Getting around Manchester is easy and fun when you stay at MST Property Group. Our stylish short‐term rentals sit right in the heart of the city centre. You are just a five‐minute walk from tram stops, bus routes, and cycle lanes. In this guide, we share simple ways to explore the city by tram, bus, train, bike, or foot. You will learn how to tap in, buy Travelcards, and use journey planning tools. We also tell you how to find free hop‐on hop‐off buses and safe walking routes. Let us help you plan your journey and enjoy every corner of Manchester.
Ways to Get Around Manchester
1. Metrolink Tram Network
The Metrolink tram network is a light railway that connects the city centre to places like Salford Quays and Manchester Airport. Trams come often, so you never wait long at a stop. They are clean and have space for bikes and luggage.
Our apartments are just a three‐minute walk from Deansgate tram stop. In your welcome pack, we show you how to use contactless terminals and on‐stop ticket machines. Trams run early in the morning until late at night every day.
Key Details:
⭐ Frequent services mean no long waits.
💵 Price: Off‐peak day pass from £1.90 in zone 1.
📍 Nearest stop: Deansgate, 200 metres from MST rentals.
⏰ Hours: 6 am to midnight, seven days a week.
The tram is a great way to avoid street traffic. You can buy a System One Travelcard for unlimited travel on train, tram, and bus. MST guests get a Journey Assistance Card if they need extra help.
2. Bee Network Buses
The Bee Network is the name for all local buses in Greater Manchester. It is run by Transport for Greater Manchester. You can plan your bus trips with handy journey planning tools on their website or with Citymapper.
Our door is near a main bus stop on Portland Street. Buses here go to the Opera House, the Palace Theatre, and the National Football Museum in minutes. You can tap in and out at contactless terminals or buy a ticket at on‐stop ticket machines on the pavement.
Key Details:
⭐ Linked network of 10 commercial bus operators.
💵 Price: Single fare from £2.10 or buy a day Travelcard.
📞 Help Line: 0161 228 7811 for Service Info.
♿ All buses are wheelchair accessible.
We include a free local bus map in your room folder. Ask our City Hosts if you need any help.
3. Free Bus Service (Metroshuttle)
The free bus, known as Metroshuttle, runs three hop‐on hop‐off routes around the city centre. It links Piccadilly, Oxford Road, Deansgate, Victoria, and Salford Central stations. You can just step on and off as you please.
MST guests can grab a free Metroshuttle guide at check‐in. The bus is perfect for quick trips to the theatre, shops, or the Central Library.
Key Details:
⭐ Free hop‐on hop‐off service.
💵 Price: Free.
⏰ Route 1 & 2 run every 10 minutes, 7 am–7 pm. Route 3 runs 7 pm–11:30 pm.
📍 Main stops at Piccadilly and Victoria.
Each bus has ramps and low floors. It is a quick way to move in the centre without a ticket.
4. Train Services
Manchester has an excellent commuter network. Local trains run to Ashton‐under‐Lyne, Bolton, Oldham, Rochdale, Stockport, and Wigan. Inter‐city links on the West Coast Mainline take you to London, Glasgow, and Birmingham.
Our apartments are a short walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station and Oxford Road Station. We can store your luggage if you arrive early or leave late.
Key Details:
⭐ Major stations: Piccadilly, Victoria, Oxford Road, Deansgate.
💵 Price: Save with a 16-25 Railcard or season passes.
📍 Piccadilly is a 5 minute walk from MST rentals.
🚆 Coach companies also run from the station forecourt.
We keep train times in each suite. Guests get a 10% discount at a nearby café while they wait.
5. Walking
Manchester’s city centre is compact and easy to explore on foot. You can reach the John Rylands Library, the Whitworth Art Gallery, and Elizabeth Gaskell’s House in under 20 minutes. Walking lets you spot street art and hidden squares.
In each apartment, we leave a list of walking routes. Our City Hosts can point you to pedestrianised streets and safe crossings. Walking is free and healthy.
Key Details:
⭐ Most major attractions are within 30 minutes on foot.
💵 Price: Free.
📌 Walk past the Arch of Chinatown and visit Cheetham’s Library.
Carry comfortable shoes and a free map from MST. We even have reusable water bottles to keep you happy.
6. Cycling
Manchester is very flat and has many cycle lanes and cycling routes. You can ride the Fallowfield Loop for a scenic trip or use dedicated lanes in the centre. Bikes can be taken on some trams outside rush hours.
MST Property Group partners with Starling Bank Bikes for bike hire. Our guests get 15% off.
Key Details:
⭐ Bike hire starting at £2 per 30 minutes.
💵 15% guest discount with Starling Bank Bikes.
📍 Cycle hub at Oxford Road, a 10 minute walk away.
🚲 Secure bike storage at MST apartments.
We keep cycle maps in your welcome folder. A helmet and lock are free to borrow.
7. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
If you need a quick ride or travel late at night, black cabs and ride-share apps are ready. Hackney carriages roam the streets, and apps like Uber and Bolt are easy to use.
MST guests get a promo code for streetcars to Manchester Airport. Drivers can help with luggage.
Key Details:
⭐ Wheelchair accessible black cabs available.
💵 Price: From £5 for short city trips.
📞 Taxi rank at Deansgate next to the tram stop.
We can call a taxi for you or help book a private car for a set rate.
8. Park and Ride
To avoid city centre parking fees, try Park and Ride. You can park at sites like Eccles or Stockport and catch a tram or bus. It can save money and time in busy traffic.
Our guests get a 10% discount on Park and Ride vouchers at reception. The tram from Eccles takes just 25 minutes to the centre.
Key Details:
⭐ Low car park fees under £5 per day.
💵 Add tram or bus with your System One Travelcard.
📍 Main site: Eccles Park and Ride, 15 minutes by car from MST.
We can show you the best route on a map and plan your visit to nearby towns.
Tips & Tricks
- Use journey planning tools on the TfGM website or Citymapper.
- Tap in and out at contactless terminals on buses and trams for fast trips.
- Buy a System One Travelcard for all-mode travel at a set price.
- Pick up free maps and tram timetables at our front desk.
- Ask City Hosts in the centre for real-time help and event tips.
Wrapping Up
Getting around Manchester is simple when you stay at MST Property Group. Our prime location, bike hub, and free travel guides put you close to the Metrolink, buses, trains, and walking routes. You can tap contactless, ride for free, or walk to most sights. Let us help you have a smooth and fun trip in the city.
Visit www.mstpropertygroup.com to book your stay and start your adventure today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the easiest way to get around Manchester?
The easiest way is to mix tram, bus, and walking. A System One Travelcard or contactless tap makes trips simple. MST gives guests free maps and help.
Where to avoid in Manchester City Centre?
Manchester centre is safe and easy to walk. Just be aware of busy roads and follow pedestrian signals. MST is on a calm street away from crowds.
Is public transportation free in Manchester?
The free bus service (Metroshuttle) runs in the city centre. Other buses, trams, and trains need tickets or contactless payment. MST provides details on the free routes.
Is it cheaper to tap in or buy a ticket for Manchester tram?
Tap in with a bank card or phone for single rides. If you plan several trips, buy a day pass or Travelcard for better value.
How do I use a Metroshuttle free bus in Manchester?
Just hop on at any marked Metroshuttle stop in the city centre. The buses run in circles, so you can get off near the shops or attractions you want to see.
Are trams and buses in Manchester wheelchair accessible?
Yes. All trams and Metroshuttle buses have ramps or low floors. Major bus stops and tram stations offer audio and visual announcements to help you travel with ease.
