Eurovision is fast approaching, with thousands of tourists set to descend on Liverpool for the much anticipated event.
The city will play host to the 67th Eurovision Song Contest 2023 this week; an annual affair which pits mainly European competitors against one another in a battle of song-writing, glitz, glamour and kitschy fun.
The spectacle is phenomenally popular across the continent for serving up a dazzling line-up of varied performances. Last year, Ukraine was victorious.
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Due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, it was decided the UK would hold this year's contest on Ukraine's behalf. Liverpool beat off competitors - including Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham - to play host.
The smash-hit competition will take over the city from Tuesday, May 9 until the grand final on Saturday, May 13. The contest will be held at Liverpool's M&S Bank Arena, with thousands of tourists expected to enter the city to attend the shows.
Many venues across Merseyside are also set to host a range of Eurovision-themed events and screenings, so those who were unable to secure those elusive tickets to the actual live performances can still enjoy all the Eurovision action the city has to offer.
There's plenty to see and do in Liverpool, but here's our top 23 things every tourist ought to try while they're here:
Visit the Liver Building
The Royal Liver Building is a stunning building well worth visiting. In 2019, RLB360 began offering guided tours of the 322ft Grade I-listed Royal Liver building's clock tower, which offers visitors 360 degree views from the top of the breath-taking building.
The experience was the first time in the Liver Building's history that the top floors were open to the public for tours. It also includes an immersive audio visual show inside the historic clock tower, offering deeper insight into the iconic landmark.
Wander around the Royal Albert Dock
The Royal Albert Dock is a fun and eclectic space, steeped in history - it's even home to the largest single collection of Grade 1 listed buildings anywhere in the UK. It’s a hotbed of activity, with swanky bars and restaurants, incredible museums and galleries, event spaces, shops and more.
There's scenic views of the water merged with cultural offerings at Tate Liverpool, plus plenty of tourist supplies to take home. If you fancy some Beatles memorabilia, quirky art prints of the city, Liverpool-themed jewellery or more, then this is the place for you.
Go shopping at Liverpool ONE
Liverpool ONE was completely redeveloped more than 10 years ago to include a vast array of shops, restaurants and leisure facilities that have seen the city become one of the most popular retail destinations in the UK.
It reopened in 2008, with the final units installed in 2009, and it remains the largest open-air shopping centre in the UK.
It boasts more than 170 stores, bars and restaurants, a 14-screen cinema, indoor golf courses and a five-acre park at its heart. It spans across five areas including Paradise Street, South John Street, Peter’s Lane, Hanover Street and the Leisure Terrace facing Chavasse Park.
Walk along the River Mersey
At 70 miles long, the river was chosen as the location for Britain's largest deep water port back in 1717. For centuries, it formed part of the ancient county divide between Lancashire and Cheshire.
It's a historical stretch that allows for a peaceful walk, with plenty of sights to see along the way.
See the Liverpool skyline from the water
The Liverpool Waterfront makes up part of Liverpool's UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a must-see for the Three Graces, not to mention the legendary Royal Liver Building mentioned above.
Seeing it from the water just offers a fresh and dynamic perspective of this truly beautiful city. Hop on the decks of the Mersey Ferry for one of the best ways to see the city's world-famous skyline.
Grab a bite on Bold Street
This popular street is constantly changing and offers tourists and locals alike global cuisine, along with a decent selection of quirky independent shops. It's an ideal spot to stop off at and refuel, with plenty of options to suit all manner of tastes.
Go vintage shopping at Red Brick Market
Red Brick Market, based at Cains Brewery, first opened five years ago and quickly established itself as a popular shopping destination, particularly for those who fancy something a little different.
There's something for everyone, whether you’re a fashion lover, a music aficionado, a homeware fanatic or just in the mood for a browse.
The haven of individuality has relocated to a new venue twice its size, with every nook and cranny dedicated to independent shopping stalls. There's a medley of retailers stocking everything from vintage furniture and jewellery, to books, movie posters, clothing and more.
Pose with the Liverpool sign
City signs are a common tourist attraction across the world, but that doesn't make Liverpool's any less impressive.
Based in the heart of Liverpool ONE, and just a stone's throw away from the Albert Dock, this beautiful piece of public artwork can be easily factored into your day - it's the perfect spot for a selfie.
The sign can be found at the entrance of Liverpool ONE on Thomas Steers facing the Hilton Hotel. In 2022, Liverpool ONE and Culture Liverpool commissioned local artist Liz Harry to create the sign and it is regularly given a make-over. It is currently Eurovision Contest 2023-themed and looks lovelier than ever.
Explore The Beatles attractions
There's The Beatles Story exhibition, the Cavern Club, plus tours that'll take you to the childhood homes of John and Paul, and much more, to amuse and delight fans of the band.
Whether you're a diehard devotee of all things Beatles, or just a casual fan, it's still well worth delving into the history of the legendary quartet, who completely revolutionised the entire music industry.
Take in the views
There's plenty of spots to see Liverpool looking its best. Fans of rooftop drinking are spoilt for choice with the huge array of rooftop bars and terraces on offer in the city.
Views of the Liver Building, the impressive skyline, Radio City Tower and even out to the River Mersey can be gazed at over a pint or a cocktail.
If you're after something a little more adventurous, St John’s Beacon Viewing Gallery is well worth seeing out. Standing at 138 metres tall, Radio City Tower is the second tallest free-standing building in Liverpool. From this height, the views are pretty spectacular.
Tour the museums
The World Museum, International Slavery Museum and the Maritime Museum are just a few on offer in the city. There's a wide range of history and culture to drink in, and you’ll be hard pushed to decide which museum to visit first.
Visit Lark Lane
A little further out of the city centre, in south Liverpool, is the bohemian Lark Lane.
It's a long street lined with independent shops, bars, cafes and restaurants, plus a contentious Co-op, and is the ideal spot to wander around and do a spot of shopping, eating, drinking and people watching.
There's plenty of variety on the popular street, with restaurants to suit all tastes and desires. Plus, it's just a stone's throw away from the awe-inspiring Sefton Park.
Explore Sefton Park
Bet you saw this one coming. Sefton Park is a sprawling Grade 1 historic park that spans 235 acres. Highlights include the ever popular boating lake, replica statues of Eros and Peter Pan, and a café.
It's also home to the Palm House, an iconic dome-shaped glass Victorian building, which is a breath-taking spot packed with lush flora and fauna.
It operates as a charity and regularly plays host to a variety of events including gigs, film screenings, music shows, dance nights and even weddings.
Go on a stadium tour of Anfield or Goodison Park
The city is proudly home to two of the most historic football clubs in Liverpool and Everton. The teams are separated by Stanley Park and you can enjoy a guided tour of the stadiums and learn all about the illustrious history of the Merseyside rivals.
Visit the two cathedrals
The city is not just home to two famous football clubs as it also boasts two historic cathedrals. The Anglican and Metropolitan Cathedrals are just a walk away from eachother and you can admire the architecture and rich history of these buildings.
Take a ferry across the Mersey
As Gerry and the Pacemakers famously sang in his 1964 hit '"So ferry 'cross the Mersey 'Cause this land's the place I love". The boat ride across the famous river is the perfect way to take in the beautiful Merseyside skyline.
Go to Crosby beach and see the iron men statues
A train ride from the City Centre to Waterloo train station takes you to the coast as visitors can enjoy a gentle stroll down Crosby beach. The beach is home to Sir Antony Gormley's Another Place so you can see the famous Iron Men on your visit.
Catch a show at an iconic theatre
Liverpool is renowned for its culture which is bolstered by iconic theatres such as the Empire, Everyman, Royal Court and the Playhouse. There is a variety of different shows on offer at each theatre that you would be able to enjoy on Eurovision Week.
Sing karaoke at the city’s wildest bar
Liverpool's vibrant nightlife means it is the ideal spot to stage the world's greatest party. Continue the celebration of music by taking to the stage yourself at much loved Liverpool pub, The Crocodile and Baby Croc. You are bound to enjoy a raucous night at this Liverpool institution that welcomes partygoers from all backgrounds.
Pub crawl around the Beer Quarter
The city's pubs are part of the fabric of Liverpool and a group of quality establishments in Dale Street have grouped together to become the Beer Quarter. Enjoy an afternoon sampling the finest of the City Centre pubs by enjoying a drink at bars such as Dead Crafty, The Denbigh Castle and The Lion Tavern.
Try a bowl of Scouse
Anyone visiting the city for Eurovision must try Liverpool's most famous dish. The word scouse derived from lobscouse, which is a stew commonly eaten by sailors in northern Europe. Liverpool's status as a port means that the dish found a home on Merseyside and is sold in many cafes throughout the city.
Sample the Liverpool sense of humour with a comedy show
One of Liverpool's most loved traits is the famous Scouse sense of humour. You can experience it first hand by enjoying a night of stand up at the world famous Hot Water Comedy Club. Hot Water has two clubs in Liverpool City Centre and has nightly shows featuring the best stand up comics on the UK circuit.
Take in Liverpool's history and go underground a World War II bunker
Find all about how Liverpool played a key role in British history with a tour of Western Approaches. The World War II bunker protected the tactics of the British Armed forces and was instrumental in the Allies war effort to defeat the Nazis.
You were once required to sign the Official Secrets Act to enter the building but now visitors can discover the fascinating stories behind this historic building located on Rumford Street.
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