The Best Things to Do in Liverpool: Ultimate City Guide + 2-Day Itinerary

Last updated on March 11th, 2026 at 05:52 pm
Liverpool is one of my favourite cities in the world – and yes, I may be biased because I grew up here! From music and culture to amazing food and nightlife, Liverpool is vibrant, affordable, and full of surprises (and very photogenic).
So I wanted to share some of my favourite things to do in Liverpool, to give you a pretty good idea of how to spend 2 or maybe even 3 days in the city and build your own itinerary. You may not get to do everything, but it’s a start!
PS. This is a long post, you might wanna grab a cuppa before you dig in! 🙂
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The Best Things to Do in Liverpool

The Royal Albert Dock
The first place to add to your Liverpool itinerary is the Royal Albert Dock. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, it’s a must-see when visiting Liverpool.
Built in 1846, the Royal Albert Dock was the world’s first non-combustible warehouse system and played a key role in Liverpool’s rise as one of the most important ports in the British Empire.
The dock itself is a beautiful place to spend some time, with great bars and restaurants alongside museums, galleries and art installations. You’ll also find one of Liverpool’s most popular bakeries here – Rough Hand Made.
Art lovers should stop by Tate Liverpool, which is free to enter. Just outside you’ll see Liverpool Mountain, a striking public artwork by internationally renowned artist Ugo Rondinone. Commissioned by Liverpool Biennial and Tate Liverpool, the colourful stacked sculpture echoes Rondinone’s famous installation Seven Magic Mountains near Las Vegas.
One of the most important museums here is the International Slavery Museum, which I found incredibly moving and thought-provoking. You can also visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum for a fascinating look into Liverpool’s seafaring past.


On the other side of the dock you’ll find The Beatles Story, an immersive museum dedicated to The Beatles. It’s great fun to explore and made me feel incredibly proud of our city’s musical heritage.
The exhibits trace the band’s journey from their skiffle beginnings as The Quarrymen and the early days at the Casbah Coffee Club and The Cavern Club, to their formative years performing in Hamburg, their partnership with manager Brian Epstein, the frenzy of Beatlemania and the band’s lasting cultural impact.
I’m not sure what came over me, but in the final room dedicated to John Lennon, I found myself getting a bit teary while listening to Imagine. The words of that song somehow feel more relevant today than ever.
For something different, you can also have dinner/drinks aboard the MV Royal Daffodil. A ship, turned restaurant!

Liverpool Waterfront & the Pier Head
Another highlight of the city is the Liverpool waterfront at the Pier Head, where you’ll find some of Liverpool’s most iconic landmarks. The area is dominated by the famous Three Graces – the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building – which together form one of the most recognisable skylines in the UK.
This stretch of waterfront is also one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset over the River Mersey.
For fantastic views across the city and of the famous Liver Birds, you can take the Royal Liver Building 360 tour. The panoramic views over the River Mersey and the waterfront are incredible. If you fancy a drink with a view, Gino D’Acampo 360 Sky Bar also offers spectacular vistas across the city.
Inside the Cunard Building you’ll find the British Music Experience, which is one of my favourite attractions in Liverpool. Music is such a huge part of British culture (and a big part of my life), so seeing so much of it brought together in one place was an incredible, nostalgic and uplifting experience.


The interactive exhibition takes you through the different eras of British music, with stage costumes from artists like David Bowie and Spice Girls, and plenty of classic songs playing as you explore.
You’ll also find the famous Beatles Statue on the waterfront, where you can grab a photo with John, Paul, George and Ringo as they stride along the Pier Head.
The Pier Head is also where you can hop aboard the Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey, which I highly recommend! The Liverpool skyline is probably one of the most recognisable and beautiful skylines in the world and there’s no better place to view it than from the ferry. They also play the famous song by Gerry and the Pacemakers at various points during the journey.
The waterfront is also home to the excellent Museum of Liverpool, where you can learn about the city’s fascinating history, as well as the Open Eye Gallery, a free photography gallery showcasing contemporary work.
Right by the ferry terminal you’ll also find the Pier Head section of The Beatles Story, featuring the British Invasion Exhibition, the Hidden Gallery and the Fab4 Café.

Mathew Street & The Cavern Quarter
Mathew Street is at the heart of Liverpool’s musical heritage and has a pulse all its own. Famous as the birthplace of The Beatles, the street is home to the legendary The Cavern Club and you’ll also find statues of John Lennon and Cilla Black, as well as various Beatles-themed bars like Rubber Soul.
Mathew Street is always buzzing with energy, particularly on weekends when locals, tourists, and stag and hen parties mingle in a lively, colourful atmosphere. In fact, it’s part of the Mississippi Blues Trail – a nod to Liverpool’s connection to the music that shaped the world – with the marker placed just opposite The Cavern Club.
It’s the British equivalent of Beale Street (in Memphis), Bourbon Street (in New Orleans) and Broadway or Printer’s Alley (in Nashville) aka America’s Blues Highway. You can see my guide to New Orleans, Memphis and Nashville here.

Take a City Tour
If you want to dive deeper into the city’s history and culture, there are plenty of tours available in Liverpool.
Fans of The Beatles might enjoy a bus tour that takes visitors to key Beatles landmarks across the city, including their childhood homes, Strawberry Field and Penny Lane.
Another easy way to explore the city is on the Liverpool City Explorer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. The open-top bus stops at many of Liverpool’s main attractions and is a great option if you want to cover a lot of ground without too much walking. The live commentary also gives a fun introduction to the city’s history, culture, and famous residents.
There are also several free walking tours in Liverpool, which are a fantastic way to learn more about Liverpool’s fascinating history, architecture, and culture. I joined one a while back and really enjoyed it – the guides were knowledgeable, entertaining, and full of great local stories you probably wouldn’t discover on your own.
You can even do a Peaky Blinders tour!

Take a Food Tour
Speaking of tours, I’m a huge fan of food tours. I always think they’re one of the best ways to get to know a city because you’re not just eating great food – you’re also learning about the history, culture, and local stories along the way.
Liverpool has a fantastic food scene, from classic Scouse pubs to modern independent restaurants, so a food tour is a great way to sample a bit of everything without having to plan it all yourself. The Liverpool Food Tour looks particularly good, taking you around some of the city’s best independent eateries while sharing insights into Liverpool’s culinary history and neighbourhood culture.

Hope Street & the Georgian Quarter
Hope Street is one of Liverpool’s most charming thoroughfares, packed with culture, history, and some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes. At its southern end stands the magnificent Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. It’s free to enter the cathedral, but for £5.50 you can climb the Vestey Tower for stunning 360-degree views across the city – an absolute must for any visitor.
Strolling along Hope Street, you’ll encounter the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) and the playful suitcases sculpture called A Case History. The street is also home to some of Liverpool’s finest eateries and cafes.
Hope Street is also a cultural hotspot. The Liverpool Philharmonic hosts the UK’s oldest continuing professional symphony orchestra, and opposite it is the quirky and historic Philharmonic Dining Rooms (The Phil) is the very spot where Paul McCartney performed on Carpool Karaoke!
Continue on and you’ll come to the Everyman Theatre, my favourite theatre in the city. If you’re here over the festive period, definitely try to see the annual ‘Rock n’ Roll’ panto. It’s one of my favourite things to do in Liverpool, is always hilarious and the actors are also the band – it’s fun day out for all the family
At the northern end of Hope Street, you’ll find Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral – yes we have two! Affectionately known as Paddy’s Wig Wam, due to its shape and the fact that it was built primarily for the large Irish community in Liverpool.


Chinatown
Not far from Bold Street, you’ll find Liverpool Chinatown, home to the oldest Chinese community in Europe. The area is marked by the magnificentLiverpool Chinese Arch, an elaborate ceremonial gateway that is one of Liverpool’s most striking landmarks.
The surrounding streets are filled with Chinese restaurants, bakeries, and supermarkets, making it a great place to stop for authentic food or pick up a few unusual ingredients. It’s particularly lively during Chinese New Year, when the neighbourhood comes alive with dragon dances, music, and celebrations.


Bold Street & Ropewalks
Another of my favourite things to do in Liverpool is walking around Bold Street and Ropewalks.
Within the few blocks formed by Bold Street, Berry Street, Duke Street, and Hanover Street – plus smaller streets like Seel Street, Slater Street, and Wood Street – you’ll find some of the city’s quirkiest boutiques, vintage stores, and two Utility shops on Bold Street (there’s also one in Liverpool One).
At the far end of the street, you’ll see St Luke’s or as we call it, the ‘Bombed Out’ church. It was heavily bombed during WWII and the inside was destroyed, however, the outer shell remained completely intact – you can see right through it. These days it’s used for exhibitions and events. It’s being renovated at the moment, but is a very cool space to visit when it’s open!
Around here you’ll also find FACT, the Foundation for Art and Creative Technology, home to galleries, a cinema, a café, and a bar.

The Baltic Triangle
About a 15-minute walk from the city centre, you’ll find the Baltic Triangle – often described as Liverpool’s coolest neighbourhood and the heart of the city’s creative scene. Once filled with derelict warehouses and forgotten industrial buildings, the area has transformed into a lively hub of independent businesses, music venues, street art, and creative studios.
It still looks a little rough around the edges, with its industrial architecture and graffiti-covered walls, but that’s all part of the charm. Behind those warehouse doors you’ll find some of the city’s most exciting bars, restaurants, and cultural spaces.
One of the stand-out venues here is Camp and Furnace – part bar, part restaurant, part music venue, and part creative event space. It hosts everything from food festivals and themed parties to live music nights, so it’s always worth checking their events calendar to see what’s on.
While you’re wandering around, keep an eye out for the fantastic street art scattered throughout the neighbourhood. One of the most popular pieces is the colourful Liver Bird Wings mural by local artist Paul Curtis – a perfect photo spot and a great example of the creativity that defines the Baltic Triangle.


Liverpool One & Chavasse Park
Right in the heart of the city is Liverpool ONE, a stylish open-air shopping and entertainment district that completely transformed the centre of Liverpool when it opened in 2008. With hundreds of shops, restaurants, and bars, it’s the place to go if you’re in the mood for a bit of retail therapy or simply want to soak up the buzz of the city.
There are often events happening here throughout the year, from seasonal markets to outdoor screenings, and the cafés and terraces make it a great place to sit back and do a bit of people-watching.
Just behind the shopping district you’ll find Chavasse Park, a green space set right above the shops below. On a sunny day it’s one of the best spots in the city centre to relax on the grass with a coffee or grab a drink at one of the surrounding restaurants and bars.
Not far away is The Bluecoat, a beautiful Grade I listed building that acts as a hub for the arts and has also been used as a filming location for several productions. Its peaceful courtyard, galleries, and independent café make it a lovely little escape from the busy shopping streets.

The Cultural Quarter
Around Liverpool Lime Street Station and William Brown Street is what’s known as Liverpool’s Cultural Quarter, an area packed with some of the city’s most impressive historic buildings, museums, galleries, and theatres.
Dominating the area is the magnificent St George’s Hall, often ranked among the finest neoclassical buildings in Europe. This grand landmark hosts concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year, including the Liverpool Christmas Markets, but even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth admiring from the outside. The huge columns and sweeping steps make it one of Liverpool’s most iconic architectural masterpieces.
Just opposite stands the Liverpool Empire Theatre, the largest two-tier theatre in the UK and the city’s main venue for major touring productions. Shows like The Lion King, Wicked, and Blood Brothers regularly stop here.
The surrounding streets are packed with cultural gems. The excellent Walker Art Gallery is one of the best art galleries in the UK and completely free to enter. Right next door is Liverpool Central Library, a fascinating mix of historic and modern architecture. Inside you’ll find the breathtaking Picton Reading Room, a circular Victorian reading room that feels like something out of a Harry Potter film.
Just along the street is the World Museum, where you can explore everything from natural history and space to ancient civilisations. Like many of Liverpool’s museums and galleries, entry is free, although some temporary exhibitions may charge a small fee. I took my 7-year-old niece here recently and she loved it!

Williamson Square
In the centre of Liverpool you’ll find Williamson Square, a lively public square surrounded by theatres, shops, and historic buildings. It’s a busy meeting point in the city and often hosts events, markets, and street performances throughout the year.
Overlooking the square is the much-loved Royal Court Theatre, famous for its brilliant locally written comedies that celebrate Liverpool’s unique humour and culture. Just a short distance away is the historic Liverpool Playhouse, one of the city’s most respected theatres and home to a wide range of drama productions.
Towering above everything is St John’s Beacon, also known as the Radio City Tower. This 138-metre landmark has long been part of the Liverpool skyline and offers one of the best viewpoints in the city. Head up to the viewing gallery for panoramic 360-degree views stretching across Liverpool, the River Mersey, and beyond.

Superlambanana
One of Liverpool’s most unusual and much-loved landmarks is the Superlambanana, located near Tithebarn Street and Vauxhall Road. This giant yellow sculpture is exactly what it sounds like – half lamb, half banana – and it has become one of the city’s most recognisable pieces of public art.
Created by Japanese artist Taro Chiezo, the sculpture was designed as a playful but thought-provoking commentary on the dangers of genetic engineering. It also nods to Liverpool’s maritime history, when sheep and bananas were both common cargo passing through the port.
When the Superlambanana was first unveiled, it caused quite a bit of controversy, but over time it’s become a bit of a local treasure and a quirky symbol of the city. During the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, the sculpture even received a colourful Ukrainian makeover (as seen above) while Liverpool hosted the competition on behalf of Ukraine.
If you look carefully as you explore the city, you might also spot several smaller decorated versions of the Superlambanana dotted around Liverpool.

Sefton Park & Lark Lane
If you have more time, it’s worth exploring outside the city centre too! Liverpool has more parks than Paris and Sefton Park in the south of the city, is one of the prettiest.
In the middle is the beautiful Palm House that holds all kinds of events from weddings to a silent yoga disco – which sounds right up my street. And Sefton Park is where they hold the Africa Oyé festival each June. I went to see a showing of White Christmas once and it was magical!
If you’re going to Sefton Park, you also need to visit nearby Lark Lane, which is a cute street filled with great bars, cafes, and shops. For shopping out Larks, Number 13 and Freida Mo’s. For food and drink, I recommend Milo Lounge, BAM BOO, Blondies, Aldente or Marantos.

Crosby Beach
Heading north to Crosby Beach (you can catch the train from both Moorfields or Central Station), you’ll find Antony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’, a hauntingly beautiful art installation, made up of 100 statues, known locally as ‘the Iron Men’ – which is especially beautiful at sunset, as you can see above!

Liverpool or Everton Football Clubs
If you’re a football (soccer to you Americans) fan, you’re in the right place – Liverpool is one of the great football cities of the world. The city is home to two historic clubs: Liverpool F.C. and Everton F.C.
Liverpool F.C. play at the famous Anfield, just a short distance from the city centre. Across town, Everton F.C. recently moved into their impressive new home at Everton Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock on the dock road.
If you’re visiting during the football season (August – May), you could try to catch a match – the atmosphere at both stadiums is legendary. If there isn’t a game on, stadium tours are a great alternative and give you a behind-the-scenes look at the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel, and the history of the clubs.

Where to Stay in Liverpool
Liverpool has no shortage of hotels for you to stay in, from the chain hotels like Premier Inn and Jury’s Inn to unique, boutique hotels. Here are a few of my favourites:
- Hope Street Hotel: The city’s first boutique hotel, located in Liverpool’s Georgian Quarter. Whilst the outside of the building is more traditional, the inside is simplistic, contemporary, and elegant in design. It’s known for being a bit of a celebrity hotspot – Oscar winner Adrien Brody checked out at the same time as me. I said “hello” thinking he was someone I knew – cringe!
- Hard Days Night Hotel: If you’re a big Beatles fan, the Hard Days Night Hotel is a natural choice and it’s only a 1-minute walk from The Cavern and Mathew Street. I stayed here once and it was great!
- Malmaison Hotel: A chic, boutique hotel situated on Princes Dock, offering stylish rooms, a vibrant bar and grill, and stunning waterfront views.
- The Baltic Hotel: This is a great hotel in the trendy Baltic Triangle, close to Camp and Furnace. They have regular events and music nights. They describe themselves as the place “Where punk art meets urban chic, a colourful retreat for hipsters and hippies.”
- The Shankly: The Shankly is Liverpool’s ‘it’ hotel, favoured by reality TV and soap stars. If you like to party, this is a good place to stay.
- Signature Living Apartments: Part of The Shankly Hotel, they have great rooms for Stag and Hen parties.
- Epic Apartments: If you want to be in the heart of the Ropewalks area, stay at the Epic Hotel on Seel Street. They also have apartments on Duke Street and Campbell Street.
- Titanic Hotel Liverpool: This is one of the most beautiful hotels in the city located in a converted warehouse. They also have a great restaurant and bar, plus a spa if you want to treat yourself. The hotel is a little bit outside the main part of the city centre (30 minutes walk from Liverpool One or about 7 minutes in a cab).

Where to Eat in Liverpool
With all that sightseeing, you’re going to need some good food to keep you going. From cute cafes to upmarket restaurants, Liverpool has something for everyone. Here’s a few of my personal favourites…
Restaurants
For a treat, The London Carriage Works at the Hope Street Hotel is a great place to go. The meals are beautifully presented and tasty, plus the house wine was absolutely lovely. I also love The Buyers Club!
Another great restaurant is Nord on Old Hall Street. They are famous for their wonderful food made with locally sourced ingredients and friendly Northern hospitality. Then there’s Maray,
My favourite restaurant in the whole of Liverpool is Mowgli Street Food on Bold Street (I love their Mother Butter Chicken and Himalayan Cheese on Toast) – they now have another restaurant on Water Street and all over the UK now, but they started here in Liverpool!
If you want to see the famous restaurant from ‘This City is Ours’, head to Gaucho for a steak! They have live music from Wednesday to Sunday. Another popular steakhouse is Cowshed.
Others to consider include Free State Kitchen on Maryland Street and The Art School on Hope Street.

Fish & Chips
If you fancy some good old-fashioned British fish & chips, try The Lobster Pot (there’s one on Ranelagh Street by Central Station and the other is on Whitechapel near Mathew Street) or Johnny English on Bold Street, which is really cute.
Cafes
Bold Street Coffee is one of the city’s best-loved cafés and a great place to start the day with excellent coffee and a proper brunch. Another favourite is Moose Coffee, which has a few locations around the city and is famous for its huge North American-style breakfasts.
I also really like Black Sheep Coffee in Liverpool One, especially if you’re in the mood for something a little different – they do great alternative lattes and smoothies.
Another lovely little spot is Lucy in the Sky, a cosy café that’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed place to grab breakfast or a coffee break while exploring the city.
If you’re around Hope Street, check out The Quarter. or Papillon.
BAM BOO on Bold Street is the perfect place for brunch & cocktails and voted the ‘best brunch in Liverpool’ by the Liverpool Echo. Their soup of the day with a cheese toastie – OMG…
My personal go-to was always Leaf on Bold Street – but it closed it’s doors in 2025. Devoed (Scouse for devastated).

Food Markets
If you like a food market, head to the Baltic Market in Cains Brewery Village in the Baltic Triangle or the newer Blackstock Market.
If you like a food market, Liverpool has some great options. Head to the Baltic Market in Cains Brewery Village in the Baltic Triangle, which is packed with street food vendors, bars, and live music. Another popular spot is Blackstock Market, a newer food hall and entertainment venue north of the city centre.
Closer to the centre, you’ll also find Duke Street Market and Renshaw Street Market, both offering a great selection of independent street food traders serving everything from global dishes to local favourites.

Afternoon Tea
One of my favourite things to do in Liverpool is to have afternoon tea and two of my favourite places include Cuthbert’s on Mount Pleasant and Oh Me Oh My, near to the Pier Head.
Oh Me Oh My also have a rooftop garden called Goodness Gracious, which has great views over the river and the Liver Buildings. It’s open Monday – Friday, from 12pm – 4pm from April to September.
Scouse
If you get the chance, you need to try our local dish ‘Scouse’, which is short for lobscouse, a stew that was often eaten by sailors in Northern Europe. The recipe varies but is generally made from meat (usually lamb or beef or both), stock, and vegetables (onion, potatoes, and carrots) and comes with bread on the side and often red cabbage on top.
Good places to try are Ma Boyle’s Alehouse, The Cavern Club Restaurant, Skaus, Liverpool Cathedral, Maggie May’s and Ma Egerton’s Stage Door.

Where to Go ‘Out Out’ in Liverpool
The UK has some pretty good places for a night out, but anyone will tell you that Liverpool is one of the best nights out, maybe even THE BEST night out in the UK. But don’t just take my word for it – come see for yourself!
There are too many bars to mention, but a few of my favourite places include:
Ropewalks
Around this area, you’ll find a ton of good bars – so you’re looking at the streets that run parallel to Bold Street, and across it.
My favourites include Berry & Rye, The Oracle, Red Door, Salt Dog Slims, 81 Ltd, The Monro, The Shipping Forecast, St Peters Tavern (formerly Alma de Cuba), El Bandito and Motel. A few of these are speakeasy bars too! They’re all so close, a bar crawl is pretty easy!
Another favourite of mine was Heebie Jeebies – I haven’t been for some time, but it’s still a popular place to go! Now, there’s also an Albert Shloss in Liverpool (which is my favourite bar in Manchester too).
Another cool place to go is the Moonshine Saloon for an immersive wild west experience – and it’s BYOB! And if you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a boozy Barbie world, head to Tonight Josephine.

The Baltic Triangle
The Baltic Triangle is an area a little walk away from the city centre. In the last few years, it’s gone through a huge regeneration and is now one of the hippest areas in the city.
Camp & Furnace is one of the most famous bar/event spaces in the area, I also love the Botanical Garden and if you want a lot of bars in one space, The Baltic Fleet (a microbrewery with local ales), try Cain’s Brewery which is home to the Peaky Blinder’s Bar, Yellow Submarine Bar and Ghetto Golf.
One of the most iconic nights out in Liverpool is Bongo’s Bingo. This interactive bingo game is chaotic, hilarious and always a lot of fun 0 expect dancing, singalongs, random prizes and plenty of debauchery along the way. It originally started right here in Liverpool before becoming a hit across the UK and beyond.

Mathew Street
I love Mathew Street, but don’t go very often these days because it’s pretty much always a ‘big’ night out. It’s often full of stag and hen dos and can be busy and rowdy at any time of day. But it is fun and you can see live music in most bars at any time of day!
Popular bars include McCooley’s, Sgt Peppers, The Cavern Pub (different from The Cavern Club), Eric’s and Rubber Soul. And you have to pop into The Cavern Club for a drink and some live music!
Castle Street & James Street
There are a few nice bars around Castle Street like The Alchemist, Hummingbird, and The Underground Gin Society. Or if you fancy some champagne, head to the Carpathia Champagne Bar at the 30 James Street Hotel which has an outside terrace where you can watch the sunset over the Liverpool waterfront.
If you love gin, do a gin tasting at the Liverpool Gin Distillery.

Pride Quarter
Whilst it doesn’t quite compare to Manchester’s Canal Street, Liverpool’s Pride Quarter (also known as the Stanley Street Quarter orLiverpool Gay Quarter/Village) is a good night out!
Whilst Liverpool’s most famous gay club, Garlands (where I spent many an evening back in my youth), is no longer going, there are still some great places to go, including – OMG Liverpool, The Lisbon, The Masquerade, Superstar Boudoir, GBar, and Poste House.
And, occasionally there are still Garlands club nights at Camp and Furnace and Liverpool Pride usually takes place around late July.

Best Time to Visit Liverpool
Liverpool is a great place to visit at any time of year, but the city really comes alive in the summer when the waterfront, beer gardens and outdoor events are in full swing. That said, this is the UK, so the weather is famously unpredictable – you might get sunshine, rain and wind all in the same day. My advice? Pack layers and a rain jacket and you’ll be ready for anything!
Summer is also when some of the city’s biggest events take place, including the fantastic Africa Oyé in Sefton Park. Liverpool Pride usually takes place around late July.
If you’re a football fan, visiting during the season (usually August to May) can also add to the atmosphere, as the city gets behind its two famous clubs – Liverpool F.C. and Everton F.C.
There’s always something going on in Liverpool and to find out the best info and listings, keep an eye on the Visit Liverpool website, as well as the Independent Liverpool blog or Facebook page! This is always my go-to to find out what cool stuff is happening in the city. They also run events and you can buy an Independent Liverpool Card which gets you tons of discounts in the city!

2-Day Liverpool Itinerary: My Perfect Weekend in the City
If you’re visiting Liverpool for a long weekend (arriving Friday evening and leaving Monday), here’s how I would personally spend two full days in the city to experience the best of the culture, history, food, and music. So basically, my TOP picks for Liverpool!
Just be aware that you may need to adjust the itinerary in winter when the daylight hours are shorter!
Friday – Arrival & Relaxed Evening
- Arrival:
- If you’re arriving by train, step out the front doors of Liverpool Lime Street Station for a quick glimpse of St George’s Hall – a stunning neoclassical building right across the road and a perfect introduction to the city.
- Then take a taxi to your hotel to check in and drop your bags.
- Rooftop Drinks:
- Goodness Gracious Rooftop Bar – panoramic views for sunset cocktails.
- Alternative: Daffodil – elegant, stylish, and perfect for a first-night vibe.
- Dinner/Evening:
- Head to Mowgli (my fave) for Indian street food in a relaxed setting.
- Explore the Ropewalks area – check out pubs & bars like Cafe Tabac, Berry & Rye or Albert Schloss.

Saturday – Full Day of Liverpool Highlights
- Breakfast:
- Start the day at Moose Coffee for a fun and hearty breakfast.
- Or grab a coffee at Bold Street Coffee if you’ve eaten already!
- Morning:
- Join a free walking tour of Liverpool (usually 2–2.5 hours) to get an overview of the city’s history and culture. The tour typically ends at Albert Dock, giving you a great starting point for lunch and sightseeing.
- Alternatively join one of Liverpool’s great bus tours.
- Lunch:
- The Botanist – for cocktails, seasonal dishes, and rooftop vibes.
- Rudy’s – casual, classic Italian/pizza fare if you prefer something quick and informal.
- Afternoon:
- Visit The Beatles Story museum at Albert Dock.
- Head back to the Pier Head and visit the Liverpool Museum and/or take a Ferry ‘Cross the Mersey’ for iconic riverside views.
- Dinner/Evening:
- Dinner at London Carriageworks, The Art School, Maray (Bold Street or Albert Dock) or Buyers Club depending on your vibe.
- For nightlife, head to Mathew Street for live music, or Camp & Furnace for a more alternative night out (check the events calendar).

Sunday – Brunch, Sightseeing & Roast
- Breakfast/Brunch:
- Start at Bamboo on Bold Street for a relaxed breakfast to fuel your day.
- Morning/Afternoon Stroll:
- Have a wander down Bold Street to Hope Street.
- Visit the cathedrals (just be aware of service times).
- Visit St George’s Hall to admire the neoclassical architecture and explore inside if time allows.
- Head to Liverpool One for some shopping.
- Late Lunch/Early Roast Dinner:
- Have roast dinner at Ma Boyle’s, Papillon, Frederik’s or the Buyers Club.
- Evening:
- Head to the Philharmonic Dining Rooms or The Monro for a relaxed drink.
- Maybe catch a show at the Everyman Theatre or do a class with Salsa Liverpool at the Arts Bar on Hope Street.

How to Get To, From, and Around Liverpool
The main station in the city is Liverpool Lime Street Station, with direct trains from many major UK stations, including a 2.5-hour service from London Euston. You can check train times and tickets on National Rail.
There are also three other central stations – Liverpool Central Station, Moorfields Station, and James Street Station – useful if you’re coming from nearby towns.
For flights, Liverpool John Lennon Airport serves the city. To reach the centre, you can take the 500 or 86A bus to Liverpool South Parkway and transfer to a train, or stay on the bus all the way into the city. For more details on airport transport, check their official site.
Once in Liverpool, getting around is straightforward. There are plenty of buses, black cabs, and Uber works reliably in the city centre.
I hope this gives you some ideas for things to do in Liverpool and helps you plan your trip (to the best city in the UK)!
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This post was brought to you as a result of the #WelcomeToEngland campaign, created and managed by iAmbassador in partnership with Visit Britain. As always, all opinions are my own. Also a huge thanks to Visit Liverpool for helping to bring this campaign to life. See my Travelogue on HipTraveler.

Liverpool looks awesome!! British Music Experience definitely sounds like something I’d be interested in!
It was really cool! I love music but even I was surprised how much I loved it!! 🙂
Wow you have packed so much info into this post – a great guide to liverpool! My home city is Manchester but I have visited Liverpool a couple of times a long time ago. I have only been on day trips so l dont feel like I have seen it properly. I recall visiting Albert Docks and a new shopping centre had just opened – is it Liverpool One or something like that!?
Yes it’s Liverpool One!!! we went to Manchester on this trip too! my adopted home!! 🙂
now I wanna go back to Liverpool so you can show me the city! It looks and sounds so much cooler than I remember!
Come back – I’ll show you around! It’s about time you we saw each other again! x
I love Liverpool (even though I’m a Mancunian) and have visited lots of times. You’ve just given me lots of reasons to visit again.
Ha ha, I love Manchester even though I’m a Scouser (shhhhh)! 🙂
Hi Helen,
Liverpool hasn’t ever been on my radar but since I’m planning a trip to London this year it might be. The museums look great including The Beatles Exhibition and the International Slavery Museum. Seems like there’s tons to do and the bar scene looks good! Any favorite restaurants or bars? Thanks again for the post!
Cheers,
Mark
Hey Mark,
Yes it’s great! It’s only 2.5 hours from London on the train too, so easy for a weekend trip!
I list a few of my favourite places to eat and drink in the post – definitely check some of them out if you come! 🙂
This is such a great guide! My mom and I did a lot of these things when we visited two years ago, but the British Music Experience will definitely go on my “next time” list. I also really want to go see the “Iron Men”!
Other must-dos for Beatles fans in Liverpool include the Magical Mystery Tour (it’s kitschy but fun!), as well as touring the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney with the National Trust. The house tours were my mom’s favorite thing we did in Liverpool!
Thanks Amanda!
I love the Beatles post on your blog! In fact, I’m gonna link to it in the post! My parents used to go to the original Cavern. My dad saw the Beatles play – although not in the Cavern.
Can you believe I’ve never done the Magical Magical mystery tour? I mean I’ve been to Penny Lane loads of times, and I’ve been to the areas they lived in a million times, but never done a tour! Definitely want to go soon, it was fun being a tourist in my home! 🙂
I had so much fun with you and can’t wait to go back!! thanks for showing us around – you really made it the best time!!
I had so much fun with you too!!!!! 🙂 We need to get that cultural blog exchange going!!!
We need to go out dancing again!!!
I love how you write Helen, thanks for always sharing, your blog inspires and motivates me to travel.
What an amazing experience! I really enjoyed reading your amazing post!
Keep up the amazing work!
I feel another trip to Liverpool coming on! (It’s been a couple of years since I was last there).
It’s a cool city!!! Let me know what you get up to if you do go back! Have fun!!!
Love this – I’d heard it’s a really cool city but I had no idea how much there is to do! A weekend now doesn’t seem long enough.
You can do a lot in a weekend, but it’s never enough!! Try and go on a day when they do Bongo’s Bingo at Camp n Furnace! FUN!!
Great list – and this coming from a fellow Liverpudlian!
Thank you Jo!!!! 🙂
Hi Helen, thanks for the beautiful post. I have been in Liverpool once for a weekend to celebrate my birthday. We were lost a little bit in this city. Wish I had this information then. Reason to go back!
Thank you!!! Aw yes definitely! Go back and enjoy the city!!!
Nice Read. The pictures are stunning and the food looks simply amazing! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks!!!
Such a great post Helen, thank you!! I love Liverpool and I think you did a fab job covering all there is to do!! Would love to read a similar post on Manchester.
Hi Kathryn,
I will write one soon! I think Manchester needs a lot of love at the moment. x
Hey Helen,
Amazing blog post! I’ve never been to Liverpool before. Would love to visit this place. 🙂
Liverpool is really a good attraction for tourist, but the way you have you have explored and updated it is really cool. I believe anyone who read this post would love to visit Liverpool.
Wonderful story, would love to visit liverpool city. Lets see what my Girlfriend gonna say about our next tour. My vote will be for liverpool 🙂
Hello Helen,
I lived and worked in Liverpool for nearly one year. It was the greatest experience of my life. Dealing with a new life and with the scouse accent was not that easy. Now I got my own travel blog (an italian one) and I’m going to write a great post about Liverpool. I know Andrea (he’s one of the best italian travel blogger) and I hope my post will reach the top of the SERP!
Liverpool looks awesome!! British Music Experience definitely sounds like something I’d be interested in!
I love Liverpool (even though I’m a Mancunian) and have visited lots of times. You’ve just given me lots of reasons to visit again.
Can’t wait to my trip next year to UK, I will definitely visit Liverpool. However, could u give me a good guide to watch football match and a way to get on and off the stadium on match day? I know you are Everton supporter, but It would be a big help if you write one for Liverpool Supporter 🙂
Glad to see someone showing off all the highlights of Liverpool, this is a fantastic representation of what our city has to offer, for both locals and people outside the city it shows off just how full of activities Liverpool is. So many possibilities for day trips in the future! If any of our customers are unsure of what to do on their day trips we will be sure you send them over your city guide!
Very informative..such a detailing..impressive work
Great! I have saved all these places in my bucket list.
This is a fantastic post! Such a great guide. I’m on my way to Liverpool (right now I’m in the train) and came across your blog. I’m there only for a day but thanks to you know exactly what to do and where to go!
Love reading guides written by locals so thank you for this! Except for Scouse what other good cuisines are found in Liverpool? 🙂
Hi Shireen,
There’s loads of great British foods to be found in Liverpool – roast dinner, fish & chips and then foods from all over the world. I highly recommend Mowgli restaurant and the Mother Butter Chicken! 🙂
Honestly, I didn’t know that Liverpool is so interesting! Thanks for sharing – your pics are also fantastic!