A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Liverpool for Music, Nightlife, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit Nottingham or Liverpool?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Liverpool 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.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a cultural, authentic, and dynamic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Liverpool

Liverpool is a historic, fun-filled, and diverse port city. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Nottingham and Liverpool: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less active music scene
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


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Liverpool?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Nottingham than Liverpool. While Liverpool is larger than Nottingham, Nottingham has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Nottingham is very popular for its food and big city activities, while Liverpool attracts visitors for its theatre productions, nightlife, and music. Nottingham is famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. It is also well known for Old Market Square. Liverpool is famous for its many museums and art galleries, as well as being the hometown of "The Beatles."

How is Nottingham different from Liverpool?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Liverpool and Nottingham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Liverpool?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Both Nottingham and Liverpool have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

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.


Is Nottingham or Liverpool Better for Theater?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Liverpool is well known for theatre. However, Nottingham is not a theatre destination.

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

Nottingham is not a theatre destination.

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

Nottingham
Liverpool

Nottingham 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 Nottingham. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

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 Nottingham or Liverpool Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Liverpool is well known for nightlife. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Nottingham has a few options to choose from. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.


Is Nottingham or Liverpool Better for Music?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Liverpool is very popular for live music. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its live music scene.

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.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Liverpool?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Shopping is a popular activity in both Liverpool and Nottingham.

Nottingham is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Liverpool is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Is Nottingham or Liverpool Better for Families?

Nottingham
Liverpool

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

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.


Is Nottingham or Liverpool Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Both Nottingham and Liverpool are nice destinations for a couple's getaway.

Nottingham is a nice destination for couples. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

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.

Is Nottingham or Liverpool Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Liverpool is a port city with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Liverpool is a good port city to visit for backpackers. The city has some fun hostels where you can stay and meet other travelers.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Liverpool Better for Students?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Liverpool is well known for students. However, Nottingham is not popular with 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.

Nottingham is not popular with students.


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

Nottingham
Liverpool

Nottingham 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 Nottingham can get you around easily. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

While Liverpool offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains, buses, and ferries around the area.

Is Nottingham or Liverpool a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Liverpool

Nottingham and Liverpool both are great when exploring on foot.

Nottingham is very walkable. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Liverpool is a very walkable city.

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

Should I spend more time in Liverpool or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Liverpool?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Nottingham and Liverpool. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Liverpool than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-3 days is enough time in Liverpool.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Liverpool than Nottingham 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 Nottingham or Liverpool? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Liverpool 2-3

One day in Nottingham or Liverpool?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Nottingham. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nottingham has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With live music and shopping around the fun-filled 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.


A weekend in Nottingham or Liverpool?

You'll find live music and food around the authentic destination of Nottingham. 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.

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.

Five days in Nottingham or Liverpool?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural city of Nottingham. 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.

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.

A week in Nottingham or Liverpool?

Nottingham 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Liverpool or Nottingham?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Liverpool is £161. 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 Nottingham and Liverpool in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Liverpool £76
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Liverpool £152
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Liverpool

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Liverpool? 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 Nottingham


Hotels in Liverpool


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: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Liverpool Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Liverpool £26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

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 Nottingham or Liverpool?

Prices for flights to both Liverpool and Nottingham 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
    Nottingham £36
    Liverpool £59

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.
    Nottingham £28
    Liverpool £36

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Liverpool £13

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

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

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


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Liverpool?

Liverpool has a larger population, and is about 90% larger than the population of Nottingham. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Liverpool, 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 Nottingham or Liverpool?

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 Nottingham or Liverpool in the Summer?

Both Liverpool and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the music scene and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Liverpool this time of year.

In the summer, Nottingham is around the same temperature as Liverpool. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nottingham in July average around 16°C (62°F), and Liverpool averages at about 15°C (60°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Liverpool during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Liverpool receives 176 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Liverpool. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Liverpool 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Liverpool in the Autumn?

Both Liverpool and Nottingham during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Liverpool for the shopping scene and the music scene.

In October, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Liverpool. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 11°C (52°F), and Liverpool fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Liverpool. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liverpool receives 97 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Liverpool. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Nottingham or Liverpool in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Liverpool. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Liverpool in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Nottingham. Nottingham is cooler than Liverpool in the winter. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Liverpool fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Liverpool during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Liverpool receives 53 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Liverpool. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Liverpool 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Liverpool in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Liverpool. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the spring for the activities around the city.

In the spring, Nottingham is around the same temperature as Liverpool. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nottingham in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Liverpool averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Liverpool. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Liverpool receives 144 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in April than Liverpool. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Liverpool receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Liverpool and Nottingham

Nottingham Liverpool
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (60°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)