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

Should you visit Liverpool or Ghent?

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 Ghent 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 historic, fun-filled, and diverse port city. It's also known for live music, shopping, and museums.

Ghent

Ghent is a historic, under-rated, and youthful city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Liverpool and Ghent: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Ghent?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Liverpool than Ghent. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Liverpool is very popular for its theatre productions and music, while Ghent attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Liverpool is famous for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." It is also well known for The Liverpool Cathedral. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

How is Liverpool different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Liverpool
Ghent

Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Ghent

Liverpool is a well-known place for theatre. However, Ghent is not a theatre destination.

Liverpool offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. The city has a diverse theater scene with major venues showing world renowned productions as well as cozy, local venues with small shows.

Ghent is not a theatre destination.

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

Liverpool
Ghent

Ghent is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Liverpool is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ghent. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Ghent

Ghent 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 Ghent is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent Better for Music?

Liverpool
Ghent

Liverpool is a world-class destination for live music. However, Ghent is not a live music destination.

Liverpool is a world class music destination. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Ghent is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Liverpool
Ghent

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

Ghent is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Ghent?

Liverpool
Ghent

Shopping is a popular activity in both Ghent 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 Ghent. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.


Is Liverpool or Ghent Better for Families?

Liverpool
Ghent

Liverpool is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Liverpool is 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly port city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Liverpool or Ghent Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Ghent

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

Couples visit Ghent frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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 Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Ghent

Liverpool and Ghent are nice 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 Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.


Is Liverpool or Ghent Better for Students?

Liverpool
Ghent

Ghent is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Ghent is a very popular city for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Many students visit 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.

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

Liverpool
Ghent

Ghent is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Ghent can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Ghent

Liverpool and Ghent both are very good when exploring on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable port city.

Ghent is a very walkable destination. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Ghent?

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

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

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


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

One day in Liverpool or Ghent?

In Liverpool, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this historic 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 Ghent. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Ghent?

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 under-rated destination of Ghent. 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 Ghent?

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 under-rated city of Ghent. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Liverpool or Ghent?

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.

Ghent 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Ghent 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 Ghent is £101. 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 Ghent in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Ghent £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Ghent £122
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Ghent

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Ghent? 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 Ghent


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 Ghent Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Ghent £16
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 Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233
  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Ghent?

Prices for flights to both Ghent 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
    Ghent £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

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

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

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool £36
    Ghent £7.39

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 Ghent

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Ghent £15

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 Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245


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

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


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Ghent?

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

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 Ghent in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Ghent. The music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Liverpool is generally cooler than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 15°C (60°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. Liverpool usually receives less sunshine than Ghent during summer. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of rain as Ghent. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Ghent 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Ghent in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Ghent. Many travelers come to Liverpool for the shopping scene and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Ghent in the autumn. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Ghent. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Ghent 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Ghent in the Winter?

Both Ghent and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Liverpool in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Liverpool is much warmer than Ghent. Typically, the winter temperatures in Liverpool in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Ghent averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during winter. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Liverpool usually receives more rain than Ghent. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Ghent 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Ghent in the Spring?

Both Ghent and Liverpool during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty.

In April, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Ghent. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 8°C (47°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in April than Ghent. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F) 
    Ghent 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Ghent and Liverpool

Liverpool Ghent
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)