It’s a win for the Northerners (Picture: Getty Images/RooM RF)
London has received it’s fair share of accolades lately. It’s Europe’s most loved holiday destination, home to the best hidden gem tourist attraction, and the prettiest place at Christmastime.
But another city is in the spotlight today, after Liverpool was ranked in Time Out’s ’50 Best Cities in the World 2024′.
Scousers will be thrilled to learn that their city has been placed 7th on the list, above the likes of Rome, Tokyo, Paris, LA and Bangkok.
While London was still the highest ranked UK city, coming in at 3rd after winner New York and second place Cape Town, it’s still a big win for the North West.
Time Out assessed each destination by speaking to locals, asking questions about out the quality and affordability of food in their city, as well as the culture, nightlife, scenery and how the place makes them feel.
Liverpool scored 89% for the affordability of its culture scene – and is the cheapest on the list for arts and culture.
‘There’s more to Liverpool than Beatles tours and football matches,’ reads the listing. ‘In fact, it’s one of the best places in the world to go for a guaranteed-good-time.
‘But the city looks just as good in daylight, with a smiling face on every corner, and plenty of up-and-coming talent to champion.’
The success of last year’s Eurovision, encouraging more music events in the city, was cited as a reason as to why tourists should head there now.
The best things to do in Liverpool
If you’re keen to head to Liverpool, there’s plenty to see and do.
Reporter and Liverpool native, Katie Rosseinsky, recently headed to her hometown for Metro.co.uk, and said that every trip should start at the waterfront: ‘The city’s Pier Head got spruced up in 2008, when Liverpool was crowned European Capital of Culture,’ she explains.
‘These days, it’s a striking mix of old and new: the sleek lines of the Museum of Liverpool standing out against the Three Graces, the breathtaking trio of buildings harking back to the city’s shipping heyday.’
‘Most famous is the Liver Building, watched over by the liver birds, two 18ft copper renderings of the city’s mascot (Scouse legend has it that the male bird is looking back into the city to scope out whether the pubs are open yet).
‘You’ll get an unrivalled view of them (and an excellent photo opp) at Goodness Gracious, the rooftop terrace at afternoon tea spot Oh Me Oh My. While you’re down by the Mersey, drop in at Open Eye Gallery, a tiny arts space that reliably punches above its weight with exhibitions.’
Another waterside hot spot is Royal Albert Dock. As well as plenty of restaurants and bars, its home to the popular Beatles Story and Tate Liverpool – one of the most visited galleries outside of London.
Speaking of museums, the International Slavery Museum and the World Museum should also be on the list for any culture vulture.
And, if you want to learn more about the Titanic, go to the Merseyside Maritime Museum to explore their permanent exhibition, Titanic and Liverpool: the untold story. While the ship embarked on her maiden voyage from Belfast, its home was registered in the city.
Elsewhere, pay a visit to the Baltic Triangle. If you’re there between Thursday and Saturday, you’ll find Baltic Market, the city’s first ever venue to bring street food to the city. Popular vendors include Richies, who offer American fare including burgers and dirty loaded fries. There’s also Listo Burrito, who make fresh Mexican food.
For music lovers coming to Liverpool, a trip to the Cavern Club is a must, an icon of the British music scene, and the birthplace of the Beatles. The likes of The Rolling Stones and Queen have also graced the stage. Not only can you watch live music at the club every single day from 11.15am, they also run tours, where you’ll learn everything there is to know about music in Liverpool.
A must visit for fans of John, Paul, George and Ringo (Picture: Getty Images)
And, if you want to head out of the city centre, Katie suggests taking a trip to Lark Lane, which she describes as ‘a leafy street with a villagey feel that’s home to a high density of brilliant pubs, bars and restaurants.’
Katie continues: ‘It’s just moments from the gorgeous Sefton Park and its Victorian Palm House, featuring a botanical collection that will give you serious house plant inspiration (or envy).’
Train tickets from London to Liverpool can cost as little at £7 one way if you book in advance – so what are you waiting for?