National Football Museum

The world's biggest and best football museum, celebrating the beautiful game's history, culture, and heroes. Located in Manchester's striking Urbis building, it houses the FIFA Collection and offers interactive experiences that bring football's greatest moments to life. It ranks among Manchester's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one. Tickets cost £12 adult, £8 child, under 5s free and 2-3 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 2-3 hours Best for: essential pilgrimage for football fans with Skip if: You have no interest in football - the appeal is very sport-specific Cost: £12 adult, £8 child, under 5s free

You'll walk through galleries packed with memorabilia, test your skills in interactive zones, and experience the drama of penalty shootouts. The top floor offers panoramic city views alongside football's most treasured artifacts.

Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with lifts to all floors and accessible toilets

Essential pilgrimage for football fans with unrivaled collections and immersive experiences. That puts it near the top of any Manchester visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with Manchester Cathedral and Chetham's Library - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Manchester. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.

Skip if: You have no interest in football - the appeal is very sport-specific

• Book online for discounted tickets.
• Allow extra time for the penalty shootout experience.
• Check for special exhibitions and events.

Insider tip: The Hall of Fame voting booth lets you cast your vote for football legends

Photography allowed in most areas, flash prohibited near sensitive displays