Planning a festive escape to Liverpool? Whether you’re drawn by twinkling waterfront lights, buzzing Christmas markets, or cosy restaurants serving seasonal specials, the city is packed with magical moments at this time of year. 

This 24-hour Christmas itinerary has everything you need for some festive fun in the city. 

Check out how Candace Abroad got on in Liverpool when she completed this festive itinerary to see it all in action for yourself. 

 

Where to Stay

Check-In at The Halyard Hotel

Duke Street
 

Check in to The Halyard Hotel, one of Liverpool’s new stylish boutique hotels right in the heart of the city’s lively restaurant, bar, and shopping district and just a few minutes walk from Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool ONE and the Georgian Quarter - the perfect base for exploring Christmas in Liverpool! 

 

The Halyard Hotel lobby and chairs

 

 

Day One
 

Visit Liverpool Cathedral

St James’ Mount
 

Begin your festive adventure at Liverpool Cathedral, Britain’s largest cathedral and the fifth largest in Europe. Liverpool Cathedral is a beautiful place to visit all year round but it’s extra special during the festive season. With a series of Christmas events taking place, from carol concerts to choirs and services, there is plenty to enjoy. 

Whilst you’re here, marvel at the breathtaking architecture and panoramic views from the tower before heading for a tasty bite to eat in the onsite Welsford Bistro - perfect for a slice of cake and a coffee. 

 

A birdseye view of the Liverpool Cathedral

 

 

Lunch at Maray

Royal Albert Dock
 

Head to the Royal Albert Dock for lunch at Maray, a local favorite celebrated for its Middle Eastern-inspired small plates and bold flavors. This Christmas they are doing some festive specials too including their famous Maray Sprouts, XL Pigs in Blankets and Turkey Leg Shawarma - you won’t want to miss it!

 

Maray restaurant in the evening

 

 

Get Festive at the Dock

Royal Albert Dock
 

It doesn’t get much more festive than Christmas at Royal Albert Dock, and an afternoon lunch is the perfect time to explore! 

Take a walk around the sparkling colonnades and explore independent shops like The Nest, perfect for picking up a handmade local gift, grab a viral hot chocolate from Francie’s and take a walk around the Christmas lights - see if you can spot Bella and Bertie, the famous Liverpool Liver Birds, lit up along the way. 

 

The Royal Albert Dock at Christmas

 

 

Liverpool Christmas Market

St George’s Place
 

After lunch it’s time to head to the Liverpool Christmas Markets at the iconic St George’s Hall. With a whole host of food and drink stalls, activities, bars and rides for the kids - there’s something for everyone to soak up the festive atmosphere. 

Open until Christmas Eve, make sure you don’t miss out on this Christmas tradition in Liverpool.

 

The Liverpool Christmas Markets

 

 

Day Two
 

Do Some Christmas Shopping

Liverpool ONE


Start your day hitting the shops at Liverpool ONE. As one of Liverpool’s biggest shopping destinations it features over 170 shops and restaurants, from high street favourites, independent stores and plenty of food and drink options. Tick off your Christmas list at stores like:

  • Anthropologie
  • Sephora
  • UNIQLO
  • Oliver Bonas
  • Arne
  • Utility
  • John Lewis
  • M&S
  • JD Sports

Whilst you’re shopping make sure to check out all the Christmas decorations and activities at Liverpool ONE too! 

 

Liverpool ONE christmas decorations

 

 

Festive Drinks at Bar Hütte

Chavasse Park
 

After you’ve checked your Christmas shopping off, enjoy a drink at Bar Hütte under Liverpool ONE’s giant Christmas tree. Sip a cocktail or hot chocolate in your own cosy hütte and soak up the seasonal vibes.

You can even have a go at Christmas Carol-oke and take on all the festive classics. 

 

A man and woman stood outide bar hutte

 

 

Enjoy a festive meal at Mowgli

Bold Street

End your day with a delicious meal at Mowgli. With two venues in the city it’s one of Liverpool’s much loved Indian Street Food restaurants. Founded by well known chef Nisha Katona, the popular venue has restaurants across the country but did you know it started right here in Liverpool!?

Their Christmas feasting menu has all the classic dishes with meat, vegetarian and vegan options so there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

 

Inside Mowgli restaurant on Bold Street

 

 

Cocktails at Sister Ray

Wolstenholme Square

Finish your Liverpool adventure in style at Sister Ray, one of the UK’s top 50 cocktail bars. Expect expertly crafted drinks, a chic interior, and a lively vibe, perfect for rounding off your city break!

 

 

Your journey to Liverpool starts with Avanti West Coast

Getting to Liverpool this festive season couldn’t be easier! With Avanti West Coast, you can travel in comfort and style for less. Liverpool is just over 2 hours from London and around 1 hour from the Midlands, with fares starting from £26. 

Book your tickets now and make your Liverpool city break stress-free: Plan your journey here.

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