Liverpool on a Budget: Affordable Ways to Enjoy the City

While everyone knows that Liverpool was voted the capital of European Culture in 2008, the thought of hopping between world-class attractions and cultural gems can seem overwhelming and expensive for the everyday traveller.


Don’t fear because in the wise words of the Beatles, if you don't "care too much for money", there's no need to miss out on all the city has to offer. In fact you can travel to and explore Liverpool on a shoestring budget easily. Read on to discover the best budget options.

1. Travel to Liverpool on a shoestring


If you're travelling from abroad then you're in luck : Liverpool's John Lennon airport (LPL) is serviced by a number of budget airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, DanAir and Jet2 making cheap flights to Liverpool as simple as a few mouse clicks. 


If you're a Brit and enjoy visiting Liverpool regularly (and why wouldn't you?) then the best option for cheap travel to Liverpool by train is to buy a National Railcard. This allows you to save up to one third on the price of tickets.


If you're only an occasional visitor, you can also save by purchasing an 'Advance' train ticket. These usually go on sale around 12 weeks before departure and can cost far less than getting the train at the last minute. Websites like 'The Trainline' have automated alerts to tell you when Advance tickets are on sale.


Even if you're planning to visit Liverpool soon, you can also save by purchasing 'GroupSave' tickets, which offer discounts of up to 34%. You may be able to push this down even further by travelling outside peak hours.


Coach services also regularly offer discounted rates for travel to Liverpool. National Express even has a dedicated 'Low Fare Finder' for this purpose. 

2. Explore Liverpool cheaply


If you and your party don't mind stretching your legs, Liverpool is a cinch to explore on foot. Popular walking spots include the riverside which winds for miles down from Albert Dock to Aigburth. The streets are generally pedestrian friendly and the city has hardly any hills. 

Liverpool City Transport is no slouch either. Its 'City Bike' hire scheme has recently been replaced by Voi, who specialise in e-scooters and bikes. E-scooters cost £1 to unlock, plus 20p per minute - unlimited daily and monthly passes are also available. If you work for the NHS, you'll also receive a 50% discount. 


Liverpool's main train company Merseyrail also runs throughout the city. This is a particularly smart choice if you want to see the sights, as many attractions are located close to Liverpool's four main stations. You can even buy a Day Saver pass for unlimited travel on the Merseyrail network outside peak hours. Prices start from £2.95 for an all areas pass for children of 5 - 18 years. 


The city also has an extensive bus network (useful tip: Bus 500 goes directly from John Lennon airport to the city centre). 


One of the best ways to save on travel within Liverpool is with the
Merseytravel Transport Pass, which can be used by travel on buses, train and even Mersey Ferries. 'Saveaway' tickets cover all areas across the county for one day. They cost just £3.15 for a child or £6.30 for an adult.


Liverpool Drone | Liverpool on a Budget | Kabannas

3. Cheapest Activities and Sights in Liverpool


You don’t have to spend a fortune to have an unforgettable travel experience because there are plenty of cheap things to do in Liverpool. For instance, head over to the Royal Albert Dock using one of your budget-friendly travel options to view the 'Liverpool Mountain' in the Mermaid Courtyard, outside Tate Liverpool on the Royal Albert Dock. Once you've taken it in from all angles, take advantage of the Tate's free admissions policy to explore other inspiring artwork. 


If your viewing tastes are more panoramic, make sure to head over to Radio City, home to St. John's Beacon. This viewing platform offers you a stunning view of Merseyside's skyline from over 400 feet above the city centre. Prices start at just £6.50 per ticket for concessions.


The Museum of Liverpool is also just a short walk from James Street train station. Not only is admission free but the Museum constantly curates new collections, documenting the history of the city (including the Beatles - obvs), as well as more obscure topics like land transport and regional archaeology.  


Small Fish | Liverpool budget | Kabannas

4. Cheapest Restaurants in Liverpool


Travelling and sightseeing is hungry work but it doesn't need to cost the earth to keep your group well fed - fortunately when it comes to cheap restaurants Liverpool is stuffed to the gills.


Speaking of gills, while being a mouthful to say, "A Small Fish in a Big Pond" is currently the no. 1 place for "cheap eats" on Tripadvisor, not to mention a five star rating. The cafe serves numerous breakfast and lunch options, including tomato, basil and garlic soup, as well as a variety of pastries, wraps, sandwiches and cakes. 


Dale Street Kitchen & bar by Shino is currently ranked number 3 of all restaurants and bars on Tripadvisor. This is probably down to its budget-friendly delicious food, including warm fluffy pancakes with seasonal fresh berries, passion fruit yoghurt, honey and 'warming' strawberry sauce for less than £8.


Special mention should also go to Lucy in the Sky, located less than half a mile from Albert Dock. Though it may be inspired by the famous Beatles' song, you won't need diamonds to pay for any of the tasty treats here which include an Avocado Smash on sourdough for just £6.80 and scrambled eggs on toast for £5.90.


5. Budget Accommodation in Liverpool


At the end of a hard day's exploring, you need a lively sanctuary in the heart of Liverpool, where the space is as ample as your guest list whilst still being affordable. When it comes to budget accommodation Liverpool delivers.


At
Kabannas Liverpool comfort meets convenience, since we're at the heart of the city. If you're travelling on a budget, our dorms can handle up to 8 people at a time so you and friends can have space to yourself without breaking the bank. 


If you prefer a little peace and quiet after exploring Liverpool's hidden gems, we've also got private rooms complete with double beds and ensuite bathrooms. Prices for our remote worker king rooms and private family rooms start at just £50 per night and we're even giving the first 50 people who book a free drink!


Amenities like our 24/7 reception operates 24/7, WiFi, baggage store and water refill station come at on extra cost. We also offer a hearty complimentary breakfast buffet.

Don't delay - book today and discover one of the best cities in the UK for backpackers on a budget!


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