Manchester to Birmingham from $6: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• On your route from Manchester to Birmingham, plan your fuel stops; gas prices typically range from £1.50 to £1.65 per liter along the M62 and M6, with stations like BP and Shell having frequent stops.

• Be aware of Birmingham's Clean Air Zone (CAZ) which charges vehicles that don't meet certain emissions standards; check your vehicle's compliance before entering, and parking in nearby city center car parks like the NCP can cost between £15-£25 per day.

• Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time navigation updates as you approach Birmingham; anticipate traffic around the M6 toll area and consider taking the M54 as a potential detour if you're running into congestion.

• On your train journey from Manchester to Birmingham, you will mainly be traveling with Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry. Avanti West Coast offers a range of catering services, including a trolley service that provides a selection of snacks, drinks, and hot meals. In First Class, you can expect complimentary refreshments and a premium menu. CrossCountry trains also provide a trolley service, focusing mainly on snacks and drinks. Check their websites for updated menus before your trip: Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry.

• When booking your ticket, consider the seating options available. Avanti West Coast offers Economy, First Class, and Standard Premium seating, allowing a comfortable journey between Manchester and Birmingham. First Class seats offer more space and additional amenities, while Economy seats are more budget-friendly yet still comfortable. CrossCountry provides Standard Class and First Class options as well. First Class passengers on CrossCountry can enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose accordingly.

• Arriving at Birmingham New Street Station, you will find a well-connected transport hub, including buses and trams. For a swift journey to the city center, using the metro service is recommended. The quickest way is to take the West Midlands Metro Tram towards Wolverhampton, getting off at the 'Bull Street' stop for central attractions. If you need to leave luggage temporarily, Birmingham New Street has a luggage storage service. Plus, you can access clean restrooms throughout the station. Local transport details can be found on Transport for West Midlands for real-time travel updates.

• Ensure you book your ticket in advance through Megabus (megabus.com) or National Express (nationalexpress.com) to secure the best fare, as prices can vary from £11 to £15 and tickets may sell out during peak times.

• Arrive at Manchester Shudehill Interchange at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure, as boarding can be chaotic and buses may leave on time; knowing your bus stand (typically Stand G for Megabus) will help streamline your boarding experience.

• Upon arrival at Birmingham Brunel Street, exit the bus and follow signs for the City Centre; the station is conveniently located, and there are local buses and taxis available right outside to help you reach your final destination quickly; you can check the surrounding area and transport options on Google Maps for a real-time layout.