Events

Manchester Christmas Markets 2026: how to get there and back

The markets spread across the city centre.

29 October 2026 · 3 min read

What's on

Manchester's Christmas Markets fill squares and streets across the city centre every winter. The city council and Visit Manchester publish each year's dates and stall map, so check them before you go. Here is how to get there and, more importantly, home.

WhenNovember to early January

Where to go

Albert Square

By Manchester Town Hall

Ask to be dropped on a side street nearby, as the square itself is closed to cars.

Cathedral Gardens

Near Victoria Station and the cathedral

Handy if you are also seeing a show at the AO Arena.

Piccadilly Gardens

By Piccadilly, near the station

Busy with buses and trams, so agree a clear pickup point.

Exchange Square and New Cathedral Street

Next to the Arndale

Combine with Christmas shopping and get collected with your bags.

Travel tips

Friday and Saturday evenings in December are the busiest. Book your car home before you go out.
Pick a pickup point a short walk from the crowds, such as outside a named hotel or shop.
Groups of five or more: a people carrier or minibus keeps everyone together.
Check the official site for the 2026 dates and any sites that have moved.

Book ahead for December nights

December weekends are our busiest nights of the year. Book your fixed price car there and back now.

Book ahead

Getting into the city

The markets sit in the heart of the city centre, where many streets are pedestrianised and traffic is heavy at weekends. Being dropped a few minutes' walk from the square you want is usually quicker than trying to get right to it. Tell us which market you are heading for and the driver will pick a sensible spot.

Getting home

The busiest time to leave is late evening, when bars and restaurants empty at the same time. Booking your car home before you go out means you know it is coming. Choose a pickup time and a meeting point, such as the entrance of a named hotel, and the driver will message you when they are close.

Flying in for the markets

Visiting Manchester for a festive weekend? Book a transfer from Manchester Airport to the city centre with your flight number, and we will take you straight to your hotel.