Manchester tickets

Main Football Stadiums in Manchester

Old Trafford has been Manchester United's home since 1910, currently holding 74,197 spectators across four stands: Sir Alex Ferguson Stand (North, approximately 26,000), East Stand (approximately 12,000), Sir Bobby Charlton Stand (South, single-tier, approximately 20,000), and Stretford End (West, approximately 16,000). The Stretford End houses United's most vocal supporters. Located in Old Trafford, approximately 3 miles southwest of Manchester city centre, the stadium underwent major expansions in the 1990s-2000s. Old Trafford has hosted FA Cup Finals, England internationals, Champions League Finals, and UEFA Euro 1996 matches. However, the stadium shows its age with roof leaks and infrastructure issues.

In March 2025, Manchester United announced plans for New Trafford Stadium designed by Foster + Partners—a 100,000-capacity venue to be built adjacent to Old Trafford, becoming the UK's largest stadium (surpassing Wembley's 90,000). The £2+ billion project features distinctive trident-shaped masts holding a vast canopy (visible from Peak District, Cheshire, and Liverpool outskirts), solar energy harvesting, rainwater collection, and public plaza twice the size of Trafalgar Square. The new Stretford End alone will hold 23,500. Construction would take 5 years using prefabricated elements transported via Manchester Ship Canal, targeting completion by 2030-31 season. Old Trafford would be demolished, though some elements may be preserved.

Etihad Stadium (officially City of Manchester Stadium) opened in 2002 for Commonwealth Games before Manchester City moved from Maine Road in 2003. Current capacity is 54,000 with expansion to 62,000 planned for completion in January 2026. The North Stand expansion adds 8,000 seats across single-tier upper section, creating wall of noise similar to Tottenham's South Stand. The development includes 400-room hotel, sky bar with pitch views, rooftop stadium walk, expanded club shop, museum, and covered City Square fan zone (3,000 capacity). Located in Eastlands, approximately 2 miles east of city centre, Etihad is accessible via Metrolink (Etihad Campus station) or buses. The bowl design from athletics heritage creates some distance from pitch but impressive atmosphere for big matches.

Getting Around Manchester Between Stadiums

Old Trafford and Etihad Stadium are approximately 6 miles apart, taking 15-20 minutes by taxi (£18-25) in normal traffic or 10 minutes by car. Public transport connections require approximately 45-60 minutes including transfers. From Old Trafford Metrolink station (15-minute walk from stadium), take tram toward city centre to Manchester Piccadilly or Deansgate-Castlefield, then change to Blue Line toward Ashton-under-Lyne, alighting at Etihad Campus (5-minute walk to stadium). Alternatively, buses connect the stadiums via city centre though multiple transfers are required.

Manchester's public transport network operates under Bee Network branding. The Metrolink tram system connects both stadiums to city centre and Manchester Airport. Purchase tickets from machines at stations or use contactless payment (daily cap approximately £5-8). Old Trafford is served by Old Trafford Metrolink station on the Altrincham Line. Etihad Stadium is served by Etihad Campus station on the Blue Line. Match days see crowded services—arrive 90+ minutes before kick-off allowing time for queues and crowds.

Attending both stadiums in one day is theoretically possible if match times align (e.g., one at 12:30pm, another at 5:30pm), though this rarely occurs. More commonly, visitors can attend matches on consecutive days during busy periods or combine stadium tours with match attendance. Both clubs offer comprehensive stadium tours providing behind-the-scenes access when matches aren't scheduled. The Manchester Derby occurs twice per Premier League season (typically autumn and spring) plus potential cup meetings—tickets for these fixtures are exceptionally difficult to secure.

Distance from Manchester Airport to Stadiums

Manchester Airport (MAN), England's third-busiest airport, is located approximately 9 miles south of city centre. The airport serves 200+ destinations worldwide via 50+ airlines. To Old Trafford: approximately 9 miles, 15-20 minutes by taxi (£25-35) or 40-50 minutes by Metrolink. Take tram from Airport station (between Terminals 1 and 2) to Trafford Bar (43 minutes, approximately £4.60), then walk 10 minutes to stadium. Alternatively, take train from Airport to Deansgate station (27 minutes, £4-9), then tram or 25-minute walk.

To Etihad Stadium: approximately 10 miles, 20-25 minutes by taxi (£30-40) or 50-60 minutes by public transport. Take train from Airport to Manchester Piccadilly (13 minutes, £4-9), then Metrolink Blue Line to Etihad Campus (10 minutes). Total journey approximately 30-35 minutes excluding waiting times. Alternatively, take Metrolink from Airport to Manchester Victoria (59 minutes, £4.60) and change to Blue Line toward Etihad Campus. Match days create additional congestion—allow 90+ minutes from airport to stadium.

For stadium tours or non-match-day visits, travel is quicker with less crowding. Pre-book airport transfers or use Uber/taxis for convenience, particularly with luggage. Manchester Piccadilly train station in city centre provides connections to London (2-2.5 hours), Liverpool (45-60 minutes), Leeds (60 minutes), and Birmingham (90 minutes). City centre hotels are typically 20-30 minutes from either stadium via public transport.

When to Visit Manchester for Football

Premier League season runs mid-August through late May with Manchester United and Manchester City each playing 19 home matches. The Manchester Derby occurs twice per season (typically October-November and March-April) plus potential FA Cup, League Cup, or Champions League meetings. Derby tickets are extremely difficult to secure—book 12-20 weeks in advance through Livefootballtickets.com. The 2023 FA Cup Final became first Manchester Derby in a major cup final (City won 2-1), with 2024 final seeing United win 2-1.

Both clubs compete in European competitions: Champions League (if qualified) runs September through May with group stage matches September-December and knockout rounds February-May. City regularly qualifies for Champions League while United's European participation varies by season performance. European match weeks (Tuesday-Wednesday) create midweek opportunities for attending matches beyond weekend Premier League fixtures. December-January festive period sees compressed schedules with matches on Boxing Day, typically December 28-29, and January 1-2.

Avoid international breaks in September, October, November, and March when domestic leagues pause for national team fixtures. Manchester in autumn/spring (September-November, March-May) offers best weather for football with moderate temperatures (10-18°C). Winter matches (December-February) average 4-10°C with frequent rain—bring warm, waterproof clothing. Summer (June-July) sees no league football, though pre-season friendlies occur in July-August. Manchester derby history includes iconic moments: Denis Law's back-heel relegating United (1974), Michael Owen's last-minute winner (2009), City's 6-1 thrashing at Old Trafford (2011), and Agüero's title-winning goal (2012).

How to Get Football Tickets for Manchester Clubs

Securing Manchester Derby and big-match tickets through Livefootballtickets.com provides international visitors reliable access to sold-out fixtures. Manchester United and Manchester City have massive demand exceeding stadium capacities. Old Trafford's 74,197 and Etihad's 54,000 capacities cannot satisfy global fanbases. Both clubs have membership systems prioritizing season ticket holders and members—Livefootballtickets.com removes these barriers for international supporters without local memberships.

Manchester United ticket prices: £40-65 for standard Premier League matches in typical areas, £60-90 for matches against top-six opponents (Liverpool, City, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham), £80-150+ for Manchester Derby depending on availability and section. Hospitality packages range from £250-600+ including premium seating, lounge access, food and beverages. The Stretford End provides best atmosphere but limited availability. Accessible seating and family sections available throughout stadium.

Manchester City ticket prices: £40-60 for standard Premier League matches, £55-80 for big fixtures, £80-120+ for Manchester Derby and Champions League knockout matches. Hospitality packages £200-500+ depending on opponent and package level. City's ticket pricing historically slightly lower than United's though big matches command premium prices. The South Stand houses City's most vocal supporters creating best atmosphere.

Book 10-16 weeks in advance for standard matches, 16-24 weeks for derbies and fixtures against top-six opponents. Champions League knockout matches require booking immediately upon fixture confirmation. All tickets delivered electronically via email for mobile display or arranged for stadium collection. Cancellation policies vary—review terms when booking. Match rescheduling is common due to television broadcasts or European fixtures—Livefootballtickets.com provides notifications and rebooking options when schedules change.

Stadium Experience & Fan Culture in Manchester

Old Trafford delivers intense atmosphere for big matches though some criticize corporate influence compared to Ferguson-era intimidation. The Stretford End generates best home support with traditional United songs. Pre-match traditions center on pubs around Old Trafford Cricket Ground and along Sir Matt Busby Way. The Bishop Blaize (Chester Road) and Trafford (Warwick Road) are legendary United pubs packed pre-match. Matchday experience includes stadium announcer introducing lineups, "Glory Glory Man United" anthem, and passionate support for 90 minutes. Away fans are housed in lower tier of East Stand.

Etihad Stadium atmosphere has improved significantly since Maine Road days, particularly for big matches and Champions League nights. The South Stand creates best noise with City's hardcore support. Pre-match atmosphere builds around Etihad Campus with City Square fan zone (expanding to 3,000 capacity in 2026 development) offering entertainment, food, and drinks. Singing sections lead "Blue Moon," "Hey Jude," and "City, City, the best team in the land and all the world" chants. Away fans are housed in South Stand upper tier.

Manchester football culture reflects working-class industrial heritage combined with global commercialization. United fans claim historic dominance and worldwide following while City fans celebrate recent success and passionate local support. Derby matches create exceptional atmospheres with segregated fans, enhanced police presence, and intense rivalry. Respect team colors in appropriate sections. Red (United) or sky blue (City) shouldn't be worn in opposition areas. Football violence is rare with comprehensive security, though passionate atmospheres create intensity. Both stadiums offer family sections with appropriate behavior standards for introducing young supporters to football.

Planning a Football Weekend in Manchester

Manchester offers exceptional football weekends combining matches with vibrant city culture. Stay centrally in Northern Quarter, Spinningfields, or Deansgate for access to nightlife, restaurants, and Metrolink connections to both stadiums. Hotels range from budget (Premier Inn, Travelodge, £50-90) to mid-range (Holiday Inn, DoubleTree, £80-150) to luxury (Hotel Gotham, The Lowry, £200-400+). Salford Quays near Old Trafford offers hotels (Copthorne, Holiday Inn) convenient for United matches though less central for city exploration.

Saturday typically offers 12:30pm, 3pm, or 5:30pm kick-offs for one or both Manchester clubs depending on television scheduling. Attending Old Trafford at 3pm then exploring city centre for evening is realistic. Sunday matches at 2pm or 4:30pm provide additional options. Midweek Champions League matches (Tuesday-Wednesday 8pm kick-offs) allow daytime city exploration before evening football. Pre-book theatre, restaurants, and stadium tours as availability becomes limited on match weekends.

Beyond football, Manchester offers world-class attractions: Manchester Museum, Science and Industry Museum, John Rylands Library, Manchester Art Gallery, National Football Museum (city centre, celebrating English football history), Imperial War Museum North (Salford Quays), Coronation Street studio tour, and MediaCityUK. Northern Quarter provides independent shops, vintage stores, and street art. Spinningfields offers upscale dining and cocktail bars. Canal Street is LGBTQ+ hub with vibrant nightlife.

Suggested itinerary: Saturday morning National Football Museum or city centre exploration, early afternoon Old Trafford match (12:30pm or 3pm kick-off), evening Northern Quarter bars and restaurants or Deansgate cocktail lounges. Sunday late morning Science and Industry Museum or Manchester Museum, afternoon Etihad Stadium tour (if no match) or city centre shopping, evening meal in Chinatown or Spinningfields. Monday morning John Rylands Library or remaining attractions before departure. Manchester's music heritage (The Smiths, Oasis, Joy Division) influences numerous music venues and tours.

Best Nearby Cities for Additional Matches

Manchester's Northwest England location provides access to numerous football cities within 60-90 minutes. Liverpool, 35 miles west, is 45-60 minutes by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street. Liverpool FC (Anfield, 61,276 capacity) and Everton FC (Hill Dickinson Stadium, 52,769 capacity at new waterfront venue from 2025-26) create Merseyside Derby—one of England's longest-running rivalries. Liverpool's waterfront, Albert Dock, Beatles attractions, and vibrant nightlife combine with top-flight football.

Leeds, 40 miles northeast, is 50-70 minutes by train. Leeds United (Elland Road, 37,645 capacity, expanding to 53,000) returned to Premier League in 2025-26 after winning Championship. The Roses rivalry between Lancashire (Manchester) and Yorkshire (Leeds) creates intense Manchester United-Leeds United matches. Leeds offers Victorian Quarter shopping, Royal Armouries Museum, and growing food scene.

Burnley (30 miles north, 50-70 minutes), Blackburn (30 miles north, 40-60 minutes), and Bolton (15 miles northwest, 20-30 minutes) provide traditional Lancashire football towns with historic clubs. Sheffield, 35 miles east (60-75 minutes by train), offers Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday (both Championship) with famous Steel City Derby. Birmingham, 85 miles south (90-120 minutes by train), provides Aston Villa (Villa Park, Premier League) for extended weekends.

Travel Tips for Visiting Fans in Manchester

Currency is British Pounds Sterling (£). Contactless payment (cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay) works universally. Daily cap for Metrolink Zones 1-2 is approximately £5-8. Manchester weather is notoriously unpredictable—always bring umbrella and layers. Summer averages 15-20°C, winter 4-10°C, rain year-round. Winter matches require warm waterproof clothing. English is primary language with distinctive Manchester accent. The city is welcoming and multicultural.

Public transport includes Metrolink trams, buses (Bee Network), and trains (Northern Rail, TransPennine Express). Download Bee Network or Citymapper apps for journey planning. Metrolink operates until midnight (later on weekends). Night buses provide 24/7 service. Taxis are available though public transport is efficient for stadium access. Mobile coverage is excellent (4G/5G). International visitors should consider UK SIM cards (£10-20 for tourist data plans) or activate international roaming.

Tipping: 10-12.5% in restaurants if service not included (check bill). Minimal tipping in pubs when ordering at bar. Round up taxi fares. Manchester is generally safe with standard urban precautions. Pickpocketing occurs in crowded areas (Piccadilly Gardens, Metrolink). Emergency services: 999. Both stadiums have comprehensive medical facilities and stewarding. Manchester Derby matches have enhanced police presence ensuring safety, though passionate atmospheres create intensity. Respect opposition fans and avoid confrontations.

Manchester Football History & Rivalries

Manchester's football history dates to Victorian era. Manchester United's origins as Newton Heath (1878), a team formed by railway workers, evolved into Manchester United in 1902. The club nearly folded before businessman J.H. Davies saved them, enabling Old Trafford construction (1910). United won first league title in 1908. The Busby Babes era (1950s) saw young talented team win titles before Munich Air Disaster tragedy (1958). Matt Busby rebuilt the team, winning European Cup in 1968—first English club achieving this feat.

Sir Alex Ferguson's arrival (1986) transformed United into England's dominant force. After nearly getting sacked (1990), Ferguson won FA Cup and proceeded to win 13 Premier League titles, 5 FA Cups, and 2 Champions Leagues before retiring (2013). The 1998-99 treble (Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League) crowned his greatest achievement. Players like Eric Cantona, David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, and Cristiano Ronaldo created Ferguson-era dominance. United won 68 total trophies making them England's most successful club historically.

Manchester City's history includes working-class roots in East Manchester (Gorton area). Early success included 1904 FA Cup and league titles in 1937 and 1968. The club suffered relegation to third tier (1998) before rebuilding. Sheikh Mansour's 2008 takeover injected massive investment transforming City into elite club. Roberto Mancini won first Premier League title (2011-12) with Agüero's dramatic last-minute goal. Pep Guardiola (2016-present) elevated City to unprecedented dominance with possession football, winning 6 league titles including 2022-23 treble (first since United's 1999).

The Manchester Derby evolved from friendly competition to fierce rivalry. Historic moments include Denis Law's 1974 back-heel goal for City relegating his former club United (Law refused to celebrate), City's 6-1 Old Trafford thrashing (2011) announcing their arrival as contenders, and Agüero's 2012 title-winning goal. United historically dominated the fixture with 78 wins versus City's 59 wins (53 draws) in 189 meetings. However, City won 4 of last 5 meetings as of 2024, reflecting recent power shift. Wayne Rooney is all-time derby top scorer (11 goals) including iconic 2011 bicycle kick.

Stadium Tours & Fan Experiences

Old Trafford Museum & Stadium Tour (90-120 minutes, £25-30 adults) provides access to dressing rooms, players' tunnel, dugouts, and Manchester United Museum showcasing 68 trophies including 20 league titles and 3 European Cups. Tours include Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, Munich Memorial, and opportunity to sit in executive boxes. Legends Tours (£45-60) feature former players sharing stories and experiences. Book tours online via Manchester United website—availability is limited on match days and day before matches. The museum displays historic shirts, trophies, and memorabilia from Busby Babes, Munich Disaster, Ferguson era.

Etihad Stadium Tour (90 minutes, £25-30 adults) showcases state-of-the-art facilities including home and away dressing rooms, mixed zone, press conference room, players' tunnel, and pitchside access. Tours highlight City's history from Maine Road to Etihad, Commonwealth Games legacy, and recent trophy success. Matchday Plus Tours (available on match days, premium pricing) combine stadium tour with match attendance. The expanded North Stand development (2026) will add new museum experience and rooftop stadium walk providing panoramic views. Book via Manchester City website.

Both clubs offer comprehensive hospitality packages for matches ranging from basic (£200-300 including ticket, lounge access, refreshments) to premium (£500-800+ with fine dining, premium bars, best seating). Hospitality provides pre-match lounges, half-time refreshments, and post-match access. Corporate boxes accommodate groups (8-12 people) with private areas. Book hospitality directly through clubs or via Livefootballtickets.com packages combining tickets with enhanced experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions About Football in Manchester

Where's the best place to sit for atmosphere?

At Old Trafford, the Stretford End (West Stand) provides United's best atmosphere with hardcore supporters singing throughout matches. The North Stand (Sir Alex Ferguson Stand) also generates significant noise. At Etihad Stadium, the South Stand houses City's most vocal fans creating best atmosphere. For first-time visitors wanting full experience, sitting near singing sections enhances matchday enjoyment, though these areas are most difficult to secure. Family sections at both stadiums offer appropriate atmospheres with children.

How early should I arrive at the stadium?

Arrive 75-90 minutes before kick-off for big matches (derbies, top-six opponents, Champions League) allowing time for Metrolink travel, security queues, finding seats, and purchasing food/drinks. For standard Premier League matches, 60 minutes suffices. First-time visitors should arrive 90+ minutes early to explore stadium facilities and soak in pre-match atmosphere. Match-day public transport is crowded—allow buffer time. Pre-match pub gatherings typically start 2-3 hours before kick-off in areas around each stadium.

Can I bring a camera or phone?

Yes, cameras and phones are permitted at both stadiums for personal use. Photography and video for private enjoyment are allowed. Commercial use, professional equipment, or live streaming violate copyright and club policies. GoPros and selfie sticks are prohibited. Capturing match-day memories is encouraged but avoid obstructing other supporters' views when taking photos during play. Stadium security checks bags at entry—prohibited items include large bags, bottles, and weapons.

Are there family sections?

Yes, both Manchester clubs provide designated family sections with reduced pricing for children and family-friendly atmospheres. Manchester United's family sections are in North-West and North-East Quadrants. Manchester City offers family sections in various stands. These areas have reduced swearing and appropriate behavior standards managed by stewards, though atmosphere remains passionate. Both clubs have extensive provisions for introducing young supporters to football including family matchday experiences and junior supporters' clubs.

What should I do before and after the match?

Before United matches, explore pubs around Old Trafford Cricket Ground including The Bishop Blaize, Trafford Bar, and Lou Macari's Chippy (local institution). Atmosphere builds 2-3 hours pre-kick-off. Before City matches, visit City Square fan zone at Etihad Campus or nearby Manchester city centre pubs (15-20 minutes by Metrolink). After matches, many supporters return to pre-match areas or head to Manchester city centre (Northern Quarter, Deansgate, Spinningfields) for dinner and nightlife. Allow 15-20 minutes post-match for crowds to disperse before heading to Metrolink.

Is it safe for away fans?

Yes, both stadiums are safe for away supporters with comprehensive stewarding and police presence. Away fans are segregated with dedicated sections (Old Trafford East Stand lower tier, Etihad South Stand upper tier) and separate entry/exit points. Journey between city centre and stadiums is safe for away fans wearing team colors. Manchester Derby creates most intense atmosphere with enhanced police presence ensuring safety—serious incidents are rare. Standard urban awareness applies when traveling through Manchester, particularly late at night.

What happens if my match is rescheduled?

Match rescheduling is common in English football due to television broadcasts (selected 4-6 weeks before), European competition (affecting clubs in Champions League/Europa League), or cup fixture progression. Approximately 20-30% of Premier League matches are rescheduled from originally announced dates. If booked through Livefootballtickets.com, you'll receive immediate notification when rescheduling is announced. The platform offers rebooking for new dates, transferring to different matches, or refunds depending on circumstances and booking terms. When booking Manchester travel and accommodation, choose flexible/refundable options where possible given high likelihood of schedule changes for televised matches and clubs in European competition.