10 Traveling to Liverpool Tips That Will Make Your Family Adventure Absolutely Unforgettable
Thinking about a trip to Liverpool? We’re totally excited for you! This vibrant city in northwest England offers amazing music history, stunning waterfront views, the largest cathedral and some of the friendliest locals you’ll meet anywhere.
The best time to visit Liverpool is during the summer, specifically between May and September. The weather is warmer, and you can enjoy the many events and festivals happening throughout the city.
Planning ahead in advance can make your Liverpool adventure so much more fun and stress-free. From navigating public transport to finding the coolest spots that locals love, we’ve got your back!
Whether you’re a Beatles fan making a pilgrimage to the Cavern Club or a football enthusiast hoping to catch a match at Anfield, our tips will help you make the most of your time in this incredible city without any of those typical tourist headaches.
Don’t miss a visit to the Georgian Quarter for its cultural and architectural significance, including its two cathedrals.
1) Hit up the Beatles Story Museum for all those groovy vibes, perfect for Beatles fans
We totally recommend checking out The Beatles Story when you’re in Liverpool, as it’s a worthwhile experience! It’s the world’s largest permanent exhibition about the Fab Four, and we’re obsessed with how cool it is.
The museum takes you on this super immersive journey through the lives of John, Paul, George, and Ringo. We love how it shows their rise to fame and all the memorabilia they’ve collected, making it one of the world class museums worth visiting!
Located right in the birthplace of The Beatles, this is definitely a must-see spot for music lovers and a great starting point for exploring local theatres. We could spend hours here soaking up all those groovy Beatles vibes! The Beatles Story Museum is also easily accessible from Lime Street Station, making it convenient for travelers.
2) Avoid the game days unless you’re there for some serious match action!
Listen up, friends! If you’re planning a trip to Liverpool, we’ve got a hot tip for you. Match days can make the city super crowded and accommodations way pricier!
Unless you’re dying to experience the electric atmosphere of Liverpool FC on game day, maybe plan your visit during non-match periods to avoid waiting in long line. John Lennon Airport is a convenient entry point for travelers, especially those planning to visit during non-match periods. Trust us on this one!
The locals recommend getting there super early (like 3 hours before) if you do decide to catch a match. Hit up The Park, Arkles or King Harry pubs and soak in the pre-game excitement!
We’ve learned that even booking accommodation becomes a wild ride during game days, so definitely book in advance if your dates aren’t flexible.
3) For smoother travels, pop over Sunday to Thursday to dodge the crowd storm.
Looking to avoid the Liverpool crush, especially when parking a car can be difficult? We’ve got you covered! According to travel experts, Liverpool gets most visitors on weekends.
By planning your day trip from Sunday through Thursday, instead of on weekends you’ll skip those packed tourist lines. Not only will attractions be less crowded, but you’ll also score better hotel deals! Who doesn’t love saving some cash while enjoying more space to explore?
Consider taking day trips to nearby cities like Manchester and Chester to make the most of your time in the region. The convenience of train travel allows you to stay in one city while easily exploring others during the day.
We always recommend this little schedule hack to our mom friends. It’s amazing how much more relaxing your Liverpool adventure feels when you’re not constantly bumping elbows with other tourists!
4) Take a train from Manchester – it’s a breeze!
Traveling between Manchester and Liverpool is super easy, ladies! We’ve done this journey many times and can’t recommend it enough.
The train ride takes only about 32 minutes from city center to city center. No parking hassles, no traffic – just sit back and relax!
Tickets are amazingly affordable too, starting from just $5. We always feel like we’re getting such a deal!
If you’re flying into Manchester Airport, you can hop on a train directly to Liverpool, or you might also consider taking the ferry for a scenic route . It takes around 57 minutes and is super convenient.
For maximum flexibility, just grab your ticket at the station on the day of travel. Easy peasy!
5) Pre-book those museum slots like a savvy traveler
Let’s be real, guys – nobody wants to waste precious vacation time standing in lines! Liverpool has some amazing museums that get super busy, especially The Beatles Story Experience where you’ll need tickets to get in.
We always recommend booking your museum visits online before you arrive. It’s such a lifesaver!
Many Liverpool attractions have timed entry slots, and pre-booking often means discounted prices too. Score!
The Maritime Museum is another must-see gem that gets crowded during peak seasons. Trust us, when visiting the city centre your future self will thank you for being organized and skipping those long queues!
Additionally, consider pre-booking tickets for the British Music Experience to avoid long lines and ensure entry.
6) Don’t even try the Scouse accent unless you’re ready for some side-eye
We’ve all been there – visiting a new place and thinking, “Hey, maybe I’ll try out the local accent!” But trust us, the Liverpool accent is one you might want to avoid mimicking.
The Scouse accent is truly unique and notoriously difficult to master. Locals can spot a fake from a mile away!
If you’re really determined, remember that authentic Scouse involves speaking almost entirely in head voice rather than from your chest. It’s also all about the unique L and R sounds.
We’ve seen many well-intentioned tourists get those playful eye-rolls from locals. It’s all in good fun, but maybe save your accent practice for the hotel mirror! Exploring the Georgian Quarter can provide a deeper understanding of Liverpool’s cultural heritage.
7) Dance down Mathew Street and alive your inner rock star at the Cavern Club
OMG, you absolutely can’t visit Liverpool without experiencing Mathew Street, home to the legendary Cavern Club! We were totally starstruck walking the same streets as The Beatles once did. Mathew Street and the Cavern Club are iconic locations in the history of British music.
For just £2.50, we got to go down into the actual Cavern Club where The Beatles performed a whopping 292 times before becoming worldwide sensations! How cool is that?!
The whole street has such amazing vibes with Beatles-themed pubs and shops. We couldn’t help but snap a million pics in front of the iconic venue at 10 Mathew Street. Trust us, your Instagram will thank you!
8) Brace yourself for Liverpool’s bashful weather – pack layers.
Liverpool weather can be a bit moody, bless its heart! We’ve learned the hard way that sunshine can quickly turn to rain and back again in the same afternoon.
Layering is your BFF when visiting this gorgeous city. We always pack a waterproof jacket (cute ones exist, we promise!) along with t-shirts, sweaters, and maybe a scarf. For a scenic contrast to Liverpool’s urban experience, consider a visit to North Wales, known for its castles, national parks, and beautiful beaches.
Don’t let a little drizzle ruin your adventure! We’ve found that locals barely notice the rain, so channel that energy and keep exploring. The weather might be unpredictable, but that’s part of Liverpool’s charm!
9) Dive into the Magical Mystery Tour for some fab-four magic!
Beatles fans, we’ve got the perfect Liverpool activity for you! The Magical Mystery Tour takes you on a super fun 2-hour journey through all the Beatles hotspots.
You’ll get to see where John, Paul, George, and Ringo grew up and formed their legendary band. How cool is that?! The tour is easily accessible from Lime Street Station, making it convenient for travelers.
The guides are absolutely amazing—knowledgeable, entertaining, and clearly in love with Liverpool and the Fab Four.
For just £20 per person, it’s way more affordable than the £150 private taxi tours. We think it’s totally worth every penny for any music lover visiting the city!
10) Catch that iconic Anfield Stadium Tour for a hardcore footie fix
OMG, if you’re a football fan, we absolutely HAVE to recommend the Liverpool FC Stadium Tour! It’s seriously one of the most epic experiences in the city.
You’ll get to go behind the scenes of the legendary Anfield Stadium where all the magic happens! We were totally geeking out when we got to peek inside the players’ dressing rooms (eek!).
Tours run daily (except on match days, obvs) and start from 10am, lasting about 90 minutes. Just remember they’re closed on Christmas, New Year’s Day, and April 15th.
The immersive experience lets you soak up all that Liverpool FC history. Trust us, even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the atmosphere alone is worth it! John Lennon Airport provides easy access for travelers planning to visit Anfield Stadium.
Exploring the City
Liverpool is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern attractions, making it a fascinating destination to explore. From its vibrant city centre to its picturesque waterfront, there’s no shortage of exciting things to see and do.
Discovering the City Centre
The city centre is the heart of Liverpool, and it’s where you’ll find many of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the iconic Liver Building and the stunning Liverpool Cathedral. The city centre is also home to a wide range of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it the perfect place to spend a day or evening out.
One of the best ways to explore the city centre is on foot. Take a stroll down Liverpool’s famous Penny Lane, visit the Cavern Club, where the Beatles played many of their early gigs, and explore the city’s many museums and galleries, including the World Museum and the Walker Art Gallery.
If you’re looking for a unique perspective on the city, take a ride on the Liverpool Wheel, which offers stunning views of the city and the River Mersey. Alternatively, take a guided tour of the city, which will give you a deeper understanding of Liverpool’s history and culture.
Cultural Attractions
Liverpool is a city that’s steeped in culture, from its world-class museums to its vibrant music scene. Whether you’re a fan of art, history, or music, there’s something for everyone in this incredible city.
Art and Culture
Liverpool is home to a wide range of cultural attractions, including the Tate Liverpool, which features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. The city is also home to the Liverpool Biennial, a festival of contemporary art that takes place every two years.
If you’re interested in history, be sure to visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum, which tells the story of Liverpool’s rich maritime history. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts from the Titanic and a reconstructed 19th-century sailing ship.
Music fans will love the Beatles Story, a museum dedicated to the life and times of the Fab Four. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including memorabilia, interactive displays, and even a replica of the Cavern Club.
Liverpool is also home to a wide range of live music venues, including the Cavern Club, which hosts a wide range of acts, from up-and-coming bands to established artists. The city is also home to the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, which hosts a wide range of classical music performances throughout the year.
Whether you’re interested in art, history, or music, Liverpool has something for everyone. With its world-class museums, vibrant music scene, and stunning architecture, this incredible city is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in culture.
Getting Around Liverpool
Liverpool is a super walkable city, but it also has great public transport that makes exploring a breeze! We’ve tested all the options and know that having a train ticket is one of the best ways to get around this amazing city. Lime Street Station is a central transportation hub, making it easy to explore Liverpool and nearby areas.
Public Transportation Options
The Merseyrail network is our absolute fave way to zip around Liverpool! It connects all the key spots including Chester, Wirral, Southport, and even links to Liverpool Airport. So convenient!
Buses are another fantastic option when you’re exploring the city.
You can grab a day pass for just £5 (such a bargain!), or if you’re staying longer, a three-day pass is around £14.10. We found this to be the most cost-effective way to see everything without breaking the bank.
Taxis are also readily available and super handy, especially at night. We always recommend taking a taxi rather than walking if you’re venturing away from the busier areas after dark. Safety first, girls!
Navigating the City Like a Pro
Walking is honestly the best way to experience Liverpool’s charm! The city center is pretty compact, and you can walk from one side to the other in about 20 minutes. We love strolling between attractions – it’s how we discovered some of our favorite hidden gems! For a deeper dive into the city’s culture and architecture, take a walk through the Georgian Quarter to appreciate its cultural and architectural significance.
For the Merseyrail system, just use your bank card to tap in and out (similar to London’s system). It’s so easy!
Or grab a day pass if you’re planning multiple trips – we found this super convenient during our last visit.
The Albert Dock and city center areas are the most walkable and safest parts of Liverpool. We stick to these busy spots when on foot, especially at night, because there’s always help nearby if needed.
Pro tip: Download the Merseyrail app before your trip! We used it to plan our routes and it saved us so much time and confusion!
Embracing the Local Culture
Liverpool’s culture is rich and vibrant, with unique traditions that make it special, and scousers love to share these with visitors. We’ve discovered that diving into the local way of life makes any trip to Liverpool so much more meaningful! Liverpool’s cultural heritage is deeply influenced by British music, making it a must-explore aspect of the city.
Scouse Lingo: Learn the Basics
Want to blend in with the locals? Learning some Scouse phrases is a must! Liverpudlians (or “Scousers”) have their own distinct accent and vocabulary that’s super fun to try out.
Start with “Alright laa” as a friendly greeting.
If something’s good, it’s “boss” or “sound.” When someone asks “Where’s this at?”, they’re simply asking where something is located.
Don’t worry about getting it perfect! Locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to understand their lingo. They’re usually super friendly and might even teach you more phrases if you show interest.
Remember that “ta” means thank you, and “made up” means really happy. These little language nuggets will help you connect with locals in no time!
Exploring the Georgian Quarter can provide a deeper understanding of Liverpool’s cultural heritage.
Must-Try Local Dishes
Okay, foodies, listen up!
Liverpool’s culinary scene is absolutely amazing. Trying local dishes is non-negotiable on your visit, especially if you’re planning a day trip! Consider taking day trips to nearby cities like Manchester and Chester for a diverse culinary experience.
First up: Scouse stew! This dish is best enjoyed at local restaurants to get the authentic taste. This hearty meat and vegetable stew gave Liverpudlians their “Scouser” nickname. It’s comforting, delicious, and perfect after a day of sightseeing.
Other local treats to try:
Liverpool Gin – locals distill this and it’s absolutely delightful
Salt and pepper chips – a Chinese-Scouse fusion that’s totally addictive
Wet nellies – a sticky, sweet dessert similar to bread pudding
For the best food experiences, skip the touristy spots. Head to independent cafés where locals eat.
Bold Street has tons of amazing options that won’t break the bank and reflect the culinary diversity of the country!
We totally recommend trying a proper English breakfast at a local café before starting your day of adventures!
