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

Should you visit Liverpool or Dresden?

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 Dresden 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. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and theater.

Dresden

Dresden is a park-filled, friendly, and architectural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Liverpool and Dresden: 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
  • Good for students
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Dresden?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dresden. Although Liverpool and Dresden are about the same size, Dresden has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dresden is more popular for its food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Liverpool is known for its theatre productions, music, and shopping. Dresden is more touristy than Liverpool and is known for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady). It is also home to Dresden Frauenkirche and The Royal Palace. Liverpool is popular for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles."

How is Liverpool different from Dresden?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dresden 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 Dresden?

Liverpool
Dresden

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Liverpool and Dresden.

Liverpool offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Popular museums around town include Merseyside Maritime Museum, Victoria Gallery and Museum, and Walker Art Gallery.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dresden. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.


Is Liverpool or Dresden Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Dresden

Liverpool is a great destination for its shows and theatre. However, Dresden is not a theatre destination.

While in town, many visitors enjoy seeing a show in Liverpool. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Dresden is not a theatre destination.

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

Liverpool
Dresden

Dresden 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 Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

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 Dresden Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Dresden

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Liverpool and Dresden.

Liverpool is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Many people head to Dresden for the nightlife scene. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.


Is Liverpool or Dresden Better for Music?

Liverpool
Dresden

Liverpool is an amazing port city to visit for its music scene. However, Dresden is not a live music destination.

In Liverpool you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Dresden is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Dresden Better for its Old Town?

Liverpool
Dresden

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

Dresden is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Dresden?

Liverpool
Dresden

Liverpool is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.


Is Liverpool or Dresden Better for Families?

Liverpool
Dresden

Liverpool is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options for its kid-friendly activities.

Liverpool is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Liverpool or Dresden Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Dresden

Both Liverpool and Dresden are good 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.

Dresden is a good port city for couples to visit. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Liverpool or Dresden Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Dresden

Liverpool and Dresden 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 Dresden. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.


Is Liverpool or Dresden Better for Students?

Liverpool
Dresden

Liverpool is a great destination for students. However, Dresden is not popular with students.

Liverpool is a very popular port city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

Liverpool
Dresden

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Liverpool and Dresden.

You'll find some public transit in Liverpool, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

While Dresden offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

Is Liverpool or Dresden a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Dresden

Liverpool and Dresden both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable port city.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Dresden or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Dresden?

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

Families should spend more time in Liverpool than Dresden. 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 Dresden. 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 Dresden 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 Dresden? Ideal Length of Stay
    Liverpool 2-3 
    Dresden 1-3

One day in Liverpool or Dresden?

In Liverpool, you'll find museums and theater. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

A weekend in Liverpool or Dresden?

In Liverpool, you'll find theater and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Liverpool has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dresden. 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 Dresden?

Liverpool is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the friendly city of Dresden. 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 Dresden?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Liverpool. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Liverpool. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Dresden 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Dresden 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 Dresden is £115. 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 Dresden in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Dresden £53
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Dresden £106
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Dresden

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Dresden? 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 Dresden


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 Dresden Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Dresden £9.04
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:

  • Arrival Private Transfer: Liverpool Airport LPL to Liverpool in Business Car: $65
  • Arrival Private Transfer: Liverpool Airport LPL to Liverpool in Luxury Van: $79
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Liverpool Airport LPL in Business Car: $65
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Manchester Airport MAN in Business Car: $121
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Manchester Airport MAN in Luxury Van: $195
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL) to Liverpool Port - Round-Trip Transfer: $83
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL): Transfer to Liverpool Accommodation: $148
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL): Transfer to Liverpool Cruise Port: $148
  • Liverpool Airport Arrival Private Transfer to Accommodation: $41
  • Liverpool Airport Transfer 1 to 10 Passengers One Way Transfer : $44
  • Liverpool Cruise Port to Liverpool Airport (LPL) - Departure Private Transfer: $41
  • Liverpool Cruise Port to Liverpool hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $83

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dresden

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dresden:

  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - Business Van: $77
  • Airport transfer from/to DRESDEN (DRS) - First Class: $136
  • One-Way Transfer from Dresden Airport (DRS) to Dresden: $146
  • Private Transfer from Dresden City to Leipzig City: $83
  • Private Transfer from Dresden to Prague with 2 hours for sightseeing: $158

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Dresden?

Prices for flights to both Dresden 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
    Dresden £27

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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dresden

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

  • Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $51
  • Winterlights Evening River Cruise with Dinner: $59
  • Dinner-Show "INDUSTRIELLE REVOLUTION": $117

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool £36
    Dresden £8.18

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 Dresden

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Secrets of Old The Lost Treasure Adventure: $4.27
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • River Elbe Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Old Town Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Dresden‘s Rise from Ruin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour : $7.99
  • Old Town Highlights Self-guided Tour: $8.45
  • Tour of VW's Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • The Green Factory Tour VW Transparent Factory: $9.62
  • Special Tour for Children & Families VW Factory: $9.62

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Dresden £13

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 Dresden

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dresden:

  • Dresden Bike Tour with Wine Tasting: $53
  • Radeberger Brewery Tour in German: $57
  • Private Pub Crawl Tour: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Liverpool and Dresden, we can see that Liverpool is more expensive. And not only is Dresden much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dresden would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dresden 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 Dresden.

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


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Dresden?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Liverpool. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Dresden, 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 Dresden?

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 Dresden in the Summer?

Both Dresden and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Liverpool for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Dresden in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Liverpool is cooler than Dresden. Typically, the summer temperatures in Liverpool in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Dresden averages at about 20°C (68°F).

In July, Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dresden. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Dresden 20°C (68°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Dresden in the Autumn?

Both Dresden and Liverpool during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Liverpool in the autumn for the shopping scene and the music scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dresden for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Dresden. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 12°C (53°F), and Dresden fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Liverpool usually gets more rain in October than Dresden. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Dresden 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Dresden in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Dresden. Most visitors come to Liverpool for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Dresden because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Dresden can be very cold. Liverpool is much warmer than Dresden in the winter. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Dresden fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In January, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Dresden. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Dresden 1°C (33°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Dresden in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Dresden. Additionally, the activities around the city are the main draw to Dresden this time of year.

In the spring, Liverpool is cooler than Dresden. Typically, the spring temperatures in Liverpool in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Dresden averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Liverpool usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Dresden. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dresden receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F) 
    Dresden 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Dresden and Liverpool

Liverpool Dresden
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 1°C (33°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 2°C (36°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 19°C (67°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 43 mm (1.7 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)