Liverpool

Tours

Insider tips: Planning a trip to Liverpool

Indiana Jo has visited over 60 countries but calls Liverpool home. Her travel blog focuses on independent and solo female travel. Here, she shares here insider tips for visiting her native city of Liverpool. You can read more on her post about Liverpool for First Time Visitors here.

What should I do on my first trip to Liverpool?

Head to the Royal Albert Docks. It's Grade I listed and packed with museums, bars and restaurants. From there, wander along the waterfront where you can visit the Liver Building and hop on the famous Ferry Cross the Mersey.

What are some hidden gems to see in Liverpool?

Bold Street is a pedestrianised area where the locals go to eat. You'll find plenty of independent restaurants and some of the coolest bars in the city are in the nearby streets.

How much time should I spend in Liverpool?

Liverpool is a compact city so it's easy to get around with most of the highlights within the city centre. A weekend visit is perfect for taking in the sights as well as enjoying the nightlife. It's even possible to enjoy a day trip from London if you catch an early train and go back late.

What food is Liverpool known for?

Scouse is the most famous local dish. Similar to Irish stew, it's a slow-cooked medley of beef, root vegetables and potatoes. If you're veggie, look for 'blind scouse' without the meat.

What is the best way to get around Liverpool?

Walking is the best way to get around the city. If you want to explore some of the Beatles' history, there is a City Sightseeing bus. It's a great idea if you don't have a car as many of the sights like Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields are in the city's suburbs. Anfield stadium, for Liverpool FC, is also outside the city but it's easy to get to via taxi or the number 17 bus from Queen's Square.

What are the best months to visit Liverpool?

Spring, summer and autumn are the best months to visit. It can be harder to find outdoor dining in summer as the people of Liverpool love a good night out, but the atmosphere is electric with many festivals and events on in the city. Winter is much quieter due to the rain and cold weather. The docks get especially cold in winter so pack a good coat.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Liverpool?

The Royal Albert Dock and Pier Head (waterfront area) are best for first-time visitors. Liverpool One is for people wanting to shop. And Bold Street and Castle Street are great for local dining. Baltic triangle is a bit further out of the city but its seen a lot of regeneration and it's where the cool kids hang out.

What are the best neighborhoods for food? 

Liverpool has a great choice of restaurants ranging from chain brands, mostly around Liverpool One, to more independent restaurants on Bold Street and Castle Street. Baltic Triangle has some of the newest restaurants in the city. Chinatown in Liverpool is also worth a visit since Liverpool has one of the oldest and largest and Chinese communities in Europe.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

Liverpool One is the best shopping area in the city. It's part-open-air, part-covered, with some of the more exclusive brands located in beautiful St Peter's Lane. For more high-street brands, head to Church Street, and Met Quarter for a smaller range of shops. All of these areas are within short walking distance of each other. The Royal Albert Dock is perfect if you're looking for souvenirs and postcards.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Liverpool?

Anywhere within the city centre is a good bet and there are plenty of hotels and apartment rentals to choose from. Some of the best hotels and larger chains are situated near the Royal Albert Dock or facing the waterfront.

Read our complete guide to Liverpool, or discover the city's best experiences.