A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Liverpool vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, Food, and Backpackers

Should you visit Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

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 Cairngorms National Park 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 diverse, historic, and fun-filled port city. It's also popular because of the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a serene, picturesque, and tranquil national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Liverpool and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Liverpool. Although Liverpool and Cairngorms National Park are both popular with visitors, Liverpool has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Liverpool is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Cairngorms National Park is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Liverpool and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Liverpool is popular for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." It is also home to The Liverpool Cathedral.

How is Liverpool different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is a very popular place for its shows and theatre. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool has a number of performance venues where you can see a variety of shows. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Cairngorms National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a national park 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 Cairngorms National Park. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

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 Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Liverpool has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park Better for Music?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is renowned for its music scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.

Liverpool has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Liverpool. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Both Liverpool and Cairngorms National Park are superb 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 Cairngorms National Park. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Cairngorms National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Liverpool is a good port city for couples to visit. 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.

Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool and Cairngorms National Park are good 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 Cairngorms National Park. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.


Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Liverpool is very popular with students. 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.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

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

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Liverpool has some public transit options. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Cairngorms National Park

Liverpool is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Liverpool Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Liverpool because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Liverpool, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Liverpool than Cairngorms National Park 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 Liverpool.


  • How many days in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Liverpool 2-3 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

With nightlife and live music around the historic port city of Liverpool, there's plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food around the national park of Cairngorms National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

With live music and shopping around the diverse destination of Liverpool, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this port city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food around the serene destination of Cairngorms National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find shopping and museums around the historic port city of Liverpool. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food around the beautiful national park of Cairngorms National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.


A week in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

Liverpool is a great place to explore. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, and The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park 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 Cairngorms National Park is £119. 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 Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Cairngorms National Park £56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Cairngorms National Park £112
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park? 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 Cairngorms National Park


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 Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Cairngorms National Park £53
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:

  • Private Transfer from Warrington to Manchester Airport (MAN): $69
  • Private Transfer from Stockton Heath to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Private Transfer from Liverpool Airport (LPL) to Holyhead Port: $103
  • Private Transfer from Knutsford to Manchester Airport (MAN): $64
  • Private Liverpool Departure Transfer - Liverpool Hotel / Accomm To Airport: $50
  • Private Liverpool Arrival Transfer:Liverpool John Lennon Airport to Hotel/Accomm: $50
  • Private Departure Transfer from Liverpool City Center to Liverpool Airport (LPL): $47
  • Manchester Airport: BUS Transfer to/from Liverpool: $6.86
  • Beatles-Themed Private Taxi Tour with Transfers: $162
  • BUS Transfer to/from John Lennon Airport: $5.75
  • Liverpool to Manchester Airport(MAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $79
  • Liverpool to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park 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
    Cairngorms National Park £30

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
    Cairngorms National Park £26

Tours and Activities in Liverpool

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

  • A Hope Street Stroll: A self-guided tour from the Metropolitan Cathedral to LIPA: $5.20
  • A Walk Through Time: History of Liverpool Walking Tour: $22
  • Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience in Liverpool: $51
  • Awesome Corners of Liverpool – Family Walking Tour: $286
  • BEST OF LIVERPOOL History & Culture Tour-From The Cruise Terminal: $27
  • BEST OF LIVERPOOL-Heritage, History & Culture Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Beatles & Beyond: A Liverpool Legacy Tour: $303
  • Beatles Classic Tour of Liverpool by Private Taxi: $234
  • Beatles Famous Walking Tour Of Liverpool-From the Cruise Terminal: $27
  • Beatles Magical Mystery Tour: $25
  • Best of Liverpool Sightseeing Tour by Private Taxi: $252
  • Brews, Views, football & History Tour: $82

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Cairngorms National Park £8.41

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Liverpool and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Liverpool is more expensive. And not only is Cairngorms National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cairngorms National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cairngorms National Park 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 Liverpool would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Liverpool than you might in Cairngorms National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Liverpool in the summer for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Liverpool is around the same temperature as Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Liverpool in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Liverpool often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Liverpool for the shopping scene and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Liverpool is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 12°C (53°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Liverpool during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cairngorms National Park in the winter. Liverpool is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Liverpool often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Cairngorms National Park. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Liverpool is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Liverpool in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Cairngorms National Park during spring. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Liverpool

Liverpool Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)