A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Liverpool vs. Utrecht for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Liverpool or Utrecht?

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 Utrecht 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 shopping, museums, and theater.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Liverpool and Utrecht: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Liverpool or Utrecht?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Liverpool than Utrecht. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Liverpool is very popular for its theatre productions and music, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Utrecht is more touristy than Liverpool and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. 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.

How is Liverpool different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Liverpool
Utrecht

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Liverpool and Utrecht.

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 Utrecht. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.


Is Liverpool or Utrecht Better for Theater?

Liverpool
Utrecht

Liverpool is a well-known place for theatre. However, Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is not a theatre destination.

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

Liverpool
Utrecht

Utrecht is a 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 Utrecht. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

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 Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

Liverpool
Utrecht

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

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 Utrecht for the nightlife scene. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.


Is Liverpool or Utrecht Better for Music?

Liverpool
Utrecht

Liverpool is a world-class destination for live music. However, Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is not a live music destination.

Is Liverpool or Utrecht Better for its Old Town?

Liverpool
Utrecht

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

With a famous historical old-town, Utrecht offers plenty to see. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Liverpool does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Liverpool or Utrecht?

Liverpool
Utrecht

Shopping is a popular activity in both Utrecht 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 Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.


Is Liverpool or Utrecht Better for Families?

Liverpool
Utrecht

Liverpool is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly port city. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Liverpool or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Liverpool
Utrecht

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

Couples visit Utrecht frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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 Utrecht Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Liverpool
Utrecht

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

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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


Is Liverpool or Utrecht Better for Students?

Liverpool
Utrecht

Liverpool and Utrecht are excellent 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 Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

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

Liverpool
Utrecht

Utrecht is well known for its public transit. Also, Liverpool is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Utrecht can get you around easily. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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 Utrecht a more walkable city?

Liverpool
Utrecht

Utrecht 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 Utrecht on foot is easy. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

Liverpool is a very walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Utrecht or Liverpool?

How long in Liverpool or Utrecht?

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

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

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


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

One day in Liverpool or Utrecht?

In Liverpool, you'll find museums and theater. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. This port city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint of Utrecht. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Utrecht has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Liverpool or Utrecht?

In Liverpool, you'll find theater and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Liverpool has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the canal-filled destination of Utrecht. 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 has to offer. This offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Liverpool or Utrecht?

Liverpool is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the canal-filled of Utrecht. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Liverpool or Utrecht?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Liverpool. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Liverpool. One reason most visitors come is for the live music. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Utrecht 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Utrecht 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 Utrecht is £162. 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 Utrecht in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Liverpool £76
    Utrecht £91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Liverpool £152
    Utrecht £182
Compare Hotels in Liverpool and Utrecht

Looking for a hotel in Liverpool or Utrecht? 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 Utrecht


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 Utrecht Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Liverpool £26
    Utrecht £19
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 Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15

Is it cheaper to fly into Liverpool or Utrecht?

Prices for flights to both Utrecht 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
    Utrecht £49

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 Utrecht

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

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Liverpool £36
    Utrecht £37

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 Utrecht

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

  • Hoge Woerd Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $4.28
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.45
  • Highlights walking Tour in Utrecht with Audio and GPS Guide: $6.06
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.49
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Lofen Palace Time Travel with Entry Ticket & Guide: $12
  • Guided Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Dom Tower Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Liverpool £13
    Utrecht £20

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 Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21


When comparing the travel costs between Liverpool and Utrecht, we can see that Utrecht 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Liverpool or Utrecht?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 61% larger than the population of Utrecht. When comparing the sizes of Liverpool and Utrecht, 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 Utrecht?

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 Utrecht in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Liverpool and Utrecht. Many travelers come to Liverpool for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Utrecht in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 15°C (60°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Liverpool usually receives less sunshine than Utrecht during summer. Liverpool gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Liverpool usually receives less rain than Utrecht. Liverpool gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F) 
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Utrecht in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Liverpool as well as Utrecht. Many visitors come to Liverpool in the autumn for the shopping scene and the music scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Liverpool is around the same temperature as Utrecht in the autumn. The daily temperature in Liverpool averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Utrecht fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Liverpool often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Utrecht. Liverpool gets 97 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 100 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets more rain in October than Utrecht. Liverpool gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Liverpool 12°C (53°F) 
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Utrecht in the Winter?

Both Utrecht and Liverpool are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Utrecht because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Utrecht can be very cold. In the winter, Liverpool is much warmer than Utrecht. Typically, the winter temperatures in Liverpool in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Utrecht averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Liverpool usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during winter. Liverpool gets 53 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Liverpool usually receives around the same amount of rain as Utrecht. Liverpool gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F) 
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Liverpool or Utrecht in the Spring?

Both Utrecht and Liverpool during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year.

In April, Liverpool is generally around the same temperature as Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Liverpool average around 8°C (47°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Liverpool often gets less sunshine than Utrecht. Liverpool gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun.

Liverpool usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Utrecht. Liverpool gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Liverpool 8°C (47°F) 
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Liverpool

Liverpool Utrecht
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)