areas. Medical and emergency services are easily accessible.

UK travel insurance

Travel insurance is particularly important if you plan to travel to the UK.

Although the country is relatively safe for tourists, it is always possible to encounter unforeseen situations such as health problems, lost or stolen luggage, or transport delays.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

Cash Management

When traveling to the UK, it is important to consider bank charges in order to manage your financial transactions efficiently. The easiest way and the one we recommend is to open an account Revolution Metal.

Here are the advantages of having a Revolut Metal account for your trips

  1. Currency conversion free of charge Revolut enables instant and transparent currency conversions without hidden fees. You can load your Revolut account with your local currency and convert money to Colombian pesos (COP) at the real exchange rate, thus avoiding the costly commissions charged by traditional currency exchange offices.

  2. Use without borders With Revolut, your account is usable worldwide. You can make online and in-store payments, withdraw cash from ATMs, and even use your Revolut card to pay for public transportation and taxis in Colombia. This saves you from carrying large amounts of cash and facilitates your daily transactions.

  3. Security and Control Revolut offers advanced security options to protect your account. You can easily enable and disable your card in real-time through the app if needed. Additionally, the Revolut app allows you to track your expenses in real-time, set spending limits, and receive instant notifications for each transaction, giving you full control over your finances.

  4. Budget and savings Revolut offers budgeting features that help you track your expenses during your trip. You can create budgets for different spending categories such as accommodation, food, and tourist activities. Additionally, you can round up your purchases to save money automatically in a separate savings account.

  5. 24/7 Support In case of any issues, Revolut's support team is available 24/7 to assist you. You can contact them through the app or the website for any questions or concerns related to your account or transactions.

In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications. 

Frequently asked questions

Yes, Manchester is a city with a unique beauty. Its combination of historic buildings, industrial architecture, new modern developments and busy streets make it an aesthetically appealing and captivating place.

To visit Manchester, you can plan your stay by booking comfortable accommodation. Then explore the city using public transport, such as buses, trams, and trains, as well as on foot or by bike to discover neighborhoods and attractions.

Wander the Northern Quarter for its creative atmosphere, visit the city center for its lively shops and restaurants, and explore the banks of the Manchester Canal for a quieter vibe.

Manchester's core business is diverse, ranging from its rich industrial past to its vibrant cultural scene. Music, football, arts and technological innovation are among the main activities that animate the city.

You can get around Manchester using public transport such as buses and the Metrolink (tram). Taxis, bike sharing, and walking are also good options for exploring the city.

The Northern Quarter is a must-see, with its bustling streets, art galleries and trendy cafes. The city center also offers many attractions, shops and restaurants.

You can fly to Manchester from France, with direct flights from several French airports to Manchester Airport. The airlines offer regular connections between the two countries.

The best time to visit Manchester is from May to September when the weather is nicer and lots of outdoor events take place.

The "best" of Manchester depends on your interests. If you are passionate about football, Old Trafford stadium is an iconic place. For culture, explore museums and artistic districts. For nightlife, the Northern Quarter and the city center are lively.

Manchester is a vibrant and eclectic city, blending its industrial heritage with a contemporary vibe. You will find a rich cultural scene, a variety of neighborhoods, fascinating architecture and a warm and diverse population.

 

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