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

Should you visit Liverpool or Howth?

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 Howth 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 shopping, museums, and theater.

Howth

Howth is a picturesque, scenic, and peaceful fishing village. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Liverpool and Howth: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Howth?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Liverpool than Howth, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Liverpool is better known for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Howth is more popular for its food, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Howth is more touristy than Liverpool and is known for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. Liverpool is well known for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." Also, Liverpool is famous for The Liverpool Cathedral.

How is Liverpool different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Liverpool
Howth

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Liverpool and Howth.

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 Howth. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.


Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Howth

Liverpool is well known for its theatre productions. However, Howth 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.

Howth is not a theatre destination.

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

Liverpool
Howth

Howth is a fishing village 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 Howth. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

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 Howth Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Howth

Liverpool is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

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.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.


Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Music?

Liverpool
Howth

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

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.

Howth is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Beaches?

Liverpool
Howth

Howth is well known for the beache. However, Liverpool is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Howth attract visitors from all over. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

Liverpool is not a beach destination.

Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Hiking?

Liverpool
Howth

Howth is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Liverpool is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

Liverpool is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Howth?

Liverpool
Howth

Liverpool is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Families?

Liverpool
Howth

Liverpool is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Howth offers lots of family activities. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Howth

Both Liverpool and Howth are notable 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.

Howth is a good port city for couples to visit. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.


Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Howth

Liverpool is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.

Is Liverpool or Howth Better for Students?

Liverpool
Howth

Liverpool is well known for students. However, Howth 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.

Howth is not popular with students.

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

Liverpool
Howth

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

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 Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.


Is Liverpool or Howth a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Howth

Liverpool and Howth both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Liverpool is a very walkable port city.

Howth is a very walkable destination. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

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

Should I spend more time in Howth or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Howth?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Liverpool or Howth to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Liverpool than Howth because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Liverpool, and 1-2 days is enough time in Howth.

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

One day in Liverpool or Howth?

In Liverpool, many people enjoy the live music and shopping that this diverse 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 food and museums around the fishing village of Howth. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Howth has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Howth?

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 food around the coastal destination of Howth. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this fishing village has to offer. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Liverpool or Howth?

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 food and museums when visiting the coastal fishing village of Howth. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Liverpool or Howth?

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.

Howth is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Howth 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 Howth 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 Howth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Howth £55
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Howth £110
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Howth

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Howth? 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 Howth


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Howth £35
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

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Howth?

Prices for flights to both Howth 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
    Howth £38

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
    Howth £21

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 Howth

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

  • Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Howth £18

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 Howth, we can see that Liverpool is more expensive. And not only is Howth much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Howth would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Howth 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 Howth.

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



When is the best time to visit Liverpool or Howth?

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 Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth 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 Howth in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

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

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Howth 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Howth in the Autumn?

Both Howth 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. Also, most visitors come to Howth for the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere during these months.

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

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

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


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Howth 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Howth in the Winter?

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

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

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

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Howth 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Howth in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Howth. Also, the beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Howth this time of year.

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

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

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


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

Typical Weather for Howth and Liverpool

Liverpool Howth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)