Holidays to Liverpool

Liverpool grew around its docks. While the trans-Atlantic passenger ships and cargo vessels are long gone, the docks are still a major part of the city and a must-see on Liverpool city breaks. Lining the Mersey are historic docks and elegant Victorian office blocks, and the city centre, with museums, galleries and bars, is just a short stroll away. Liverpool's famous for its music and sporting culture, and whatever your interests, you'll find a warm welcome on a Liverpool weekend – the city is consistently ranked as one of the friendliest in the UK.

A Liverpool flight and hotel break starts at Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL), on the outskirts of town. This airport is relatively small, so after your flight to Liverpool lands, you'll likely be through the terminal in no time. Hop on a #500 bus, which will speed you into the city in about 30 minutes. Given the UK's small size, flights to Liverpool from London and Manchester may not available, but there are regular train services that bring you to Liverpool Lime Street station, which is in the middle of the city.

Summer months are the ideal time for Liverpool package holidays, as the warmer weather makes exploring the historic docks and city streets a pleasure. Christmas is also a popular time of year for Liverpool city breaks, as the city's shops and Christmas markets offer some excellent deals. There are regular events and festivals running throughout the year, with almost all museums and galleries running family workshops and events during school holiday periods.

Liverpool has undergone a huge amount of regeneration in recent years, and the starting point for most visits is the Albert Dock, built in 1846. Originally a thriving port for Atlantic trade, it's now somewhere to stroll, visit galleries and shops, and perhaps have a meal or drink. There are many free museums and art galleries in the city centre and two cathedrals that are open for visitors outside service times. Alternatively, if you're a sports fan, why not book a behind-the-scenes tour of the Liverpool or Everton football grounds as part of your Liverpool weekend? Liverpool's music scene has been an important part of the city's nightlife since the 1960s, and many venues around town have live music.

One of Liverpool's largest and most popular museums is the Liverpool Maritime Museum, housed in old warehouses beside the Mersey. The museum covers all aspects of shipping in Liverpool, including the Middle Ages, the Atlantic slave trade, World War 2 and the Battle of the Atlantic. Close by is the Beatles Story, which charts the rise of four young lads from Liverpool to world music domination in the 1960s. Heading slightly out of town, towards the airport, you'll find Speke Hall, one of England's finest Tudor manor houses. Its extensive grounds include a maze, formal gardens and wooded areas. Liverpool's skyline is often best seen from the water, so take a round trip on the Mersey ferry for superb photo opportunities and commentary on the city's history and most famous buildings.

If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Liverpool.

Are there any dishes I should try on my visit?

Why not try some of these culinary highlights on your trip to Liverpool?

• The city's traditional dish of Scouse, a hearty and filling stew made from meat, potatoes and vegetables in a rich gravy.
• Dim sum, crispy duck or spring rolls in Liverpool's Chinatown in and around Nelson Street, near the cathedral.
• Fish and chips or other hearty seafaring favourites at the Smugglers Cove restaurant on the Albert Dock – washing it all down with a glass of rum strictly optional.
• Afternoon tea with dainty sandwiches and delicious cakes served high above the city streets at Panoramic 34, with the added benefit of spectacular views over the Mersey and Wirral Peninsula as you dine.
• Baltic Market's an ever-changing mix of local producers, vendors and pop-up restaurants every weekend.
• Fine dining at the Art School Restaurant, where up-and-coming chefs create dishes with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients.

Shopping in Liverpool

Liverpool's largest shopping mall, Liverpool One, is in the centre of town. Its chain stores, restaurants and cafés make for a pleasant day out. If you're looking for souvenirs of your Liverpool package holidays, there are several stores in the Albert Dock area selling items emblazoned with the Liver Bird emblem or images of famous Liverpool landmarks. Other great options for the football fan in your life are memorabilia bearing the red and white of Liverpool FC or the blue and white of Everton. Both clubs have shops selling merchandise in the city centre.