Last Updated on 26/06/2021 by secretmoona

You are wondering where to stay in Manchester? The northern city has something for everyone – interesting architecture, rich history and culture, tasty food and more. From the bustling Northern Quarter through to the relaxed Castlefield or vibrant Deansgate, Manchester is without a doubt an incredible city. Whatever your preference, you will find a neighbourhood to your liking in Manchester. To help you get the most of Manchester, I have put together this guide, so keep reading to find out more.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link!

Deciding where to stay in Manchester is probably the next big decision after deciding on the itinerary. To help with your search, I have compiled a guide on Manchester accommodation by neighbourhood. 

Where To Stay In Manchester

Manchester is packed with attractions, which makes it the perfect destination for a city break. The diverse and vibrant city draws millions of visitors each year; therefore, there is no shortage of hotels for travellers. Home to two of the best football clubs in England, four universities and a great music scene (including first-class nightclubs), Manchester suits all vibes and styles. Here is your comprehensive guide on where to stay in Manchester ranging from budget to luxury.

Manchester is a walkable city as you reach the different areas of the city on foot. However, suppose you would rather not walk. In that case, the city has an excellent public transport link with buses, trams and trains taking you within and beyond Manchester.

Which area should you choose?

First of all, here is a list of Manchester’s neighbourhoods including a map so you can see where they are located:

• City Centre
• Chinatown 
• Spinningfields
• Northern Quarter 
• Ancoats 
• New Islington
• Castlefield
• Salford Quays & Old Trafford 
• Chorlton
• Didsbury

Manchester City Centre 

Are you staying in Manchester for the first time? Looking for convenient accommodation close to the main attractions? Look no further, staying in the heart of Manchester is the most convenient and best option for you. Manchester City Centre has the most selection of hotels so you won’t have any problem finding one. Staying centrally is convenient; however, bear in mind that rates will be higher. 

The vibrant city centre is packed with places to eat, drink and shop. It is also the area with the most tourist attractions. Since Manchester City Centre is small, you will be able to get around quickly on foot.

Manchester Piccadilly is located right in the city centre, making your visit even more convenient. In addition, you’ll make your stay in Manchester more effortless by staying within walking distance of the city’s main sights and shopping streets.

Things to do in / Highlights 

• Admire the architecture of the historic buildings in King Street, the Manchester Cathedral and more. 
• Shop at Arndale: The shopping centre is heaven for shopaholics as they can find anything they need. 
• Learn the history of football at the National Football Museum. As the home to two of the best clubs in the Uk and the world, this museum is an essential stop for football fans. 

If staying in the city centre is the best option for you, then check out the selection below:

Holiday Inn Express Manchester City Centre 

Part of the IHG hotel chain, Holiday Inn Express Manchester City Centre is a hotel situated in a great location. The hotel features comfortable and modern rooms. Each of the rooms has a flat-screen TV and WiFi access. The rate includes a varied buffet breakfast with an excellent continental selection. This hotel is ideal for anyone wanting to stay in the city centre at a low cost. Location: Goadsby Street, Off Swan Street, Manchester, M4 5JY. Rooms start at £44.

ABode Manchester

ABode Manchester is a stylish hotel located in a Grade II listed Victorian warehouse. If you love places with a presence, you’ll love this hotel. The old features have been retained, creating a beautiful mix of traditional and modern. Rooms start at £119 (check prices). Location: 107 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2BD

Kimpton Clocktower Hotel

Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is a grand hotel that is unmissable thanks to the beautiful red-bricked Victorian building. Located within walking distance to Oxford Road station and the Palace Theatre, it’s perfect for those who want to stay in the heart of the city. The hotel previously called The Principal has gone through an extensive redesign. From the lobby, restaurant, conservatory to the rooms, everything has been designed with taste. All the rooms have the usual amenities, including tea/coffee making facilities. Rooms from £93 per night (check fares). Location: 57 Newton St, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 1ET

Hotel Gotham 

This Art Deco hotel located in a former Art Deco bank building is located in King Street, moments away from Manchester Art Gallery and Market Street shopping area. The hotel has a 1920s-style decor with a black and white theme and gold bars in the bathrooms. Rooms start at £125 per night. The boutique hotel has three places to eat and relax (Honey Restaurant, Club Brass and Roof Terrace). Location; 100 King Street, Manchester, M2 4WU. Doubles from £150, room only – See available rooms and prices.

Chinatown 

Although Manchester’s Chinatown is small compared to  London but bigger than Liverpool;  Chinatown is still packed with shops and Asian restaurants. As well as Chinese food, you will also find delicious Vietnamese, Japanese or Thai cuisine. While there, why not explore the Manchester Art Gallery. Match your stay with the Chinese New Year celebrations to experience the colourful parade with dancing dragons and red lanterns adorning the shopfronts. Hotel choices for Chinatown.

Gay Village

The Gay Village is located on Canal Street in the City Centre. As the name suggests, it is Manchester’s LGBTQ+ district. The “village” is where you will find lots of bars and cafes. It is a great place to stay, especially if the primary reason for visiting Manchester is to party. Check the hotels near the Gay Village.

Spinningfields 

Spinningfields is the newest neighbourhood, as such, it is very modern looking. As the financial district, Spinningfields has lots of restaurants, bars, pubs, cafes and shops. As such, it’s an excellent area for shopping and entertainment. Office workers and party-goers mix in Hardman Square, where cocktails bars and chain restaurants are full of people. The Manchester Opera House and People’s History Museum are close. Check the hotels near Spinningfields.

Northern Quarter & Ancoats 

The Northern Quarter, located north of the city centre, is a trendy neighbourhood packed with hip cafés, pubs, bars and record stores. If you love street art or are into music, then the Northern Quarter is the place to be. The streets serve as open-air galleries, and murals are found everywhere. The Northern Quarter is best for people with a strong sensibility for culture and art. 

Located next to the Northern Quarter, Ancoats is a former district for industrial workers. This up and coming neighbourhood has a New York City vibe to it, thanks to the brick houses. Television shows often use it as a stand-in for NYC. With many shops, craft beer bars and cafes, Ancoats is a great place to stay while in Manchester. On top of that, the neighbourhood is charming too, with cobblestone streets and canals running through. 

Just like the neighbouring Northern Quarter and Ancoats, New Islington is an up and coming district. On a good day, hang out with the locals in the New Islington Marina and Cotton Field.

Things not to miss out within the Northern Quarter and Ancoats areas:

• Wander around and be amazed by all the street art within the Northern Quarter and Ancoats
• Treat yourself to great coffee at Ancoats Coffee Co. or a “cruffin” (a croissant/muffin) from Pollen Bakery
• Take a relaxing pause at Piccadilly Gardens 

Not sure which of these cool areas to choose? Check the hotel selections for Northern Quarter here and Ancoats here. 

The Cow Hollow Hotel 

This stylish hotel is located in the heart of the Northern Quarter. Housed in a former warehouse, the hotel has retained some of its original features: some rooms have exposed bricks. The boutique hotel with only 16 rooms has been marvellously decorated. The hotel offers a complimentary prosecco and antipasti every evening. Rates from £120 with inclusive breakfast in bed (check rates). Location: 57 Newton St, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 1ET.

Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Hotel

Ideally situated between Manchester Piccadilly Station and the Northern Quarter, ibis Styles Portland Hotel is ideally located. The fabulous decor is ideal for younger tourists and families. Even though it is located on the main street, the hotel is well-soundproofed against the outside noise. Rooms rates start from £34 per night (check rates). Location: 3-5 Portland St, Manchester M1 6DP

Crowne Plaza Manchester City Centre

I am a big fan of the Crowne Plaza hotels. The colourful and beautiful decor, along with the fantastic service, makes this hotel a top choice. The beds are super comfortable and relaxing, especially with the hotel’s signature “Sleep Advantage” aromatherapy kits. The continental breakfast on offer is excellent. Rooms start from £55 per night (check fares). Location: 70 Shudehill, Manchester M4 4AF

Native Manchester 

Housed in a Grade-II listed warehouse, so original features are maintained. Vaulted brick ceilings, exposed red bricks and a giant atrium with a glass ceiling give the hotel a charming retro feel. The hotel caters to young families too. Location: Ducie Street Warehouse, 51 Ducie Street, Manchester M1 2TP. Check fares and availability.

Castlefield 

Just off the city centre is the relaxed Castlefield area filled with green spaces, quaint canals, canalside restaurants and bars. The site is famous for the Castlefield Bowl, outdoor music and entertainment venue. It is the perfect area for those looking for a bit of history. The remains of the Roman fortress and the Science & Industry Museum will ensure that you get your cultural feel. The neighbourhood is so serene (perfect for canal walks) that it’s hard to believe that you are just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre. 

Not to miss:

• Science and Industry Museum (MOSI): Tour the museum to learn more about Manchester, the world’s first industrial city. The family-friendly museum is full of exciting and unique objects. 
• Mamucium – The Roman fort of Mamucium was the birthplace of modern Manchester. The fort constructed between AD79 and 200 has more than 10,000 artefacts. Visitors can visit the site; however, the artefacts from the fort and surroundings can be seen at the Manchester Museum. 

Hilton Manchester Deansgate

Situated just 2 minutes from Deansgate Station, Hilton Deansgate offers fantastic views over the city. Located in the iconic 47-story Beetham Tower (Manchester’s tallest building), this hotel is perfect for all tourists. Rooms are spacious and airy, thanks to the floor to ceiling glass windows. The hotel bar located on the 23rd floor (Cloud 23) has an ultimate vantage point and is a popular spot for cocktails. Make your way to the glass-roofed swimming pool for a swim, or try the steam room and hammam for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. With a bit of extra, opt for an Executive Room, which will give you access to the Executive Lounge with complimentary canapes and drinks. Location: 303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ. Double rooms start at £101. (check rates)

Salford Quays & Old Trafford 

Although not technically Manchester, Salford is close enough to Manchester to be the base for your stay. Less than 30 mins on the tram will take you from the busy city centre to the former dock area of Manchester. The revitalised dock has a laid-back atmosphere but still offers entertainment, shopping, and boat excursions. Manchester United’s Old Trafford is just across the river, so this is an excellent choice for football fans. 

Not to miss out:

• Manchester United Football Club (Old Trafford): A must-see for football fans, you can get a stadium tour and museum on non-game days. 
• Coronation Street Tour: The longest-running TV soap opera in history has its set in Salford Quays. Fans of the show would enjoy taking part in the guided tour of the scene. 
• The Lowry: the exhibition centre offers a great insight into the history and heritage of working-class northwest England

If you feel like these two areas are for you, check out the selection below.

Holiday Inn MediaCity UK

This hotel from the IHG Group not only appeals to business travellers but is also a good option for leisure travellers. Due to its location, it’s great for anyone visiting Salford or Manchester. Couples and sports fans will appreciate the hotel’s proximity with The Lowry arts centre and the Old Trafford. At the same time, families value how easy it is to get to the CBBC interactive tours from the hotel. Room rates start from £89 (check rates). Location: Media City UK, Salford, Manchester M50 2EQ

Hotel Football

For anyone staying in Manchester to enjoy a sporting event at Old Trafford will enjoy the Hotel Football. I mean, what’s better after watching a football match than staying in a dedicated football hotel? The hotel is close to Media City and Manchester City Centre. Room rates start from £79 (check rates). Location: Old Trafford, 99 Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester M16 0SZ.

Chorlton 

Located southwest of the city centre, Chorlton-cum-Hardy is a trendy suburb. This is an excellent place to stay for those who like a neighbourhood with a vibe without the crowd. The area has the second biggest gay community after the city centre’s Gay Village. Chorlton has enough green spaces to allow long walks or sports (Chorlton Park, Longford Park). If you prefer residential areas, then check the hotels on offer via booking.com.

Didsbury

Didsbury is a suburb of Manchester, located six kilometres south of the city centre. This neighbourhood is a good option for those looking to stay in a quieter area of town. However, be mindful you will have to use public transport to travel into the centre. The good and cheap transport link in Manchester means that it is easy to do occasional day trips into the city, while still enjoying the village feel. Both Didsbury Village (also known as East Didsbury) and the busier West Didsbury are lined with gastropubs, independent shops and charming cafes. West Didsbury has a younger, more Bohemian vibe while the east has a villagey feel to it. 

Things not to miss:

• Stroll through Fletcher Moss Park, a free botanical garden packed with colourful plants 
• Visit the Makers Market (scheduled on the last Sunday of each) month
• On a summer day, have a picnic at Didsbury Park

Here are some of the hotels in Didsbury.

Didsbury House Hotel

This boutique hotel with a spa is located close to East Didsbury Station. The rooms have all the required amenities, including a minibar and tea/coffee facility, as well as comfortable beds. Didsbury House has an outdoor terrace which is excellent for soaking in the sun. Room rates start at £150. Location: Didsbury Park, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5LJ

Eleven Didsbury Park Hotel

Eleven Didsbury Park is a lovely hotel in a Victorian villa. The boutique hotel is nicely decorated, from the rooms down to the relaxing garden (with swings and loungers). While the garden is perfect for enjoying your morning coffee on a summer day, the fireplace in the lounge is the ideal setting in the winter (a mug of hot chocolate is optional). Room rates start at £150. Location: 11 Didsbury Park, Didsbury, Manchester M20 5LH.

Fallowfield 

The Fallowfield neighbourhood, at first glance, is far from the city centre. Yet, it is said to be one of the best areas to stay in Manchester – for young people and party-goers – as it has the most significant number of young people and students. Fallowfield is the university district of the city, and there is a high density of bars, pubs and nightclubs where to party. Choose this area if you are on a budget. Check the hotels in Fallowfield.

Places to stay in Manchester by type of traveller

Where to stay if you are on a budget?

Travelling to Manchester doesn’t have to break the bank. There are lots of affordable and cheap hotels making Manchester a great destination for budget conscious travellers. Here are some of our selection of cheap hotels in Manchester. 

• Ibis Manchester Centre Portland Street
• Roomzzz Manchester City
• Hotel Brooklyn
• Novotel Manchester Centre

Mid-range hotels in Manchester 

• Innside by Melia Manchester
• DoubleTree by Hilton Manchester Piccadilly
• Malmaison Manchester 

Where to stay as a solo traveller?

If you are travelling solo, accommodation is likely to be your second most significant expense after the transport cost. In some cases, even the most expensive item out of your travel budget. You would want to stay in a location where you can quickly meet other people. Whether you want some quiet time at the end of the day or interact with other travellers, The Cow Hollow Hotel and Kimpton Clocktower are good options. The first hotel offers a “happy hour” drink for guests while the latter has rooms for single occupancy and a large bar to mingle with people. 

• The Cow Hollow Hotel
• Kimpton Clocktower Hotel 
• Ibis Styles Manchester Portland Street 

Where to stay in Manchester for couples?

There are lots of options available to couples. Choosing where to stay will depend on the type of travellers you are and your preferences. Here are some of the most unique and intimate hotels.

• Indigo Hotel Manchester, Victoria Station
• MacDonald Manchester Hotel & Spa
• Hotel Gotham
• Abode Manchester 
• Velvet Hotel

Luxury hotels in Manchester 

• Radisson Blu Edwardian Manchester 
• The Lowry
• Hotel Gotham
• King Street Townhouse

Family-friendly places to stay in Manchester 

When Travelling with small children, it is best to stay closer to the main attractions. Therefore the city centre is usually the best option. Here are our selections:

• Premier Inn Manchester City Centre (Piccadilly) Hotel
• Jurys Inn Manchester 
• The Midland 
• Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford 

Heading to Manchester? Pin for later!