Liverpool travel guide 2025: hidden gems and surprises

Liverpool, a port city in the northwest of England, is known for its rich history and culture, musical heritage, and soccer tradition. Below is a detailed travel guide about Liverpool, covering travel preparation, highlights, transportation options, itineraries, food recommendations, descriptions of major attractions around the city, accommodation recommendations, and the best time to travel.

Travel Preparation

• Visa & Passport.
  • Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.
  • For your upcoming trip to the UK in 2025, remember to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)! This new policy is designed to improve entry security and ensure your trip goes more smoothly. With a simple online application, you can get your ETA approved quickly. Prepare in advance for a hassle-free trip to the UK and enjoy the fascinating blend of history and modernity.
  • Check if you need to apply for a visa, especially for non-EU visitors.
  • Prepare relevant visa documents such as invitation letter and itinerary in advance to increase the success rate of your application.
• Travel insurance
  • It is recommended to purchase a comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment, lost baggage and accidents.
  • Compare the prices and coverage of different insurance companies and choose a plan that suits your personal needs.
  • Ensure that the insurance will cover all activities, including extreme sports, etc.
• Currency preparation
  • Liverpool uses the British Pound (GBP) and it is advisable to exchange cash at a local bank or currency exchange point before departure or on arrival.
  • Find out about credit or debit card fees and exchange rates for international transactions so that you can choose the best method of payment.
  • Consider keeping some of your cash separate in case it gets lost.
• Packing your bags.
  • Pack appropriate clothing for the weather in Liverpool, especially rain gear and layered clothing.
  • Comfortable shoes are essential for exploring the city on foot.
  • Ensure you carry a cell phone charger, converter plugs and personal toiletries.
• Mobile phone and internet
  • Internet Preparation: It is recommended to always have a travel esim for your trip to the UK, PhoneSIMGo has an esim package designed for traveling tourists!

Travel highlights

• Football Culture
  • Liverpool Football Club (Liverpool FC)
    • Founded in 1892, the club boasts many national and international honors.
    • Anfield is the club's home ground, offering a rich matchday experience and fan culture.
    • Visit the Anfield Museum to learn about the team's history and legendary players.
  • Everton Football Club (Everton FC)
    • Founded in 1878 and steeped in history, Goodison Park is its home ground.
    • Visit Goodison Park and learn about the history and achievements of this team.
• Musical Heritage
  • The Beatles
    • Liverpool is the home of The Beatles and the band's music has had a profound impact across the globe.
    • The Beatles Story Museum showcases the band's history and achievements and attracts countless pilgrims.
    • Visit 'The Cavern Club', where the band first performed, and soak up the atmosphere.
  • Live music
    • Liverpool hosts a wide range of music festivals and live performances covering a wide range of musical styles.
    • Events such as the Liverpool Festival attract international artists and audiences.
• Historical attractions
  • Liverpool Waterfront
    • A World Heritage Site, it has witnessed the city's prosperity and growth.
    • Albert Dock is an important historical landmark, surrounded by the Maritime Museum and Tate Liverpool.
  • Liverpool Cathedral
    • The largest church in England, with a unique architectural style and ornate interior.
    • The church offers guided tours where visitors can learn about its history and architectural features.

Mode of transportation

• Public transportation
  • Liverpool has a convenient public transportation system that includes buses, trains and trams.
  • The bus network covers the city and fares are reasonably priced for daily travel.
  • Trains connect the major cities, making it easy for visitors to travel to Manchester, London and other places.
• Walking tours
  • With many of the city center's attractions within walking distance, walking is the best way to explore the city.
  • Stroll along Mathew Street to see historic buildings and street art.
  • Take a stroll through the city parks and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.
• Driving Tours
  • Self-drive tours are a great way to explore the surrounding area, especially if you want to visit the towns around Liverpool.
  • Make sure you know the local traffic laws; Manchester is a left hand drive.
  • Plan your route in advance and be aware of parking regulations to avoid fines.

Suggested itineraries for touring

1. Family Travel

If you are traveling with children, it is recommended to choose routes that focus on education and entertainment. You can start at the Museum of Liverpool and visit the various interactive exhibitions, followed by the Maritime Museum to learn about maritime history and shipping culture. For lunch, you can choose to enjoy fresh seafood at a restaurant near Albert Dock. In the afternoon, take the kids to explore Liverpool Cathedral, whose tower offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and is perfect for photo opportunities. In the evening, enjoy a wide range of international cuisine at The Baltic Market to satisfy the tastes of the whole family.

2. Music lovers

For music fans, the recommended itinerary should be centered around The Beatles Story Museum. Visit the museum in the morning to gain insight into the band's history and achievements. Then head to The Cavern Club to soak up the atmosphere of the Beatles' original performance venue and enjoy live music. For lunch, choose from a nearby pub and experience the local food culture. In the afternoon, visit the Port of Liverpool for beautiful waterfront views and dinner at a restaurant near the harbor. In the evening, enjoy Liverpool's music scene by attending a live music event in the city center.

3. Football fans

If you're a soccer fan, Anfield is definitely the place to be. In the morning, visit Liverpool Football Club's museum and learn about the team's illustrious history. Then take a guided tour of the stadium and experience the electric atmosphere of Anfield. If it falls on a match day, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance to enjoy the excitement of a live match. After the match, you can mingle with other fans at a nearby bar and share the game's highlights. For dinner, you can choose to continue enjoying this soccer feast at The Boot Room Sports Café.

4. Cultural explorers

For those who love culture and history, start at The Museum of Liverpool to learn about the history and culture of the city. Then head to the Walker Art Gallery for a wealth of artwork. Lunch is recommended at a local restaurant in the city center to try traditional British cuisine. In the afternoon, visit Liverpool Cathedral to explore its magnificent architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Finally, end a fulfilling day with a walk around Albert Dock and enjoy the beautiful views of the waterfront.

Whatever your type of trip, Liverpool has a wealth of options to make every day in the city full of fun and discovery!

Culinary recommendations

• Traditional Cuisine
  • Scouse.
    • Liverpool's traditional stew, usually made from meat, potatoes and carrots, is full of flavor.
    • You can find this classic dish in local restaurants or cafes.
  • Seafood
    • Liverpool's proximity to the coast makes fresh seafood a specialty of the local cuisine.
    • Try the local fish and chips or enjoy a delicious seafood meal at one of the harbor's restaurants.
• Restaurant recommendations
  • The Cavern Club
    • Not only is this a mecca for music, but it also serves delicious food that's perfect for dinner.
    • The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and often features live music.
  • The Baltic Market
    • A multi-cuisine market offering a wide range of international cuisines.
    • A relaxing environment, ideal for sharing a meal with friends.

Around the main attractions

Liverpool is not only known for its core attractions, the surrounding environment and facilities are equally worth exploring for visitors. Below are detailed neighborhood profiles of several major attractions, including dining, shopping, entertainment and cultural activities.

1. Liverpool Waterfront

• Albert Dock
  • Introduction: Albert Dock is one of Liverpool's most famous historical landmarks, once a busy freight port, now a venue for shopping, dining and cultural activities.
  • Attractions
    • Maritime Museum: displays history related to the sea and shipping, suitable for families and history buffs.
    • Tate Liverpool: a museum of modern art, often with temporary exhibitions and events to attract art lovers.
  • Dining: there are several restaurants and cafes close to the pier, such as The Smugglers Cove, serving fresh seafood and local dishes.
  • SHOPPING: Albert Dock is also home to several independent stores and souvenir stores where visitors can purchase specialty crafts and local souvenirs.
• Neighborhood Activities:
  • WATERFRONT WALKS: Take a stroll around the wharf and enjoy the sea breeze and harbor views, which are especially stunning at sunset.
  • Boat Cruise Experience: take an optional boat cruise to experience a different perspective of the harbor and learn about the city's maritime history.

2. Liverpool Cathedral

• Surroundings.
  • Parks and Gardens: There are several parks around the Cathedral, such as St. James's Gardens, which are great for walking and relaxing, especially on sunny days.
  • Cultural events: The Cathedral often hosts concerts and cultural events to engage visitors and provide a rich cultural experience.
• Dining options:
  • Neighborhood Cafes : There are several cafes near the Cathedral, such as The Chapter House Café, which serves light meals and drinks and is a great place to take a break.
  • Restaurants: around the Cathedral there are several restaurants serving British and international cuisine, such as the restaurant at The Hope Street Hotel, which features fresh, local ingredients.
• Shopping:
  • Handicraft Shops: the Cathedral has specialized stores selling religious related souvenirs, books and handicrafts for visitors to pick up as souvenirs.

3. The Beatles Story Museum (The Beatles Story)

• Surrounding environment
  • Cultural atmosphere: The museum is located near the Albert Dock, surrounded by a strong music and cultural atmosphere, attracting many music lovers to visit.
  • Street Art: There are many Beatles-related street art works in the surrounding streets, where visitors can take photos as souvenirs.
• Dining Options:
  • The Hard Day's Night Hotel: a themed hotel with Beatles-themed interiors and a restaurant serving British cuisine for music fans.
  • Cavern Club: a little away from the museum but definitely worth a visit, the birthplace of the Beatles, offering live music and drinks.
• Shopping:
  • Souvenir Shop: the museum has a dedicated store selling Beatles related merchandise such as music albums, t-shirts and peripheral merchandise, perfect for souvenirs.

4. Liverpool FC.

• Anfield Stadium.
  • Neighborhood: Anfield is located in a residential area of Liverpool and is surrounded by many local residents and fans in a friendly atmosphere.
  • Cultural Events: On match days, a large number of fans gather throughout the area, creating a lively atmosphere.
• Dining options:
  • The Boot Room Sports Café: a restaurant in the stadium offering a wide range of food and drinks, particularly suitable for pre-match dining.
  • Local Pubs: There are several pubs in the vicinity, such as The Sandon, which is where fans congregate for a lively match day atmosphere.
• Shopping:
  • Fan Shops: there are official fan stores near Anfield selling shirts, scarves and other club peripheral merchandise for fans to shop in.

5. Museum of Liverpool

• Surroundings
  • Cultural Center: The museum is located in the center of the city, surrounded by other cultural facilities such as art galleries and public libraries.
  • Waterfront Views: The museum is close to the waterfront, so visitors can take a walk after their visit and enjoy the beautiful views of the coast.
• Dining Options:
  • Museum Café: the museum has a café with light meals and drinks for a break.
  • Neighborhood Restaurants: In the city center, there are several restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines, from fast food to fine dining, catering to different needs.
• Shopping:
  • Art and Culture Shops: there are several independent art and culture stores in the city center selling books, arts and crafts for visitors to shop.

Recommended Accommodations

• Upscale Hotels
  • The Aldwych Hotel Liverpool
    • Offers a luxury lodging experience close to major attractions for travelers seeking comfort.
    • On-site upscale restaurant and fitness facility.
  • Hilton Liverpool Hotel
    • Modern amenities and convenient location for business and leisure travelers.
    • Offers full services including conference facilities and swimming pool.
• Mid-range hotels
  • Holiday Inn
    • Offers comfortable rooms and easy access for families.
    • On-site restaurant and gym.
  • Marriott Hotel
    • Elegant environment, suitable for business travelers and leisure tourists.
    • Offers a wide selection of room types to meet different needs.
• Economic Accommodation
  • Youth Hostels
    • Liverpool has several youth hostels for backpackers and budget travelers.
    • Offering shared and private rooms in a friendly atmosphere.
  • B&Bs & Short-Stay Apartments
    • Many local B&Bs can be found on platforms such as Airbnb for families or groups traveling together.
    • Choosing a B&B allows you to experience local life and enjoy the family atmosphere.

Best time to travel

• Spring (March through May)
  • Temperatures gradually rise, making it suitable for outings.
  • Although there is a lot of rainfall, spring flowers bloom and add life to the city.
• Summer (June to August)
  • Summer is the best time to visit Liverpool with moderate temperatures for outdoor activities and music festivals.
  • It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance to avoid crowds at peak times.
• Autumn (September to November)
  • Temperatures are moderate and suitable for sightseeing.
  • Although there is an increase in rainfall, the fall colors make the city even more attractive.
• Winter (December to February)
  • Cooler temperatures are ideal for enjoying the city's festive atmosphere and indoor activities.
  • The Christmas Market is one of the highlights of a winter visit, offering an abundance of festive food and handicrafts.

Travel Warnings

Before traveling to the UK, be sure to check the latest travel warnings. Although the UK is a historic and fascinating destination, safety is always a top priority. Stay alert and keep up with local news to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time exploring this beautiful country during your trip. View the 2025 UK Travel Alert Guide

Introduction to esim in the UK

When departing for the UK, don't forget to purchase an eSIM package from PhoneSIMGo! This high-speed internet service, exclusively for travelers, will ensure you stay connected throughout your trip. Say goodbye to high roaming charges, whether it's for navigation, video calling or social media sharing, eSIM has you covered. Activate it in advance and enjoy the convenience of internet services immediately upon arrival in the UK, making it easy to explore this beautiful land!

Liverpool Travel FAQs

1. When is the best time to travel to Liverpool?
   • The best time to travel to Liverpool is usually during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the climate is mild and there are fewer tourists.
2. How do I get from Liverpool Airport to the city center?
   • You can choose to take the airport bus, cab or train. The train is the fastest option and takes about 30 minutes to reach the city center.
3. How do I use the public transportation system in Liverpool?
   • Public transportation in Liverpool mainly consists of buses and light rail. You can buy a day pass or use a transit card (such as Merseytravel) to allow for multiple rides.
4. What are the must-see attractions in Liverpool?
   • Must-see attractions include Liverpool Cathedral, Albert Dock, The Beatles Story Museum, Anfield Stadium and the Museum of Liverpool.
5. What is the weather like in Liverpool? What kind of clothing do I need to bring?
   • The weather in Liverpool is changeable with frequent rainfall. It is advisable to bring a waterproof jacket, suitable for layering, to cope with the varying weather.
6. What family-friendly activities are available in Liverpool?
   • Family-friendly activities include visits to the Liverpool Maritime Museum, the World Museum and City Park.
7. What are the specialties of Liverpool?
   • Liverpool's specialties include 'Scouse', a variety of seafood and English breakfasts, or you can try the local pub grub.
8. How safe is Liverpool?
   • Liverpool is generally safe, but you still need to be alert and mindful of your belongings in busy tourist areas and when traveling at night.
9. How do I buy tickets for attractions in Liverpool?
   • Tickets for most attractions can be purchased in advance online, often at a discount and avoiding queues.
10. What are the shopping areas in Liverpool?
    • Liverpool's shopping districts include Liverpool ONE, St. Johns Shopping Centre and the Baltic Triangle for shoppers with different needs.

Conclusion

Liverpool is a vibrant and fascinating city, rich in history, music and culture. Advice on travel preparation, transportation, itineraries, food and accommodation will help you on your journey. Whether it's your first time here or you've been back many times, Liverpool will provide you with an unforgettable experience. We hope that your journey through the city will be filled with wonderful memories and unique experiences!