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

Should you visit Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

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 Pittsburgh 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. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is a authentic, under-rated, and industrial 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 Pittsburgh: 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
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

Both Pittsburgh and Liverpool have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Liverpool is more popular for its theatre productions, music, and shopping, while Pittsburgh is known for its museums, food, and big city activities. Liverpool is more touristy than Pittsburgh and is popular for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles." Pittsburgh is popular for its many bridges, its steel industry, and being the home of "Mr. Roger's Neighborhood".

How is Liverpool different from Pittsburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh. The museums range from science and nature focused, like the Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden, to quirky and artsy, like the Mattress Factory. The Warhol Museum is dedicated to the works of Andy Warhol and it's not to be missed. Also worth a visit is the Heinz History Center, Randyland, and the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is great for its shows and theatre. However, Pittsburgh 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.

Pittsburgh is not a theatre destination.

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

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh. The city is known for its working class roots, and the food is hearty and filling, which is great for those on a budget. Popular local dishes include pierogis, deli sandwiches, Pittsburgh salads (complete with French fries), and hotcakes.

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 Pittsburgh Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

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

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 Pittsburgh for the nightlife scene. There's an active music and dance scene in town. For the best bars and clubs, head to the Strip and South Side and for live entertainment and casinos check out the North Shore.


Is Liverpool or Pittsburgh Better for Music?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is a must-visit destination for its music scene. However, Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

Liverpool has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. Known as the birthplace of the Beatles, the city has been established as a rock and pop capital since the 1950s.

Pittsburgh is not a live music destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is great for its shopping areas. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Pittsburgh is a great destination for shopping. You'll find local fashion boutiques and shopping centers in the city's downtown. Other great shopping neighborhoods include Shadyside, Station Square, and Fifth Avenue Place.

Is Liverpool or Pittsburgh Better for Families?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Liverpool. 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.

Pittsburgh is a family-friendly place to visit. There's a surprising number of kid-friendly activities packed into this city. Check out the National Aviary or visit the popular Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium. There are also kid-focused museums and science centers as well as parks and playgrounds. Also make sure you take the cable car up Duquesne Incline or enjoy a boat ride on one of the rivers as well.


Is Liverpool or Pittsburgh Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is a nice place to visit for couples. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for romance.

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.

Pittsburgh is not the best destination for a couple to visit. There are a few good date night activities like taking river cruises, enjoying dinner and show, or going to a Pirate's game.

Is Liverpool or Pittsburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is a nice place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Pittsburgh is not a good destination for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Liverpool. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Pittsburgh is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's usually overlooked by backpackers, but there is some cheap accommodation in town.

Is Liverpool or Pittsburgh Better for Students?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Pittsburgh is not popular with students.

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.

Pittsburgh is not popular with students.


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

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

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

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 Pittsburgh offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus and lightrail options through the city's downtown. There's also the unique incline, which is an experience worth doing.

Is Liverpool or Pittsburgh a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Pittsburgh

Liverpool is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Pittsburgh is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.

Pittsburgh is somewhat walkable. Some of the attractions are spread out, but if you're willing to do a bit of walking, it's possible to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Pittsburgh or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

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

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

One day in Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

With live music and shopping around the diverse port city of Liverpool, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Liverpool, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this port city.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Pittsburgh. 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 Pittsburgh?

Liverpool, a popular port city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Pittsburgh. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

Liverpool is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the live music. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Pittsburgh 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.


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 Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Pittsburgh or Liverpool?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Liverpool is $202, while the average daily cost in Pittsburgh is $181. 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 Pittsburgh in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool $95
    Pittsburgh $106
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool $190
    Pittsburgh $212
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Pittsburgh

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Pittsburgh? 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 Pittsburgh


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 Pittsburgh Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool $33
    Pittsburgh $22
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Liverpool

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Liverpool:


  • City bike hire Liverpool
    $7.53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Liverpool

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Liverpool:

  • ROUND TRIP: transfer to Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL): $232
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Manchester Airport MAN in Luxury Van: $195
  • Beatles-Themed Private Taxi Tour with Transfers: $163
  • Private Transfer from Liverpool Airport (LPL) to Manchester Airport (MAN): $150
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL): Transfer to Liverpool Cruise Port: $149
  • Liverpool Airport (LPL): Transfer to Liverpool Accommodation: $149
  • Liverpool Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Liverpool: $149
  • Liverpool Private Transfer from central Liverpool to Liverpool Airport: $123
  • Departure Private Transfer: Liverpool to Manchester Airport MAN in Business Car: $121
  • Private Transfer from Bootle to Manchester Airport (MAN): $116
  • Private Transfer from Liverpool Hotels to Holyhead Cruise Port: $103
  • Liverpool to Manchester Airport(MAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $79

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pittsburgh

Also for Pittsburgh, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh City - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $97
  • Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) to Pittsburgh hotel/address - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Pittsburgh City to Pittsburgh Airport (PIT) - Departure Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

Prices for flights to both Pittsburgh 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 $75
    Pittsburgh $54

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: $82
  • Brewery bus tour, 5 breweries, 12 beers, 1 pizza, 1 bus: $89
  • Small-Group: Experience Local Food Tour in Liverpool : $89
  • Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $100

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pittsburgh

For Pittsburgh, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70
  • Pittsburgh's Strip District Food Tour: $70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool $45
    Pittsburgh $38

Tours and Activities in Liverpool

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

  • A Hope Street Stroll: A self-guided tour from the Metropolitan Cathedral to LIPA: $5.20
  • A Walk Through Time: History of Liverpool Walking Tour: $22
  • Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience in Liverpool: $51
  • Awesome Corners of Liverpool – Family Walking Tour: $287
  • BEST OF LIVERPOOL History & Culture Tour-From The Cruise Terminal: $27
  • BEST OF LIVERPOOL-Heritage, History & Culture Guided Walking Tour: $27
  • Beatles & Beyond: A Liverpool Legacy Tour: $305
  • Beatles Classic Tour of Liverpool by Private Taxi: $235
  • Beatles Famous Walking Tour Of Liverpool-From the Cruise Terminal: $27
  • Beatles Magical Mystery Tour: $25
  • Best of Liverpool Sightseeing Tour by Private Taxi: $253
  • City & Beatles Tour - BLUE ROUTE: $25

Tours and Activities in Pittsburgh

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Pittsburgh.

  • Eastbound Pennsylvania Turnpike: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.22
  • Pittsburgh to Logstown Settler's History: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $6.32
  • Entrance Ticket to AT BLAQK House Collections: $7.00
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Pittsburgh by Crazy Dash: $10
  • Smartphone-Guided Walking Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh: $25
  • Smartphone-Guided Tour of Downtown Pittsburgh Sights & Stories: $28
  • Public Art Walking Tour: $30
  • Pittsburg 101 Tour: $30
  • Pittsburgh 101 Walking History Tour: $32
  • Black & Ghost Tour: $33
  • Downtown History and Architecture Tour: $33
  • Best of the Burgh Walking Tour of Pittsburgh: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool $16
    Pittsburgh $33

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 Pittsburgh

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

  • Pittsburgh Bar Hunt: Party Through Pittsburgh Bar Crawl: $13
  • Wigle Whiskey Rebellion Distillery Tour: $22
  • New! Bites & Brews: Pittsburgh Brewery Walk: $50
  • Bike and Brewery Tour: $69
  • Pittsburgh Signature Guided Brewery Tour: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Liverpool and Pittsburgh, we can see that Liverpool is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Liverpool is in Europe and Pittsburgh is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Pittsburgh?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 47% larger than the population of Pittsburgh. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Pittsburgh, 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.