Still wondering what to do in Liverpool? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Liverpool and book your hotel today!
Liverpool is a vibrant and culturally rich city on the River Mersey, famous throughout the world as the birthplace of The Beatles and for its passionate devotion to football. The city's waterfront, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is instantly captivating, dominated by the iconic Royal Albert Dock and the three majestic buildings known as the Three Graces: the Liver Building, the Cunard Building, and the Port of Liverpool Building. Liverpool offers a unique mix of world-class culture, music history, and maritime heritage.
You can immerse yourself in the story of the Fab Four at The Beatles Story exhibition and the legendary Cavern Club, or explore the impressive art collections at the Tate Liverpool and the Walker Art Gallery. The city is also home to two distinct and beautiful cathedrals, the Anglican and the Metropolitan. Liverpool’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and strong identity make it an ideal destination for a lively UK city break.
Choosing where to stay in Liverpool depends on whether you prioritise the city's music and culture, its maritime heritage, or its bustling shopping and entertainment. The central districts are all highly walkable and well-connected.
For an atmosphere steeped in culture and history, the Royal Albert Dock and Pier Head area is superb. Hotels here offer prime waterfront views and immediate access to key attractions like the Merseyside Maritime Museum, Tate Liverpool, and The Beatles Story. This area is vibrant during the day, with great restaurants and cultural spots, and it offers a slightly more sophisticated evening atmosphere.
The true heart of the city's buzz can be found in the City Centre, specifically the area around Liverpool ONE and Lime Street Station. This is the commercial and retail hub, ideal for shoppers and those prioritising transport convenience. Staying here puts you close to the main shopping district, the Cavern Club on Mathew Street, and the World Museum. You will find a wide range of accommodation options here, from budget-friendly stays to high-end hotels.
For a more independent, bohemian vibe, the areas around Bold Street and the Baltic Triangle are increasingly popular. Bold Street is famous for its eclectic mix of independent restaurants, cafes, and shops. The Baltic Triangle, a revitalised industrial area, is known for its creative businesses, street art, unique bars, and live music venues, offering a cool, off-beat base for younger travellers and those looking for a local feel.
Liverpool's travel network is centred on its main rail hub, Liverpool Lime Street Station, which offers national connections. Local travel is managed by the Merseyrail network and an extensive bus system. Liverpool John Lennon Airport is easily accessible from the city centre via frequent local buses, such as the 500 service, which runs directly to Liverpool ONE Bus Station and near Lime Street Station. When searching for your hotel, prioritising a central location near Liverpool ONE or Lime Street will ensure seamless connections around the city.
When planning a trip to Liverpool, it is essential to be aware of the city's massive drawing power for both music and football fans, as these events dramatically influence hotel prices. The peak tourist season is generally the summer, from June to August, when the weather is at its best, and various events, including outdoor music festivals, are taking place.
However, the major price spikes unique to Liverpool are often tied to two main events. The first is International Beatleweek in late August, when fans from all over the world converge on the city. The second is any weekend that features a major football fixture, particularly Liverpool FC or Everton FC home matches, which can make accommodation very scarce and expensive. For the best value, consider visiting during the low season months of January and February, or during the early spring/late autumn shoulder seasons. Looking for hotels away from the immediate waterfront or the main retail core can also help save money without compromising on city access.