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The best things to do in Liverpool: 10 must-see attractions 

Explore the best things to do in Liverpool, England, from the historic Royal Albert Dock and the rustic Baltic Triangle to iconic Beatles landmarks.

Updated: March 31, 2025

Wondering what to do in Liverpool, England? This lively city is so much more than The Beatles, Anfield, and lively pub scenes — though these locations are must-sees, especially for a first-timer. From classic Liverpool attractions like the Royal Albert Dock and Anfield Stadium to hidden gems like the Baltic Market and the Williamson Tunnels, there’s something to satisfy every traveler’s itch. 

The guide below shows the best things to do in Liverpool, England, which will help you make the most of your trip. Keep reading to discover the top Liverpool activities you won’t want to miss. 

1. Walk through the Royal Albert Dock 

the iconic Royal Albert Dock lights up at night with the colorful reflection mirroring on the water's surface
Explore Liverpool’s iconic waterfront at the Royal Albert Dock. Source: Shutterstock

The Royal Albert Dock is one of the top Liverpool attractions and offers the ideal blend of culture, history, and a scenic waterfront. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic area is packed with some of the best things to do in Liverpool, from exploring world-class museums like the Tate Liverpool (currently on Mann Island), known for its contemporary art, and the Merseyside Maritime Museum to exploring The Beatles Story. 

Stroll along the cobbled walkways, dine at independent restaurants, or admire the stunning architecture. If you’re looking for a more unique Liverpool activity to do here, book a boat tour to visit one of the dock’s lively bars.

Insider tip: Some of the best views of the Royal Albert Dock come from the water — especially in the evening. Hop on a Mersey ferry or rent a kayak for a unique view of this historic landmark.

2. Discover the origins of The Beatles 

the statues of the members of the Beatles including John Lennon
Tour Liverpool’s iconic sites, such as the Cavern Club, which holds memories of the world-famous music sensation The Beatles. Source: Shutterstock

Following the life and careers of The Beatles is one of the best things to do in Liverpool for any music lover or pop culture enjoyer. Explore the iconic landmarks that shaped this world-famous band, scattered all over Liverpool, from The Beatles Story museum at the Royal Albert Dock to Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, and the Cavern Club, where the Fab Four played nearly 300 times. 

Choose between the immersive Beatles Magical Mystery Tour, which takes you to all the must-see locations, or a self-guided DIY Beatles walking tour, perfect for those who want to explore at their own pace!

Insider tip: For a more authentic experience, skip the souvenir shops and head to Jacaranda Records — a café, bar, and vinyl store where The Beatles used to rehearse. Browse rare records and listen to them in private booths with vintage turntables!

3. Visit Liverpool Cathedral 

an aerial view of the rustic Liverpool cathedral showcasing the rest of the city as well
Visit Liverpool Cathedral, built between 1904 and 1978, and now open to the public every day of the year. Source: Shutterstock 

The largest cathedral in all of Britain (and the fifth largest cathedral in Europe), Liverpool Cathedral is definitely a must-see for first-timers and anyone wondering what to do in Liverpool. Climb to the top of this Gothic-style masterpiece and enjoy panoramic city views from its tower.

Liverpool Cathedral is also home to the UK’s largest organ and an array of stunning stained-glass windows. Tour the largest religious building in Britain; if you’re lucky, you might come across an art exhibition or charity dinner. Consider using a UK eSIM to ensure you have reliable internet on your travels, and check the website before your visit.

Insider tip: Instead of heading to the main entrance, visit the cathedral’s hidden Welsford Restaurant and sip on some tea in a more quiet and relaxing setting after sightseeing.

4. Explore the glory of Anfield and football culture

bright red and shiny plastic seats in the Anfield football stadium
Don any bright red piece of clothing and head to Anfield Stadium, where legendary football moments are created. Source: Shutterstock

Any Liverpool fans here? Visiting Anfield is one of the best things to do in Liverpool. Home to Liverpool FC, this legendary stadium is known for its dedicated fan base and electric atmosphere on matchdays. Beyond the stadiums, Liverpool boasts a devoted football culture where locals cram into pubs like The Sandon and The Winslow Hotel on game days. 

If you happen to be in Liverpool on a matchday, there’s no doubt you’ll hear football chants, whoops, and the iconic “You’ll Never Walk Alone” tune by Gerry and the Pacemakers. 

Insider tip: If you can’t get a hold of tickets before a game and still want to have an authentic Liverpool football culture experience, head to The Church, a repurposed church-turned-football bar owned by former Liverpool FC player Jamie Carragher.

5. Take a ride on the Mersey Ferry

a ferry crossing the mersey river with liverpool's skyline in the background
Choose from a standard hop-on-hop-off cruise ticket or a combination ticket with other Liverpool attractions. Source: Shutterstock

Speaking of Gerry and the Pacemakers, the band has also sung about another iconic Liverpool attraction — ferrying across the river Mersey. This ferry trip is one of the best Liverpool activities and a must-do for first-timers. 

Marvel at stunning views of the city’s skyline and waterfront, including landmarks like the Royal Albert Dock, the Mersey Gateway Bridge, China Town, and overall the city’s coolest areas. Learn about the city’s maritime history while you’re on the water, and if you’re a Beatles fanatic, there’s an option to take a themed tour along the river as well!

Insider tip: To avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful experience, take the ferry at sunrise or sunset. Make sure to charge your camera or phone, as you’ll definitely come across fantastic photo opportunities! 

6. Explore Liverpool One — the city’s largest shopping center

Liverpool's iconic city center in the evening time where Liverpool One is located
Explore the city’s largest shopping arena in Liverpool’s city center. Source: Shutterstock

One of the best things to do is visit Liverpool One, especially if you love shopping, dining, and entertainment. Located in the city center, this open-air retail complex is one of Liverpool’s top attractions and features over 170 stores. From high-street fashion to exclusive boutiques, this is a shopaholic’s paradise. After shopping, indulge in the rooftop bars, cinemas, and eateries with stunning city views. 

Chavasse Park is the perfect green space to relax between shopping and eating. To navigate Liverpool’s best shopping and dining spots easily, consider checking out options for UK roaming and seamless mobile data during your visit.

Insider tip: Head to Junkyard Golf Club, an underground mini-gold bar with creative cocktails and neon-lit courses.

7. Explore the Western Approaches Museum and hidden WWII bunkers

the rustic structure of the bombed-out church bell tower - a remnant of World War 2 in Liverpool
Liverpool played a crucial role in World War 2, and as a result, the city has several landmarks, including the bombed-out church bell tower. Source: Shutterstock

Exploring the Western Approaches Museum is one of the best things to do in Liverpool, especially for history enthusiasts. This underground World War 2 bunker, which operated as a top-secret command center for coordinating the Battle of the Atlantic, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s secret wartime past

Step back in time into the preserved war rooms, antique equipment, and decoded messages that played a crucial role in the war.

Insider tip: Try out the museum’s escape room experience and test your problem-solving skills in a real-life World War 2 simulation. 

8. Enjoy a green escape at Sefton Park and the Palm House 

A gazebo surrounded by flowers and lush green foliage with a lake below in Sefton Park
Sefton Park is the perfect place to relax after the hustle and bustle of city excursions. Source: Shutterstock

Visit Sefton Park for a peaceful retreat from the city’s lively streets. Exploring the 235-acre green space is perfect for those wondering what to see in Liverpool, with its scenic trails, cascading waterfalls, and boating lake.

In the center of the park lies the Palm House, a majestic Victorian-style glasshouse packed with exotic plans. Pack a picnic and head to Sefton Park to enjoy nature away from the rush of crowds and activity.

Insider tip: Visit Sefton Park on a Sunday morning when musicians tend to gather near the Palm House to play live jazz for a truly local Liverpool experience. 

9. Have a beach day at Crosby Beach 

the golden dunes of Crosby Beach and wind-swept grass
Golden sand dunes and picturesque landscapes make the perfect beach day and one of the perfect Liverpool activities. Source: Shutterstock

One of the best things to do in Liverpool is to take a trip to Crosby Beach. It’s just a short journey from the city center, and not only do you get to enjoy the windswept coastline, but also one of the most unique art installations ever. Crosby Beach is home to Another Place, an eerily beautiful installation by Antony Gormley and features 100 statues staring out to sea.

Enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore, meditate and bask in the sunset’s orange hues, and take photos of the mesmerizing scenes. If you’re planning to explore Liverpool’s coastal spots beyond the usual ones, having access to mobile data can help with navigation and local travel updates — consider using a UK SIM card or eSIM to stay connected throughout your trip.

Insider tip: Visit during low tide when the statues are fully visible. Follow the Sefton Coastal Path from Crosby to Formby for a scenic walk with stunning sea views.

10. Discover the old charm of the Baltic Triangle

an old derelict, rustic building in Liverpool's Baltic Triangle
Try the famous street food and explore old derelict buildings like this one in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle. Source: Shutterstock

Start-ups, street food, and stunning art displays are what you can expect in the Baltic Triangle. Once an industrial hub heavily bombed during World War 2, the Baltic Triangle is now overflowing with music, art spaces, and independent cafes. Explore Liverpool’s buzzing nightlife here, and don’t forget to visit the Baltic Market, a street food paradise inside the Cains Brewery building.

Insider tip: Speaking of the Cains Brewery building, don’t miss the hidden speakeasy-style bar Peaky Blinders, inspired by the popular period TV series. You’ll find 1920s-inspired decor, live music, and themed cocktails inside!

Discover the best things to do in Liverpool with a Holafly eSIM 

Traveling to Liverpool, England, is an exciting experience, but staying connected as you explore the city’s top attractions can be challenging without reliable internet. 

Whether you’re navigating from The Beatles Story to Anfield, checking restaurant reviews at Liverpool One, or booking tickets for the Mersey Ferry, having a Holafly eSIM for England ensures peace of mind and no hassle of searching for WiFi. 

And if you’re eager to take day trips to nearby cities, such as Manchester, Chester, and the Lake District — or even explore Edinburgh, Scotland — your eSIM will keep you connected across the entire UK.

  • 5-day trip: $20.90 ($4.18/day) 
  • 8-day trip: $31.90 ($3.99/day) 
Mahnoor Bangush

Mahnoor Bangush

SEO Content Writer

Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!

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