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Planning a trip to Liverpool? You’ve found the experts!
We’ve explored this vibrant city inside and out—from its legendary music scene to its unbeatable football (soccer) culture. Whether you’re a Beatles fan, a history buff, or just here for a good time, Liverpool has something for everyone. But with so much to see, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do, based on our own experience.
From walking in the footsteps of the Fab Four to uncovering hidden stories behind the city’s landmarks, these activities will make your time in Liverpool unforgettable!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Liverpool was this Beatles history tour! It wasn’t just about checking locations off a list, our guide brought stories about the Fab Four to life as we walked to iconic spots.
It’s one of the most popular tours in Liverpool and sells out fast – now we know why!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Liverpool
- 1. Learn about Liverpool's history and culture on a walking tour
- 2. Go in-depth on The Beatles history with a local guide
- 3. Visit North Wales' top sights and scenic locations on a full-day tour
- 4. Take a coach tour of the city to see more of the Beatles' sights
- 5. Relax on a sightseeing cruise and hop-on hop-off city tour
- 6. Go on a Beatles-themed electric bike tour
- 7. Skip the line at The National Museum of Popular Music
- 8. Take a day trip to the Lake District National Park
- 9. Taste your way through the city
- 10. Enjoy a unique night out with the Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience
- Where to Stay in Liverpool, England
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the UK
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Liverpool
1. Learn about Liverpool’s history and culture on a walking tour
- Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Time: 10:30 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Walking tour exploring key landmarks in Liverpool, including the Royal Albert Dock, the Beatles Statue, and Liverpool Town Hall, hear personal stories you wouldn’t find in a guidebook, get tips on photo opportunities
- Inclusions: Local Liverpool experienced guides, easy walking tour
- Rating: 5 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
On our first visit to Liverpool, we wandered aimlessly, spotting landmarks but missing their stories. A cool old building here, a Beatles statue there—without context, it all felt random. Learn from our mistake and book this walking tour.
It connects all the dots, taking you through Liverpool’s history, music, and culture in a way that actually makes sense.
You’ll start at the Bluecoat building before moving through Derby Square, where a medieval castle once stood. At the Royal Albert Dock, the city’s maritime past unfolds, from trade routes to Titanic connections.
Then, it’s on to the city’s musical legacy—snapping a photo with the Beatles Statue, strolling down Mathew Street, and standing outside the legendary Cavern Club. Even the small stops, like the Eleanor Rigby statue, added unexpected charm to the route.
What really made this tour stand out was the storytelling. Our guide, Carl, didn’t just rattle off facts – he brought Liverpool to life with fascinating details, fun anecdotes, and hidden gems you’d never spot on your own.
We walked away with a real understanding of the city, not just a bunch of photos. Plus, the pacing was relaxed but efficient, covering so much without ever feeling rushed. If you want to truly experience the city, this is the way to do it. But don’t just take our word for it—read hundreds of 5-star reviews here!
This tour fills up fast—secure your spot here so you don’t miss out!
2. Go in-depth on The Beatles history with a local guide
- Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Time: 10:30 am, 2 pm, and 2:30 pm
- Highlights: Get the lowdown on the places in Liverpool that have links to The Beatles, stop for a photo opportunity outside the Cavern Club, stroll past the Beatles Statue, the Hard Days Night Hotel, and the Eleanor Rigby Statue
- Inclusions: Private walking tour, local Liverpool-experienced guides, easy route
- Rating: 5 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Liverpool is a must for Beatles fans, but beyond the hits and album covers, how much do you really know? Their legacy is everywhere, but without a guide, the deeper stories can be easy to miss. This private tour filled in the gaps, taking us on a journey through the Beatles’ Liverpool.
We started at the famous Beatles Statue before exploring the spots that played a role in their early years, like the Hard Days Night Hotel and the Eleanor Rigby Statue.
As we walked through the city, we learned about the band’s humble beginnings, their rise to global fame, and even some of the challenges they faced along the way. The best part? You’re not just ticking off locations—the stories bring them to life. From little-known facts to music history gems, every stop has a tale worth telling.
The highlight for us was stopping outside the Cavern Club, standing in the very place where the band played nearly 300 times. They even rebuilt it in the 1970s using thousands of the original bricks!
This tour went way beyond our expectations. Our guide, Simon, was fantastic, effortlessly blending history with fascinating trivia that made the Beatles’ journey feel more real than ever. Just keep in mind that this is one of the most popular tours in Liverpool and sells out fast. Read the 5-star reviews here and see why Beatles fans love this experience!
Don’t miss out—book our favorite Liverpool tour here!
3. Visit North Wales’ top sights and scenic locations on a full-day tour
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 8:45 am
- Highlights: Travel by minivan and see the highlights and hidden gems of North Wales from Liverpool, soak in Snowdonia, explore Conwy Castle, see Swallow Falls, and more
- Inclusions: Driver guide, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 480+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Liverpool is lively, but escaping to North Wales without a car is a headache—confusing trains, slow buses, and hidden gems you can’t reach on public transport. That’s why booking this small-group tour turned out to be the best decision we could have made. It was the perfect way to experience the best of North Wales—without the hassle of figuring it out ourselves.
From the moment we left Liverpool, the rolling green landscapes of Wales unfolded before us. Our first stop, Llandudno, felt like stepping back in time with its grand Victorian pier and sweeping sea views. Conwy Castle was just as impressive, a medieval fortress standing strong since 1283.
But the real magic happened when we left the main roads behind and followed hidden routes through Snowdonia. There were waterfalls, winding mountain passes, and more sheep than we could count. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was an unexpected highlight, a marvel of engineering that seemed impossible for its time.
But what truly made the day was our guide, Frank. He was fun and engaging and packed the journey with stories that made every stop even more memorable. If you want to see the wild beauty of North Wales without the stress of planning, you won’t regret booking this tour!
Check out all the incredible stops and secure your North Wales tour here!
4. Take a coach tour of the city to see more of the Beatles’ sights
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy a special Beatles-themed coach tour around Liverpool, visit The Cavern Club, learn stories about the band, discover where members of the band once lived, including John Lennon’s house
- Inclusions: Entrance into The Cavern Club, exclusive souvenir postcard, translations booklets available for £2, 15% discount on food when dining at The Cavern Restaurant
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 5,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Liverpool is packed with Beatles history, but good luck seeing it all on your own. The city’s most famous spots—like Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, and The Cavern Club—are scattered across different neighborhoods, making it nearly impossible to visit them all without a solid plan. That’s why this coach tour was the best way to experience it all in just two hours.
From the moment we hopped on board, it was nonstop Beatles history, music, and fun. Our guides, Neil and Ross, made the experience even better with their humor and deep knowledge of the band. They kept us entertained, sharing stories and trivia that even the biggest Beatles fans might not know.
We stopped for photos at some of the most iconic locations, including Penny Lane and the famous red gates of Strawberry Field. Seeing Paul McCartney’s childhood home and the house where John Lennon grew up gave us a new appreciation for their early days. We even passed by St. Peter’s Church, the spot where John and Paul first met, and spotted Eleanor Rigby’s gravestone along the way.
Along the route, the music and atmosphere made it feel like we were traveling back in time. By the time we reached The Cavern Club, where The Beatles played nearly 300 times, it felt like we had relived their journey from local lads to global legends.
If you want a fun, easy way to see Liverpool’s top Beatles landmarks without wasting time, this tour is for you!
For an unforgettable Beatles adventure, book this coach tour here!
5. Relax on a sightseeing cruise and hop-on hop-off city tour
- Duration: 50-minute river cruise and 24-hour bus tour pass
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am – 4 pm
- Highlights: Liverpool River Explorer cruise and City Explorer hop-on hop-off bus tour, cruise by the waterside, including the Albert Dock and Liver Building, learn about the city’s history, see top Liverpool attractions by bus, including the Cavern Club
- Inclusions: River cruise, hop-on hop-off open-top, double-decker bus tour (hop on and off as you wish at the designated stops with your 24-hour pass)
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
On our first visit, trying to see Liverpool all on our own was a big mistake. We wasted time on walks, got lost on buses, and missed key sights. By day’s end, we were exhausted and unfulfilled. Don’t make the same rookie mistake and book this river cruise and bus combo tour—it made all the difference.
We started with the River Explorer Cruise, which departs every hour on the hour from Liverpool’s Pier Head. Floating along the Mersey, we got an amazing perspective of the city’s skyline while hearing stories about its maritime past, famous musicians, and even a few smuggling tales.
Back on land, we jumped on the City Explorer open-top double-decker bus, using our 24-hour pass to hop off at stops like the Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool’s two cathedrals, and Mathew Street—home of the famous Cavern Club.
Having a live guide made the ride even better, sharing history and fun facts we wouldn’t have learned on our own. Instead of worrying about directions, we could sit back, enjoy the ride, and hop off whenever something caught our interest.
We loved that this sightseeing experience was so simple and stress-free. Plus, it’s customized to your interests—you can hop off at the stops that matter most to you. If you want to see the city from every angle without overcomplicating your itinerary, this tour is a total game-changer!
Reserve your spot here and pay later when you book this popular combo tour!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Go on a Beatles-themed electric bike tour
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am and 2 pm (dates vary)
- Highlights: Small-group electric bike tour of the city’s top Beatles-related landmarks, discover John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s childhood homes and the church hall where they first met, visit Penny Lane, the grave of Eleanor Rigby, and more
- Inclusions: Use of bicycle, helmet, hi-vis vest, and waterproof clothing
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Trying to visit all of Liverpool’s Beatles sites in a single day is no easy task. Unless you’re up for hours of walking or navigating bus routes, you’ll either have to rush or miss out on key spots. That’s why we ditched the hassle and joined this small-group electric bike tour—and it turned out to be the most fun way to experience the Beatles’ Liverpool.
Riding through the city on e-bikes meant we covered way more ground than we could have on foot while still getting up close to each landmark. Our guide, Phil, was fantastic, filling the tour with Beatles trivia, personal stories, and deep knowledge of the band’s early years. As we approached each stop, he even played Beatles songs related to the site!
We stopped at famous spots like Strawberry Field, Penny Lane, and the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Seeing the grave of Eleanor Rigby was a surreal moment, and passing through Hope Street, Sefton Park, and the iconic Ringo Starr mural gave us a deeper understanding of the places that shaped the Fab Four.
There’s literally nowhere else you’ll find a tour that blends music, history, and adventure while letting you cruise through the very streets that shaped the Fab Four. If you’re a Beatles fan looking for an unforgettable way to explore Liverpool, this is the tour to book. Just hop on and let the music guide the way!
Don’t miss out—secure this small-group e-bike tour in advance here!
7. Skip the line at The National Museum of Popular Music
- Duration: 1 – 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am – 3 pm
- Highlights: Explore the evolution of British pop music from 1945 to today, see iconic memorabilia like David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust costume and Adele’s handwritten lyrics, play instruments in the Gibson Interactive Studio
- Inclusions: Skip the line entry to museum
- Rating: 4.4 stars (check 180+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This isn’t your typical museum visit, it’s a full-on celebration of Britain’s most iconic music legends, and we left grinning from ear to ear! The British Music Experience in Liverpool brings seven decades of sound, style, and cultural shifts to life, all under one roof.
The experience is divided into eight interactive zones, starting with the roots of British rock and moving through pop, punk, dance, and more. You’ll see more than 600 pieces of memorabilia, including David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust costume, Oasis setlists, Adele’s handwritten lyrics, and outfits that shaped the Spice Girls era.
But this isn’t just a look-and-leave experience. You can become part of the music too! In the Gibson Interactive Studio, we tried our hand at drums, keys, and electric guitar, guided by on-screen demos of classic British tunes. There’s also a dance zone where you can groove through the decades, no judgment, just fun.
It takes about 90 minutes to explore, but you can stay as long as you like. It’s the perfect activity for rainy days, music lovers of all ages, or anyone curious about how British music shaped the world. Whether you’re a Beatles superfan or just here for the Spice Girls nostalgia, this museum hits all the right notes.
This budget-friendly experience is very popular (especially on weekends), book here in advance!
8. Take a day trip to the Lake District National Park
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 9:15 am
- Highlights: Hassle-free Lake District day trip from Liverpool by comfortable minibus, discover some of the region’s best bits and hidden gems with ease, learn history and spot sights you could easily miss if exploring alone, upgrade your day by adding on a lake cruise (own expense)
- Inclusions: Map, narration, media, audio, air-conditioned vehicle
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 170+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Too many Lake District tours feel rushed. You get dropped off, snap a few photos, and barely have time to take in the scenery before being herded back onto the bus. We wanted something that let us enjoy the landscapes, wander through villages, and soak in the fresh air. This full-day tour delivered exactly that.
From the moment we left Liverpool, the day felt relaxed yet well-planned. Our first stop, Bowness-on-Windermere, gave us plenty of time to explore, with the option to take a lake cruise at our expense across England’s longest lake—an experience we can’t recommend enough for the incredible views!
Then, we wandered through Ambleside, a charming town with cozy pubs, historic mills, and stunning lakeside views. We grabbed a coffee from a local café and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, something you don’t get on rushed tours.
After soaking in the breathtaking valley at Blea Tarn, we headed to Grasmere, where the warm, buttery scent of freshly baked Grasmere Gingerbread greeted us before we even stepped inside. One bite of this sweet, spicy, slightly chewy treat, and we immediately understood why people travel from all over just to get a taste.
Our guide, Shelly, was the best! She pointed out must-see spots for when we wandered on our own, making sure we got the most out of every stop. If you’re looking for a full-day Lake District tour that lets you enjoy the experience, this is a fantastic choice. Book early so you don’t miss out!
Reserve this full-day tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
9. Taste your way through the city
- Duration: 3 – 4 hours
- Time: 1 pm (dates vary)
- Highlights: Small-group walking food tour in Liverpool, try at least five food/drink stops and a mystery gift to take away, hear commentary and insight into the history of Liverpool
- Inclusions: Guide, five local independent food stops (the equivalent of a full meal), mystery gift to take away, local drinks will be served at certain stops
- Rating: 5 stars (check 110+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Dining in Liverpool is a gamble—you might discover a local gem or end up with soggy fish and chips or inauthentic scouse. If you want to go straight to the good stuff, book this small-group food tour. For nearly four hours, we ate our way through the city, stopping at five independent restaurants and hidden gems we would never have discovered just by wandering around.
Each stop brought something different—bold flavors, local specialties, and stories that tied the food to Liverpool’s culture. Along the way, we passed landmarks like the Royal Albert Dock, the historic Liver Building, and the Bluecoat, making this a feast for both our stomachs and our curiosity.
Our guide, Paul, was welcoming, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about Liverpool’s food scene. He gave us insight into the history behind each dish and made sure we felt like locals rather than tourists. By the end, we were stuffed, happy, and leaving with a surprise treat in hand.
Make sure to come hungry—this isn’t just a tasting tour, it’s a full meal and an unforgettable experience rolled into one. Just read the 5-star reviews here and see why food lovers rave about it!
Book this popular street food tour here and eat your way through Liverpool!
10. Enjoy a unique night out with the Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience
- Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Time: 12 pm, 4:30 pm, 7 pm, and 9:30 pm (not available Monday)
- Highlights: Book a Liverpool cocktail experience, ideal for groups of friends, bring your own liquor to create four personalized drinks, use all provided cocktail additions such as bitters and syrups
- Inclusions: All ingredients to make your cocktails, such as liqueurs, bitters, syrups, and purees (everything except the liquor)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 260+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Grabbing drinks in Liverpool is easy, but this prison-themed cocktail experience brought it to another level. Instead of just sitting in a bar, we found ourselves locked up behind bars, dressed in orange jumpsuits, and smuggling in contraband liquor. Welcome to Liverpool’s Alcotraz, where you’re not just a customer—you’re an inmate.
From the moment we stepped inside, we were thrown into the role, sneaking in our own liquor while dodging the ever-watchful Warden. Luckily, the crooked guards and fellow “inmates” were on our side, helping us get our contraband into the hands of the prison’s expert bartenders.
What came next? Four completely unique cocktails crafted just for us, using what we brought along with a mix of bitters, syrups, and liqueurs. Some were fruity, others strong and smoky, but each one was tailor-made for our tastes, and every drink was a surprise.
The best part wasn’t just the drinks—it was the theatrics! The characters were so believable that for two hours, it actually felt like we were part of a prison escape movie. Between the dimly lit cells, the clanging of bars, and the hilarious interactions with the guards, the entire setting made the experience feel even more real. Time flew by, and we were laughing nonstop!
If you’re looking for a night out with a twist, this is it. Bring your best smuggling skills, keep your eyes peeled for the Warden, and get ready for some of the most creative drinks you’ve ever had!
Book this unique experience easily here!
Where to Stay in Liverpool, England
To make the most of your time in Liverpool, staying right in the heart of the action is the way to go! But with so many hotels to choose from, it can be tricky to know which ones are actually worth it. So to make things easy for you, I’ve rounded up the best options in prime locations for every budget!
Luxury – $$$
The Municipal Hotel Liverpool is a stunning luxury stay in the heart of the city. Housed in a historic building, this five-star hotel offers beautifully designed rooms with plush furnishings and modern amenities. Guests can unwind in the spa, take a dip in the indoor pool, or enjoy a drink at the stylish bar before heading out to explore—Liverpool’s top attractions are just a short walk away!
Room rates vary by season and suite, but typically start around £110 to £200 per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Dixie Dean Hotel is a stylish mid-range option in central Liverpool, perfect for travelers looking for comfort with a touch of luxury. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, with deep blue and gold accents that create an elegant atmosphere. Plus, the hotel has a great on-site bar, hot tub, and continental breakfast making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s top attractions!
Prices typically range from £80 to £150 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
The ibis Styles Liverpool Centre Dale Street is a fantastic budget-friendly choice in the heart of Liverpool. The rooms are modern and colorful, with comfy beds and all the essentials for a great stay. Plus, it’s just a short walk from major attractions like the Cavern Club and the Royal Albert Dock, making it perfect for exploring the city without breaking the bank!
Rooms start as low as £50 per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and book!
For more options, see all of Liverpool’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the UK
Renting a car in the UK is a fantastic way to explore beyond the cities—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the United Kingdom
- Drive on the left: In the UK, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. This means the driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in the UK are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. With Discover Cars, it’s super easy to filter for exactly what you need.
- City driving & zones: Cities like London and Birmingham have congestion charges and LEZs (low-emission zones). Double-check before entering—some zones require advance registration or payment.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the UK
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If your license isn’t in English or doesn’t use Latin characters, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the UK on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
Well, there you have it, our guide on the must-do experiences in Liverpool! From discovering Beatles history we had no idea about to seeing Anfield Stadium and North Wales, we felt these activities had to make our top 10 list because they helped us make the most of our visit.
If you’re planning on seeing other places nearby, have a look through our UK blogs here or check out a few popular ones below that I think you might like!
10 Best Things to do in London, England
7 Best Things to do in Manchester, England