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

Should you visit Manchester or Boston?

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 Manchester and Boston can help you decide which place is right for you.

Manchester

Manchester is a dynamic, diverse, and cultural city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for live music, food, and shopping.

Boston

Boston is a proud, loyal, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and theater.

Manchester and Boston: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Manchester or Boston?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Boston than Manchester, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Boston is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, beaches, historical sights, christmas markets, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Manchester is known for its music and shopping. Boston is more touristy than Manchester and is popular for its enthusiastic sports fans, influential history, beautiful parks, and world-class universities. It is also home to The Freedom Trail. Manchester is popular for its strong music culture as well as being home to the world-renowned Manchester United Football Club.

How is Manchester different from Boston?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Boston is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Boston from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The city itself feels like a living museum. It is famous for Faneuil Hall, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabelle Stewart Gardner Museum, the USS Constitution, as well as the many sites along the Freedom Trail. There are also many museums on the campuses of the world renowned universities in the city.

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 Manchester or Boston Better for Theater?

Boston is great for theatre. However, Manchester is not a theatre destination.

Boston has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has many historic, beautifully restored theaters where you can enjoy a show. Head to the theater district for some of the most famous venues.

Manchester is not a theatre destination.

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

Both Manchester and Boston offer high quality local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Boston. There are many local dishes that utilize fresh caught seafood and comfort food flavors. The cuisine also takes advantage of the city's Italian and Irish populations. Famous local foods include New England Clam Chowder, lobster rolls, and baked beans. You'll find hearty sandwiches and filling meals that warm your soul.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is high quality in both Manchester and Boston.

Many people head to Manchester for the nightlife scene. 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.

Boston has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city is known for its breweries, craft beer, and vibrant university neighborhoods. It also hosts regular outdoor movies and world class sporting events. The nightlife scene is varied, with some areas catering to the student population and other areas focused on the professional or sport-loving crowds.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Music?

Manchester is notable for live music. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its live music scene.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in Manchester. There's a long running music reputation here. Some of the iconic bands that began here include Oasis and Stone Roses.

The music scene in Boston is active and vibrant. Popular music venues include Lizard Lounge, Blue Hills Bank Pavilion, and The Middle East.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Beaches?

Boston is adequate for its beaches. However, Manchester is not a beach destination.

Boston is a good spot to see the beach. There are a few urban beaches in the greater Boston area that you can explore on a nice day.

Manchester is not a beach destination.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for its Old Town?

Boston is very popular for its historic old town. However, Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Boston has a world-famous historical area. Boston is famous for its Freedom Trail, which takes visitors around the city's rich history. The oldest parts of the city are known as Boston Proper and include the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Historic Downtown, the North End, and the West End.

Manchester does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Manchester or Boston?

Manchester is notable for shopping. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Boston. Head to Back Bay for some of the best high end shops. There are luxury brands and boutique venues that sell local art or crafts.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Christmas?

Boston is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Manchester does not offer Christmas activities.

Boston is a very popular destination during Christmas. Christmas comes to life in the city with its Christmas Trees, holiday shows, and festivals.

Manchester does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Christmas Markets?

Boston is great for visiting Christmas markets. However, Manchester does not offer Christmas markets.

Boston is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. There are a number of European style Christmas markets that pop up during the holiday season around town.

Manchester does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Families?

Boston is very popular for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Boston is one of the most popular family destinations. It's filled with history, but there are also many activities for kids who need a break from all of the historical stuff. Popular activities for all ages include the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, and exploring the waterfront, gardens, and parks around town.

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.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Couples?

Manchester is notable for romance. Also, Boston is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Manchester is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Boston makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy history will enjoy exploring the city. Take a swan boat ride in the Public Garden and wander the unique route along the Freedom Trail. There are also many sporting and entertainment options around town.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Manchester and Boston are good places to visit.

Manchester is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find hostels around town and a number of visitors, particularly during the sports season.

It's common for backpackers to visit Boston. Like most larger American cities, the city has a handful of hostels to choose from.

Is Manchester or Boston Better for Students?

Boston is very popular for its student-friendly activities. Also, Manchester is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boston. It is a city of students, with a number of world renowned universities located here including Harvard University, Boston College, and MIT. Many neighborhoods are filled with students and there are many student-centered activities around town including festivals and an active nightlife scene.

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

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

Boston has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. There's the T, which is the subway, as well as a trolley, bus, and water transportation system.

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

Is Manchester or Boston a more walkable city?

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

Boston is a very easy city to get around on foot. The many parks and compact neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Boston or Manchester?

How long in Manchester or Boston?

In either Manchester or Boston, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Boston than Manchester because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Manchester, and 3-5 days is enough time in Boston.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boston 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 Boston.

One day in Manchester or Boston?

Manchester is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With theater and nightlife around the loyal city of Boston, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Manchester or Boston?

Manchester is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Boston, there's plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Manchester or Boston?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Manchester. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Boston, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Manchester or Boston?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the diverse big city of Manchester. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Boston is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Manchester and Boston, we can see that Boston is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Manchester is in Europe and Boston is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Manchester or Boston?

Boston has a larger population, and is about 49% larger than the population of Manchester. When comparing the sizes of Manchester and Boston, 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 Manchester or Boston?

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 Manchester or Boston in the Summer?

Both Boston and Manchester during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Manchester in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Boston for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Manchester is cooler than Boston in the summer. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Boston fluctuates around 73°F (23°C).

In Boston, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Boston. Manchester gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 304 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets less rain in July than Boston. Manchester gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Boston receives 2.9 inches (74 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Boston in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Manchester and Boston. Most visitors come to Manchester for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Boston because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Manchester is cooler than Boston. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Manchester in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Boston averages at about 54°F (12°C).

Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Boston during autumn. Manchester gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 194 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Manchester usually receives around the same amount of rain as Boston. Manchester gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.3 inches (84 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Manchester or Boston in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Manchester as well as Boston. The winter months attract visitors to Manchester because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Boston this time of year.

It's quite cold in Boston in the winter. The weather in Manchester can be very cold. In January, Manchester is generally much warmer than Boston. Daily temperatures in Manchester average around 4°C (39°F), and Boston fluctuates around 29°F (-2°C).

In the winter, Manchester often gets less sunshine than Boston. Manchester gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Boston receives 153 hours of full sun.

Manchester usually gets less rain in January than Boston. Manchester gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.4 inches (87 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Manchester or Boston in the Spring?

Both Boston and Manchester are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city are the main draw to Manchester this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Boston for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Manchester is around the same temperature as Boston in the spring. The daily temperature in Manchester averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Boston fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

It's quite sunny in Boston. Manchester usually receives less sunshine than Boston during spring. Manchester gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Boston receives 225 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Manchester usually receives less rain than Boston. Manchester gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Boston receives 3.5 inches (89 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Boston and Manchester