A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Liverpool vs. Basel for Attractions, Nightlife, Families, and Food

Should you visit Liverpool or Basel?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Liverpool and Basel can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a fun-filled, diverse, and historic port city. And you can't forget about the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Basel

Basel is a museum-filled, easily accessible, and beautiful city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Liverpool and Basel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Basel?

You'll generally find more things to do in Liverpool than Basel. Liverpool is bigger than Basel, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Liverpool is better known for its theatre productions, nightlife, and music, while Basel is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Liverpool is well known for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." Also, Liverpool is famous for The Liverpool Cathedral. Basel is well known for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Liverpool different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Basel and Liverpool. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Liverpool or Basel?

Liverpool
Basel

Basel is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Liverpool. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.


Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Basel

Liverpool is notable for its theatre productions. However, Basel is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Liverpool. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Basel is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Liverpool or Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Liverpool
Basel

Basel is a city with good options for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Basel. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Liverpool may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a diversity of flavors that are influenced by the city's international population. There are also several famous local dishes including scouse (a meat stew), toad in the hole (a giant yorkie stuffed with British sausages) and wet nelly (a dessert).

Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Basel

Liverpool is notable for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Liverpool has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The nightlife is fun and diverse Head to the waterfront for comedy clubs or the Ropewalks and Seel Street if you want a swanky experience. Cavern Quarter is the place to go for an all night party.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.


Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Music?

Liverpool
Basel

Liverpool is a world-class destination for its live music scene. However, Basel is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Liverpool Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Basel is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Liverpool
Basel

Basel is well known for its old town. However, Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Basel?

Liverpool
Basel

Shopping is a popular activity in both Basel and Liverpool.

Liverpool is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Liverpool ONE for the area's best shopping. This is the largest open-air shopping center in the UK and it's filled with a mix of name brands and independent vendors.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.


Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Families?

Liverpool
Basel

Both Liverpool and Basel are high quality to visit with kids.

Liverpool is a very kid-friendly port city. One of the most popular activities for families is Pleasureland, an amuseument park with rides that are fun for young kids. The city also has many museums and play spaces that are great for families.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Basel. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Basel

Both Liverpool and Basel are notable destinations for a couple's getaway.

Liverpool makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city is fun, and the best way to enjoy a romantic getaway is to find a fun or unique activity that you can enjoy together. Going dancing, dining out, or seeing a show are all fun activities in the area.

Basel is a good port city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Basel

Liverpool and Basel are notable places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Liverpool is a good port city to visit for backpackers. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.


Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Students?

Liverpool
Basel

Liverpool and Basel are high quality places to visit for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Liverpool. The city is diverse, affordable, and offers an excellent academic environment. International students will fill welcomed and enjoy a fun city with a lot to offer.

Many students visit Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Is Liverpool or Basel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Liverpool
Basel

Basel is well known for its public transit. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Basel can get you around easily. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

While Liverpool offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Is Liverpool or Basel a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Basel

Basel is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Basel on foot is easy. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Liverpool Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Liverpool and Basel. In our opinion, Basel has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Basel than Liverpool. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Liverpool, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

Families should spend more time in Basel than Liverpool. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Basel, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Basel than Liverpool. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Basel that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel than Liverpool if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Basel.


  • How many days in Liverpool or Basel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Liverpool 2-3 
    Basel 1-3

One day in Liverpool or Basel?

In Liverpool, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this diverse destination offers. Lots of people come for the live music. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Basel. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Basel has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Liverpool. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Basel. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Liverpool or Basel?

Liverpool is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and theater when visiting the destination of Liverpool. Lots of people come for the live music. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Basel. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Liverpool or Basel?

You'll find theater and nightlife around the diverse destination of Liverpool. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Basel is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Basel or Liverpool?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Liverpool is £161, while the average daily cost in Basel is £190. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Liverpool and Basel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Basel £115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Basel £230
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Basel

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Basel? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Liverpool


Hotels in Basel


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Liverpool Hotel Prices and Basel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Basel £37
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Liverpool

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Liverpool:


  • City bike hire Liverpool
    £6.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Liverpool

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Liverpool:

  • BUS Transfer to/from John Lennon Airport: $5.75
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Liverpool: $6.86
  • Liverpool Airport Arrival Private Transfer to Accommodation: $41
  • Liverpool to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Liverpool Cruise Port to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Liverpool Airport Transfer 1 to 10 Passengers One Way Transfer : $44
  • Private Departure Transfer from Liverpool City Center to Liverpool Airport (LPL): $47
  • Private Liverpool Departure Transfer - Liverpool Hotel / Accomm To Airport: $50
  • Private Liverpool Arrival Transfer:Liverpool John Lennon Airport to Hotel/Accomm: $50
  • Private Transfer from Stockton Heath to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Private Transfer from Knutsford to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Liverpool Airport LPL in Business Car: $65

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Basel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Basel:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: Basel to EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) in Business Car: $108
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Car: $157
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • ONE WAY: Basel Train Station (ZDH) to / from Basel transfer: $88
  • Private Direct Transfer from Basel to Zurich: $205
  • Private One-way Transfer From Basel to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $186
  • Private Transfer From Basel To Bern With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $224
  • Private Transfer from Basel to Zurich with 3h Sightseeing Stops: $251
  • Private Transfer: Basel Airport BSL to Zurich in Luxury Van: $261
  • Private direct transfer from Basel to Lucerne with a local driver: $177
  • Private transfer from Basel to Strasbourg with a local driver: $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Basel?

Prices for flights to both Basel and Liverpool change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Liverpool £59
    Basel £49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Liverpool

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Liverpool.

  • Brewery Bus Tour with Beer Tasting and Pizza: $81
  • Brewery bus tour, 5 breweries, 12 beers, 1 pizza, 1 bus: $89
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $100

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool £36
    Basel £30

Tours and Activities in Liverpool

Here are a few actual costs in Liverpool for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Liverpool Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $3.27
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • Escape Game and Tour: $4.28
  • A Hope Street Stroll: A self-guided tour from the Metropolitan Cathedral to LIPA: $5.20
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Liverpool History and Culture: A Self-Guided Audio Tour along the River Mersey: $6.99
  • Liverpool’s Hidden Histories: A Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Discover Liverpool’s Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.56
  • Discover Liverpool’s Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.59
  • Albert Docks Sightseeing Cruise with Commentary: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Basel

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Basel are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Basel Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Basel's Portrait Self Guided Audio City Tour: $5.60
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $8.99
  • The Best of Basel’s Hidden Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Uncover Basel's Charms: In-App Audio Tour of Cultural Gems: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Basel (Kleinbasel) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Basel £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Liverpool

Also in Liverpool, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • FunnyBoyz Liverpool - Drag Shows, Tributes, Brunches & Bar Crawls: $19
  • Liverpool Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $50
  • Pirate Pub Crawl & Boat Tour: $56

Sample the Local Flavors in Basel

Also in Basel, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Meet People and Hidden Bars and Clubs: $33
  • Pinot Noir & Pinot Wine Tour to Baden-Württemberg: $279
  • Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!: $285
  • Half Day Private Cheese & Wine Tasting in Vineyard in Basel: $289


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Liverpool and Basel, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Liverpool much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Liverpool would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Liverpool and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel than you might in Liverpool.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Liverpool Expensive? and Is Basel Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Basel?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Basel, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Liverpool or Basel?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Liverpool or Basel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Basel. Most visitors come to Liverpool for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Basel because of the family-friendly experiences.

Liverpool is cooler than Basel in the summer. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Basel fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Basel this time of the year. Liverpool usually receives less sunshine than Basel during summer. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Basel. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Basel 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Basel in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Basel. The autumn months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the shopping scene and the music scene. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

In the autumn, Liverpool is cooler than Basel. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Liverpool in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Basel averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In the autumn, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Basel. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in October than Basel. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Basel 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Basel in the Winter?

Both Basel and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Basel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Basel. In January, Liverpool is generally much warmer than Basel. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 5°C (42°F), and Basel fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Basel during winter. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Basel. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Basel 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Basel in the Spring?

Both Basel and Liverpool during the spring are popular places to visit. Furthermore, many visitors come to Basel in the spring for the natural beauty.

Liverpool is cooler than Basel in the spring. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Basel fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Liverpool often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Basel. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets less rain in April than Basel. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F) 
    Basel 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Basel and Liverpool

Liverpool Basel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)