A weekend spent in Liverpool is the best weekend you’ll ever have – fact. Ever since winning the European Capital of Culture in 2008, the city has undergone a massive revival and become a popular travel destination. Each year, thousands of visitors descend on the city, which in 2018 was voted the kindest city in the UK. Liverpool is of course famous for its unique attractions, exciting events, world class sport and an unrivalled musical heritage.
With so much to see and do though, it can feel a bit overwhelming to plan the perfect weekend and ensure you don’t miss out on the essentials. We at Caro Short Stay are here to help – after all we are Liverpool experts! We’ve done all the legwork and compiled the Ultimate 48 hours Guide to Liverpool. It’s got a bit of everything from where’s best to go for coffee, cake and a spot of people watching, to a round of mini golf featuring live DJs, cocktails and crazy neon lights.
Want something a little more tailor made? Whether you’re a Beatles fan, visiting Liverpool with the family or having a girls’ weekend away, we’ve got you covered. Just check our 48 hours in Liverpool page!
As with all our 48 hours guides, this ultimate one runs from Friday afternoon to Sunday lunchtime. It can of course be easily adapted to your Liverpool visit although some things may not be running/open every day so be sure to check in advance!
Day 1 – Friday afternoon.
Checking in time
Whether arriving by bus or train, both the Main Bridewell Hotel and Parker Street serviced apartments are only minutes’ walk from Lime Street Station and major bus stops. This means you can spend less time finding your hotel and more time exploring Liverpool.
Arriving before our 3pm check in time? Drop your bags at reception and head out into the city!
Ghetto golf
Experience mini golf like you never have before by playing a round of Ghetto Golf. It’s set in an old warehouse with graffiti covered walls in the Baltic Triangle. DJs play the biggest songs, and the neon lights and delicious cocktails will make you feel like you’re in the coolest bar in town.
Baltic Market
After a round of golf, it’s time to tuck into some delicious food at the Baltic Market. It’s just around the corner from Ghetto Golf, so you don’t have far to walk. The first of its kind in Liverpool, the Baltic Market is an indoor food market with a constantly changing collection of vendors offering some of the tastiest food in the city. We’re talking everything from halloumi fries, to bao buns to woodfire pizzas. They regularly have live music too!
Baltic Bar Hopping
In the Baltic Triangle, there’s everything from cocktails bars, to speakeasies, to craft brewery pubs. It’s easy to drink and dance the night away by moving between the transformed warehouses and discovering something exciting around every corner.
Chinatown
Finish your night like a true Liverpool local by heading to Chinatown for some late-night noodles. Liverpool has one of the oldest Chinese communities in the world and the largest Chinese arch outside of mainland China, which looks stunning all lit up at night.
Day 2 – Saturday
On ya bike!
You’ll find City Bike stations spread across the city and they’re a great way to move around and see even more of Liverpool. Hire a bike and cycle through the beautiful Sefton Park towards Lark Lane and enjoy breakfast at one of the many independent restaurants. Browse the boutique shops before heading back into the city centre via the famous Penny Lane.
Museums
Liverpool may be a small city, but it is filled with world class museums like the Tate, The Walker Art Gallery and The World Museum. Whether you’re into Ancient Egypt, naval history or Pre-Raphaelite artwork, there is something for everyone. You could easily spend a whole day museum hopping, there’s just so much to see!
Climb Vesty tower @ the Anglican Cathedral
For the best views of Liverpool, climb the Vesty Tower at the stunning Anglican Cathedral. On a clear day you can see all the way to Blackpool – apparently! Be sure to also check out the gift shop once you’ve come back down as they do some tasty fudge.
Coffee and people watching
There is something so enjoyable about people watching whilst you enjoy a nice cuppa and slice of cake. In Liverpool you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to people watching spots. Bold Street is filled with independent coffee shops like Love Thy Neighbour and Leaf, all serving up delicious coffees and home made cakes. Don’t get too comfy though, there’s still plenty of Liverpool to see!
Take a stroll
All that cake will need burning off (to make room for more later!) If the weather is fine, there is no better walk than along Liverpool’s iconic waterfront. Take the time to explore the stunning Albert Dock, which is the largest collection of Grade I listed buildings in the country. The Albert Dock transformed Liverpool into the most important shipping port in the world and after falling derelict for several years, it’s now filled with boutique shops, restaurants and bars, and museums.
Selfie with the Fab Four
Carry on walking along the waterfront and you’ll arrive at the Fab Four statue – the perfect opportunity to get your selfie with The Beatles. Grab a bite to eat at Matou on their rooftop terrace if you’re feeling peckish and take in the stunning Three Graces.
Ferry across the Mersey
Have you even been to Liverpool if you don’t get a ferry across the Mersey? Made famous by Gerry and The Pacemakers, the ferry lets you view Liverpool’s waterfront from a new perspective. If you have the time, it’s worth getting off on the other side to explore The Wirral.
Punk afternoon tea @ Baltic Social
Afternoon tea with a twist! Instead of dainty finger sandwiches, you can enjoy mini hotdogs and mac and cheese bites and if you don’t fancy tea you can wash it all down with a pot of beer!
Sunset at Oh me oh my
Possibly the most beautiful rooftop bar in the city with stunning views of the Liverpool waterfront. There’s no better place to watch the sunset with a delicious drink in your hand.
Wine and dine in the Georgian Quarter
The Georgian Quarter is one of the most beautiful areas in Liverpool. Wander its streets and you’ll discover charming wine bars and atmospheric restaurants. Drink like a local at the Philharmonic Pub on the corner of Hope Street, and make sure you check out the men’s toilets – they’re Grade I listed!
Day 3 – Sunday
Checking out
Checkout at both our Caro Short Stay locations is 11am, with late checkout available on request. It means there’s no need to rush and you can take it easy. If you need to leave luggage, just drop it at reception where we’ll look after it till you return.
Brunch @ brunch club
Weekends were made for brunching and The Bruch Club on Duke Street is the latest spot in Liverpool serving delicious food till 5pm daily. Menu highlights include their French Toast and Eggs Florentine.
Urban Farmers Market
You know what else weekends were made for? Farmers markets. After brunch take a stroll back to the Baltic Market. Every Sunday is transformed into a farmer’s market featuring strong coffee, homemade cakes and rainbow bagels.
Souvenir shopping
Remember your 48 hours in Liverpool by stopping by Utility at either Liverpool One or Bold Street. Here you can pick up unique Liverpool artworks, postcards, mugs and more!
Sunday roast fondue
Got a late afternoon train? Everyone knows that the perfect end to 48 hours in Liverpool is a Sunday roast and a Sunday roast fondue is even better. Head down to Ma Boyle’s for perfectly roasted beef, Yorkshire pudding waffles and a pot of deliciously thick gravy for dunking.
We hope you have an amazing time in Liverpool! Be sure to follow Caro Short Stay on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for things to do and see in Liverpool plus exclusive offers!