A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Liverpool vs. Dublin for Nightlife, Music, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Liverpool or Dublin?

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 Dublin 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.

Dublin

Dublin is a fun, laid-back, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Liverpool and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Liverpool or Dublin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Liverpool. Dublin is bigger than Liverpool, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Liverpool is more popular for its theatre productions and music. Dublin is more touristy than Liverpool and is known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse. Liverpool is well known for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles."

How is Liverpool different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Dublin 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 Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

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 Dublin Better for Theater?

Liverpool is a great destination for its theatre productions. However, Dublin 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.

Dublin is not a theatre destination.

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

Dublin 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 Dublin. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

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 Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Dublin is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Dublin is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Many people head to Liverpool for the nightlife scene. 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.

Is Liverpool or Dublin Better for Music?

Liverpool is terrific for its live music scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its music scene.

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.

Dublin has a thriving music scene. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Is Liverpool or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

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

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Dublin?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Dublin 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 Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.

Is Liverpool or Dublin Better for Families?

Both Liverpool and Dublin 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 Dublin. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Is Liverpool or Dublin Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Dublin frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.

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 Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dublin is well known for backpackers. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Plenty of backpackers visit Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Is Liverpool or Dublin Better for Students?

Liverpool is a great destination for students. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Liverpool is a great port city to visit as a student. 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.

It's common for students to visit Dublin. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

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

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

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 Dublin offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Liverpool or Dublin a more walkable city?

Dublin 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 Dublin on foot is easy. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Dublin?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin 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 Dublin.

One day in Liverpool or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Liverpool. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Dublin. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Dublin?

Liverpool is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find live music and food around the welcoming destination of Dublin. 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 Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Liverpool. Don't miss the live music, as that's what most people do. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find food and shopping around the fun city of Dublin. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Liverpool or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the historic destination of Liverpool. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Dublin 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 Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Liverpool. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Dublin, 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 Dublin?

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 Dublin in the Summer?

Both Dublin and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Liverpool for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Dublin because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Dublin in the summer. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Dublin fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin during summer. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 166 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Dublin. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Liverpool or Dublin in the Autumn?

Both Dublin and Liverpool during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the shopping scene and the music scene. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Dublin this time of year.

In the autumn, Liverpool is around the same temperature as Dublin. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Liverpool in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Dublin averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Liverpool often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 97 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in October than Dublin. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Liverpool or Dublin in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Dublin. The museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Dublin for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Dublin. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 5°C (42°F), and Dublin fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dublin during winter. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Dublin receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dublin. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Dublin receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Liverpool or Dublin in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Dublin. Additionally, many visitors come to Dublin in the spring for the activities around the city.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Dublin in the spring. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Dublin fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Dublin. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dublin receives 157 hours of full sun.

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

Typical Weather for Dublin and Liverpool