Currency
ATMs are available in many parts of Manchester - ensure you inform your bank before travelling abroad, and be aware you may be charged for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to exchange some cash before arriving in Manchester. ATMs are available in all towns and Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted; visitors with other cards should check with their credit card companies in advance. Foreign currency can be exchanged at Bureaux de Change and large hotels, however, better exchange rates are likely to be found at banks. Travelers’ cheques are accepted in all areas frequented by tourists; they are best taken in Pounds Sterling to avoid additional charges.
Medication
Some prescribed medicines contain drugs that are controlled under the Misuse of Drugs legislation in the UK. This means that extra-legal controls apply to these medicines. You may need a personal license to take controlled medicines abroad. Specific requirements also apply to: the information that you must take with you on how you carry your controlled medicines for more information, see Can I take controlled medicines abroad? You can also visit the GOV.UK website for more information on traveling with controlled medicines.
Air Travel
The nearest airport to Manchester is Manchester (MAN). Northern Rail operates a train from Manchester Airport to Manchester Piccadilly every 20 minutes.
Visa and Entry
The UK visa policy allows visa-free entry for up to six months to citizens of several countries, most of which are EU and Commonwealth states. If you are not from the countries included on the visa-exemptions, then you will have to apply for a standard UK tourist visa. For stays longer than six months as well as trips during which you will work, everyone needs a visa regardless of nationality. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for tourist or business travel to the United Kingdom for a stay up to 6 months. A valid U.S. Passport is required.
Power Outlets
In the United Kingdom, the power plug sockets are of type G. The standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.
Train Travel
The city of Manchester has 4 stations, with Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Victoria being the main stations with the biggest number of visitors coming in from all over the UK. The station offers a free city bus service for those looking to go around town, but the city is also an easy 10-minute walk away. There are up to 48 trains per day from London to Manchester.
Alternative Transfers
• Take a black taxi tour around Manchester; it's a unique way of sightseeing in a vehicle with easy access!
• MMA Transfers
• With the Uber app, riders and private hire drivers connect 24/7.
Public Transport
Manchester has an extensive bus network with many routes terminating at Piccadilly Gardens bus station. Bus fares across Greater Manchester are capped at £2 and there are also a few free bus routes in the city center and several travel passes are available that make it cheaper to get around Manchester. Metrolink Tram is an easily accessible system, completely level with the platform with no gap at all; inside there are wheelchair spaces, similar to those provided on buses.
Bikes
Currently, Metrolink regulations state cyclists can only take folding bikes on board trams if they are fully folded and covered. No other types of bike are allowed.
