Manchester is a city that rewards curiosity. It’s not just about the football or the music, but the layers of history, culture, and local flavor hidden behind its lively streets. Whether you’re in town for a short visit or a longer stay, taking a guided tour can unlock a deeper understanding of this industrial powerhouse. We love the Manchester Afternoon Walking Tour for its quick, entertaining overview—covering everything from Piccadilly Gardens to the Alan Turing Memorial—making it perfect if time is tight. Or, if you’re a music and sports fan, the Rock and Goal Manchester Walking Tour offers fascinating stories about Manchester’s musical legends and football origins.
Manchester’s diverse tour options include historic walks, food and drink explorations, themed treasure hunts, and even adrenaline-pumping indoor skydiving. Whatever your interests—history, food, sports, or just fun—you’ll find a tour that suits your style. Below, we’ve compiled the 15 best tours in Manchester, with detailed descriptions to help you pick your perfect match.
1. Manchester Afternoon Walking Tour
At number 1, this Manchester Afternoon Walking Tour is a top choice for a quick yet comprehensive city overview. For about $23, you’ll stroll through iconic sights like Piccadilly Gardens, Chinatown, the Vimto Sculpture, Alan Turing Memorial, and the Royal Exchange Theatre. The tour’s highlight is its small-group format, which offers a more personalized experience, and guided commentary that brings Manchester’s history to life. It’s perfect if you have limited time but want to see the essentials without the hassle of navigating on your own. Guests praise the lively guide and entertaining stories, with many saying it’s a “must-do” for first-time visitors. The itinerary is packed with stops that include Manchester Central Library, Sackville Gardens, and even the city’s first canals at the Ship Canal. This tour is a fantastic value, especially for those who prefer walking and storytelling over bus rides.
Bottom Line: An ideal introduction to Manchester with engaging stories and access to spots inaccessible by car, perfect for a quick exploration.
2. Rock and Goal Manchester Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Rock and Goal Manchester Walking Tour, which combines Manchester’s football and music scenes. For just around $20, this tour covers the city’s famous streets, including stops at the Free Trade Hall (where Bob Dylan caused a stir), Chinatown, and locations used in TV and film productions. The guide, Joe, is praised for his wealth of knowledge about Manchester’s musical legends and football history, making this tour both engaging and educational. It’s a lively walk with stops for photos, refreshments, and stories about legendary bands and the city’s role in the Premier League. Reviewers highlight the humorous commentary and fun atmosphere, often mentioning visits to iconic spots like the Old Nags Head pub.
Bottom Line: A lively tour perfect for music and football fans who want to learn about Manchester’s cultural contributions while walking historic streets.
3. Manchester Cheese Crawl: Guided Food Tour
Cheese lovers should not miss the Manchester Cheese Crawl. For about $69, you’re taken to local cheese shops and eateries, sampling Lancashire cheese made by a local celebrity. It’s an interactive tour that combines tasting with fun facts, games, and quizzes. The guide, Mark, is known for his engaging style and abundance of cheese knowledge. Highlights include sampling halloumi at Pupa and grilled cheese at Northern Soul, paired with fizzy drinks. Reviewers love the relaxed pace and the chance to try quality local cheeses—many say it’s a birthday or foodie highlight. This tour offers a unique chance to explore Manchester’s culinary scene through cheese, with the chance to buy cheese and wine to take home.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cheese aficionados who want a fun, tasting-focused experience with insider tips on Manchester’s cheese scene.
4. 3-Hour Guided Manchester Food Tour with Lunch
This Manchester Food Tour with Lunch is a flavorful way to explore the city’s diverse culinary landscape in about 3.5 hours. For $114, you’ll visit some of Manchester’s most renowned eateries, as well as secret spots. The guide, Julia, shares stories about Manchester’s history alongside tastings of local dishes, paired wines, and unique Manchester tipples. Stops include eclectic shops and lesser-known venues that showcase the city’s vibrant food scene. Guests emphasize Julia’s friendly, knowledgeable style and the chance to sample everything from traditional to trendy. It’s well-suited for travelers who want more than just a walk—they want a taste of Manchester’s soul through its food.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded culinary experience blending history and local eats, ideal for food lovers wanting an immersive taste of Manchester.
5. Half-Day Manchester Food Tour with Lunch
For about $117, the Half-Day Manchester Food Tour offers a full afternoon of sampling foods from across Manchester’s multicultural neighborhoods. Over 3.5–4 hours, you’ll visit Chinatown’s Cantonese bakery, explore hidden gems, and taste at local eateries that aren’t on every tourist’s radar. Your guide, Liv, helps with recommendations for after the tour, making it a practical choice for visitors looking to extend their culinary adventure. Guests rave about the variety and quality of food, as well as the friendly guide. The tour is best suited for those interested in experiencing Manchester’s diversity in cuisine and culture.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, tasty introduction to Manchester’s multicultural food scene, perfect for curious eaters.
6. Full-Day North Wales Sightseeing Adventure from Manchester
At number 6, this full-day North Wales tour takes you beyond the city for a scenic journey. For around $81, it visits Llandudno, Conwy Castle, Swallow Falls, and Betws-y-Coed. The guide’s expertise and the route’s hidden roads mean you experience Snowdonia’s natural beauty without the hassle of driving. Guests mention the guide Frank, who is known for his humor, and the chance to walk along Victorian pier, visit William Wordsworth’s former home, and explore the aqueduct. The tour balances scenery with history and local stories, making it a great pick for travelers who want a diverse day out.
Bottom Line: A scenic, well-organized day trip ideal for those keen on outdoor landscapes and historic sites without the stress of navigating alone.
7. Craft Beer Tour around Manchester
Number 7, the Craft Beer Tour, offers a lively 3.5-hour tasting experience in Manchester’s booming microbrew scene. For $62, you visit several local breweries and bars, sampling a wide range of styles, from IPAs to darker ales. Your guide, Isla, is praised for her friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the social atmosphere. Guests enjoy the variety and quality of beers, often mentioning the opportunity to learn about the brewing process and meet local brewers. This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts who want insider access and a relaxed, fun afternoon.
Bottom Line: A great choice for beer lovers wanting to explore Manchester’s vibrant craft scene with inclusive tastings and expert insight.
8. Fun, Flexible Treasure Hunt Around Manchester with Cryptic Clues & Hidden Gems
Number 8 offers a self-guided treasure hunt, perfect for a flexible, engaging way to see Manchester. For just $33, you download clues and follow a map via your smartphone, exploring at your own pace. It’s praised for its moderate difficulty, fun facts, and stories about landmarks, making it suitable for families or groups seeking independence. Reviewers highlight the challenge and the chance to learn about the city while walking. This experience is ideal if you prefer a DIY approach with the bonus of discovering unseen sights.
Bottom Line: An interactive, self-paced adventure perfect for families or groups wanting a customized city exploration.
9. Windermere & Lake District Tour from Manchester Including Cruise
For about $104, this Lake District day trip is a scenic escape. It includes a boat cruise on Windermere, visits to Grasmere, and a stop in Hawkshead. Guests love the small-group atmosphere and the scenic stops like Dove Cottage and Coniston Water. The guide, Richie, is praised for his humor and storytelling, making the long day enjoyable. The tour offers a well-paced mix of sightseeing, walking, and relaxing cruises, ideal for those who want stunning views and a taste of Wordsworth’s beloved landscapes.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, picturesque tour that combines history, literature, and outdoor beauty in the Lake District.
10. Snowdonia & Chester Day Tour from Manchester Including Admission
Number 10 features the Snowdonia & Chester tour, offering a full day in Wales. For $101, it visits Conwy Castle, Snowdonia’s peaks, and Chester’s Roman ruins. The guide, Clive, is known for his lively narration, and visitors appreciate the flexibility of choosing what to do at each stop. Highlights include the medieval fortress, scenic mountains, and the historic city streets. It suits travelers who want a diverse mix of cultural sites and natural beauty in one trip, with the added bonus of skipping the driving thanks to comfortable transport.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded day trip for history and scenery lovers seeking an independent-paced adventure.
11. Four Hour Walking Wine Tasting Tour of Manchester’s Best Bars
Number 11, the Wine Tasting Tour, combines walking and wine tasting over around four hours. For $110, you visit four different bars, sampling a variety of wines paired with snacks. The guide, Kel, is praised for her knowledge and friendly approach, making for a relaxed and social experience. Guests appreciate the chance to learn about different wines and enjoy informal conversations with fellow wine lovers. It’s a great option for those who want a sophisticated yet fun way to explore Manchester’s nightlife.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting a casual, social afternoon with expert insights baked into the experience.
12. Manchester iFLY Indoor Skydiving Experience – 2 Flights & Certificate
Number 12 offers the adrenaline-pumping Indoor Skydiving Experience. For approximately $110, you get two flights in a vertical wind tunnel with a certified instructor guiding you through the experience. It’s a safe, fun way to simulate skydiving indoors, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Reviewers mention the high flight as the highlight, though some note that the time in the chamber is brief for the price. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers or anyone curious about the sensation of free fall without jumping out of a plane.
Bottom Line: An accessible adventure offering the thrill of skydiving in a controlled indoor environment—great for adrenaline junkies.
13. A Silent Disco Adventure in Manchester
Number 13’s Silent Disco turns sightseeing into a dance party. For just $26, you wear wireless headphones and follow your host through Downsgate and Shudehill, dancing to themed playlists. Reviewers mention the infectious energy and the fun of exploring the city while dancing. It’s a unique way to see Manchester, blending activity with music, and no one needs to worry about disturbing others. It’s excellent for groups, birthday parties, or anyone wanting a memorable, lively experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for energetic travelers craving fun and movement—an unexpected but memorable way to explore Manchester.
14. A Taste of Manchester and Salford with Meals, Drinks and Guide
Number 14, this food and city experience is a 4-hour private tour. Costing $109, it visits notable sites like The Bridgewater Hall, Manchester Central, and local pubs and restaurants. The guide highlights Manchester’s transportation history and local pubs, with tastings along the way. Reviewers appreciate the variety and insider stories, making it ideal for those interested in both cultural sights and local cuisine. It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed yet informative experience of both Manchester and Salford.
Bottom Line: An engaging mix of city sightseeing and food tasting, tailored for those interested in local culture and culinary traditions.
15. Daily Manchester City Centre Walking Tour with Local Guide
Finally, the Daily City Tour provides a 1.5-hour introduction to Manchester’s top sights. For just $19, you’ll see St Peter’s Square, Chinatown, Sackville Gardens, and the Northern Quarter with stories about the city’s past and present. Reviewers praise its affordability and informative narration, making it perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time. The tour is flexible enough to be combined with other activities or extended with local recommendations.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, quick orientation that covers essential sights and stories for visitors new to Manchester.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Manchester
When deciding which tour fits your style, consider your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re short on time but want a lively overview, the Afternoon Walking Tour is hard to beat. For food lovers, the Cheese Crawl or Food Tours provide tasty insights along with local stories. Sports or music fans should check out the Rock and Goal Tour for its energetic focus. Families or groups seeking active fun might enjoy the Silent Disco, while those craving outdoor scenery can’t miss the Lake District or Snowdonia.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the Indoor Skydiving or craft beer tours. Think about your activity level—some tours involve walking, while others are more relaxed. Check the reviews for insights on timing, guides, and overall value, so you pick the best fit for your Manchester adventure.
From quick city walks to full-day excursions in Snowdonia, Manchester’s tour scene is diverse and inviting. Whether you want history, culture, or just a fun experience, these tours help you see the city like a local—be sure to book early and enjoy every moment.
