Visitor guide

Getting from A to B is easy in Greater Manchester with our fully integrated public transport system: the Bee Network.

Use this guide for quick travel information if you’re arriving at Manchester Airport, any of our rail stations, or just looking to get around the city centre.

To plan your journey, download the Bee Network app.

Paying for travel

Bus and tram: Use contactless tap and go with a bank card, phone or smart watch.
On the bus: Tap in when you board.
On the tram: Tap in at the smart card validators before you travel and tap out at the end of your journey.
Top tip: Use the same card or device for every journey.
Got an Apple device? Buy bus and tram tickets on the go in Apple Wallet
Starling Bikes: Hire and pay via the Starling Bikes app.

Travel advice from key locations

Train: Direct trains run to Manchester Piccadilly in around 20 minutes.
Tram: Metrolink runs direct from the airport to the city centre on the Manchester Airport - Victoria line.
Bus: For direct buses between the city centre, use the 43 or 103 services to or from Piccadilly Gardens. The 43 operates on a 24 hour basis.
Good to know: Buses, trains and trams all leave from the Station, linked to the terminals by covered & signposted Skylink walkways.

Walk: Many city centre destinations are within walking distance. Piccadilly Gardens and Market Street are around 10 minutes away.
Free bus: The easiest way to get around the city centre. Free bus 1 and 2 link key locations including Piccadilly, Deansgate, Victoria and Shudehill.
Tram: Piccadilly is on the Metrolink network, with easy onward connections across Greater Manchester.
Starling Bikes: Bike hire stations are located across Greater Manchester, with stations close to Manchester Piccadilly. E-bikes or pedal bikes can be hired on a Pay As You Ride basis or by purchasing minute bundles.
Step-free access: Manchester Piccadilly has step-free access to all platforms and lifts throughout the station.

Walk: Manchester city centre is easy to explore on foot, with many shops, attractions and stations close together.
Free bus: A simple option for short city centre trips, and it’s free to use.
Tram: Great for quick journeys across the city centre and beyond. Zone 1 covers city centre tram stops.
Starling Bikes: Bike hire stations are located across Greater Manchester, with a number of stations around the city centre. E-bikes or pedal bikes can be hired on a Pay As You Ride basis or by purchasing minute bundles.  
Need to go further? Use the Bee Network journey planner (QR code below) for the best bus, tram or train option.

Other helpful information

Tram: All Metrolink trams and tram stops are accessible for wheelchair users.
Bus: New Bee Network buses include two wheelchair spaces, audio-visual announcements and a hearing induction loop.
Free bus: All free bus services are wheelchair accessible.
Rail station: Manchester Piccadilly offers lifts, accessible toilets and Passenger Assistance.