The Best Things to Do in Liverpool

Liverpool is a city that effortlessly blends rich maritime heritage with vibrant contemporary culture. From its iconic musical legacy as the birthplace of The Beatles to its stunning waterfront, world-class museums, and passionate football scene, Liverpool offers something for every visitor. Whether you’re planning a weekend city break or a longer stay, our comprehensive guide covers the very best things to do in Liverpool to ensure an unforgettable experience in this dynamic northern gem.

Liverpool boasts an impressive collection of museums and galleries, many of which are completely free to enter. The city’s cultural scene is one of the richest in the UK, with more museums and galleries than any other British city outside London.

The Royal Albert Dock is the heart of Liverpool’s cultural scene and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This complex of dock buildings and warehouses was once the center of global trade in the 19th century. Today, it’s home to several major attractions including the Tate Liverpool, the Merseyside Maritime Museum, and The Beatles Story.

Located at the Albert Dock, Tate Liverpool is the home of British and international modern art in the north. The gallery hosts an impressive permanent collection alongside exciting temporary exhibitions featuring works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. Currently housed in a temporary location at RIBA North while the main building undergoes renovation, it remains a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Dedicated entirely to the city’s rich history, the Museum of Liverpool explores everything from the city’s sporting heritage to its musical legacy. The ‘Wondrous Place’ gallery celebrates Liverpool’s creative expression through music, sport, and art, while the stunning waterfront views from the People’s Republic gallery are not to be missed.

Discover Liverpool’s seafaring past at this fascinating museum that charts how the city came to prosper through global maritime trade. The poignant Titanic exhibition is particularly moving, exploring the strong Liverpool connections to the famous ship. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm, entry is free.

Located on the top floor of the Maritime Museum, this powerful and important museum examines Liverpool’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. It also addresses contemporary issues including modern slavery and human rights. The exhibits are thought-provoking and essential for understanding a crucial part of the city’s history.

Often called the “National Gallery of the North,” the Walker Art Gallery houses an internationally renowned collection spanning 600 years of art. From Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary works, the gallery offers something for all art lovers. The John Moores Painting Prize exhibition is a particular highlight, showcasing the best in contemporary British painting.

Perfect for families, the World Museum offers five floors of exhibits covering natural history, science, space, and world cultures. The planetarium and aquarium are particularly popular with younger visitors. Like many of Liverpool’s museums, entry is free, making it an excellent value day out.

As the birthplace of The Beatles, Liverpool celebrates its musical heritage with numerous attractions dedicated to the Fab Four and the city’s wider musical legacy.

The world’s largest permanent exhibition dedicated to the Fab Four takes you on a journey through their rise to stardom. Located at the Albert Dock, The Beatles Story features recreations of key locations in the band’s career, original memorabilia, and an immersive audio guide. This is an essential visit for any Beatles fan.

The legendary venue where The Beatles performed nearly 300 times is still going strong as a live music venue. While the original club was demolished, the current Cavern Club was built using many of the same bricks and occupies 75% of the original site. Enjoy live music every day of the week in this iconic Liverpool institution.

Located in the stunning Cunard Building at Pier Head, this interactive museum celebrates British music from 1945 to the present day. With costumes, instruments, and memorabilia from artists including David Bowie, Oasis, and the Spice Girls, visitors can also try their hand at playing various instruments in the Gibson Interactive Studio.

Hop aboard the colorful Magical Mystery Tour bus for a two-hour journey to Beatles landmarks including Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, and the childhood homes of the band members. The tour includes photo stops and fascinating commentary from knowledgeable guides.

Liverpool’s stunning waterfront and architectural heritage offer plenty to explore, from iconic buildings to scenic ferry rides.

Climb to the top of Liverpool’s most iconic building on this fascinating tour. Standing at 98.2m tall, the Royal Liver Building was Europe’s first skyscraper when it opened in 1911. The tour includes an impressive CGI movie about the city’s history and access to the 15th floor viewing platform offering spectacular 360° views.

Take the famous “Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey” for unbeatable views of Liverpool’s skyline. The 50-minute River Explorer Cruise includes commentary on the city’s history and architecture. One of the ferries was even colorfully decorated by pop artist Sir Peter Blake, designer of the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper album cover.

The largest religious building in the UK and the 8th largest church in the world, Liverpool’s Anglican Cathedral is an architectural marvel. Climb the tower for breathtaking views from over 500 feet high, or admire Tracey Emin’s pink neon installation under the Great West Window. The Cathedral also hosts regular events and exhibitions.

Just a short walk from the Anglican Cathedral along Hope Street is Liverpool’s Catholic Cathedral, affectionately known as “Paddy’s Wigwam” due to its distinctive conical shape. The stunning interior features colorful stained glass and a circular design that creates a unique spiritual atmosphere.

This magnificent neoclassical building combines a concert hall with a former courtroom and prison cells. Take a guided tour to explore the stunning Great Hall with its massive pipe organ, the intimate Concert Room with its impressive chandelier, and the underground cells that once held prisoners awaiting trial.

Liverpool’s sporting heritage, particularly in football, is legendary. The city offers plenty of opportunities for sports fans and those looking for more active experiences.

Home to Liverpool FC, Anfield Stadium offers fascinating behind-the-scenes tours that take you into the players’ dressing rooms, through the tunnel, and pitchside. The museum section showcases the club’s impressive collection of trophies and memorabilia from Liverpool’s illustrious history.

Everton FC’s historic home (until their planned move to a new waterfront stadium) also offers excellent stadium tours. Learn about the club’s rich heritage and see areas normally off-limits to the public. Both Liverpool and Everton stadiums are located close to each other in the north of the city.

For a more active experience, head to the Liverpool Watersports Centre at Queens Dock. Try your hand at kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding on the dock waters. Lessons and equipment hire are available for all skill levels.

Beyond the major attractions, Liverpool offers several unique experiences that showcase the city’s character and creativity.

This mind-bending attraction is filled with optical illusions, puzzles, and interactive experiences that will challenge your perception. Perfect for families and groups, the Quirky Quarter offers something completely different from traditional museums and galleries.

Liverpool’s creative and digital quarter is home to independent businesses, street art, and some of the city’s coolest bars and eateries. Visit the Baltic Market for street food, check out Ghetto Golf for crazy golf with a twist, or simply explore the area’s vibrant street art scene.

Just north of the city center, Crosby Beach is home to “Another Place,” an installation by renowned artist Antony Gormley. The work consists of 100 cast-iron figures spread across the beach and extending into the sea. It’s particularly atmospheric at sunset when the statues are silhouetted against the sky.

Home to Europe’s oldest Chinese community, Liverpool’s Chinatown features the largest Chinese arch outside of China. The area offers authentic Chinese restaurants, supermarkets, and cultural experiences, particularly during Chinese New Year celebrations.

Liverpool offers excellent shopping options and a legendary nightlife scene that caters to all tastes.

This open-air shopping complex in the city center features over 170 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. From high street favorites to designer boutiques, Liverpool ONE is the city’s premier shopping destination. The complex also includes a cinema and a mini-golf course.

For independent shops and cafes, head to vibrant Bold Street. This pedestrianized thoroughfare is home to vintage clothing stores, record shops, bookstores, and some of Liverpool’s best independent eateries. Don’t miss Mowgli for Indian street food or Bold Street Coffee for one of the city’s best brews.

The area around Mathew Street and the Cavern Club is the center of Liverpool’s nightlife scene. With numerous bars and live music venues, it’s the perfect place to experience the city’s famous musical heritage firsthand. Many venues offer live performances every night of the week.

Liverpool is a city of contrasts, where historic docklands meet cutting-edge architecture, and traditional pubs sit alongside innovative restaurants. Its rich cultural heritage, friendly locals, and vibrant atmosphere make it one of the UK’s most rewarding city break destinations.

Whether you’re a Beatles fan, a football enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a dynamic city to explore, Liverpool offers an abundance of experiences. Many of the city’s best museums and galleries are free to enter, making it an excellent value destination for travelers of all budgets.

Plan your visit to coincide with one of Liverpool’s many festivals or events for an extra special experience, and don’t forget to allow time to simply wander and soak up the unique atmosphere of this remarkable city.