A guide to the top things to do in Liverpool

Culture, authentic and exciting; these are just three words you can use to describe a weekend away in Liverpool.

Every street has something to offer, whether it’s museums and galleries, breathtaking architecture, street food or award-winning nightlife, Liverpool caters to the masses and will leave no stone unturned to make sure you have a great time.

When to visit Liverpool

We firmly believe you can’t have a bad time in Liverpool. But there are a few times of the year when you can get that the full-blown, authentic Liverpool experience.

LightNight, 15^th May 2020 – Liverpool’s annual late-night cultural light extravaganza, shining a spotlight on the city and its world-class cultural offering. Each year over 100 companies, including Liverpool’s heritage sites, galleries and museums, collaborate to put together a whole trail of events.

Liverpool International Music Festival, July – what was once a small summer festival has now blossomed into one of the biggest music events on the UK festival circuit, attracting a huge variety global household names including, Example, Nile Rodgers and Sigma. Not only is it one of the best festivals in the UK, but it’s also really cheap. Adult day tickets are just a tenner and kids go free.

International Beatleweek Festival,  21^st – 27^th August – can you think of anything more Liverpudlian than a week dedicated to celebrating the music of the most famous pop group the world has ever known, the Beatles. In the city where it all began, Liverpool. There’s so much to do and see, with over 70 bands from over 20 countries and fans from all over the world, you don’t need to be a Beatles fan to have the time of your life.

Where to stay

When it comes to hotels, Liverpool caters to fans of all budgets. From luxury big brands to independent hostels, quirky BnBs to city-centre boltholes – you can rest easy when you visit Liverpool.

Why not taste a sense of history at Aloft Liverpool, the former insurance building with its stunning architecture, or even the former White Star shipping line headquarters, 30 James Street – famous for its connection to the RMS Titanic.

If you’re after more of an apartment vibe, check out the BridgeStreet serviced apartments right in the heart of Liverpool ONE, go for posh without the mega-buck price tag at Posh Pads, or opt for some affordable luxury in a vibrant area at a beautiful former steelworks factory, The Nadler. Just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean it has to be bland. Liverpool’s hostel scene has never been so trendy…thanks to the likes of the funky Euro Hostel and Hatters, located in a beautiful Victorian building that dates back to 1846.

What to do in the day

• The Beatles Story – an award-winning homage to Liverpool’s most famous residents, The Beatles.  This immersive walk-through journey is unmissable for any Beatles fan. Not only will you find out more than you’ll ever need to know about the band, you’ll get a taste of the ’60s too, with recreations of The Casbah, Mathew Street and The Cavern.
• Check out one of Liverpool’s many museums and art galleries. If you love all things art then you’re in luck. Liverpool doesn’t shy away from exhibiting a range of artistic collections from a wide spectrum of topics.
• Explore the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool – no visit to Liverpool is complete without visiting the Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. This historic location has it all; from music and culture to heritage and handmade; food, drink and dancing. Whether you visit in the day or at night, you’re sure to have an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.
• Visit the home of two football clubs – whether you’re a fan of Everton or Liverpool or just enjoy football in general, you can’t visit Liverpool without checking out these iconic stadiums, both of which are bursting with their own unique history and heritage.
• Visit Southport – if you’re after something a bit chilled, Southport is definitely an option for a nice sunny day. With its boutique shopping, independent foodie hot spots and unbeatable sunsets, Southport is definitely a great spot if you want to experience something away from the hustle and bustle of Liverpool city centre.

What to do at night

• Anyone fancy a cocktail? Drinking in Liverpool is great fun. Whether you’re after a cute little pub, a lux champagne bar or something in the middle, there’s plenty of choice. Our personal favourite though is Crazy Pedro’s. If you’re a sip-and-savour type, Pedro’s is the place to be for one of the best ranges of spirits.
• Catch a gig at the Cavern Club: If you’re after a bit of live music then there’s no better spot than the legendary nightclub that has played host to all manner of illustrious figures from Liverpudlian musical history.
• Fancy a show? Liverpool’s famous for its wide variety of shows; whether it’s seeing one of the hottest acts on the planet at the M&S Bank Arena (previously the Echo Arena), or something more intimate, like a production at the Everyman and Playhouse Theatre, there’s a show for everyone’s tastes.
• Hit the clubs: If a lively nightlife is what you’ve come for then you’ve picked the right city! Liverpool sure knows how to party, and the clubbing districts come to life at night. There’s a range of clubs and bars that cater to people of all ages and music tastes.
• Get spooked on a ghost tour: Winner of ‘Guided Tour of the Year’ at the National Tourism Awards, Shiverpool takes you on a theatrically led ghost and history tour where you’ll experience the city’s most famous locations whilst learning about their hidden histories.

Where to eat in Liverpool

• Santa Maluco: If you’re after pizza with a twist then this is definitely the spot for you. Santa Maluco brings out a Brazilian flare with old authentic tradition to create the perfect pizza experience. Offering a variety of sweet and savoury pizzas in a modern, fun space, Santa Maluco is an experience for all your senses.
• Royal Albert Dock Liverpool: OK, so this isn’t a restaurant, but the area itself is filled with some of the best independent eateries Liverpool has to offer, and what better setting than right on the water?
• Röski: If you’re a fan of ‘The Gram’ then the eclectic British, photo-me-now dishes at Röski, is definitely a place for you to visit. Run by former Masterchef winner, Anton Piotrowski, you’re sure to experience big flavours, great service and full stomachs.
• Mowgli: The curry has fast become one of Britain’s most loved dishes, and an evening spent at Mowgli will do nothing but ignite this statement. The simple dishes are a million miles away from the curry stereotype. Instead, the menu is filled with extremely healthy, often vegan, and always extremely tasty flavours.
• Almost Famous: We’ve all had a good burger, but we promise they won’t come close to what you’ll experience at Almost Famous. This edgy, American burger house will have your mouth watering from the moment you walk in the door.

So, there you have it…all the best things to do in Liverpool in one place! We hope you’ll have a fun-filled stay whilst you’re visiting.

If you’re planning a road trip to Liverpool and are on a tight budget, have a look at our guide to planning a road trip on a budget. You never know, it might give you a few tips on how you can save a bit of cash to spend for when you arrive.