With its legendary soccer clubs, rich industrial history and vibrant music scene, Manchester is a city to explore. But first things first: where to stay in Manchester?
In this guide, I’ll introduce you to the best areas and accommodation in Manchester to help you feel at home in your new home. At the end, I’ll also tell you what to avoid in Manchester.
- One of my best friends lives in Manchester, so I’ve spent a lot of time here. So I’ve experienced the charm of the different parts of the city first-hand.
Whether you’re here for the soccer, the music, the history or the beer, there’s a perfect accommodation for you.
Let’s dive into the best areas in Manchester, England.
Best places to stay in Manchester
For those in a hurry, I’ll give a brief overview, but please read on to find out what makes each area unique.
- 👉 Manchester City Centre – The heart of Manchester, ideal for first-time visitors ⭐️
- 👉 Northern Quarter – Bohemian and hipster paradise
- 👉 Deansgate – the ideal place for those who love the nightlife
- 👉 Castlefield – A peaceful retreat with beautiful canals
- 👉 West Didsbury – the hidden jewel
Click on the name of the area above to book the best hotels.
Let’s take a closer look at what each of these areas has to offer.
1. Manchester City Centre – The heartbeat of Manchester ⭐️
Manchester City Centre is a vibrant center known for its convenient location and easy accessibility to various parts of the city.
It is an ideal location for travelers who want to have the city’s main sights within easy reach.
The area is known for its mix of modern retail stores, restaurants, pubs and historic landmarks such as Manchester Cathedral and the Royal Exchange Theatre.
Here you will find the best hotels in the city center. 👈
When you live here, you have a variety of restaurants, shopping and entertainment options right on your doorstep.
It is a lively area where there is always something going on, making it an ideal starting point for anyone who wants to be in the middle of the action.
The city center is undoubtedly the best place to stay for first-time visitors to Manchester.
Advantages: 👇
- Accessibility: Central location with good public transport connections.
- Shopping and dining: Numerous stores, restaurants and bars.
- Cultural hotspots: Within walking distance of museums, galleries and theaters that showcase the city’s cultural wealth.
Disadvantages: 👇
- Expensive: The demand for this prime location is reflected in the prices for accommodation.
- Overcrowded: The central location can be very busy, especially at weekends and during events.
Some of my favorite places in the city center are: 👇
- Mr Thomas’s Chop House (Nice old-school pub with food)
- Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana (one of the best pizzas in town)
- The Peveril of the Peak (the most beautiful pub in England)
Where to stay in Manchester City Centre
On most of my trips to Manchester, I stay in the city center, so I know some good hotels here. Here are my favorite places to stay in Manchester city center – in different price ranges.
Let’s start with one of the most unique hotels in this part of England and certainly one of the best hotels in the whole of Manchester.
I have stayed at the 👉 King Street Townhouse and can vouch for the luxury and comfort of this house.
Housed in an elegant Italian Renaissance building, this hotel combines timeless charm with modern amenities.
The crown jewel is the indoor pool on the upper deck, where you can enjoy a poetic view of Manchester while taking a dip.
The rooms, a mixture of classic elegance and modern comfort, offer a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
There is also a wellness area, a bar on the roof and even a movie theater in the basement of the hotel.
I was really impressed by all the little details when I stayed here. So I can only recommend this hotel if you want to stay in a different kind of luxury hotel in Manchester.
The opening clip in his old video from Manchester (on my Danish channel, sorry) was filmed here in the pool:
The King Street Townhouse is located right in the city center and yet offers a quiet retreat. It will enrich your trip to Manchester and make it unforgettable.
On my last trip to Manchester, I stayed at the 👉 INNSiDE by Meliá Manchester, and the convenient location won me over.
The proximity to two major train stations (Oxford Road and Deansgate) makes it easy to travel to Manchester Airport or Liverpool.
I liked this hotel (and the price) so much that I will be staying there again on my next visit to Manchester in a few weeks.
It’s a little more expensive than other places that are just a short walk from the city center, but the experience is very good.
The breakfast buffet here was a wonderful surprise and certainly one of the best I have ever enjoyed in a British hotel. The morning delicacies were a feast for the taste buds and an excellent start to the day.
If you stay here overnight, you should definitely try the bagels and chocolate cookies.
Another nice touch was that the drinks in the minibar were complimentary – I think there was water, a couple of iced coffees and a fizzy iced tea if I remember correctly.
With modern, cozy rooms and that hearty breakfast to look forward to, INNSiDE by Meliá makes a compelling case for a comfortable, well-located and deliciously satisfying stay in Manchester.
In this video, he stays at the Innside by Melia Hotel:
A few years ago, a friend and I attended a concert in Manchester and found our stay at the 👉 Ibis Manchester Centre at 96 Portland Street perfect for our needs: an affordable city center hotel close to “everything” in Manchester.
The location is unbeatable, close to Chinatown and just a short walk from Piccadilly Station (Manchester’s main train station).
Although the rooms were reasonably priced, they were clean and comfortable and offered a pleasant place to relax after the hustle and bustle of the concert. In the hotel’s own bar, you could review the highlights of the evening over a drink.
The central location made navigating the city a breeze, especially for the concert venue.
With clean rooms, a convenient bar and its prime location, this Ibis hotel was a smart choice for a budget-conscious trip full of music and exploration.
2. Northern quarter – the hipster haven 🍻
The Northern Quarter is known for its alternative and unconventional atmosphere, which makes it a popular area for artists, musicians and young travelers.
It’s a place where vintage stores, record stores and indie music venues thrive.
The neighborhood is a hub for unique shopping and live music, and the streets are adorned with vibrant street art.
The Northern Quarter has a youthful energy, with many cafés, bars and small restaurants that give a taste of the local culture.
Here you will find the best hotels in the Northern Quarter. 👈
It is an area that loves the quirky and unconventional and offers a clear contrast to the more commercial parts of the city.
If you live here, you will get a taste of Manchester’s vibrant music scene.
Einige meiner Lieblingsorte im Northern Quarter sind:
- Afflecks (think Camden Market in London, but indoors)
- Castle Hotel (one of the best pubs in Manchester)
- Mackie Mayor (covered food hall)
Advantages:
- Artistic flair: The unconventional atmosphere is a magnet for artists, musicians and creative people.
- Unique shopping opportunities: Vintage stores offer unique items, a treasure trove for anyone looking for something special.
- Live music: Indie music venues abound, a testament to Manchester’s rich musical heritage.
Disadvantages:
- Noise: The lively atmosphere can extend into the night, which may not please everyone.
- Limited range of upscale accommodation: The range of accommodation is rather unconventional, with fewer luxury options.
Ancoats is another area, but as it nestles right up against the Northern Quarter, I’ll include it here.
Ancoats is fast becoming Manchester’s favorite neighborhood for food lovers and nightlife enthusiasts. The district is bursting with youthful energy, which is reflected in the modern bistros, trendy cafés and cool bars.
This video shows parts of Ancoats:
Ancoats has a character all of its own: here, the old industrial Manchester is transformed into a modern, culinary paradise.
The renovated mills are now home to some of the city’s best-known restaurants and bars, making Ancoats a vibrant place for gastronomic discoveries and evening entertainment.
Ancoats is so “new” that there are no hotels in the area, but it’s literally across the road from the Northern Quarter, so it’s easy to get to if you’re staying in NQ.
Visit places like Rudy’s Pizza, Jimmy’s and Cask if you’re in the area.
Accommodation in the northern quarter
The Northern Quarter is a unique neighborhood, and many of the buildings have been there since before it was a cool place in Manchester. So there aren’t many hotels in the Northern Quarter – here are some of my favorites in and around the area.
👉 The Hotel Indigo Manchester, located just a short walk from the Northern Quarter, serves as a gateway to the bohemian heart of the city while offering a touch of luxury.
The hotel has modern, well-equipped rooms with all the amenities that guarantee a pleasant stay.
Thanks to its proximity to the Northern Quarter, the quirky cafés, vintage stores and indie music venues are within easy reach.
The Hotel Indigo is therefore a good choice for anyone who wants to explore the cool, unconventional atmosphere of the city and retreat to a cozy, upscale place at the end of the day.
👉 The Crowne Plaza Manchester City Centre is located in the heart of the Northern Quarter and offers first-class comfort in close proximity to the bohemian charm of the area.
Located just around the corner from the famous Mackie Mayor (a fabulous covered food court), the hotel offers guests a great base from which to explore the local dining scene.
The hotel has modern, well-equipped rooms that offer all the important amenities for a relaxing stay.
The location is a great advantage, as it’s within easy reach of the eclectic stores, cafés and indie music venues that make the Northern Quarter so appealing.
Manchester city center is also just a 5-minute walk from the hotel.
The following hotel in the Northern Quarter is just around the corner from the Crowne Plaza, so the location is also excellent.
👉 The Holiday Inn Express Manchester City Centre Arena is a budget-friendly option without compromising on location.
The hotel is a little more price-conscious, but offers a comfortable stay with modern, clean rooms equipped with all the necessary amenities.
- The free breakfast is a pleasant start to a day of exploring the city.
The Holiday Inn Express in NQ offers a good balance of cost, comfort and convenience, making it a great choice for travelers who want to keep an eye on their budget and still be in the heart of Manchester’s cool, bohemian atmosphere.
3. Deansgate – center of nightlife in the city center 💃🏽
Deansgate is the epicenter of nightlife in Manchester.
This area is known for its lively atmosphere as soon as the sun goes down. There are numerous pubs, bars and clubs here, all offering a unique ambience and a good time.
- Deansgate is part of Manchester City Center, but I thought it needed its own section in this guide as it really is one of the best areas to live in Manchester.
Here you can find the best hotels in Deansgate. 👈
Deansgate is not all about the nightlife. During the day, the area is full of customers exploring the retail stores and eating out in the various restaurants.
When you live in Deansgate, you are right in the center of Manchester’s social scene with plenty of entertainment options.
If you’re coming to Manchester to watch soccer (especially Manchester United), it’s easy to get from Deansgate to Old Trafford, and the streetcar also runs to Manchester City’s stadium.
Advantages:
- Nightlife: Rich nightlife with an abundance of bars, pubs and clubs.
- Shopping and eating out: Wide range of shopping and dining options.
- Deansgate is in the city center of Manchester
Disadvantages:
- Noise: Can be noisy, especially at weekends.
- Expensive: The accommodation and amenities can be a little more expensive as they are so centrally located.
Best places to stay in Deansgate
So we’re in the city center, and the hotels I mentioned earlier are all close to Deansgate. Here are a few of my favorites that are even closer.
Let’s start with one of my favorite hotels in Manchester.
I stayed at 👉 The Edwardian Manchester as part of a press trip with Visit Britain, and it was just great.
Located near Deansgate in the heart of the city, the hotel is housed in one of Manchester’s historic buildings, adding old-world charm to the modern elegance that permeates the building.
I’m a big music fan, and the fact that this hotel is housed in the building where the famous Sex Pistols concert took place in Manchester is a wild thought.
One of the staff told me that this is the hotel where Noel Gallagher usually stays when he’s in Manchester, so if you’re an Oasis fan, this is the place to stay in Manchester.
As soon as you enter the hotel, the tasteful furnishings reveal that luxury is a top priority here.
The room was an oasis of comfort, furnished with a plush bed, modern amenities and an en-suite bathroom with quality toiletries.
The morning began with a delicious breakfast buffet that was as sumptuous as it was delicious.
Afternoon tea later in the day was a quintessentially British experience, with a fine selection of teas and a variety of fresh gourmet pastries and sandwiches.
The amenities at the Edwardian are top-notch, including a well-equipped fitness center, a tranquil indoor pool and spa for rejuvenating massages, not to mention an on-site restaurant and bar.
The rich history of the building, coupled with modern comforts and impeccable service, makes The Edwardian Manchester an excellent choice for an unforgettable stay in the heart of the city.
The 👉 Moxy Manchester City is a prestigious 4-star hotel near Deansgate, offering stylish accommodation in a convenient city center location.
The hotel exudes a modern, youthful atmosphere with its chic furnishings and lively communal areas.
The rooms are designed with a contemporary aesthetic and offer guests a comfortable and visually appealing environment.
Just a few meters from Deansgate, guests have easy access to a variety of restaurants, bars and stores that the area is known for.
The central location also makes it easy to explore Manchester’s many attractions.
The 👉 YOTEL Manchester Deansgate is a budget-friendly haven for young travelers in Manchester city center.
The hotel exudes a youthful, energetic atmosphere, making it the perfect place for anyone looking for a party-friendly base.
The modern, compact rooms are designed to offer as much space as possible without sacrificing comfort.
The hotel’s common areas are full of social energy and provide a great platform to meet other travelers.
The hotel’s own bar is a lively place to start the evening before heading out to the nearby clubs and bars.
4. Castlefield – a quiet area, ideal for families 👨👩👧👦
Castlefield is a peaceful area known for its picturesque canals and historic Roman forts. It is a place where history meets tranquillity.
Like Deansgate, Castlefield is more or less in the city center of Manchester, so you are not living in a small village far away from the city center.
Castlefield is just a little more relaxed and homely than Deansgate, for example.
The old industrial warehouses have been converted into modern apartments and offices, blending the past with the present.
This area is ideal for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city but are still close to the center.
Here you can find the best hotels in Castlefield. 👈
The calm waters of the canals and the open green spaces offer a peaceful retreat in the city.
A stay in Castlefield offers a quiet retreat with a touch of history. And it’s literally only a 10-minute walk to the town center, so it’s still very central.
My boyfriend lives in Castlefield, so I’ve spent a lot of time here, and I think it’s one of the best areas in Manchester – both to live in and to wander around.
If you are in Castlefield, you should definitely pop into The Wharf for a beer with the locals.
Advantages:
- Historical charm: Reiches historisches Ambiente mit gut erhaltenen römischen Kastellen.
- Tranquility: Less hectic, but a peaceful retreat.
- Picturesque canals: Beautiful canals provide a picturesque backdrop.
- Deansgate train station is only a few minutes away from Castlefield (good connection to the airport).
Disadvantages:
- Less nightlife: Not as lively at night as in other areas.
- Limited shopping opportunities: Compared to the city center, there are fewer shopping opportunities.
Best places to stay in Castlefield
As I’ve already mentioned, Castlefield is a relatively small area where you won’t find many hotels.
There is only one (real) hotel in Castlefield, and the name says it all.
👉 The Castlefield Hotel is an affordable choice for travelers looking for a comfortable stay near Castlefield and the city center.
This 3-star hotel offers a range of well-maintained rooms with all the basic amenities for a good stay in Castlefield near the city center.
One of the highlights of this hotel is the indoor pool, a rarity in a budget hotel.
The Castlefield Hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable yet comfortable stay with the added benefit of an indoor pool, all just a stone’s throw from the heart of Manchester and the charming Castlefield district.
West Didsbury, and Didsbury in general, is a charming area that combines a village atmosphere with urban amenities.
Staying here means enjoying a relaxed atmosphere, exploring local favorites and discovering the lesser known but equally charming part of Manchester.
So this area isn’t for most tourists or first-time travelers, but if you’ve been to Manchester a few times and want to travel like a local, West Didsbury should be on your radar.
See the best hotels in Didsbury. 👈
The heart of West Didsbury is Burton Road, a hidden gem of independent stores, artisan bakeries and quaint bistros.
My friend took me to dinner at Zena, and after dinner we had a great evening in the many bars and pubs on Burton Road.
The street embodies the spirit of the area, where local businesses thrive and the community comes together.
It is a place where every restaurant tells a story and contributes to the special charm of West Didsbury.
Even if you live in Manchester city center, I recommend heading to West Didsbury to experience a unique and local area of Manchester.
Advantages:
- Burton Road: A lively street with local charm and independent stores.
- Community atmosphere: A strong sense of community with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Unique shopping and dining: Independent stores and restaurants offer a unique local experience.
Disadvantages:
- Distance from the city center: It is a little further away from the city center, but well connected by public transport.
- Quieter nightlife: Less lively nightlife than in the central areas.
Here is a nice video showing what life is like in Didsbury:
Best places to stay in Didsbury
I know most people reading this won’t be staying in this part of Manchester, and to be honest, there isn’t much accommodation in Didsbury. But there is one that looks very good.
The 👉 Didsbury House Hotel exudes the quaint charm of a cozy English village while ensuring that Manchester city center is only a 20-minute streetcar ride away.
This unique hotel exudes a vintage feel, with tastefully decorated interiors that transport guests to a bygone era without sacrificing modern comforts.
- Burton Road is also just a few minutes away by streetcar.
The lush garden offers a tranquil retreat where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Didsbury House Hotel is a charming choice for travelers looking for a unique stay that combines the charm of a village with the convenience of the city.
Where not to stay in Manchester and which areas to avoid
Although Manchester is mostly safe and welcoming, certain areas may be less attractive to tourists.
For example, despite its central location, Piccadilly Gardens in the city center has a bad reputation for drug abuse and can be unsafe at night. It is advisable to exercise caution if you are in this area after dark.
Areas such as Moss Side, Cheetham Hill and Rusholme have had a reputation for higher crime rates in the past, although the situation has improved significantly in recent years.
Nevertheless, it may be advisable to avoid these areas, especially after dark.
Check out this list of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Manchester.
While some parts of the city are not particularly dangerous, they can be unpleasant for tourists due to their distance from the city center and the lack of attractions and amenities nearby.
Choosing the right area and the right hotel in Manchester comes down to your preferences, whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, a quiet retreat or an affordable but comfortable stay.
Each area has its own flavor, and the hotels are suitable for different tastes and budgets.
Manchester offers something for everyone, from the historic charm of Castlefield to the bohemian charm of the Northern Quarter and the vibrant heart of the city near Deansgate.
Immerse yourself in the city’s diverse culture, music scene and culinary delights – from any of these fantastic locations.
If you have any questions about the areas of Manchester mentioned above, or about your trip to the North West of England in general, please let me know in the comments section below.
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions:
What is the best part of Manchester to live in?
For most tourists, staying in Manchester city center is a smart choice, as you’re right in the heart of the action and within easy reach of a wealth of attractions, restaurants, shopping and public transport.
But the city also has other attractive areas to offer. The Northern Quarter is a lively and artistic district known for its indie stores, music venues and quirky cafés.
Castlefield, on the other hand, offers a peaceful haven with its quiet canals and historic charm, yet is close to the city center. Each area has its own charm and appeals to different tastes, ensuring a memorable stay in Manchester.
What is a nice neighborhood in Manchester?
Didsbury and West Didsbury are one of the charming areas of Greater Manchester that I find very appealing. These suburban neighborhoods offer a quiet, village feel yet are easily connected to the city center. With their leafy streets, quaint cafes, boutiques and beautiful parks, they offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The architectural charm and friendly community atmosphere contribute to the pleasant ambience of these neighborhoods.
With the nearby East Didsbury Metrolink station, getting into the city center is a breeze, making these areas convenient and comfortable for those looking to explore more of Manchester.
Is Manchester a pedestrian-friendly city?
Yes, Manchester is indeed a city that can be explored on foot, especially if you live in the city center. You can easily spend three days exploring the city without having to switch to public transport. The compactness of the city and the well-designed pedestrian zones make strolling around a pleasant experience. Whether you want to visit a museum or historical site or simply enjoy the urban landscape, Manchester city center is great for exploring on foot, making it an excellent city for walkers.
What are the best places to stay in Manchester?
The best areas in Manchester include Manchester City Center, Northern Quarter and Deansgate.
What is Manchester’s vibrant nightlife like?
Manchester is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of options in areas such as Deansgate
What are the special features of Manchester’s neighborhoods?
Each area of Manchester has its own flavor, with hotels to suit different tastes and budgets.
What restaurants, shopping and entertainment options are there in Manchester?
A stay at Manchester City Centre offers a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options right on your doorstep.
What are the historical sights in Manchester?
Manchester city center is home to historic landmarks such as Manchester Cathedral and the Royal Exchange Theatre.
What affordable yet comfortable accommodation is there in Manchester?
Manchester offers everything from the historic charm of Castlefield to the bohemian charm of the Northern Quarter or the vibrant heart of the city near Deansgate.
What are the best places to avoid in Manchester?
Areas to avoid in Manchester mentioned in the search results include:
1. Moss Side: Known for gang violence and drug offences.
2. Longsight: Associated with violent crime and antisocial behavior.
3. Cheetham Hill: Is confronted with various criminal activities, including theft and robberies.
4. Salford: Manchester’s neighboring city is struggling with a higher crime rate, including burglaries and antisocial behavior.
5. Harpurhey: Problems in connection with theft and drug offenses.
These areas are considered to be particularly crime-ridden and should generally be avoided, especially by tourists and visitors to the city.
