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

Should you visit Bucharest or Manchester?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bucharest and Manchester. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a charming, historical, and less touristy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Manchester

Manchester is a cultural, vibrant, and dynamic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Bucharest and Manchester: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Manchester?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Manchester than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Manchester, Manchester has more sights and attractions for tourists. Manchester is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Bucharest attracts visitors for its historical sights. Manchester is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club. It is also well known for The National Football Museum. Bucharest is famous for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Manchester?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Manchester is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Manchester. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

Manchester is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Manchester. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Manchester Better for Nightlife?

Manchester is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Manchester is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Manchester Better for Music?

Manchester is well known for its live music scene. However, Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

Bucharest is not a live music destination.

Is Bucharest or Manchester Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest is very good for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Bucharest is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Bucharest or Manchester?

Manchester is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Manchester is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Manchester Better for Families?

Manchester is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Manchester is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Manchester Better for Couples?

Manchester is well known for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Couples visit Manchester frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Manchester Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bucharest and Manchester are nice places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Manchester. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

Is Bucharest or Manchester Better for Students?

Manchester is well known for students. However, Bucharest is not popular with students.

Many students visit Manchester. 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Bucharest and Manchester.

The public transit in Bucharest can get you around easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Manchester offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has bus, train, and tram options for travel.

Is Bucharest or Manchester a more walkable city?

Bucharest and Manchester both are nice when exploring on foot.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable place. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Manchester or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Manchester?

It's fun to spend time in either Bucharest or Manchester. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Manchester due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bucharest, and 2-4 days is enough time in Manchester.

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

Couples should spend more time in Manchester than Bucharest. 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 Manchester than Bucharest 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 Manchester.

One day in Bucharest or Manchester?

With museums and nightlife around the cultural city of Bucharest, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Bucharest, one day is sufficent for most.

People visit Manchester because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Manchester?

With nightlife and food around the destination of Bucharest, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

People visit Manchester because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Manchester?

Bucharest, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the vibrant city of Manchester. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Manchester?

Bucharest 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 popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bucharest and Manchester, we can see that Manchester is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bucharest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bucharest 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 Bucharest.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Manchester?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Manchester?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bucharest or Manchester in the Summer?

Both Manchester and Bucharest during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Manchester in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bucharest is generally a little warmer than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 23°C (73°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 16°C (62°F).

It's quite sunny in Bucharest. In the summer, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Manchester. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 176 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Manchester. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Manchester in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Manchester. Many visitors come to Bucharest in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Manchester for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

Bucharest is a little warmer than Manchester in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Manchester fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Manchester during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Manchester. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Manchester in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Manchester. Most visitors come to Bucharest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Manchester because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Manchester can be very cold. Bucharest can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bucharest is much colder than Manchester. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bucharest in January average around -1°C (29°F), and Manchester averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets more sunshine than Manchester. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Manchester receives 53 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Manchester. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Manchester in the Spring?

Both Manchester and Bucharest are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bucharest because of the activities around the city. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Manchester this time of year.

In April, Bucharest is generally much warmer than Manchester. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around 12°C (54°F), and Manchester fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Bucharest usually receives more sunshine than Manchester during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Manchester receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Manchester. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Manchester receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Manchester and Bucharest