The Ultimate Liverpool City Guide for Students 2025: Your Essentials Manual

Liverpool is a very vibrant city with a beautiful culture, historic views and a welcoming environment for international students. With excellent student accommodation in Liverpool, students can easily find their perfect place to live. Not just this, the city entertains students with its charming places, bustling nightlife and weekend hunts. If you have decided to join Liverpool as an aspiring student, this blog is for you. From renowned universities and perfect student halls to thriving clubs and cost of living tips, this student guide enlightens you to become a knowledgeable person while exploring the City of Liverpool. 

The Academic Harbour: Universities You Want to Know About 

Liverpool is a premier educational hub and home to numerous universities and colleges. Top universities in Liverpool include the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool Hope University, and Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts, along with the City of Liverpool College. These academic institutions have built stellar reputations in terms of quality education, diverse student environments and innovative teaching. 

University of Liverpool 

Established in 1881, the University of Liverpool is an original redbrick university and provides academic excellence. The university thrives with innovation in learning and research, acquiring a spot in the top 30 UK universities. It is a proud member of the elite Russell Group and blends tradition with cutting-edge education. 

• Acceptance Rate: 13.9%
• Fees: £31,250 or £24,600 per year
• Best for: Biomedical Sciences, Civil Engineering, Law, Business and Management

Along with the strong research facilities and leadership in business, the University of Liverpool is surrounded by top student accommodation options. Capital Gate and Pembroke Studio are situated just a throw away from the university, providing students with a super affordable option and excellent amenities. 

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) 

Started as a mechanics school in 1823, Liverpool John Moores University has a 200-year legacy in education. It is famous for its practical and career-focused approach. Students appreciate the all-inclusive values, innovative teaching and strong industry connections.  

• Acceptance Rate: ~23%
• Fees: £17,750 - £18,250 oer year 
• Best for: Business and Management, Media and Digital Communication, Criminology and Policing, Art and Design

The university is situated in the heart of the city and gives easy access to the vibrant culture and hangout spots around. Near these attractions, there are many options for affordable student accommodation in Liverpool. St Lukes View and Haigh Court are modern student halls that provide spacious rooms and premium amenities. 

Liverpool Hope University 

Established in 1844, Liverpool Hope University has a legacy of 175 years of quality higher education and a welcoming environment for students. Though it is a small university, its aspirations are high with an emphasis on self-development and strengthening connections and learning for life. 

• Acceptance Rate: 85%
• Fees: £14,500 - £16,500 per year 
• Best for: Education, Psychology, Business and Management, Creative and Performing Arts

Moreover, there are numerous student accommodation options in the proximity of the university. Queensland Place and The Railyard are stylish, spacious and affordable student halls situated near the university. Students can easily commute from their living place to the university campus. 

Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) 

Music legend Sir Paul McCartney founded the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) in 1996. It provides high-quality education and creativity, leading the world of music and theatre. Not just this, it produces world-class talent in music, dance and acting. LIPA is one of the leading creative universities in Liverpool and has strong connections with the creative industry.

• Acceptance Rate: 12.5%
• Fees: £9,535 per year 
• Best for: Performing Arts, Music, Dance, Theatre and Performance Design, Arts Management

Moreover, there are many student halls situated near the university, such as The Electra and Fusion. These student residencies are in the heart of the city and provide spacious rooms with a lively community. 

Best Areas to Live in Liverpool 

If you have decided to study in Liverpool, the most important part after the choice of university is the area where you live. The city has shades of culture and lifestyle, making it a perfect place to call home. Below are the best areas to live in Liverpool that give a balanced neighbourhood to its residents: 

City Centre 

The city centre is the prime spot in Liverpool and has everything you need. This bustling area is famous for rich culture, great history and exceptional entertainment venues. It is in close proximity to renowned universities and thriving hangout spots. It is also in close proximity to Liverpool student accommodation, such as Byrom Point. 

Famous for: History and Architecture, Music culture, Strong Rail Network

Universities Nearby: University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, The City of Liverpool College

Places to Visit: Cavern Club, St. George's Hall, Chinatown and Liverpool ONE

Baltic Triangle

The Baltic Triangle is a place with rawness and creativity. The area has repurposed warehouses, studios, creative spaces, and concept bars. Situated near prominent universities, it boasts multiple student accommodation options like Atlantic Point. 

Famous for: Diverse businesses, Cool street art, Shopping centres 

Universities Nearby: University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University

Places to Visit: Baltic Market, Botanical Garden, Camp and Furnace

Knowledge Quarter

Knowledge Quarter is one of the largest areas in Liverpool city centre, spread over a 450-acre area. It occupies over 50% of the city. It is famous for science, health, technology, education, music and the creative performing arts. Besides, it is surrounded by comfortable student accommodation options that offer luxurious rooms and top-notch facilities. 

• Famous for: World-class innovation
• Universities Nearby: University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University
• Places to Visit: World Museum, St John’s Gardens

Top 5 Affordable Student Accommodation in Liverpool

Now that you know where to live in Liverpool, let’s march towards the best student housing options in the city. Students have plenty of options to live in Liverpool, including university student halls and private student accommodation. There are shared flats, en-suites, spacious studios, and separate apartments for students to choose from. Each type has its own features and facilities to ensure convenience for students.  

Apart from the above-mentioned properties, there are multiple options to choose from among the most popular student accommodation in Liverpool. From Calico to Limelight student accommodation, each property offers comfortable stays with different amenities.  

Pro Tip: Be aware of dodgy landlords. Always check references and then sign your contract. To minimise fraud, remember these mistakes to avoid while choosing student accommodation.

Best Things to Do in Liverpool 

Liverpool’s got loads going on. As a student, you can unwind by visiting various places mentioned below: 

Free Things

Liverpool has numerous places that students can visit and enjoy their weekends. Whether you are a history lover or a naturalist, below are the places you should never miss: 

• Royal Albert Dock: a UNESCO World Heritage site that looks stunning at sunset 
• Liverpool Cathedral: Massive Gothic building, proper impressive architecture 
• Sefton Park: 200 acres of Grade One listed park with a famous Palm House
• Beatles Statues: A landmark that pays tribute to the legendary band of the Beatles

Cheap Thrills

There are some more places in Liverpool that students can visit for affordable rates. Here are some of the suggestions: 

• Radio City Tower: City views for £7 - £8
• Mersey Ferry: River cruise for £12.75 for adults  
• Beatles Story Museum: Music History for £20.00 for adults
• Liverpool FC Stadium Tour: £18 for adults

For Your Social Life: Liverpool’s Legendary Spots 

Liverpool nightlife is legendary. The city is lively and has numerous options for students to unwind and have fun. Here are some top things to do in Liverpool where you can rock: 

• BaaBar: Situated in the heart of the city in the Ropewalks area, the BaaBar is famous for its original bar and club combo. It is one of the popular late-night venues in Liverpool. Opening timings are from Monday to Saturday 8 PM until 4 AM. You can use the Q Tap app to pre-order drinks at bars.
• Black Rabbit: It is a busy and offbeat gathering place in Liverpool that offers attractive discounts to students. The bar offers 6 SHOTs for £6 for students on Friday and Saturday. It also offers a ‘Loyalty Card’ facility for its members, giving good discounts on food and drinks. Opening timings are from Tuesday to Saturday, 8 PM until 4 AM.
• Concert Square: For the last 20 years, Concert Square has been the city’s heartbeat with its bustling nightclubs and bars. It is located between Wood Street and Fleet Street, in the Ropewalks area of Liverpool City Centre. The area is jam-packed with independent retailers, themed bars and restaurants. Opening timings are 8 AM to 4 AM daily.
• Music Venues: If you are a music lover, Liverpool has got many places where you can enjoy your time with friends. You can enjoy performances by the world’s leading artists at M&S Bank Arena and live events at the O2 Academy. Classical music lovers can also visit the esteemed Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. 
• Art and Festivals: For art and history lovers, there are galleries like Walker Art Gallery, Tate Liverpool, Open Eye Gallery, and the Bluecoat. You can also visit the Museum of Liverpool, the International Slavery Museum and the Victoria Gallery and Museum. The city hosts various festivals such as the Liverpool International Music Festival, Baltic Weekender, River Festival, and Light Night Liverpool. 

Pro Tip: You can use the Citymapper app to find your places. It provides real-time information and also helps users plan trips. 

Strong Transportation Network

Liverpool’s actually dead easy to get around. Everything's pretty close together. The city is located in the heart of England and has a strong transportation network. 

• Buses (Your New Best Friend): The Main Stops are Ruler Square Transport Station and Lime Road Railroad Station. The Arriva and Stagecoach buses cost around £2 per adult for a single journey. 
• Student Monthly Pass for buses ranges from £45 to £65 per month. 
• The Merseyrail network connects Chester, Wirral, Southport and Liverpool Airport via the Wirral and Northern Line network. A day pass costs around £5.70 and a weekly pass costs £22.80.  
• There are also self-drive and hire taxi options available. Computer Cab (Liverpool) Ltd., INTX and Auto Europe are some of the best options for taxis in Liverpool.

Pro Tip: Use 16-25 Railcards discounts for students by the UK Government. This can save you money a lot. Moreover, if you want to buy or rent a bike for your uni commuting, prefer a second-hand bike. 

Making Money While You Study 

Let's be real! Living abroad may cost a bit more than students think. To cover expenses, extra pounds must be earned. There are part-time jobs Liverpool students can opt for to support their expenses and gain various skills.  Here’s how to earn some cash without failing your degree: 

Liverpool is a great place to work, and there is an array of part-time jobs for students. You just have to look at the right choices! For your job hunt, you can surf through: 

• University Billboards 
• Liverpool City Centre Retail
• Liverpool ONE Shopping Centre
• Hospitality and Restaurants
• Delivery and Transport Jobs

Pro Tips: 

1. Students can visit websites like StudentJob UK, Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Tailor your CV according to the requirements of the employer and prepare for the interview. 
2. Overcommitting might impact your grades. Balance social life with studies. 

Food That Won’t Destroy Taste Buds and Bank Account  

Liverpool’s food scene is absolutely top-notch. There are many budget-friendly places for a great breakfast and dining. From vibrant cafes to cosy dinner restaurants, affordable dining in Liverpool has increased food dopamine in its students. Here are some good treats for you: 

• Coffee Lovers: Bold Street Coffee, Moose Coffee, The Egg Café
• Pocket-friendly: Baltic Market Street Food, Maray, The Bagelry
• Fine Dining: Panoramic 34, Bundobust, Lerpwl

Apart from this, students can cook at home and in batches with friends. They can buy food and grocery items from supermarkets that actually give good discounts and offers to students. Visit Aldi/Lidl and UNiDAYS apps for discounts and Tesco Metro for good food. They can also visit some local markets for fresh produce. 

Your Safety is Important 

Though Liverpool is a great and safe city to explore, take care of yourself by following safety rules. Use emergency services and contact numbers if you are stuck in any bad situation. 

• Avoid poorly lit side streets and city centre areas on late Friday/Saturday nights. 
• Travel in groups and keep your phones charged always. 
• Know your address and register with the local GP. 
• Emergency contacts are readily available 

Health and Well-being of Students 

As a student, it is very important to take care of your health, be it physical or mental. There are numerous services available to help students in their academic and personal lives. Liverpool also has a number of services, such as:

• Popular Student Practices: Brownlow Health, University Health Centre 
• Advice and Support Teams: Student Life Team at Liverpool Hope University, Student Wellbeing Advisors at Liverpool John Moores University and Wellbeing Team at the University of Liverpool
• Shout App: A free 24/7 helpline and a mobile app for students’ health 
• Samaritans and Health Assured: Mental health support platforms for 24/7  

Pro Tip: Alongside these helpline numbers, always remember to exercise daily, be it outdoor walking in city parks or hitting the gym for fitness, stay active and socialise. Seek help immediately if needed. 

Cost of Living in Liverpool 

Now that you have understood the places, universities and restaurants in Liverpool, you are ready to become a Liverpool resident. However, it is essential to plan your budget and spend accordingly as a student to avoid a scarcity of money. Here is a table that will help you to understand the cost of living in Liverpool and manage your expenses: 

As a student, you can use apps like UNiDAYS, TOTUM card and Too Good To Go. They offer good discounts to students. UNiDAYS is used for online discounts and TOTUM has a physical card and paid membership. Moreover, to minimise your expenses in cooking, shop at supermarkets that give discounts and cook in batches. 

Pro Tip: If you want to create a monthly budget to plan your expenses, you can refer to the cost of living calculator. It helps you get an average estimate of monthly costs per city. 

Conclusion: Your Liverpool Adventure Awaits