A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Brisbane vs. Manchester for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Brisbane or Manchester?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Brisbane and Manchester can help you decide which place is right for you.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a diverse, cultural, and active coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Manchester

Manchester is a vibrant, dynamic, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brisbane and Manchester: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brisbane or Manchester?

You'll generally find more things to do in Brisbane than Manchester. Brisbane is bigger than Manchester, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Brisbane is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Manchester is more popular for its food, music, and big city activities. Brisbane is well known for its sports culture, beautiful weather, and outdoor areas. Also, Brisbane is famous for the Cultural Centre. Manchester is well known for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Brisbane different from Manchester?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Manchester and Brisbane. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Brisbane or Manchester?

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Manchester and Brisbane.

Many visitors head to Brisbane specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Cultural Centre is where you'll find many of the city's museums. It sits on the banks of the Brisbane River and is home to the State Library of Queensland, the Queensland Museum and Sciencentre, and Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art. This is also where you'll find the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Also popular is the Brisbane Botanic Gardens and the Wheel of Brisbane.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Manchester can be an interesting and educational experience. Head to the Science and Industry Museum, the Imperial War Museum North, Manchester Cathedral, or John Rylands Library & Manchester Central Library to see some of the cities most interesting sights.

Is the Food Better in Brisbane or Manchester? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Manchester is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Manchester has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find a great food scene with diverse restaurant options that include international flavors, vegetarian options, and more. There are also many great places to try craft beer.

Brisbane offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find all of the standard eateries around town, with casual cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and some fine dining experiences to choose from.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is very good in both Brisbane and Manchester.

Many people head to Brisbane for the nightlife scene. Fortitude Valley is the entertainment district in the city, and it really comes to life at night. There are also many venues that take advantage of the beautiful weather with outdoor and rooftop bars.

Manchester has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Music?

Manchester is great for its music scene. However, Brisbane is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Manchester draws a good crowd. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Brisbane is not a live music destination.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brisbane is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Manchester is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Brisbane. There are some good snorkeling and diving spots near the city. One of the best is the Tangalooma Wrecks off Moreton Island.

Manchester is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Beaches?

Brisbane is great for its beaches. However, Manchester is not a beach destination.

Brisbane is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. For the best beaches, you'll want to take a day trip out of town, but there are also some nice beaches right by the city. About 30 minutes from town is family-friend Suttons Beach, or you can stay in the city center and check out the man-made Streets Beach. Shorncliffe Beach is another option that's less than a half hour from town.

Manchester is not a beach destination.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Hiking?

Brisbane is very good for hiking. However, Manchester is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Brisbane. There are a number of hikes outside of town that you can enjoy as a day trip. Check out the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail, Keperra Bushland Reserve, or D'Aguilar National Park to the north of town. To the south is Toohey Forest Park, Springwood Conservation Park , and Venmans Bushland National Park.

Manchester is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brisbane or Manchester?

If you're looking to go shopping, Brisbane and Manchester both offer plenty of very good spots.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Brisbane. It's one of the most popular cities for retail therapy in Queensland. Queen Street Mall is an open air shopping mall and James Street is a favorite shopping street in town.

Manchester is an extremely popular place for shoppers. From jewelry to boutique clothing outlets, there are many places to shop around town. Head to Manchester Arndale, Trafford Centre, or Market Street for some of the best shopping.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Brisbane or Manchester.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Brisbane. Kids will love a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary or White Ridge Farm. And, of course, you should take a ride on the iconic Wheel of Brisbane. If you're willing to head out of town you can visit the fun Tangalooma Island Resort. Streets Beach is also fun to visit.

Manchester is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a number of kid-friendly activities around town including the popular Legoland Discovery Center. Another fun activity is taking a behind the scenes CBBC interactive tour at MediaCityUK. Animal lovers will enjoy visiting the SeaLife Aquarium or the Chester Zoo and sports enthusiasts will not want to miss a visit to the National Football Museum or doing a tour of Old Trafford where you can also visit the Manchester United Museum.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Couples?

Manchester is great for couples. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for romance.

Manchester is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can enjoy a visit to a spa, a nice meal out, or simply wandering down the canal. For a unique experience, you can hit to slopes at Chill Factore.

Brisbane is a nice destination for couples. The waterfront setting and romantic restaurants offer a nice getaway for couples. There are many outdoor spaces that are fun to explore as well.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brisbane is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Brisbane is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Many backpackers breeze through Brisbane in favor of other nearby destinations, but there are actually a number of hostels in town and some interesting things to do.

It's common for backpackers to visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Students?

For students, both Brisbane and Manchester are very good places to visit.

Brisbane is very popular with students. Many students appreciate the local vibe, warm weather, and excellent education opportunities that the city offers.

Manchester is a great coastal city to visit as a student. There's a large number of students as well as a great music scene and tons of festivals that make this a great city to do your studies.

Is Brisbane or Manchester Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Manchester is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Brisbane is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its public transit.

The public transit in Manchester can get you to most places easily. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Brisbane has a few public transit options. There are buses, trains, and ferries around town, but many people prefer to have their own vehicle. Ferries are the most fun and scenic way to get around.

Is Brisbane or Manchester a more walkable city?

Brisbane is great for its walkability. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Brisbane is very walkable. There's a good network of paths that make parts of the city walkable.

Manchester is a somewhat walkable place. Some neighborhoods are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Brisbane Worth Visiting? and Is Manchester Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Manchester or Brisbane?

How long in Brisbane or Manchester?

It's fun to spend time in either Brisbane or Manchester. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Manchester due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Brisbane, and 2-4 days is enough time in Manchester.

Families should spend more time in Brisbane than Manchester. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Brisbane, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Manchester than Brisbane. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Manchester that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Brisbane than Manchester if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Brisbane.

One day in Brisbane or Manchester?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the diverse coastal city of Brisbane, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Manchester is a big city with plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brisbane or Manchester?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Brisbane, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this coastal city.

Manchester is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Manchester, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Brisbane or Manchester?

Brisbane, a popular coastal city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Manchester is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brisbane or Manchester?

Brisbane is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Manchester is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Australia, The Best Adventure Tours to Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Brisbane and Manchester, we can see that Manchester is more expensive. And not only is Brisbane much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Brisbane is in Pacific and Manchester is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Brisbane would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Brisbane and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Manchester would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Manchester than you might in Brisbane.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Brisbane Expensive? and Is Manchester Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Brisbane or Manchester?

Brisbane has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Brisbane and Manchester, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Brisbane or Manchester?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Brisbane is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Manchester has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Brisbane or Manchester in the Summer?

Both Manchester and Brisbane are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Brisbane because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Manchester this time of year.

In the summer, Brisbane is much warmer than Manchester. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brisbane in January average around 25°C (77°F), and Manchester averages at about 16°C (62°F)in July.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Manchester during summer. Brisbane gets 256 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 176 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Brisbane. In January, Brisbane usually receives more rain than Manchesterin July. Brisbane gets 169 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Brisbane or Manchester in the Autumn?

Both Manchester and Brisbane during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brisbane this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Manchester for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

In April, Brisbane is generally much warmer than Manchesterin October. Daily temperatures in Brisbane average around 22°C (71°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

It's quite sunny in Brisbane. In the autumn, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Manchesterin October. Brisbane gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 97 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Brisbane. Brisbane usually gets more rain in April than Manchesterin October. Brisbane gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brisbane or Manchester in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Brisbane and Manchester. Many travelers come to Brisbane for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Manchester in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Manchester can get quite cold in the winter. Brisbane is much warmer than Manchester in the winter. The daily temperature in Brisbane averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Manchester fluctuates around 4°C (39°F)in January.

In Brisbane, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brisbane usually receives more sunshine than Manchester during winter. Brisbane gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In July, Brisbane usually receives less rain than Manchesterin January. Brisbane gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Brisbane or Manchester in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Brisbane as well as Manchester. Many visitors come to Brisbane in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Manchester for the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Brisbane is much warmer than Manchester. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brisbane in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Manchester averages at about 8°C (46°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Brisbane this time of the year. In the spring, Brisbane often gets more sunshine than Manchesterin April. Brisbane gets 259 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 144 hours of full sun.

Brisbane usually gets more rain in October than Manchesterin April. Brisbane gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Manchester and Brisbane