The UK’s main cities are connected by extensive highways (or motorways as they’re called in the UK) so getting to and from Manchester will be easy. The city center itself is quite busy and you’ll need to be aware of cyclists and trams. There are some pedestrianized areas with no car access, and one-way systems in operation.

Speed limits in the UK are in miles per hour, rather than in kilometers like much of mainland Europe. On highways and divided highways the limit is 70mph, while on other main roads it’s 60mph and in built-up areas it’s 30mph.

You’ll also see some areas that have 20mph limits, especially in busy suburban high streets or near schools. Speed limits are strictly enforced and speed cameras are very common throughout the UK. Seat belts must be worn by the driver and all passengers. The other main difference you’ll find is that you drive on the left and overtake on the right.

The best way to navigate the center of Manchester is by using the Inner Ring Road. There’s an Outer Ring Road too, which is useful for avoiding the center and to access nearby towns such as Bury and Bolton. From here you can drive in on Trinity Way from the south-west, Great Ancoats Street from the north-east and Mancunian Way from the south.

The M6 road heads south to Birmingham, England’s second biggest city after London, while the M62 heads to Liverpool in one direction and Leeds and the wider Yorkshire region in the other, if you plan on seeing more of England.

Manchester boasts a musical legacy the equal of nearby Liverpool, mighty sporting traditions, and a successful city center redevelopment. With the BBC moving much of its programming to Manchester recently, a new Media City has sprung up, adding even more creativity to this energetic, ever-changing town.

A sporting rivalry

If you’re a soccer fan, you’ve come to the right city. The north of England has enjoyed huge success in major tournaments, leagues and cups, and the two main teams – Manchester City and Manchester United – have divided a lot of the spoils between them recently.

City were a sleeping giant who spent years in the doldrums and lower leagues before a huge cash injection propelled them back to the summit. They play at the Etihad Stadium.

Old Trafford – also known as the ‘Theatre of Dreams’ – is home to United, who are currently reinventing themselves after the recent retirement of their most successful manager ever, the mercurial Sir Alex Ferguson.

When either team are at home, the city is a spectacle of either blue or red – or both if they’re playing each other. You’ll need to book tickets in advance if you want to enjoy this truly British phenomenon.

A trio of top museums

For a great insight into Mancunian life and history, there’s a trio of museums that are must-sees. First, you can get your fill of football with a trip to the National Football Museum. Then head south to the Museum of Science and Industry.

With permanent displays as well as a constantly changing range of temporary exhibits, it’s the perfect place to take children who’ll be thrilled by the many interactive elements.

While it teaches you about major industrial leaps forward that were made in the city, it addresses future challenges. For an alternative take on Manchester life, finish your cultural tour by heading to the People’s History Museum.

Park life

You’ll find a lot of green space between the concrete and stone in Manchester, with Alexandra Park being an old favorite. Opened in 1870, its designer Alexander Hennell wanted to avoid the straight lines of typical Victorian planning. Recently renovated, its curved paths are a perfect respite on a hot day.

Time to eat

Mancunians love their food, and the Manchester food scene has never been more interesting or varied. Carnivores will love the first Manchester branch of highly-regarded meat chain Hawksmoor. The burgers are mountainous, but regulars swear by the rib-eye steaks and triple-cooked fries.

The north of England is famed for its Indian food, so if you have a taste for spicy curries, head to Mughli in Ancoats for tasty charred lamb chops, gunpowder fries and melt-in-the-mouth butter chicken. The wonderful Bundobust is another stand-out, offering punchy vegan and vegetarian Indian street food.

Car rental in Manchester will be your passport to explore this proud city, as well as the highlights of northern England that lie beyond the city limits.