Manchester airport destinations: where to fly from the northwest

The most exciting destinations you can visit when flying from Manchester Airport.

Easily accessible to those living in Wales, the Midlands and the north, Manchester airport is a popular point of departure. Whether you want a quick European getaway or are planning a more exotic long-haul escape, Manchester has it all – and we’ve picked out 12 of the best destinations.

1. Antigua

Antigua is the perfect winter sun destination – it has phenomenal palm-fringed beaches, a laidback vibe and spectacular cuisine. This Caribbean island is big on sailing and hosts an annual regatta each spring. The best time to go to Antigua, when it’s at its coolest, driest and most bearable, is during our winter, mid-December to mid-April.

Where to stay in Antigua:
This beautiful Caribbean island is packed with indulgent all-inclusive hotels like Keyonna Beach Resort Antigua. But if you fancy something a little different, try out Wild Lotus Antigua and be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves as you camp out on the beach in a luxury tent.

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2. Cork, Ireland

Sat on the River Lee in the south of Ireland, locals affectionately refer to Cork as “the real capital of Ireland”. Here, a modern, hipster vibe is juxtaposed with tradition and it works beautifully. Chic waterfront restaurants sit next to cosy Irish pubs with live music blaring, while beyond the city there’s spectacular countryside to explore.

Where to stay in Cork:
Historic, elegant and traditional Hayfield Manor may be pricey, but it’s the perfect setting for a special occasion. If you prefer something a little cosier, more affordable and a bit further out, opt for Insiara B&B.

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3. Goa, India

This pretty state on India’s west coast has boomed in popularity in recent years, attracting partygoers, beach lovers and spiritual seekers. With Portuguese heritage, coconut-laced cuisine and miles of endless sand, it’s the perfect place to unwind and explore.

Where to stay in Goa:
For an indulgent 5-star stay, check out the Taj Exotica Resort & Spa. For something with a more intimate feel, The Yuppi Hippi Hideout is a great little guesthouse, while Quad villa is ideal for those seeking complete privacy.

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4. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Slovenia’s capital is the perfect place for a European weekend break. One of the continent’s greenest cities, Ljubljana is widely pedestrianised, making a casual stroll the best way of getting around. Many of the highlights like the castle, Old Town and riverside are all found within walking distance of one another and the centre is home to some of the country’s best restaurants.

Where to stay in Ljubljana:
If you’re looking for cheap and cheerful, Kva Hostel in the city centre has great reviews. Apartments are an increasingly popular option and there are literally hundreds to be found around the city, such as Dragon Bridge Beauty apartment. 

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5. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik may be renowned for its cold climate but that doesn’t put off visitors. Winter brings an increased chance of seeing the ribboning aurora borealis (northern lights), while the spring thaw fills the famous waterfalls of Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss and Skogafoss. It’s great for day trips – a journey around the Golden Circle can be done in a day from Reykjavik.

Where to stay in Reykjavik:
An increase of Airbnbs in the capital is driving house prices up, so if you want to keep the locals happy, opt for a hotel like Tower Suites Reykjavík. If you're keen to see the northern lights, stay somewhere a little further out. Hotel Rangá has its own stargazing observatory and is a firm favourite, but be sure to book well in advance – rooms here go quickly.

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6. Mauritius

You can use all the clichés in the world to describe Mauritius but they wouldn’t be wrong – sparkling seas, powder-soft sands and beautiful weather. This pristine island paradise continues to be in the top three honeymoon destinations for Brits – and it’s not hard to see why.

Where to stay in Mauritius:
If you’re prepared to blow the budget on an indulgent 5-star romantic stay for two, Constance Prince Maurice is one of the best hotels on the island. If you’re looking for something a little more private, there are plenty of villa stays to choose from, like the fabulous Heritage The Villas.

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7. Mombassa, Kenya

This is one of our favourite Manchester airport destinations. You can head out on safari from Mombassa to Tsavo East National Park, just over a three-hour drive away. Alternatively, you can enjoy pristine beaches, tumbling falls, fascinating bike tours and a rich underwater world. This eclectic port city is unique and full of charm.

Where to stay in Mombassa:
The luxurious 5-star Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa is just one minute’s walk from the beach. If you want to combine a beach break with a safari stay, Sarova Salt Lick Game Lodge in Tsavo East National Park is a fantastic and fun option, with treetop rooms surrounded by wildlife.

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8. La Palma, Spain

This island in the Canaries, which is a UNESCO biosphere reserve, is perfect for beachgoers and hikers alike. Palm-fringed beaches sit around its edges and La Palma is said to be one of the world’s steepest islands. Across its interior, mountains covered in verdant rainforest soar skyward before plummeting to dramatic volcanic craters and tranquil pine forests. This is not your stereotypical Spanish island.

Where to stay in La Palma:
Hotel resorts like Sol La Palma are few and far between in La Palma and apartments such as Apartamentos Cancajos or villa rentals like Casa Marena in the mountains are a popular alternative.

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9. Vancouver, Canada

Cosmopolitan, chic and packed with culinary delights, Vancouver is a top destination. Not only is the city a fantastic getaway in its own right, but it’s also the gateway to the beautiful Rockies where you can spot grizzlies and wolves by sapphire lakes or amid forest-strewn peaks. It’s also a popular departure point for Alaska cruises to see the vast expanses of the great white north.

Where to stay in Vancouver:
Hotels in Vancouver can be a little pricey. If you’re willing to splurge, opt for L'Hermitage Hotel. If you’re on a budget, B&Bs like O Canada House Bed & Breakfast are less expensive and offer a more homely feel.

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10. Marrakech, Morocco

Berber, Moorish and French influences have all left their mark on Morocco’s most famous city. With its colourful souks packed with spices, red-baked mud medinas and gorgeous outdoor restaurants, this is the place to be if you want to experience a different culture and way of life.

Where to stay in Marrakech:
You can’t visit Marrakech and not stay in a riad (a large traditional house centred around a courtyard). As with hotels, riads range in price – you could splash out at the centrally-located Riad Antara or opt for somewhere a little further out and easier on the wallet like Riad Mazal.

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11. Paphos, Cyprus

An ancient city found on the southwest coast of Cyprus, Paphos is renowned as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. Here, you can experience both ancient and modern life – wander around the fascinating archaeological site littered with Greek and Roman treasures before heading to the harbour for dinner, drinks and dancing.

Where to stay in Paphos:
For 5-star luxury overlooking the pretty Port of Paphos, spend your stay in Cyprus at the Annabelle Hotel. For something more mid-range, try the Cynthiana Beach Hotel.

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12. Cagliari, Italy

While it’s closer to Tunisia than Rome, Cagliari in southern Sardinia is undeniably Italian. Vespers zip past ancient Roman ruins and locals spend hours sitting in cafés sipping on cappuccinos. A holiday here isn’t complete without a visit to Poetto beach. This stretch of almost 8 miles of sand is relaxing during the day and at night, comes alive as nightclubs, bars and pubs spring into action.

Where to stay in Cagliari:
Stylish, elegant and set in beautiful surrounds, the boutique Hotel Villa Fanny has just 18 rooms. For something a little more homely, there are plenty of B&Bs to choose from like Fra Cielo e Mare.

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