A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Liverpool vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Music, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Liverpool or Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh 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. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and shopping. See Liverpool travel costs.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a ancient, charming, and character-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of Edinburgh is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and shopping. See Edinburgh travel costs.

Liverpool and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Liverpool or Edinburgh?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Edinburgh than Liverpool, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Edinburgh is more touristy than Liverpool and is popular for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. Also, Edinburgh is famous for The Edinburgh Castle. 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 Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Edinburgh are among the most recognizable in the world. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh Better for Theater?

With a variety of venues, both Liverpool and Edinburgh provide great options for theater-goers.

Liverpool attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Edinburgh offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Liverpool and Edinburgh can be an enjoyable experience.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Liverpool. 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).

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

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

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 Edinburgh for the nightlife scene. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Live music enthusiatsts will find something to enjoy in either Liverpool or Edinburgh.

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.

Edinburgh has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Edinburgh offers plenty to see. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Edinburgh?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh More Beautiful?

Edinburgh is well known for its scenery and beauty. However, Liverpool is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Edinburgh is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It has a long history and a lot of architectural beauty. The weather may be the most challenging part of a visit to Edinburgh.

Liverpool is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh Better for Families?

Both Liverpool and Edinburgh are great 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 Edinburgh. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the city.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Edinburgh frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Edinburgh. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh Better for Students?

Liverpool and Edinburgh are great 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 Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

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 Edinburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Liverpool or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh on foot is easy. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Edinburgh?

In either Liverpool or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

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

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

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

One day in Liverpool or Edinburgh?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the port city of Liverpool. 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.

You'll find nightlife and live music around the quaint city of Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find live music and shopping around the historic destination of Liverpool. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find live music and shopping around the vibrant destination of Edinburgh. 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 Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic port city of Liverpool. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the live music. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find shopping and museums around the character-filled city of Edinburgh. 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. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Liverpool or Edinburgh?

Liverpool is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

Edinburgh 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Edinburgh?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 8% larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Edinburgh. The summer months attract visitors to Liverpool because of the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Edinburgh this time of year.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Edinburgh in the summer. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 15°C (60°F) in July, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Liverpool often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in July than Edinburgh. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Liverpool or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

Both Edinburgh and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the music scene are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Liverpool is a little warmer than Edinburgh. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Liverpool in October average around 12°C (53°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 10°C (49°F).

Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Edinburgh during autumn. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Liverpool or Edinburgh in the Winter?

Both Edinburgh and Liverpool during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Liverpool for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Edinburgh can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Liverpool is generally much warmer than Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 5°C (42°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Liverpool often gets more sunshine than Edinburgh. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in January than Edinburgh. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Liverpool or Edinburgh in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Edinburgh. Also, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

Liverpool is a little warmer than Edinburgh in the spring. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Edinburgh during spring. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Liverpool