How to get to Manchester Christmas Markets 2024 by tram, bus, train and car

Manchester is to be transformed into a magical festive haven as the Christmas Markets return to the city.

Visitors will be flocking to the city centre to get their hands on some warming mulled wine, juicy hot dogs, or to browse an eclectic range of Christmas crafts in the run up to the festive season.

The Manchester Christmas Markets will be split across nine locations: King Street West, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange, Cathedral Gardens, Market Street, and Piccadilly Gardens.

READ MORE: Manchester Christmas Markets 2024 map shows all the locations in the city centre

This year we get an extra weekend due to how the dates fall, meaning there are seven weekends to enjoy the festivities compared to the usual six.

It means the markets will open on Friday, November 8 and then run through until Sunday, December 22.

Christmas in Manchester is popular and tends to get busy, so it is a good idea to plan your travel route. Luckily, the city is very well connected.

We have outlined the best ways of accessing the Manchester Christmas Markets by public transport as well as by car. It is always a good idea to check the Bee Network for any last-minute road closures or diversions before you set off.

By tram

Travelling by tram is a great option as there are multiple tram stops around the centre which are close to different market sites. Exchange Square tram stop is located right beside the market stalls in the square and is close to the Cathedral Gardens market site.

Or take the tram to Piccadilly Gardens which is situated right next to Winter Gardens, the main hub of stalls in the city.

By bus

Piccadilly Gardens is a perfect place to get off the bus if you are heading to explore Winter Gardens.

Alternatively, you can get off the bus anywhere along Portland Street or at Shudehill Interchange if you want to avoid the crowds. From Shudehill Interchange you can reach Exchange Square in five minutes on foot.

By train

Victoria and Piccadilly stations are both centrally located and close to the markets. Victoria is close to Exchange Square, Catedral Gardens and St Ann’s Square, whereas Piccadilly is closer to Piccadilly Gardens.

By car

There are several car parks in the city centre including the NCP at Manchester Piccadilly Plaza (open 6am-11pm) and Chorlton Street (open 24/7).

You can find more information about car parks across the city centre on the Manchester Council website.