Transportation in Manchester
Coach
Bus
Bus routes are extensive with main hubs at Piccadilly Gardens and Shudehill. An increasing number of night bus routes are on offer. A shuttle bus from Stretford Metrolink also services the Trafford Centre, a popular out-of-town shopping mall.
Metroshuttle
Manchester’s free rapid transit city centre bus service offers three circular routes linking the railway stations with many tram and bus stops. Hop on and off as often as you need whether you’re off to the MEN Arena for a concert or heading towards Chinatown for dinner.
Foot
Manchester’s city centre is relatively compact and walking around the main shopping and tourist district is often just as quick as taking other transport. You might discover something unusual en route. Walk through Piccadilly Gardens, past Castlefield’s canal routes or along pedestrianised Canal Street in the city’s lively Gay Village.
Rent your car
The M60 motorway around Manchester and connecting motorways make the city easily accessible from much of the country. There are several city centre car parks that are serviced by a free shuttle bus, which also stops at the city’s main attractions, train stations and tram stops.
Transportation tips
MetroMax tickets allow you to ride the Metrolink tram as many times as you like each day while day tickets offer the same deal on buses. Also useful is the System One travelcard which allows for hassle-free transfers between buses, trains and trams. Off-peak tickets, valid after 9.30am, are cheaper. The Wayfarer includes travel beyond the city centre, ideal for day trippers.
