Home › Destinations › Liverpool
Liverpool, United Kingdom - Things to Do in Liverpool

Things to Do in Liverpool

Liverpool, United Kingdom - Complete Travel Guide

Liverpool, a vibrant port city in northwest England, is globally renowned as the birthplace of The Beatles and home to one of the world's most successful football clubs. This UNESCO World Heritage city seamlessly blends its rich maritime history with contemporary culture, featuring stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture alongside modern developments. The city's waterfront, dominated by the iconic Three Graces buildings, tells the story of Liverpool's pivotal role in global trade and immigration. Beyond its musical legacy, Liverpool offers world-class museums, thriving nightlife, and a passionate sporting culture that extends far beyond football. The city's regenerated docklands house fascinating attractions like the Albert Dock complex, while the vibrant city center buzzes with independent shops, traditional pubs, and cutting-edge restaurants. Liverpool's friendly locals, known as Scousers, are famous for their wit and warmth, making visitors feel immediately welcome in this dynamic northern English city.

Top Things to Do in Liverpool

Explore the Beatles Story and Cavern Quarter

Immerse yourself in the world's most comprehensive Beatles exhibition, then explore the legendary Cavern Quarter where the Fab Four first made their mark. The area pulses with live music venues, Beatles-themed attractions, and the famous Cavern Club where it all began.

Booking Tip: Beatles Story tickets cost around £17 for adults with combo tickets available for multiple attractions. Book online for discounts and visit midweek to avoid crowds. Look for packages that include Cavern Club entry.

Discover Albert Dock and Maritime History

Wander through this beautifully restored Victorian dock complex housing world-class museums, galleries, restaurants and shops. The area showcases Liverpool's maritime heritage and includes the International Slavery Museum and Merseyside Maritime Museum.

Booking Tip: Many museums offer free entry, but special exhibitions may charge £8-15. The dock is free to explore and most beautiful at sunset. Allow a full day to properly explore all attractions.

Experience Liverpool Football Culture

Take a stadium tour of the legendary Anfield, home to Liverpool FC, or visit Goodison Park for Everton FC. These tours offer behind-the-scenes access to dressing rooms, tunnels, and the pitch where football legends have played.

Booking Tip: Stadium tours cost £20-25 and book up quickly, especially on match days when tours don't operate. Book 2-3 weeks ahead online and check the fixture list to avoid disappointment.

Stroll Through Liverpool's Architectural Gems

Marvel at the city's stunning architecture from the waterfront's Three Graces to the magnificent Liverpool Cathedral and the ultra-modern Metropolitan Cathedral. The Georgian Quarter showcases some of Britain's finest period architecture.

Booking Tip: Most architectural sites are free to view externally, with cathedral donations of £3-5 suggested. Join free walking tours departing from the Town Hall or book private architectural tours for £15-20 per person.

Indulge in Liverpool's Food Scene

Sample everything from traditional Scouse stew to innovative modern cuisine in the city's diverse restaurants and food markets. Bold Street and the Georgian Quarter offer the best concentration of independent eateries and trendy cafes.

Booking Tip: Food tours cost £40-60 per person and typically last 3-4 hours. Book weekend tours in advance as they're popular. Look for tours that include traditional pubs and local markets for the most authentic experience.

Getting There

Liverpool is easily accessible by multiple transport modes. Liverpool John Lennon Airport connects to major European cities and some domestic routes, located just 8 miles from the city center with regular bus services. From London, direct trains from Euston Station take approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, while the M62 motorway provides the main road connection from Manchester and other northern cities. The city is also accessible by ferry from Belfast and the Isle of Man, arriving at the historic Pier Head terminal.

Getting Around

Liverpool city center is compact and highly walkable, with most major attractions within easy walking distance of each other. The comprehensive public transport network includes buses operated by Arriva and Stagecoach, with day passes costing around £4.50. Merseyrail trains connect the city center to suburbs and nearby areas like Southport. For waterfront exploration, the hop-on hop-off bus service is convenient, while bike rental schemes and taxi services including Uber provide additional options for getting around.

Where to Stay

City Center
Albert Dock
Georgian Quarter
Bold Street Area
Cavern Quarter
Ropewalks District

Food & Dining

Liverpool's food scene reflects its multicultural heritage and maritime history, from traditional Scouse stew served in historic pubs to innovative restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs. Bold Street is the epicenter of the city's dining culture, lined with independent cafes, international restaurants, and trendy bars. The Albert Dock area offers waterfront dining with stunning views, while the Georgian Quarter provides intimate bistros and wine bars. Don't miss trying a proper Scouse dish, fresh seafood from the nearby Irish Sea, or exploring the diverse food markets that showcase the city's international influences.

Top-Rated Restaurants in United Kingdom

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Makars Mash Bar

4.8 /5
(8718 reviews) 2
bar

Rules

4.6 /5
(3333 reviews) 4
bar

St. John

4.5 /5
(2955 reviews) 3
bar

Berners Tavern

4.5 /5
(2632 reviews) 3

Rabbit British Bistro

4.6 /5
(2482 reviews) 3

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal

4.6 /5
(2366 reviews) 4
all dining options →

When to Visit

The best time to visit Liverpool is during late spring through early autumn (May to September) when weather is mildest and outdoor attractions are most enjoyable. Summer months offer the warmest temperatures and longest days, perfect for exploring the waterfront and outdoor festivals, though this is also peak tourist season. Winter can be atmospheric for indoor attractions like museums and music venues, plus Christmas markets add festive charm, but expect cooler, wetter weather typical of northwest England.

Insider Tips

Take advantage of the many free museums and galleries - Liverpool has more museums than any UK city outside London
Book restaurant tables in advance on weekends, especially in the popular Bold Street and Georgian Quarter areas
If visiting for football, the atmosphere in pubs before matches is unmissable, but book accommodation well ahead during major fixtures

Explore Activities in Liverpool