Liverpool is a city that wears its character on its sleeve. Known worldwide for its musical legacy, especially the Beatles, Liverpool offers a surprising variety of tours that go beyond the usual. Whether you’re a music fan, a history buff, or someone looking for a spooky adventure, Liverpool’s tour scene has something special for you. We particularly love the Mad Day Out Beatles Taxi Tours because they offer a cozy, eco-friendly way to explore key Beatles sites with stories from passionate guides.
From private guided walks to thrilling ghost tours, Liverpool’s tours are designed for practical explorers who want to get the most out of the city without wasting time or money. We’ve compiled a list of the top 15 tours below, each with a unique angle—so you can pick what best suits your style.
What types of tours made the list?
Our list features a range of experiences, including Beatles-themed taxi tours, guided walking tours, hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses, and ghost walks. For example, the Private 3-Hour Guided Beatles Classic Tour offers an intimate peek into the band’s childhood homes, perfect for fans craving a personalized experience. If spooky stories are your thing, the Liverpool Ghost Walking Tour immerses you in the city’s haunted past, with eerie cemetery visits and chilling tales. For those wanting a quick overview, the Ciy Explorer: Hop On Hop Off Liverpool Sightseeing Bus Tour gets you across the main landmarks in just an hour.
Below, we’ll walk through each of these top experiences, sharing practical details to help you choose your perfect Liverpool adventure.
1. Mad Day Out Beatles Taxi Tours in Liverpool, England
A standout for Beatles fans, this bespoke taxi tour uses a John Lennon Rolls Royce electric taxi—not your typical bus. It offers a personalized, intimate experience with onboard Wi-Fi, and the driver shares entertaining stories. You’ll visit iconic Beatles sites like Strawberry Field, Penny Lane, and Mendips, John Lennon’s childhood home. The tour lasts around 3 hours and is perfect if you value comfort and a tailored experience over large group tours. Reviewers praise the exceptional service and the chance to go behind the scenes where bus tours can’t reach.
What makes this tour special is the electric, eco-friendly vehicle and the personalized guidance. Plus, the stops include famous Lennon sights and the opportunity to capture great photos. The reviews are glowing, with a 5/5 rating from over 900 travelers who appreciated the knowledgeable driver and the flexibility.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for Beatles fans who want a relaxed, engaging, and private experience with lots of memorable photo opportunities.
2. Private 3-Hour Guided Beatles Classic Tour of Liverpool
This private tour hits the highlights of the Beatles’ Liverpool roots with a knowledgeable guide. It includes visits to Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, and the childhood homes of John Lennon, George Harrison, Paul McCartney, and Ringo Starr. The tour is customizable and includes photo stops at Eleanor Rigby’s grave and the famous street signs. For around $233, the tour offers tailored attention and flexible departure times, making it perfect for families or small groups.
Guests rave about the depth of information and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. One reviewer mentions their guide being over 30 minutes late but still highlights the knowledgeable narration and treats at Penny Lane. The private setting allows for questions and a more personalized experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for Beatles aficionados who want a comprehensive, private tour with tailored insights and hassle-free logistics.
3. Liverpool Ghost Walking Tour
For something spookier, this 1.5-hour ghost walk explores Liverpool’s haunted past. Led by entertaining guides, you’ll wander down Hope Street, visit Liverpool Cathedral’s eerie cemetery, and hear stories of restless spirits like Lantern Jaw and the woman in white. The tour is ideal for history lovers with a taste for the supernatural.
Highlights include walking through Liverpool’s most haunted streets and hearing tales that blend local legend and history. Reviewers love the atmospheric storytelling and engaging guides. One even wrote, “It was fun and entertaining,” emphasizing the balance of chills and charm.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a dark, atmospheric experience that combines history with ghostly tales.
4. Ciy Explorer: Hop On Hop Off Liverpool Sightseeing Bus Tour
For newcomers, this 24-hour open-top bus pass offers a practical way to see Liverpool’s main sights. It covers landmarks like Liverpool Cathedral, Pier Head, and Albert Dock, with live commentary from onboard guides. You can hop off at any stop and hop back on later, making it flexible for self-paced sightseeing.
Priced at just over $19 per person, it’s a great value for a full day’s exploration. Reviewers mention the helpful guides and the convenience of the timed stops. While it’s an efficient overview, some travelers note that walking can also cover many sights, but the bus offers a comfortable alternative.
Bottom line: Ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a comprehensive, budget-friendly way to see Liverpool.
5. A Walk Through Time: History of Liverpool Walking Tour
This 1 hour 50 minutes walking tour takes you through Liverpool’s history from 1207 onward. Led by a history enthusiast, you’ll visit the Royal Liver Building, Liverpool Town Hall, and the Old Dock. It’s especially good for travelers who like structured narratives and want to see key landmarks while learning about the city’s development.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced itinerary. One reviewer notes that their guide Ian was amazing and shared great stories. The tour strikes a balance between historical facts and local stories, making it perfect for history-minded visitors.
Bottom line: Best suited for history buffs and curious travelers who appreciate a compact, informative overview of Liverpool’s past.
6. Beatles Famous Walking Tour Of Liverpool- Fully Guided
This 2 hour 15 minutes guided walk takes you through Liverpool’s Beatles-related sights like the Eleanor Rigby statue, Cavern Club, and Mathew Street. The guide shares lesser-known facts and intriguing stories about the band’s history and influence on the city. The tour is walking-only, which makes it intimate and active.
Reviewers highlight the engaging guides and the rich stories about the city’s music scene. One said, “Mike’s knowledge and storytelling made for a truly ‘Magical Mystery Tour’.” It’s especially good for music fans who want deep insights without a large group.
Bottom line: Ideal for Beatles fans who love walking tours packed with local lore and hidden stories.
7. North Wales Adventure Day Trip from Liverpool
This full-day trip takes you from Liverpool into North Wales, exploring Snowdonia, Conwy Castle, and Betws-y-Coed. With comfortable minivan transport and an experienced guide, this tour is perfect for those wanting to escape the city and see spectacular scenery without renting a car. Highlights include Swallow Falls and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
Participants love the scenery, with reviews praising the knowledgeable guide and smooth logistics. It’s great for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, as the tour combines stunning landscapes with cultural insights.
Bottom line: Best suited for outdoor lovers seeking a full-day adventure in North Wales, with a focus on scenery and historic sites.
8. Downtown Liverpool Walking Tour – In Spanish
This Spanish-language tour covers Liverpool’s cultural and historic highlights in approximately 2 to 3 hours. Starting at the Beatles Statue, you’ll explore Liverpool Cathedral, Chinatown, and the Cavern Club. The guide shares local stories and insider tips for visitors who want to learn about the city’s music, football, and world war history.
Reviewers comment on the friendly guides and the comprehensive coverage of Liverpool’s diverse culture. The tour is perfect for Spanish-speaking travelers or those wanting a more relaxed pace with a focus on local culture.
Bottom line: Recommended for Spanish-speaking visitors seeking an accessible, in-depth city overview.
9. FunnyBoyz Liverpool – Drag Shows, Tributes, Brunches & Bar Crawls
Looking for a fun, lively night out? This 4-hour experience mixes drag shows, tribute acts, bottomless brunch, and bar crawls. It’s an interactive, energetic event, perfect for groups of friends celebrating a special occasion. The show-stopping performances by BBC’s TwerkOffs and LipSync battles keep everyone entertained.
Reviews highlight the hilarious atmosphere and friendly performers. One said, “Great night… so funny, would recommend for a fun-packed evening.” It’s an excellent choice for nightlife seekers who want a guaranteed good time.
Bottom line: Designed for party lovers wanting a lively, engaging experience with plenty of laughs and entertainment.
10. Liverpool Heritage, History & Culture Guided Walking Tour
This 2 hour 15 minutes walking tour offers a cultural sweep of Liverpool. Led by a local guide, it covers Liverpool’s heritage, The Beatles, Royal Albert Dock, and Liverpool Town Hall. It’s practical for those who want a broad overview of the city’s historic and cultural landmarks.
Reviews praise the expert narration and well-chosen sights. One reviewer calls their guide “very knowledgeable” and appreciated the mix of history and local stories. It’s a good introductory tour for first-timers.
Bottom line: Best for new visitors wanting a balanced overview of Liverpool’s history and culture.
11. Royal Liver Building 360 – Tower Tour and Experience
You can pre-book a timed entry into the Royal Liver Building for a 360-degree view of Liverpool. The tour includes an audio-visual presentation about the building’s history, and access to multiple viewing decks. The highlight is the views of the River Mersey and the Welsh Mountains.
Rated highly, with many visitors praising the stunning vistas and engaging show. One reviewer mentions, “The views are fantastic, and the guide’s storytelling is very engaging.” The combination of history and scenery makes it a top choice.
Bottom line: Ideal for architecture and view lovers wanting an immersive experience with minimal walking.
12. Peaky Blinders Coach Tour of Outer Liverpool & The Wirral
Fans of the TV show will love this 4-hour coach tour exploring Liverpool’s filming locations. It covers over 10 sites, including Port Sunlight and Stanley Park, and shares stories about the real-life inspirations behind the Peaky Blinders.
Reviewers note the expert guide and the fascinating behind-the-scenes info. One said, “It was a great day, very informative, and perfect for fans of the show.” The tour’s scenic route and focus on TV lore make it stand out.
Bottom line: Best for TV fans wanting to see the real locations behind Peaky Blinders.
13. History Guided Tour of Liverpool and the Beatles
This 2-hour 10-minute walking tour combines Liverpool’s history with Beatles landmarks. Led by a passionate local guide, it explores The Cavern, Beatles statues, and historic buildings like St. George’s Hall. The guide shares personal stories and local insights that bring the city’s past alive.
Reviewers praise the clear narration and engaging storytelling. One calls it “the best tour I’ve been on.” It’s compact but deeply informative for music and history fans.
Bottom line: Perfect for short visits that want a rich, personalized tour experience.
14. Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience in Liverpool
This theatrical cocktail experience transforms your night into a prison escape. You wear orange jumpsuits, mingle with crooked guards, and smuggle in your own liquor to create four customized cocktails. It’s a fun, interactive activity suited for groups celebrating special occasions or just wanting a unique night out.
Reviewers rave about the believable characters and creative drinks. One wrote, “Brilliant night, staff were fantastic, and the whole experience was hilarious.” It’s a playful, memorable alternative to traditional bars.
Bottom line: Best for adventure seekers and groups looking for a lively, immersive activity.
15. Tales from the Necropolis – A Ghost Walk Through St. James Cemetery
This lantern-lit ghost walk takes you through St. James Cemetery, Liverpool’s most haunted site. Guides share stories of vampires, witches, and shadow figures while highlighting mysterious stones and supernatural lore. You’ll also see Liverpool Cathedral from a new perspective.
Reviews are glowing, with many praising the atmospheric storytelling and enthralling insights. One reviewer said, “Hands down the BEST ghost tour I’ve experienced,” emphasizing its combination of history and spine-tingling tales.
Bottom line: Ideal for supernatural enthusiasts seeking a dark, atmospheric exploration of Liverpool’s haunted past.
How to Choose the Perfect Tour for You
Picking the right Liverpool tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. For Beatles fans, a private guided tour (see here) offers personalized insights, while the taxi tour (see here) is best for those wanting an up-close, relaxed experience. If you’re into history or culture, the Liverpool Heritage Tour (see here) provides a broad overview, while the ghost walks (see here) are perfect for nighttime thrill seekers.
Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the hop-on hop-off bus (see here), which offers good value for a full day. For something unique and lively, the Drag Show (see here) is a fantastic way to enjoy Liverpool’s nightlife.
Final thoughts
Liverpool offers a diverse array of tours, catering to music lovers, history enthusiasts, ghost hunters, and nightlife seekers alike. The Beatles-themed experiences stand out as the most popular, but don’t overlook the ghost walks or scenic day trips for a well-rounded visit. Planning ahead and booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get your top choice.
Whether you want to walk through history, ride in style, or explore the supernatural, Liverpool has a tour perfect for you. Pick one that matches your interests, and enjoy discovering this lively, historic city in a way that suits your style.
