Getting Around Manchester — The Bee Network is changing the game

Manchester's transport is currently undergoing a massive transformation into the 'Bee Network', integrating buses and trams under one banner with simpler, cheaper fares.

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Metrolink Trams

Tap in, tap out across the city

Official site

The UK's largest tram network. Use contactless (tap in/out) for the best value. It covers the city centre and reaches out to Altrincham, Bury, Ashton, and the Airport.

Key fares & facts

Zone 1 off-peak: £1.40
Any-zone daily cap: £7.10
Off-peak hours: After 09:30 Mon-Fri

Budget tips

Contactless is almost always cheaper than buying a paper ticket.
Trams run until midnight (1am on Fri/Sat).
There is no 'Hopper' between tram and bus yet, unless you buy a specific multi-mode ticket.

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Bee Network Buses

£2 flat fare for any journey

Official site

Manchester buses have moved to a franchised system. A single trip is capped at £2, making it one of the most affordable ways to move through the boroughs.

Key fares & facts

Single fare: £2.00
Any-bus daily cap: £5.00
Any-bus weekly cap: £21.00

Budget tips

The £2 fare applies regardless of distance within Greater Manchester.
Night buses exist on major routes like the 42 and 43 (Airport).
Use the Bee Network app for live tracking and tickets.

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Free Bus

Free travel around the city centre

Official site

Manchester runs two free bus routes (Route 1 and 2) that link the major rail stations, shopping districts, and business areas. Genuinely free for everyone.

Key fares & facts

Fare: Free
Frequency: Every 10-15 mins

Budget tips

Route 1 links Piccadilly, Deansgate, and Spinningfields.
Route 2 links Piccadilly, Victoria, and Shudehill.

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Local Rail

Fastest way between Piccadilly and Victoria

Official site

Rail is useful for reaching outer suburbs like Stockport or Bolton quickly. Piccadilly, Victoria, and Oxford Road are the main hubs.

Key fares & facts

Piccadilly to Victoria: ~10 mins
Railcard discount: 1/3 off

Budget tips

Check if your Metrolink ticket covers rail travel in certain zones (usually doesn't).
Advance tickets for local rail are rare; just buy on the day via app.