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12 Places Around The World Every Beatles Fan Should Visit

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At some point, every Beatles fan must make a pilgrimage to the most famous sites associated with the band. “The Long and Winding Road” begins in Liverpool, England, but it includes destinations in London, India, the United States, and the Netherlands as well. If you love the Beatles, grab your “Ticket to Ride” and get started on this ultimate Beatles bucket list — these are 12 places no true fan should miss.

Liverpool, England

Start your Beatles tour where it all began — in the northwestern English city of Liverpool, a must-visit for any Beatles fan. All four band members were born and raised there, and it’s where the group first met and performed together. Here are some great Beatles spots in the Capital City of Pop, which is a now a UNESCO City of Music .

Wikimedia Commons

1. Birthplaces And Childhood Homes

John Lennon was born at the now-shuttered Liverpool Maternity Hospital on Oxford Street. While the inside can’t be toured, fans can still see the exterior of the abandoned building; it’s right next door to the University of Liverpool. Lennon’s childhood home, however, is available to tour , since it is owned by the National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty.

George Harrison’s birthplace and childhood home are one and the same — he was born at home at 12 Arnold Grove in Liverpool. Visitors can take pictures of the outside of the home.

Paul McCartney was born at Walton Hospital, since his mother was a maternity nurse there. His childhood home, like Lennon’s, now belongs to the National Trust, so it is available to tour.

Like Harrison, Ringo Starr was born at home, at 9 Madryn Street in Liverpool’s Dingle neighborhood. The home narrowly avoided the wrecking ball in 2012. Fans can only see this residence from the outside, since it is now privately owned.

2. The Cavern Club

Located at 10 Mathew Street in Liverpool, the Cavern Club has been called “the most famous club in the world.” It was at this historic venue that the Beatles performed their first gigs together. The club is open for numerous tours and is also part of the Magical Mystery Tour .

3. Saint Peter’s Church

This South Liverpool Anglican parish played a vital role in the formation of the Beatles. It was at a festival on its grounds that Lennon and McCartney met for the very first time in 1957. Inside the church cemetery, fans can locate the headstone of Eleanor Rigby.

4. Waterfront Statues

The statues of the Fab Four that are situated on Liverpool’s riverfront have been charming visitors since their 2015 installation. According to the Liverpool tourism board, the statues are the most popular selfie spot in town.

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5. Yellow Submarine

For a quirkier Beatles experience, consider a stay on the Yellow Submarine . It’s docked in the River Mersey in Liverpool and can be booked overnight. The sub is painted like the album cover, so it provides a cool backdrop for photos even if you have other hotel plans. You can find it just off the Royal Albert Dock.

6. The Beatles Story

Another great Liverpool stop for Beatles fanatics is the museum that explores the mythical rise of the band. The exhibit there is the largest Beatles exhibit in the world — it even includes a special section on the group’s historic trip to India in 1968. The Beatles Story is an absolute must for fans.

London, England

Another must-stop spot for Beatles fans is the capital of the UK . Fans will find plenty to love in this area.

Wikimedia Commons ( CC BY-SA 3.0 )

7. Abbey Road

Perhaps the most iconic image of the Beatles is on the cover of the album Abbey Road . The image shows the band members striding across the crosswalk near the recording studio of the same name. Nowadays, fans can expect to wait in line to recreate the photo. Visitors should also check out the gate outside the studio — it’s covered in graffiti by other Beatles devotees and features song lyrics and more. Since Abbey Road Studios is still in operation, don’t expect to get inside. However, a small gift shop on the property is home to a variety of Beatles souvenirs and a large wall covered with the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover.

8. The British Library

The British Library is the largest library in the UK and houses some really cool Beatles memorabilia. Fans can view napkins with song lyrics on them from the early days when McCartney, Harrison, and Lennon would scribble ideas down on just about anything. There’s even an original Beatles fan club membership card. Admission to the library is free.

New York City, New York, United States

John Zacherle / Shutterstock

9. Strawberry Fields

Located in New York City’s famous Central Park , Strawberry Fields is one of the more somber stops on a Beatles tour. Named for the group’s popular song, this 2.5-acre garden serves as a memorial to Lennon. It is internationally recognized as a garden of peace.

10. The Dakota

Many Beatles lovers will recognize the name of the apartment building that Lennon and Yoko Ono were living in at the time of Lennon’s murder. In fact, Lennon was shot just outside the building in New York City’s Upper West Side. Today, visitors can see the exterior of the building. The Dakota, conveniently located near the Strawberry Fields memorial in Central Park, can be found at 1 West 72nd Street.

Wikimedia Commons ( CC BY SA 4.0 )

Rishikesh, India

11. chaurasi kutia ashram.

In 1968, the Fab Four embarked on a meditation-focused trip to an ashram in northern India. The trip sparked international fervor and was widely covered by the press. McCartney and Starr didn’t stay long, but Harrison and Lennon called the ashram home for many weeks. The ashram will eventually be converted into a museum that commemorates the time the band spent there. Until then, fans can hire a local guide to escort them to the property. Inside awaits some beautiful murals and graffiti dedicated to the band. Visitors can also view the meditation huts and infrastructure of the now-unused ashram.

Wikimedia Commons ( CC0 1.0 )

Amsterdam, Netherlands

12. hilton amsterdam.

This hotel gained international recognition due to a unique 1969 event. That year, following their wedding, Lennon and Ono spent their honeymoon in bed in the hotel to raise awareness for world peace and protest the Vietnam War. It became known as a “bed-in,” similar to the “sit-ins” of the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can now stay in the same suite the couple did (room 702).

There’s so much around the world for Beatles fans to experience. From the moving memorial in New York to the famous ashram in India, these sites won’t disappoint.

Katy is a freelance food, business, and travel writer currently based in Omaha, Nebraska. Her passions include spending time at the lake, cooking, traveling, reading, brunching, and thrifting. Besides Travel Awaits, she has contributed to Greatist , Matador Network , Chilled Magazine , Business Insider , Popular Science , Crunchbase News , and many other print and digital publications.

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15 Places to Discover the Beatles in London

Trade ad for The Beatles' 1964 Grammys - WikiCommons

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1. the british library.

The interior of the British Library by Andrew Dunn – WikiCommons

Practical Information:

Entry fee: free, opening hours: monday-thursday 9:30am-8pm, friday 9:30am-6pm, saturday 9:30am-5pm, sunday 11am-5pm, address: 96 euston rd, london nw1 2db, united kingdom, tube station: king’s cross st. pancras / euston / euston square, 2. abbey road (and studios).

Abbey Road by Rudy and Peter Skitterians – Flickr

Abbey Road crosswalk:

Address: st. john’s wood, london, tube station: st. john’s wood station. the best way to get to abbey road from the tube station is to head west on grove end road as soon as you exit the station (there is one exit). when you reach abbey road simply take a right and you’ll find yourself at the famous crosswalk, abbey road studios:, address: 3 abbey rd, st john’s wood, london nw8 9ay, united kingdom, tube station: follow the same directions as above to reach the studio., 3. 7 cavendish avenue.

Paul McCartney’s home at 7 Cavendish Avenue, London – WikiCommons

Address: 7 Cavendish Ave, St John’s Wood, London NW8 9JG, UK

Tube station: st. john’s wood station, 4. marylebone station.

Marylebone Station – WikiCommons

Address: Marylebone, London NW1 6QH, United Kingdom

Tube station: marylebone station, 5. 34 montagu square.

The blue plaque outside 34 Montagu Square by Basher Eyre – geograph.org.uk

Address: 34 Montagu Square, Marylebone, London W1H 2LJ, UK

Tube station: edgware road station, 6. 94 baker street.

The Apple Boutique building today. If you look closely you can see a blue historical plaque commemorating the building by Emanuel Berglund – Flickr

“A beautiful place where beautiful people can buy beautiful things.”

Address: 94 Baker St, Marylebone, London W1U 6FZ, UK

Tube station: baker street station, 7. london palladium theatre.

The London Palladium Theatre by Mrs Ellacott – WikiCommons

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 10am-7pm

Address: 8 argyll st, soho, london w1f 7tf, united kingdom, tube station: oxford circus underground, 8. the prince of wales theatre.

The Prince of Wales Theatre by mrsvickyaltaie – needpix

Address: Coventry St, London W1D 6AS, United Kingdom

Tube station: piccadilly circus, 9. 3 savile row.

Savile Row by Poirier2000 – WikiCommons

“I would like to say thank you on behalf of the group and ourselves and I hope we’ve passed the audition.”

Address: 3 Savile Row, Mayfair, London W1S 3PB, UK

10. the beatles story, practical information, address: britannia vaults, royal albert dock, liverpool l3 4ad, united kingdom, tube station: st. john’s wood (liverpool), 11. the magical mystery tour, address: anchor courtyard, albert dock, liverpool, merseyside, l3 4as, tube station:  royal albert dlr station stop, 12. the emi house, address:20 manchester square, 13. trident studios, address:unit 16, albany road trading estate, chorlton-cum-hardy, manchester m21 0az, uk, tube station: manchester rd broadway avenue, 14.the apple boutique, address:94 baker st, london w1u 6fz, united kingdom, tube station: baker street underground station, 15. 57 wimpole street, address: 57 wimpole street, tube station:marylebone railway station , the beatles’ 5 greatest concerts, 1. arenatearten theatre in stockholm, sweden, on october 30, 1963.

2. The Ed Sullivan Show  in New York City, New York on February 9, 1964

3. Shea Stadium in New York City, New York on August 15, 1965

4. Festival Hall; Melbourne, Australia; June 17th, 1964

5. Apple Corps Headquarters’ Rooftop in London, England on January 30, 1969

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These Are The 10 Best Places To Visit in the UK for Beatles Fans

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

If you are a fan of the Beatles, then the UK will be your ultimate paradise!

There are so many iconic sites and hidden gems that are linked to the Beatles and that you can visit!

 From the beautiful streets of Liverpool, the birthplace of John Lennon to the historic Abbey Road in London, there’s no shortage of places to immerse yourself in Beatlemania. 

If you’re ready to follow in the footsteps of John, Paul, George, and Ringo, here are nine must-visit Beatles places across the UK.

🔎 Table of Contents

1. Cavern Club, Liverpool

The Cavern Club is where it all began for The Beatles. This legendary venue is located on Matthew Street in Liverpool. 

It hosted the band’s early performances and played a pivotal role in their rise to fame, before they went to Hamburg. 

Today, you can soak in the rock and roll atmosphere, catch live music, and stand just next to the very stage where The Beatles once played.

It’s open every day and you can enter to see the shows for only £5 (you pay at the door).

2. The Beatles Story Museum, Liverpool

No Beatles pilgrimage would be complete without a visit to The Beatles Story Museum.

Located on the Royal Albert Dock in Liverpool, this immersive museum is the perfect place to learn more about their lives, history and of course the music itself. 

There is so much memorabilia to see including Ringo Starr’s drum kit, clothes, rare album sleeves, instruments and more.

Another cool feature is the Discovery room where you can find instruments and actually play your favourite songs (that’s always a winner with kids!).

The museum is open from 9AM to 4PM and you can book your tickets in advance online here.

3. Abbey Road, London

Walking across the famous zebra crossing on Abbey Road, London, is the ultimate Beatles bucket list item, especially if you are into photography. 

This iconic spot, immortalised by the Beatles’ 1969 album cover, draws fans from around the world and is very easy to include in your London itinerary.

While you’re there, make sure to go to Abbey Road Studios. You can’t see the recording studios itself but it’s always nice to see the building and you can pop in the shop as well.

PRO TIP: If you want to learn more about the Beatles’ history in London, including Abbey Road, consider booking a Beatles tour of London . It’s run by local tour guides and offers insights into The Beatles’ life in the city.

4. Strawberry Field, Liverpool

Strawberry Field, with its iconic red gates, inspired one of The Beatles’ most famous songs,  ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’. 

This magical place, once a Salvation Army children’s home, has been transformed into an interactive visitor experience. 

You can see the bandstand where the bands used to play (and inspired John Lennon as a child) as well as the piano Lennon used to compose the song ‘Imagine’.

If that’s something you’re interested in, you can book tickets here.

5. Hard Rock Cafe, London

This one may surprise you but you can also find some cool Beatles memorabilia in the vault of the Hard Rock Cafe in London.

It’s located in the basement and is open every day from 1:00pm to 9:00pm.

While there are other objects that used to belong to famous musicians like Eric Clapton, you can also find some Beatles ones such as John Lennon’s glasses.

6. John Lennon’s Childhood House, Liverpool

John Lennon’s childhood home is located in Liverpool. It’s often referred to as Mendips. Going there is like stepping back in time!

Managed by the National Trust , the house at 251 Menlove Avenue offers a glimpse into John’s early life.

Tours are available, providing a unique insight into where some of the earliest Beatles songs were composed including the very spot where McCartney and Lennon composed ‘I Saw Her Standing There’.

PRO TIP: Pre-booking is essential as tours fill up quickly, you can do so on the official website here.

If you are a National Trust member , it’s a lot cheaper (you get £24 discount)

7. Statue of The Beatles, Liverpool

Now this is another cool photo spot for Beatles fans! Located on the waterfront, on the Royal Albert Docks, the larger-than-life statues are a fairly recent addition to the city’s Beatles attractions but have quickly become a fan favourite. 

Unveiled in 2015, the statues capture the band in their prime and provide a perfect photo op.

8. Penny Lane, Liverpool

This iconic street inspired the song of the same name and still features many of the landmarks mentioned in the lyrics. It’s a nostalgic walk down memory lane.

Make sure to take a photo with the sign and you can even head to the John Lennon statue which is not too far.

9. Paul McCartney’s Childhood House, Liverpool

I know I mentioned John Lennon’s house earlier but the National Trust ticket actually gives you access to 20 Forthlin Road as well which is the childhood home of Paul McCartney. 

This house is where Paul and John Lennon wrote some of their early songs.

The house has been preserved to reflect its 1950s condition, offering a fascinating glimpse into Paul’s early life and the Beatles’ formative years.

10. London Beatles Store, London

If you want to buy some cool Beatles souvenirs, the London Beatles Store on Baker Street is your go-to destination. 

From rare records to themed clothing and accessories, it’s a haven for collectors and fans alike. 

Whether you’re looking for a souvenir or a rare piece of Beatles history, you’re likely to find it here.

I hope you enjoyed this article and that you’ll love all these Beatles locations in the UK.

You may also be interested in:

• 15 Incredible Places in the UK That Look Like They’re Abroad
• Harry Potter in Scotland: 14 Best Harry Potter locations in Scotland & Magical Experiences
• 37 interesting facts about Liverpool you never knew

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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From the Cavern Club to childhood homes and the inspiration for ‘Strawberry Fields,’ this is a guide to the must-see sites in The Beatles’ Liverpool.

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Even as recently as the 80s, visitors to Liverpool could have been forgiven for not realizing they were in the birthplace of The Beatles . Things changed when, in 1984, a dedicated museum to the group – Beatle City – opened on Seel Street, in the city center. That museum boasted the greatest collection of Beatles memorabilia ever brought together – the prize exhibit was the original Magical Mystery Tour bus, restored to its psychedelic glory, which offered tours of the former Fabs’ family homes, and various other places of interest in and around the city. But that museum was plagued by financial difficulties and so closed its doors for the last time after less than two years.

What Beatle City had demonstrated, however, was that there was an appetite for Beatles tourism – a fact not lost on the people behind the then-burgeoning Cavern City Tours enterprise, who have been behind most major Beatle-related projects in the city for 35 years. Today, some 800,000 people a year are reported to visit sites such as the historic Cavern Quarter, home to an increasing number of Beatle-themed hang-outs. The Beatles’ legacy is reported to be worth over £80 million to Liverpool’s economy, and is said to support more than 2,300 jobs.

A guide to The Beatles’ Liverpool

Where to stay in liverpool.

So if you’re planning a visit, the first issue is: where to stay? There are a number of cracking Beatle-themed accommodation options, from the exclusive Yellow Submarine (actually a rather swanky houseboat with a price tag to match) in the city’s Albert Dock, to the luxurious – and rather more affordable – Beatles-themed Hard Day’s Night Hotel (the Lennon suite comes complete with white piano – imagine!), just around the corner from the legendary Cavern Club in the city center. Beatle-themed rooms can also be had for the night at the Penny Lane Hotel, among many other options.

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History of liverpool.

That The Beatles came from Liverpool is not insignificant in their development. Indeed, it’s unlikely they could have come from anywhere else in the country. Liverpool, especially in the years when The Beatles were born and raised there, was dominated by its docks and the associated companies for whom the route to the world offered opportunity, such as the insurance firms in and around the Liver Buildings, not to mention the acres of warehouses, and the distribution network that traded their goods.

In the 50s, the Merchant Navy offered employment and adventure to a generation of young men growing up in a post-war climate of austerity and unemployment. These men who worked in the “merch” became known as Cunard Yanks, after the liners aboard which they ferried back and forth to New York. America seemed like a Technicolor marvel compared to the dreary reality of the hard life they experienced at home, and they sought to bring as much of that vibrancy back with them. From fridge freezers to Wrangler jeans, they loaded up with whatever they could afford and carry.

Perhaps cheapest and easiest of all were the early rhythm’n’blues and rock’n’roll records that soundtracked their high times in the Big Apple. These records would then infiltrate the culture back in Liverpool, where a beat boom was born based on the sweet sounds from across the sea. Skiffle groups, such as John Lennon ’s Quarrymen, migrated quickly to rock’n’roll, at first meeting resistance from the likes of Cavern Club owner Ray McFall, who would pass notes up to the formative Beatles, reminding them that his best of cellars was a jazz club.

But before long, McFall, like the rest of Liverpool’s club owners, embraced this new music. Only through their unique access to the brightest new records from the US did groups such as The Beatles, Gerry And The Pacemakers, Billy J Kramer And The Dakotas and The Searchers evolve the sound that came to take the world by storm as Merseybeat.

Starting your Beatles tour

It’s at these same docks, today revitalized as Liverpool’s historic quarter, that you should probably begin your journey through these places that had their moments. Some have changed, some have gone – and some remain.

Your first stop will be The Beatles Story, an award-winning museum on the Albert Dock that houses a replica Cavern Club, a number of original instruments, artworks, and other memorabilia. The museum often features fascinating temporary exhibitions, so is worth repeat visits.

The Beatles Story is also handily located to begin your tour of Beatle sites, thanks to the two-hour Magical Mystery Tour run by Cavern City Tours. The multicolored bus, decorated in Magical Mystery Tour livery, regularly departs from the Albert Dock (the ticket office is just along the road from The Beatles Story), finishing its tour at the Cavern Club. Your ticket includes entry to the Cavern that evening, so be sure to hold onto it. The tour stops at various spots around the city, such as Penny Lane, Strawberry Field (note the singular) and some of The Beatles ’ childhood homes, and is a good way to get yourself oriented in the city. But for the serious fan, you’re going to want to head back out on your own to see the various sites and spots in your own time – and without the crowds that come on a bus.

In and around the city center

And, of course, there are plenty of Beatle sites to be seen in and around the city center, so if you have a couple of hours, why not familiarise yourself with the city, get to know the place that gave rise to The Fab Four, and see some of the lesser-known haunts while you’re at it? There are a number of guided Beatles walking tours, or, if you’ve feeling adventurous, head out on your own. And where better to start than the world-famous Cavern Club on Mathew Street?

Once more of a back alley than a lively nightspot, Mathew Street was home to the original Cavern Club, until the building was demolished in the early 70s. One of the most legendary live music venues in history, the Cavern was considered home turf by The Beatles, who played regular lunchtime and evening shows there. It was here that they attracted their first fanatical following, and where they were discovered by local record-shop proprietor Brian Epstein in 1961.

Today, Mathew Street is a hive of activity and a real nightspot, with live music in the rebuilt Cavern Club, as well as Sgt Pepper’s, the Rubber Soul bar and the Cavern Pub, among other places. For a more reflective pint, try The Grapes pub, where the fledgling Fab Four would hang out between sets at the Cavern.

At the opposite end of Mathew Street to the Hard Day’s Night Hotel, just after The Beatles Shop, is Stanley Street, where Frank Hessy’s music shop used to be. In 2017, the late Ken Dodd unveiled a blue plaque to the shop, which sold instruments to all the Merseybeat groups – including the Beatles.

Hang a right down Stanley Street and you’ll get to Whitechapel, where the Epstein family’s NEMS shop was located at No. 12. You’ve already retraced the steps that the young Brian Epstein took that day he first ventured out to find out who these Beatles were that he kept hearing about. Take a left onto Church Street – you’ll pass Leigh Street, where, at the first-floor in Reece’s, John and Cynthia Lennon held their wedding reception; Brian Epstein picked up the bill.

At the end of the road, cross and continue up Bold Street until you get to Slater Street. At No.23 is the Jacaranda, where John and his art-school pal Stuart Sutcliffe used to hang out. The bar’s then-manager, Allan Williams, used to book the proto-Beatles to play in the basement, eventually becoming their manager. It was Williams who made contacts in Hamburg and got the group gigs there.

Turn left onto Seel Street – once home to the Beatle City museum – and near the end of the street you’ll see the Blue Angel at 108, another of Allan Williams’ old clubs. In 1960, as The Silver Beatles, the group auditioned here for the pop impresario Larry Parnes, and were promptly booked as backing band for Johnny Gentle on a series of dates in Scotland – the Liverpool band’s first taste of life on the road. The Blue Angel was known as the after-hours hang-out for local and touring musicians in town, and the Beatles would socialize here after they hit the big time until their move to London.

Turn left onto Berry Street and take a right past the bombed-out church (the offices of Bill Harry’s Mersey Beat paper were at nearby 81a Renshaw Street), turn right onto Rodney Street, and continue until you get to the Anglican Cathedral, where Paul failed an audition as a choirboy, but returned triumphant in 1991 with the premier of his Liverpool Oratorio.

Upper Duke Street will take you to Hope Street. On one corner is the entrance to Gambier Terrace, where John and Stu shared a flat at No.3. Head up Hope Street, away from the Anglican Cathedral and in the direction of the more modern Catholic Cathedral. On the corner of Mount Street is the original site of Liverpool College Of Art (now based on Hope Street), where John and Stu studied. Next door is Paul and George’s former school, the Liverpool Institute, which today houses the Liverpool Institute For Performing Arts (LIPA), co-founded by Sir Paul McCartney , who still takes a very active interest in the school.

On the left as you continue up Hope Street is the narrow Rice Street, down which you’ll find the legendary Liverpool pub Ye Cracke, a favorite of the art school students, including John Lennon and his pals. Across Hope Street is Falkner Street, where Brian Epstein had a flat at No.36, which he lent to the newlywed John and Cynthia as their first home together.

Continue up Hope Street and you can’t miss the Philharmonic Dining Rooms, one of Liverpool’s most attractive pubs, boasting a Grade II listed men’s toilet, no less. This was another of John’s favourite places – he is said to have replied to a question about the price of fame by saying it was “Not being able to buy a pint at the Phil.”

At the top of Hope Street is the Catholic Cathedral, and it was at the former maternity hospital across the road on Oxford Street that, during a bombing raid on October 9, 1940, Julia Lennon gave birth to a son, who she patriotically named John Winston.

Further afield

You can return to the city center by heading down Mount Pleasant (John and Cynthia were married in the former register office at No.64). But to explore some of the more suburban Beatle sites, it’s probably best to give your by-now aching feet a break.

However you choose to get around, there are plenty of places to visit, depending on how deep you want to go with your Beatle obsession. To begin with, Paul and John’s childhood homes, at 20 Forthlin Road and Mendips, 251 Menlove Avenue, respectively, are both now under the care of the National Trust. The Trust offers a guided tour of both homes, which have been renovated to match as closely as possible what they would have looked like when the fab two lived there in the 50s. It’s worth bearing in mind that you have to book these tours before you go, and they can get booked up pretty far in advance; if you just turn up at the houses, you won’t get in.

Not far from Mendips is St Peter’s Church, Woolton, where Paul first met John, whose group, The Quarrymen, was providing entertainment for the young folk attending the church’s garden fete. A curio in the church’s grounds is a gravestone listing one Eleanor Rigby, who died in 1939. Paul’s recollections of how he came about the song’s title involve taking a shine to the name Rigby on a Bristol wine merchant’s shopfront; regardless, that her name should adorn a grave in the very grounds where the two met is at the very least an interesting quirk of synchronicity.

From Mendips, Strawberry Field is the next logical stop. The inspiration for The Beatles’ revolutionary 1966 composition was his childhood memories of hopping over the wall of this former children’s home and getting lost in his imagination in the grounds. Aside from the compulsory photo at the famous red gates, however, there’s little here to keep you.

Continue your journey down Menlove Avenue, following in the well-heeled footsteps of Lennon and McCartney as you head towards the city center, and you’ll eventually come to the bus shelter in the middle of a roundabout at the junction with Penny Lane. The bank’s still there too, and where better to order a “four of fish” than at the local chippy?

In the suburbs, there are plenty more places to visit. George Harrison was born at 12 Arnold Grove, not far north of Penny Lane, while Ringo ’s childhood home, at 10 Admiral Grove, is a slight detour on your way back into the city center – as is his birthplace of 9 Madryn Street. Neither home has anything but photo opportunities to offer, though a visit does offer an insight into the sort of background they came from. One photo opportunity well worth looking out for, however, is The Empress pub at the end of Admiral Grove, which featured on the cover of Ringo’s 1970 solo album, Sentimental Journey .

There are countless former haunts, homes and hang-outs in and around Liverpool, and the tourist information office can help you track them down. But the last stop you shouldn’t miss is a trip to Casbah Coffee Club, formerly run by Mona Best, where The Beatles used to play, enlisting her son Pete on drums. Located at 8 Hayman’s Green, a secluded house in a leafy suburb, the Casbah today is maintained by the Best family as it was in the early 60s, and is open for tours and various events. Be sure to book your tour in advance, though.

When to visit?

For the serious Fabs fan, there is one time of year above all others to make the pilgrimage to the birthplace of The Beatles, and that is around August Bank Holiday, when Liverpool stages International Beatleweek. With live music the main focus, tribute bands and a whole host of special guests perform in venues around the city, and there are talks from people who were there (or thereabouts), as well as pretty much every manner of Beatle-related fun you could imagine, from a flea market to Ringo Bingo!

As with any city, part of the pleasure is in discovering places for yourself, and you’ll find a number of Beatles statues dotted around the place, including on Mathew Street and the Albert Docks. You’ll also find plenty of places happy to boast of their Beatles connections (however tenuous). The more tourist-friendly Beatle sights make for a great place to soak up the fab atmosphere, chat with other tourists and locals, and generally indulge in that shared passion – a love of Liverpool’s greatest export.

For the perfect soundtrack to your magical mystery tour, listen to the best of The Beatles on Apple Music and Spotify .

The must-see sights of The Beatles’ Liverpool

The beatles story.

Britannia Vaults, Albert Dock; http://www.beatlesstory.com/

John Lennon’s childhood home

Mendips, 251 Menlove Avenue; https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beatles-childhood-homes

Paul McCartney’s childhood home

20 Forthlin Road

George Harrison’s birthplace

12 Arnold Grove

Ringo Starr’s childhood home

10 Admiral Grove

St Peter’s Church

26 Church Road; http://www.stpeters-woolton.org.uk/

Strawberry Field

167 Beaconsfield Road; http://www.strawberryfieldliverpool.com/home

The Cavern Club

10 Mathew Street; https://www.cavernclub.org/

Casbah Coffee Club

8 Haymans Green; http://www.petebest.com/casbah-coffee-club.aspx

The Philharmonic Dining Rooms

36 Hope Street; https://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/restaurants/northwest/thephilharmonicdiningroomsliverpool

106-108 Seel Street

The Empress Pub

93 High Park Street

Liverpool Institute For Performing Arts

Mount Street; https://www.lipa.ac.uk/

Beatles Tours…

The magical mystery tour.

Anchor Courtyard, Atlantic Pavillion; https://www.cavernclub.org/the-magical-mystery-tour/

Beatles Walk

Canada Boulevard; https://www.beatleswalk.com

Fab Four Taxi Tour

http://fab4tours.co.uk/

Beatles-Themed Hotels…

Hard day’s night hotel.

Central Buildings, North John Street; http://www.harddaysnighthotel.com/

Yellow Submarine barge

Salthouse Dock; http://www.yellowsubliverpool.co.uk/boats.html

The Penny Lane Hotel

3-5 Smithdown Place; http://www.thepennylanehotel.com/

Further Information…

International beatleweek.

https://www.internationalbeatleweek.com

Visit Liverpool

https://www.visitliverpool.com/things-to-do/the-beatles

Oriana Roneh

July 14, 2021 at 10:25 pm

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Tourists pose for a photo on the iconic zebra crossing near Abbey Road Studios.

The ultimate itinerary for Beatles fans

Take a musical pilgrimage from London to Liverpool to New York.

The epiphany that I was a Beatles fan came in my early teens, and it was like experiencing one’s first heady taste of ale—I just knew this was something special. Considering I was born three weeks after the release of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band —the album that changed the sound of pop music—and three weeks before the launch of “All You Need Is Love,” it seems I was destined to be a diehard Beatles fan.

When John Lennon was shot I wrote a condolence letter to his widow Yoko Ono, spending all my pocket money on the postage from Sweden to New York ; a decade later Paul McCartney played nearby where I lived in Gothenburg, so I volunteered to work at the arena just to get a chance to say “Hello, Goodbye.” When I traveled through India I always thought of George Harrison, a fellow Indophile like myself. I even heard a story from an old hippie in Goa who claimed to have crossed paths with Ringo Starr. They became like my extended family. So, it followed that I should travel with them when I went on my first visit to England.

A stroll down Abbey Road

Topmost on my agenda when I arrived in London was to take the underground to the neat, and outlying Saint John’s Wood . It isn’t named after Lennon, but the station boasts a Beatles-inspired coffee shop, selling the essential “I crossed Abbey Road” badge. Down the road is the legendary Abbey Road Studios , where the Beatles cut many hits, as did icons such as Pink Floyd, Queen, and U2.

But I didn’t see any popstars step out humming a hit, and truth be told it was a fairly anonymous dirty-white building, which was a bit of a let-down. However, the main draw was in front of the studios: to my knowledge, the only zebra crossing that has been bestowed a heritage monument status. Once the tourists in front of me finished taking selfies, I tap danced across like a Beatle gone solo, dodging cars in the manner of a second-rate bullfighter, realizing it would’ve been better to come on a Sunday when London settles down.

Afterwards, I took the tube to Baker Street , and headed to the London Beatles Store souvenir shop—advertising its opening hours as “Eight Days a Week.” Incidentally, in the late 1960s the Beatles themselves ran their own trendy, yet short-lived, Apple Store at 94 Baker Street when they diversified into design, but the venture was a commercial failure.

A visitor takes a photograph of Abbey Road Studios in London, where the Beatles recorded several hit songs.

A graffiti-covered wall near Abbey Road Studios pays homage to the Beatles.

Magical mystery tour

My next destination was the Marylebone station around the corner from Baker Street, which features in the opening sequence of the 1964 movie, A Hard Day’s Night . It was also where Liverpool trains terminated, making it the Beatles’ entry point to London. As I walked about, I got the feeling that almost every other building had something to do with them. Not far from the station, Starr rented an apartment at 34 Montagu Square , where Yoko Ono and Lennon lived one summer. The blue heritage placard sits high up on the wall so that no souvenir-hunter can nick the marker of the abode where the nude cover photo for Lennon’s first solo album Two Virgins (1968) was made.

The headquarters of Apple Records, the label they started at 3 Savile Row , is long gone, yet I wasn’t the only fan gawking at the rooftop. It was there the concert movie Let It Be was filmed during the Beatles’ last public performance on a cold January day in 1969. The spectacle irritated neighbors so much that they called the bobbies, who ended the historical event unceremoniously. But at least they won an Academy Award for best original soundtrack.

While both Lennon and Harrison have moved on to the big studio in the sky, one might spot Sir McCartney outside his offices in Soho Square . It’s a discreet building, but keep an eye out for the “mpl” over the glass doors (McCartney Productions Limited), the company that holds his copyrights. I also sauntered past 7 Cavendish Avenue , where Macca has lived since the 1960s, with high hopes he might step out for a quick puff of his once-preferred herb. And, of course, I tracked down the address where actress Jane Asher used to live, whom McCartney dated before marrying Linda Eastman. Once when he slept over at her place on 57 Wimpole Street , he woke up ravenous and came up with a song called Scrambled Eggs . The melody was great but the lyrics needed an overhaul, so he rewrote it as Yesterday —which remains one of the most covered songs in the world.

I didn’t have time to go to the British Library , where Lennon’s handwritten lyrics for Strawberry Fields Forever are on display, nor the rock and roll museum at the Old Park Lane branch of Hard Rock Cafe that preserves Lennon’s specs—Liverpool beckoned. As I squinted out at the foggy British landscape from the coach window, I thought back on my years of Beatlemania.

Related: your London photos

Across the universe

One of its most extreme moments was in Athens , Greece, where I found the band’s sandal maker near Monastiraki Square and bought exactly the same footwear that Lennon had (I even wore them as I wrote this piece). On my first trip to India in the early 1990s, I immediately checked out the Rikhi Ram & Sons shop at Connaught Place, Delhi, where Harrison bought a sitar, sarod, and tanpura to use on Beatles’ recordings, before I headed to Rishikesh where they meditated in 1968. In Mumbai, I snuck into the Taj Mahal Palace hotel where, in 1966, Harrison took sitar classes from Ravi Shankar. The hotel has since renamed his room “The Ravi Shankar Suite,” though before I could get a peek inside the security promptly threw me out as I was dressed too much like a hippie Beatle myself. On that trip, Harrison also visited the actual Taj Mahal in Agra to take an iconic selfie.

On my maiden U.S. trip, later in the 1990s, I made sure to land at JFK. rather than Newark because that was where the four first set their eight feet on American soil in 1964 and went on to hold a hilarious airport press conference. Their U.S. debut concert was at Carnegie Hall , followed by a TV broadcast from the Ed Sullivan Theater on 1697 Broadway, watched by one quarter of the American population. I certainly went to Madison Square Garden , where Lennon performed live for the last time ever in 1974 (in a concert with Elton John). My NYC walk ended at 72nd Street, at the corner of Central Park West, where he used to live in an apartment building among celebrity neighbors, such as actress Lauren Bacall and composer Leonard Bernstein. It was at the entrance that Lennon was shot by a troubled fan as he returned from a late-night studio session. The three-acre Strawberry Fields memorial garden, nearby in Central Park, pays tribute to the musician.

All you need is Liverpool

Happier days awaited in Liverpool, so I took a bus to the Woolton suburb riddled with places reminiscent of the Beatles. On 251 Menlove Avenue, I tracked down Lennon’s childhood home, Mendips —a 1930s, semi-detached villa now owned by the U.K.’s National Trust. As a child, he played guitar on the porch and amused himself at the nearby Strawberry Field orphanage. The McCartney family home on 20 Forthlin Road is also managed by the trust. Other hotspots include Penny Lane and the parish church where Lennon–McCartney originally teamed up in 1957 (and where a woman named Eleanor Rigby lies buried).

I left the quiet neighborhood and headed to where the pre-Beatlemania action actually happened—downtown Liverpool. The harbor town has certainly capitalized on its Beatles connection with Magical Mystery bus tours and the Hard Day’s Night Hotel ; additional sites include include a fancy replica of the Cavern Club (the original was demolished).

I opted to down a pint at the not-so-glamorous Jacaranda on Slater Street, where they performed before their breakthrough—in the crammed basement there are murals painted by the the Beatles’ original bassist Stuart Sutcliffe. One profile on the wall looked like Lennon’s face. In fact, I drank at every pub with the slightest association with them: The Grapes on Mathew Street, where they had pints before heading to the Cavern Club; Ye Cracke on Rice Street is where Lennon and Cynthia (his first wife-to-be) had their first date; The Pilgrim on Pilgrim Street is famous for some Beatle thing or another; and Philharmonic on Hope Street was the snazziest of their local hangouts.

These pubs, which seem to have remained unchanged throughout the ages, brought me closer to them than the official Beatlemania tourism industry did—the only drawback is that a diehard fan doing all the Beatles-pubs needs a bladder the size of Liverpool’s harbor.

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Beatles Tours in London

Beatles & Rock 'n' Roll Morning Tour

Classic Rock & Beatles Afternoon Tour

Take a Ticket to Ride Beatles Evening Tour

Beatles & Rock Full Day Tour

Our pick of the best Beatles tours in London. Travel by bus and see the most famous Beatles sites in the city. Accompanied by a lively tour guide, you’ll also get to learn about other musical legends that made their name in London. Travel in a small group and choose from a morning, afternoon or evening departure. Each tour offers a slightly different itinerary, with some focusing almost exclusively on the Beatles, whilst others include other Rock legends as well. Our full-day Beatles Tour of London explores the Beatles and other Rock ‘n’ Roll legends who made their life in London.

Beatles Tour in London – Morning Departure

Join a morning Beatles tour of London taking you to many Fab Four hotspots, as well as other Rock ‘n’ Roll locations in the city. You’ll get to see Paul McCartney’s Golden Disc-covered office and the Beatles own theatre as well as the crossing outside of Abbey Road Studio. Your rock guide will also show you Pink Floyd’s Studio and where the Rolling Stones recorded their first hits.

More Info: Beatles Morning Tour

Beatles Afternoon Tour

Spend an afternoon exploring the Beatles London sites, as well as many sites related to classic rock legends of the 60s, 70s and 80s. You’ll see where Jimmy Hendrix lived, the place where Freddie Mercury and Queen hung out, and the headquarters of Led Zeppelin. You’ll see lots of Beatles related landmarks, including walking across the zebra crossing outside Abbey Road Studio. We will also drive through a lot of local neighbourhoods that you wouldn’t normally get to see on a traditional sightseeing tour of London.

More info: Beatles Afternoon Tour

Beatles Evening Tour

Join a Beatles evening tour of London which is devoted almost entirely to the Beatles sites. See the art gallery where John met Yoko, the flat where the Fab Four lived, the place where Paul worked on ‘Eleanor Rigby’ and much more. In total, you’ll get to see over 50 Beatles sites on this small-group evening tour led by an experienced guide. The perfect way to spend a summer’s evening.

More info: Beatles Evening Tour London

Full Day Beatles London Tour

Spend a full day exploring the Beatles sites in London on a small group bus tour. This trip is a combination of the morning and afternoon Beatles tours that are mentioned above and is the perfect way to combine a visit to the Fab Four locations with stories about other musical legends like Amy Winehouse, Elton John and Jimi Hendrix.

More info: Full Day Beatles Tour

Private Beatles Tour of London

Take a private Beatles tour of London, custom-built according to your interests. We can design an itinerary that focuses exclusively on Beatles locations, or we can include a mix of other Rock ‘n’ Roll legends who rose to fame in London during the Swinging Sixties. We can also include some more general London sightseeing attractions as part of a private Beatles tour. Check out our private tours of London for more information.

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27 Best Beatles Things to Do in Liverpool (By a Superfan!)

• July 9, 2023

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

If you’re a fan of The Beatles and planning a trip to Liverpool, there are so many things to do that it can feel overwhelming. And when it comes to Beatles things to do in Liverpool, it feels like you’d need to live there to see them all!

As someone who has been a Beatles fan for years and visited Liverpool over 30 times, I’ve finally done pretty much every Beatles-related activity in the city.

So, if you’re looking for the ultimate guide to the best Beatles things to do in Liverpool, just consider me your personal Liverpool Beatles tour guide.

From exploring The Beatles Story museum to taking a stroll down Penny Lane and visiting the legendary Cavern Club, this mega list of Beatles-related stuff to do in Liverpool will keep you occupied for a long time.

And nope – I won’t just be listing touristy spots! I’ve got some hidden gems up my sleeve that can only come from countless hours spent in Liverpool scouring the city.

So, put on your Lennon shades, turn up the Beatles playlist, and let’s get started!

Table of Contents

1. Take a Beatles Taxi Tour

I’ve been on my fair share of Beatles tours in Liverpool, but the best, by far, is the Beatles Taxi Tour of Liverpool . This 3-hour private tour is the perfect way to do some Beatles sightseeing in Liverpool, taking you seamlessly to some of the top Beatles attractions in the city. 

Rather than being on a rushed and crowded bus tour , the great thing about the Beatles Taxi Tour is that you can take your sweet time, asking your guide any questions you have.

You’ll also get to pose for photos without other fans in the background, and your guide can tailor your itinerary if you have specific stops in mind.

Stops on the tour include Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane, the Eleanor Rigby Tombstone (one of the most unique things to do in Liverpool!), and, of course, Paul and John’s childhood homes, though of course you can add extra stops if you’d like!

This tour is perfect for pretty much everybody – it gives a comprehensive overview of the Beatles’ early years for casual listeners, but the drivers have such in-depth knowledge that even if you’re a Beatles pro you’ll learn new things.

Click here to book your tour!

2. The Cavern Club

When it comes to Beatles attractions in Liverpool, perhaps none is more famous than The Cavern Club. This iconic live music club opened its doors in 1957 and quickly became the centre of the city’s rock and roll scene!

It was here that The Beatles played some of their earliest gigs, building up a devoted fan base and building up their repertoire before skyrocketing to fame. In just three years, from 1961 to 1963, The Beatles played almost 300 gigs at The Cavern!

That’s why it’s considered a crucial site of pilgrimage for Fab Four fans like me and you.

I’ll let you in on a little secret… The Cavern Club you see today isn’t actually the original, but it’s located just a couple of doors down from the original, and decorated exactly the same. Close enough, right?

Live music plays here every day of the week from around midday, and you do have to pay to enter (it’s usually £5 unless there’s a specific gig on). 

The best thing you can do as a Beatles fan in Liverpool is watch the Cavern Club Beatles tribute show. It’s really good, and listening to Beatles songs performed in the same space as the original Beatles is almost too much to handle!

3. The Beatles Story Museum

This is the best Beatles museum in Liverpool, and, let’s be real, the world! 

Located on the Royal Albert Dock, The Beatles Story is a must-see that documents the lives and times of the Fab Four.

It’s packed with fascinating memorabilia, including instruments, costumes, and personal items belonging to John, Paul, George, and Ringo. There’s even a replica of the Cavern Club!

Honestly, this place is huge, with so much information, and it’s very interactive. I think that even if you’re travelling to Liverpool with somebody who isn’t interested in the Beatles they would enjoy themselves here.

I’ve been to The Beatles Story four times now, and it never gets old.

Tickets cost £19, and you can get them here ! 

Also – at Christmas , you’ll find a “yellow submarine” made completely of Christmas lights at the Albert Dock. It’s a very cool sight!

4. Hard Days Night Hotel

On North John Street, just around the corner from Mathew Street and the Cavern Club, you’ll find the Hard Days Night Hotel , one of the only Beatles themed hotels in the world!

This is the best place to stay in Liverpool for Beatles fans, and I can personally recommend it since I’ve stayed there!

The location of this hotel is perfect, just a stone’s throw away from many of the city’s Beatles landmarks. It’s also within walking distance of most of the fun things to do in Liverpool, and many of the rooms have balconies .

Everything here is Beatles-themed – from the decor in the rooms, to the music playing throughout the hotel, to the cocktails offered at the hotel bar. 

Even if you’re not staying at the hotel it’s totally fine for you to step inside and have a little look around, surrounded by Beatles tunes. You’re also able to enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel’s lobby, surrounded by the memorabilia and Beatles tunes. Cool!

It’s worth noting that prices here can get pretty wild at weekends – with rooms going for around £240 per night! They can get away with charging these prices, though, since it’s almost always fully-booked! 

I stayed at the Hard Days Night Hotel on a Tuesday night, which cost a far more affordable £95 per night. It was an amazing experience, and I definitely recommend staying here if you’re on a Liverpool Beatles trip. 

Click h ere to check availability!

5. The Casbah Coffee Club

Many casual Beatles fans won’t have heard of the Casbah Coffee Club , but it was arguably just as important to the Beatles’ early growth as the Cavern Club! 

Nowadays, the club is owned by Roag Best, the brother of the Beatles’ original drummer, Pete Best, and it’s located in the basement of the family’s former house.

Yeah – in case you didn’t know, the original members of the Fab Four were John, Paul, George, Stuart Sutcliffe and Pete Best – The Fab Five!

It was opened in 1959 by Mona Best, and, although the club is no longer in operation, it has been perfectly preserved. 

Stepping inside the Casbah Coffee Club is a way to get a unique glimpse into The Beatles’ early days. You can only visit by taking a guided tour of the club, which costs £20 per person and lasts around an hour. 

During the tour, you’ll see the original stage where The Beatles played, the iconic Casbah hand-painted murals on the walls, and many other fascinating details that’ll transport you back to the early 1960s.

6. The Beatles Statue

One of the most popular Liverpool Beatles attractions is the Beatles Statue at Pier Head. Even if you’re not a Beatlemaniac this is an essential stop on any day trip to Liverpool since it’s one of the most famous landmarks in Liverpool!

This impressive set of four bronze statues was created by sculptor Andy Edwards and donated to Liverpool by the Cavern Club organisation.

Unveiled in 2015, exactly 50 years after the Beatles’ final public appearance in Liverpool, the statues weigh a massive 1.2 tonnes!

I first visited the statues back in 2015, when they were first unveiled, and I’ve been numerous times since, and let me tell you – the word is out by now! When I visited in 2015, I was the only visitor there, and was able to take my photos in peace. 

Now, there’s almost always a crowd here waiting to take their photos with the statues.

If you want to avoid the crowds and get some great shots of the statues without having to elbow your way through people, try visiting early in the morning. Here are my top tips for visiting it !

7. The Beatles Magical Mystery Tour

If you’re short on time but want to check out some of the most important Beatles sites in Liverpool, hop aboard the Magical Mystery Tour ! The tour, which is run by the Cavern Club, lasts two hours and departs numerous times a day from the Albert Dock.

Not only will you get to see all the famous spots associated with John, Paul, George , and Ringo as they grew up, formed the band, rocketed to superstardom, but you’ll also get a free ticket to enter the Cavern Club that day – another must-visit spot in Liverpool for any Beatles fan.

As you ride in the iconic Magical Mystery Tour bus you’ll be accompanied by a local guide who’ll play a range of wonderful Beatles songs to accompany you on your journey. 

It’s worth noting that this tour only really covers the Beatles sites outside the city centre. It’s a great idea to combine the tour with your own walking tour of the city centre’s Beatles sites .

Although I definitely enjoyed my time on the Magical Mystery Tour I do think that it only scratches the surface of Liverpool Beatles sites, and things felt a little bit rushed. You can read my full thoughts here .

If you’d prefer to go on a deeper dive of the Beatles sites, I recommend going on the Beatles Taxi Tour .

Click here to join the Magical Mystery Tour !

8. Liverpool Magical Beatles Museum

The Liverpool Magical Beatles Museum is the new kid on the block when it comes to Beatles museums in Liverpool. 

I mean… it’s not exactly new (it opened in 2018), but that’s new by my standards! When I used to visit Liverpool for a Beatles day out as a teenager this place didn’t even exist, so I count it as being new, okay?!

Here’s the thing. This place has a lot of cool memorabilia and Beatles artefacts, but it’s just nowhere near as good as The Beatles Story, the other Beatles museum in Liverpool. It’s smaller, the exhibitions don’t really “flow”, and the artefacts aren’t as impressive.

Is it still worth a visit for Beatles fans, though? Absolutely! I still enjoyed my visit here. I think this is one of those Liverpool Beatles attractions that you could hold off on until your second or third visit.

Tickets cost £17 and you can get them here !

9. John Lennon Statue

A visit to Liverpool wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the John Lennon Statue on Mathew Street. 

This life-sized statue of the Beatles legend, casually leaning against the wall, was sculpted by local artist Arthur Dooley, is a popular site for photos and has become an integral part of the city’s landscape.

Fun fact: the statue used to look pretty terrifying before a restoration in 2012 brought it closer to the likeness of John Lennon. You may recognise John’s pose here. That’s because the statue is based on a photograph that was used as the cover of Lennon’s solo album “Rock N Roll”.

Beyond being a great spot to snap a few selfies, the statue is also an important tribute to one of the most iconic musicians of all time!

10. Paul McCartney’s House (20 Forthlin Road)

No Beatles-themed trip to Liverpool would be complete without a visit to Paul McCartney’s childhood home at 20 Forthlin Road. 

This unassuming former council house, which is owned by the National Trust, is one of the most iconic Liverpool landmarks in Beatles history! 

It’s worth noting here that you can’t enter the house without going on a specific tour – either this one or this one , since Paul McCartney’s House in Liverpool is owned by the National Trust. 

All other tours, like the Magical Mystery Tour , will only take you to the front of the house. 

20 Forthlin Road is where Paul lived from the age of around 13 until he moved out once the Beatles made it big. Paul wrote many of the early Beatles songs here, including “Love Me Do” and “I Saw Her Standing There”. 

If you go inside, you’ll also get to see the room where Paul and John famously wrote some of their biggest hits, and even see Paul’s former bedroom!

I’ve been to Paul McCartney’s House at 20 Forthlin Road five times now, but I’ve only been inside once. 

Although I do think just visiting the outside is cool enough on your first few visits to Liverpool, if you’re a hardcore Beatles fan, joining the tour to go inside really is worth it.

11. John Lennon’s House (Mendips, 251 Menlove Avenue)

A visit to John Lennon’s childhood home at Mendips, 251 Menlove Avenue , is one of my favourite Beatles activities in Liverpool.

Like Paul’s house, this iconic building is owned by the National Trust and has been preserved to look exactly as it did when John lived there with his Aunt Mimi in the 1950s and ’60s.

Just like Paul’s house, you can’t enter the house without booking a guided tour , but the tours are well worth it. Inside, you’ll get to see the rooms where John grew up, played music, and wrote some of The Beatles’ earliest hits. 

You’ll also learn fun facts about John’s childhood, like the creaky floorboard outside his bedroom which always used to alert Aunt Mimi when he was trying to sneak back home late at night. 

Just like Paul’s house, I’ve been to Mendips five times now, but only been inside once. It’s definitely worth visiting just to see from the outside, but if you want to delve deeper and have the time, it’s definitely worth joining the tour to go inside.

12. George Harrison’s Birthplace (12 Arnold Grove)

Since you can’t go inside them, George and Ringo’s Liverpool houses often get overlooked in favour of Paul and John’s, but they’re well worth a visit if you love all four Beatles like many of us do.

George moved around quite a lot as a child, so there are a few George Harrison childhood homes in Liverpool. The most famous, though, is the terraced house at 12 Arnold Grove.

People still live here, but it’s totally fine to stand in front of it and take photos – everybody on the street is used to it. They knew what they signed up for when they moved to one of the most famous streets in Liverpool !

The Harrison family moved here in 1930 and lived there until 1950, when George was 6. Then, the family moved to 25 Upton Green, where George lived until he was 18 and left for Hamburg. 

13. Ringo’s House (10 Admiral Grove)

Just like George’s house, Ringo’s Liverpool house is privately owned and lived in, but you’re still able to respectfully snap a photo outside – the locals are used to it. The house is located in the Dingle neighbourhood of Liverpool, just a short bus ride away from the city centre. 

Ringo lived at 10 Admiral Grove with his family from the mid-1940s until the early 1960s, and it’s fascinating to see where one of the most famous drummers in history spent his early years when he wasn’t in hospital! 

Like George, Ringo also had other addresses throughout Liverpool, but 10 Admiral Grove is the most famous.

14. Strawberry Fields

Let me take you down 

‘Cause I’m going to Strawberry Fields

Nothing is real

And nothing to get hung about

Strawberry Fields forever

Yup, the iconic Strawberry Fields does, in fact, exist, and you’re actually able to visit it! This iconic site used to be a Salvation Army children’s home.

John used to sneak into the grounds to play here as a child. Over time, Strawberry Field was abandoned and became derelict. 

On my first trip to Strawberry Field back in 2014 it was completely abandoned, and the only thing you could do there was snap a photo with the “Strawberry Field” gates. Now, it’s been completely redeveloped, and is actually home to a small Beatles Exhibition inside! 

15. Penny Lane

Penny Lane is in my ears, and in my eyes!

This famous street is an essential stop for any Beatles fan visiting Liverpool. Whilst wandering along the road, keep your eyes peeled for some of the most iconic landmarks mentioned in the song, including the barbershop and the bank.

You can’t visit Penny Lane without snagging a photo with the famous street sign! It’s practically mandatory for any Beatles fan. After that, head over to the Penny Lane Development Trust, a true hidden gem for Beatles fans. 

Their Beatles murals are absolutely amazing, and they’ve got some seriously cool Beatles merchandise available for purchase in their gift shop.

16. Museum of Liverpool

The Museum of Liverpool isn’t exactly a Beatles museum specifically , but since Liverpool history is so intertwined with the Beatles, there are some epic Beatles exhibitions and artefacts on display here.

Entry to the museum is free , and inside you’ll find awesome artefacts like the four grey suits the Beatles wore in their “From Me To You” era, and the front door to the original recording studio where the Beatles recorded their first single: In Spite of All the Danger .

The Museum of Liverpool is one of the best free Beatles things to see in the city!

17. St Peter’s Church, Woolton

This unassuming church in the Woolton Village suburb of Liverpool is actually one of the most important Beatles landmarks in the world! That’s because it was here, on 6 July 1957, that the world changed forever. John met Paul!

John’s band at the time , The Quarrymen, were about to perform at the church fair when a mutual friend introduced him to Paul.

John was initially hesitant to let Paul in the band thanks to their difference in ages – John was 16, almost 17, and Paul was 15.

Within two weeks, Paul had joined the band, and the rest is history!

The church is famous for this historic meeting, but if you head into the graveyard you’ll also see two famous graves.

The first is of John’s uncle George, who he used to live with at Mendips. The second famous grave is that of a woman named Eleanor Rigby. It’s unclear whether or not Paul took inspiration from this grave to write his hit song, but it’s a cool coincidence.

Keep your eyes peeled for her ghost !

18. Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts

This huge building was once the Liverpool Institute for Boys, the grammar school Paul attended as a teenager. Nowadays, it’s one of the world’s top performing arts universities, and is called Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts: “LIPA” for short.

The Paul connection doesn’t end there. You see, Sir Paul McCartney is actually a co-founder of LIPA, opening it in 1996. 

Outside LIPA you’ll find sculptures of large stacks of suitcases. Each case has the name of a famous person from Liverpool – if you look hard enough, you’ll find the names of all four Beatles there!

19. The British Music Experience

If you’re a Beatles fan visiting Liverpool, you’re almost definitely a music fan too. That’s why you’ll agree that the British Music Experience is one of the best Beatles related things to do in Liverpool.

The British Music Experience boasts a wide array of interactive exhibits, including costumes, instruments, and memorabilia from some of the biggest names in British music history. 

Of course, The Beatles are well-represented here, with items on display that showcase the band’s incredible career and influence on the music world.

The coolest Beatles-related item on display here is probably the front door to Apple Corps, the Beatles’ record, fashion and art company in London.

With tickets costing around £18 each, it’s not cheap, and it’s not 100% dedicated to the Beatles, so this could be worth saving for your second or third visit to Liverpool, since it’s not a must-do. It’s definitely worth a visit though – I really enjoyed my time there.

Get your British Music Experience tickets here!

20. Ringo Starr Mural

If you’re a fan of Ringo Starr (and, let’s be real, who isn’t?), then a visit to the Ringo Starr Mural is an absolute must-do when in Liverpool. 

Located on the side of a former pub on the corner of Dukes Court and Kent Road, in Toxteth, the mural was created in 2015 by artist Paul Curtis.

If you go on the Beatles Magical Mystery Tour you’ll drive past the mural, but if you want to stop to take photos with it you’ll need to arrange a private tour. 

The mural depicts a young Ringo Starr during his pre-Beatles days, when he was playing with local bands around Liverpool. The bright and bold mural is one of the most popular selfie spots in Liverpool for Beatles enthusiasts!

21. Take the Ferry Across the Mersey

Okay… So the ferry across the Mersey is actually famous thanks to the Gerry & The Pacemakers song. However, during the Beatles’ era, there was a popular party in Liverpool called the Riverboat Shuffle, which took place on the Mersey Ferries. 

The Beatles performed at these Riverboat Shuffles numerous times, so I’d argue that taking the Mersey Ferry is a Beatles activity to do in Liverpool!

Today you can take a one hour sightseeing Ferry across the Mersey and back, where you’ll learn all about the Riverboat Shuffle phenomenon, its ties to the Beatles, and a tonne of other Liverpool trivia. 

Don’t miss it – get your tickets here!

Beatles Pubs in Liverpool

Visiting Liverpool, and planning a Beatles pub crawl, or simply want to have a pint in the same places that John and Paul did all those years ago? I’ve got you covered. 

Here are my top picks for the best Beatles bars, pubs and clubs in Liverpool.

22. Ye Cracke

Ye Cracke pub will always be associated with young John Lennon, who used to come here fairly regularly with his friend (and former Beatle) Stuart Sutcliffe whilst they attended the Liverpool College of Art. 

It’s also where John took his future wife, Cynthia, on their first date!

You can find it on Rice Street, just off Hope Street where you’ll find the two Liverpool Cathedrals. It’s still a working pub, so if you’re wanting to visit a Beatles pub in Liverpool, this should be at the top of your list.

23. The Grapes

As one of the top places to visit in Liverpool for Beatles fans, The Grapes pub on Mathew Street is a must-visit.

The pub itself dates back to the 1800s, but it’s only thanks to its location just across the road from the Cavern Club that it rocketed to fame as one of the best Beatles pubs in Liverpool.

You see, back in the day (and even now!) musicians playing at the Cavern Club used to head to The Grapes for a pint in between gigs. The Fab Four loved this spot as a place to take a quick breather after the chaos of their performances.

24. Philharmonic Dining Rooms

There are tons of pubs and bars in Liverpool that can say that the Beatles drank there. The boys did live in the city , after all! One of my top picks for the most famous Beatles bars in Liverpool, though, is The Philharmonic Dining Rooms.

It’s a lovely pub, there’s no doubt about it, but what really sets it apart is the special place it had in the Beatles’ hearts. 

John once famously moaned “the price of fame is not being able to go to the Phil for a quiet pint”. And, in 2018, Paul surprised fans by performing a surprise gig at the pub during filming for Carpool Karaoke. I wish I had been there!

25. The Cavern Pub

Just across Mathew Street opposite the Cavern Club, you’ll find the Cavern Pub. It’s owned by the same people who own the Cavern Club, but it’s free to enter – and a whole lot of fun. 

Live music is performed here every day of the week, there’s lots of memorabilia on the walls, and it’s generally one of the most popular places to hang out on Mathew Street.

Obviously, the Beatles didn’t actually drink or perform here (because it didn’t exist at that time), but it’s a great Beatles themed pub in Liverpool, and a cheaper alternative to the Cavern Club.

Not far away from the Cavern, on Stanley Street, you’ll find the Eleanor Rigby Statue. Snap a photo!

26. The Jacaranda

The Jacaranda is a legendary music venue in Liverpool that holds a special place in Beatles history. It’s one of the only remaining Beatles clubs, and the Beatles used to perform here in their early days, back when they were known as “The Silver Beatles”. 

It’s also where John Lennon and early Beatle Stuart Sutcliffe used to hang out during their art school days. The fact that it’s still open is pretty cool!

27. The White Star Pub

The White star pub is another pub on Mathew Street that’s famous for being one of the places the Beatles drank at during their breaks from performing at the Cavern Club. 

It’s not as famous as The Grapes pub, but it’s still a great place to have a drink, and it’s one of Liverpool‘s best Beatles pubs.

Where to Stay in Liverpool for Beatles Fans

Beatles hotel liverpool .

If you’re a Beatles fan in Liverpool, there’s really only one place to stay – the Hard Days Night Hotel . It’s a fully Beatles themed hotel! It’s located right in the city centre of Liverpool, just a few steps away from the Cavern Club and other top Beatles attractions.

I stayed here for my birthday once, and it was an incredible experience!

Click here to check dates & prices!

There are also a few Beatles-inspired apartment hotels for those of you on a mid-range budget.

Budget Hotel Liverpool

If you can’t stretch your budget to stay in the Beatles Hotel, I have two solid budget hotel recommendations for you that I can personally vouch for – this budget hotel and this affordable hotel . Both are pretty much the exact same – just a 3-minute walk from the Cavern Club, clean, and with all the basics covered. 

Click here to check EasyHotel dates & prices!

Click here to check The Z Hotel dates & prices!

FAQs About Beatles Things to Do in Liverpool

What can you visit in liverpool if you’re a beatles fan.

As a Beatles fan, you can’t miss visiting The Cavern Club, where the Beatles got their start. The Beatles Story Museum on the Royal Albert Dock is the best Beatles Museum in the world. Additionally, you can check out the childhood homes of John, Paul, George and Ringo, along with Penny Lane, and Strawberry Fields.

What is the best Liverpool Beatles tour?

The best Liverpool Beatles tour is the Beatles Taxi Tour, which lasts for three hours and visits all of the most famous Beatles Landmarks in the city. Because it’s a private tour, you can adjust the itinerary to suit your tastes, ask all of your questions to your guide, and snap photos without other fans in the background!

Can you walk the Beatles tour Liverpool?

It’s definitely possible to do a self-guided walking tour of the Beatles attractions in Liverpool city centre. To visit the Beatles attractions outside of Liverpool city centre, for example John and Paul’s Houses, Penny Lane, and Strawberry Fields, you’ll need to catch the 86 bus from Liverpool city centre and then walk between attractions.

What is the most famous street for the Beatles in Liverpool?

The most famous street for the Beatles in Liverpool is Mathew Street, located in the “Cavern Quarter” of the city. This is because the Cavern Club, where the Beatles played many of their early shows, is on this street. Nowadays, it’s the best place to go in Liverpool if you want to listen to live music.

Who owns John Lennon’s house in Liverpool?

John Lennon’s childhood home is now owned by the National Trust, a conservation charity. The house, called Mendips, is where Lennon lived from 1945 to 1963 with his aunt and uncle. It was purchased by Yoko Ono in 2002 and donated to the National Trust so that fans could visit and enjoy it.

What street did Ringo Starr live on in Liverpool?

Ringo Starr lived on several streets in Liverpool throughout his life, including Madryn Street and Admiral Grove. However, Admiral Grove is the most well-known as it was where he spent most of his childhood. Fans of the Beatles can visit Admiral Grove and take a photo outside the house where Ringo grew up.

Where did George Harrison live in Liverpool?

George Harrison lived at two addresses in Liverpool during his childhood: 12 Arnold Grove and 25 Upton Green. 12 Arnold Grove, located in the area of Wavertree in Liverpool, is the most famously recognised as George Harrison’s childhood home, as that is where he was born. 25 Upton Green has now been turned into an AirBnB!

Where did Paul McCartney live in Liverpool?

Paul McCartney grew up in the Allerton neighbourhood of Liverpool and lived at 20 Forthlin Road from 1955 to 1964. The house is now owned by the National Trust and has been preserved as it was when Paul lived there with his family. You can visit it independently, but to go inside, you’ll have to join a National Trust tour.

Which Beatles Museum is better?

The Beatles Story museum is the best Beatles museum in Liverpool, and it is, in my experience, far better than the Magical Beatles Museum on Mathew Street. The collection at the Beatles Story museum is far larger and more comprehensive than the Magical Beatles Museum, and it has more interesting attractions like a replica Cavern Club.

What pubs did the Beatles drink in?

The Beatles were known to frequent several pubs in Liverpool, including The Grapes on Mathew Street, The White Star on Mathew Street, and Ye Cracke on Rice Street. The Philharmonic Dining Rooms on Hope Street was also a favourite spot of the band and is beloved for its fabulous old-timey decor.

Conclusion: Things to Do in Liverpool for Beatles Fans

Liverpool is my favourite city in the U.K. (tied with London, of course), and I’m absolutely obsessed with the Beatles! Pair the two together, and you’ve got a match made in heaven!

I hope that this post helped you to plan your Beatles-themed trip to Liverpool, and pointed you in the right direction of all the wonderful Beatles tourist attractions in Liverpool.

From the Cavern Club, to John and Paul’s houses, to the Beatles Story Museum, there are SO many Beatles places to visit in Liverpool that you’d have to stay here weeks to see them all.

So, now that you’ve got a good idea of the best Beatles things to do in Liverpool, it’s time to book your trip!

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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5 Unmissable Beatles London Landmarks

You might be wondering ‘what can you see about the Beatles in London?’, or ‘what do Beatles fans do in London?’ Well, there are actually many followers who travel to London to see the unmissable Beatles landmarks, the main among which is the mythical zebra crossing outside Abbey Road studios, which remain there to this day .

Who wouldn’t recognise that famous Beatles album cover? On September 26, 1969, the famous rock band released their album Abbey Road , which quickly became a worldwide success: the last work recorded by the English group , coming hot on the heels of Let It Be.

Are you real Beatles fans? If so, from Civitatis come five other essential, but lesser known places to follow in the footsteps of John Lennon, Ringo Starr, Paul McCartney and George Harrison.

London Palladium

The London Palladium, on the famous Oxford Street , is one of the most important theaters in London , and a definite Beatles landmark.

It was inaugurated in 1910 as a general venue for variety performances. In the 60s the program Sunday Night at the London Palladium was recorded here, where the Beatles sung what are now hugely famous songs from their repertoire such as From Me To You or She Loves You – a performance which has now passed into legend! That night the audience for the show was a whopping 18 million viewers.

The British Library

The British Library is home to nearly 400 miles of bookshelves with publications that grow every year. Among its stellar collection is a wealth of personal objects from dozens of world-class artists. But one of London’s Beatles landmarks?

Well, in one exhibit, you can see some original manuscripts from the Liverpool quartet such as In My Life or She Said She Said . This unique find was donated by Beatles biographer Hunter Davies.

Abbey Road Studios

The famous Abbey Road! If you have crossed all of London to take a photo at the legendary pedestrian crossing , just opposite is Abbey Road Studios, the legendary recording studio where the group recorded most of their work. It’s one of the most important studios of all time , and other stars like Freddie Mercury, The Red Hot Chili Peppers or Michael Jackson have also recorded there.

As far as Beatles pilgrimages go, this one might just be the biggest!

Montagu Square

At 34 Montagu Square , Ringo Starr rented a ground floor and basement house in the mid-1960s. This house was regularly frequented by all four members of the band, including, of course, Paul McCartney.

John Lennon and Yoko Ono lived in the house for three months and it was there that the controversial photograph for the experimental album Two Virgins was made. If you walk through the building, you will find its commemorative blue plaque , in honour of its place in rock ‘n’ roll history!

Chiswick House & Gardens

One of London’s hidden Beatles landmarks, Chiswick House is a beautiful 18th-century neo-classical villa. On May 20, 1966, the Beatles used the garden of this place to record two short films that would change the history of music completely.

These promotional films were Paperback Writer and Rain , shot in colour and outdoors, a completely innovative concept at the time! Don’t miss the opportunity to take a snap in the fountain or the greenhouse just like the fab four themselves!

If you still want more, visit the city of Liverpool and take a complete Beatles tour in their hometown, or visit the Beatles Museum . No better place to immerse yourself in the world of the most famous band in history!

Wow, I absolutely appreciate this insightful blog on the Beatles\' landmarks in London! 💫 Highly recommend it for anyone planning to soak up the Beatles magic in London!

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Beatles Tour Itinerary

The beatles pilgrimage 'fanventure' tour , london and liverpool.

Following is our Standard 7 Night Beatles'   'Fan venture' Tour Itinerary 

Note: Following is our Standard  Tour Itinerary for our  7 Night  Fanventure   Tour. The order and time in which events occur may vary by tour. Number of nights and itinerary may vary for special edition tours. Your Itinerary, specific to your tour, as well as info on travel to the UK, our recommendations, advice, maps of local areas, restaurants, markets and shops as well as and other useful and cost saving tips will be sent to you electronically.

London Day 1 - Arrival & Hotel Check In Day

Arrive London!!!

I f you added inbound car service at our special price, youwill meet your driver upon exiting UK Immigrations [Passport Control]. If your driver is not waiting for you, go to car service kiosk in terminal [specific instructions will be provided to you]. 

Check into your London hotel .   Official Hotel Check In is 2pm.  The hotel is very accommodating to Beatle Pilgrimage Tour guests and will allow you to check in early as availability permits.  If that is not an option,

you can check your bags in the secure room at the hotel and take advantage of the fabulous location and see a bit of London!!  Nearby sites include:  Buckingham Palace, where the changing of the Guard occurs almost daily, Explore Westminster Cathedral, Parliament Churchill Museum and much more!  Maps to attractions within walking distance from your hotel will be included in your 'Beatles Pilgrimage Tour Survival Guide!!!'

We will meet in hotel lobby area at 6:15pm for a quick meet and greet then off for our 'Hello' Welcome dinner. Let's get to know each other and discuss a few items about the tour and answer your questions. Remember! Keep your  Tour Itinerary containing with you as an convenient reference to scheduled events.

Estimated End Time: 8:30 - 9 pm

Expected Walking:

Today, walking is only two short blocks from Hotel to dinner.

Included meals: Dinner.

London Day 2 - Full Central London Coach Tour

Meet in Hotel Lobby at 8:50 am, ready, steady, go!

Enjoy your professional London Beatles Guide on a great day in The Beatles' Central London 

Abbey Road Crossing; Apple Headquarters at Savile Row [Rooftop Concert], Scotch of St. James, Indica Gallery, Marylebone Station, NEMS London Office, The Palladium, MPL and and so much more along the way in Central London. Beatles places you want to see and more! A Great Beatles Day!!!

Time is allocated to get that great picture making the Abbey Road crossing. Listen to your host instructions to get the best shot. Of course, we allow time at the Abbey Rd Merchandise Shop... fans love it!

On level ground. One or two occurrences where we will walk roughly a 1/2 mile at a casual pace. There are Beatles locations in Central London that are not accessible by our coach that you must see.

Estimated End Time: 4:30 - 5:30 pm, depending on London traffic & construction conditions.

I ncluded meals:

Breakfast [at hotel} and Lunch

  Your Evenings in London are free.  Options in London include:

The London Hard Rock Cafe is about a 10 GBP cab fare from your hotel. Cabs hold up to 5 people. Whether you enjoy Hard Rocks or not, this London Hard Rock is special, it is the original where Clapton donated one of his guitars and Pete Townshend soon followed... the rest is history. If you wish to go the the Hard Rock for dinner, merchandise, tour of the memorabilia vault or all of these, your Beatles Tour host can assist.

Plan ahead... 'Wicked' and 'Hamilton'  are in theaters within 10 minutes walking distance of your hotel. Other London shows are nearby.

Buckingham Palace, St. James Park, The London Eye, Big Ben, Parliament and Westminster Abbey are all in walking distance [about 20 min walk one way or a short cab ride from your hotel.  Take this opportunity for some London sightseeing and exploring London dinner options along the way.

Take a two block walk to the Victoria Rail Station and see an real example of Victorian architecture in its splendor.

A map of Restaurants and Markets in the hotel area are provided in your Beatles Pilgrimage tour Travel & Tour Guide  

London Day 3 - Coach tour to the London Environs  

Enjoy your professional London Beatles Guide on a great day in The Beatles' Film locations on the outskirts of London

We'll visit towns such as Chiswick & Twickenham. This is the area where most of the local filming of A Hard Days Night & Help took place as well as the Rain & Paperback Writer videos. The videos where George said 'You might say we invented MTV',  You will enjoy lunch at the pub used in 'A Hard Day’s Night’ and where, we recently discovered, the Hard Days Night cast party was held in the back room at this Pub !!!

As time permits, we may include stops in Central London at other interesting and legendary London Rock sites and Beatles stops. 

Expected walking today –

There will be one or two occurrences where we will walk about 1/2 mile at a casual pace. This includes a walk through beautiful Chiswick Park 

Included meals:  Breakfast and Lunch.

To Liverpool!!!

London Day 4 - London to Liverpool

with stop at Henley-on-Thames and Stratford-on-Avon

Meet in Hotel L obby at 8:50 am, ready, steady, go!

Private Deluxe Coach   from our London hotel to the Hard Days’ Night Hotel in Liverpool  

Two stops on this travel day...

We will make a very special stop at George’s home Friar Park in Henley-on-Thames. You will have a 45 minutes to an hour to stroll along this charming village and see the shops, cafes, the 13th century church and Dusty Springfield's final resting place.

We are planning to make a second stop at Stratford-on-Avon, home of William Shakespeare and  to see a bit of England on our transportation day. Enjoy a lunch at one of the Tea Houses and the quaint shops on the main thoroughfare. 

Every Night!!! T he Cavern ,   steps away from the HDN hotel on Mathew Street, typically has no cover charge,   is always best bet for evening entertainment... Check your Survival Guide for 'What's on' each night at The Cavern.  Typically it is free to enter The Cavern.  Some nights there may be a nominal admission [3 - 5 GBPs]. On the weekend  'premium' band gigs may cost 10 - 20 GBPs admission.

Other evening options are The [famous] Grapes Pub where  you can meet the friendly local and where The Beatles drank between sets at The Cavern.  The Cavern Pub and Thomas Rigby Pub [one block from hotel, a favorite old pub with lots of history & atmosphere are other great options close to our hotel].

Included meals:   Breakfast Only on travel day to Liverpool

Liverpool Day 5 -  The Beatles' Liverpool with Jackie

Meet in Hotel Lobby at 9:15 am... 

4 - 5 Hour  coach tour w ith our g uide Jackie. 

The day includes [but not limited to], Beatle Homes and Birthplaces, Penny Lane Trust [is Wonderful]... met Original Quarrymen Colin Hanton and Len Garry.  St. Peter's Church Hall, site of the fete the day Paul met John, Eleanor Rigby's grave site, Strawberry Field and more. Lunch at Strawberry Field !!! [included]

Estimated End Time: 2pm

After Tours Coach Tour, Drop off at Albert Dock... Suggested activities [as time permits] include Souvenir  & Memorabilia Shopping!!!,  The British Music Experience, or a 50 minute scenic 'Ferry 'cross The Mersey' ride [cost 10 GBPs], the Liverpool Museum and DON'T MISS...your photo at the new Beatles Statue near Albert Dock. 

5 - 6pm Beatles Ale Trail to famous Philharmonic & Ye Cracke Pubs. 

The Cavern always best bet for late nig ht live m usi c

Meals... Breakfast and Lunch at Strawberry Field !!!

L iverpool Day 6  The Beatles' Liverpool with Jackie... continued

4 - 5 Hour  coach tour with our guide Jackie. Continuing where we left off yesterday and ending at the Casbah Coffee Club with a wonderful presentation of its history usually delivered by a member of the [Pete] Best family.

* Note:  The Casbah Coffee Club offers a step back in time and is amazing.  If you are interested, in purchasing unique merchandise you can't buy anywhere else,  please bring cash as credit cards are not accepted. Plan accordingly! 

Included Meals: Breakfast and 'Good-Bye' Dinner

Meet in Hotel Lobby at 7:30 pm...  for last photos, exchange of emails and our 'Good Bye' Dinner at a favorite Liverpool restaurant, just a short walk from our hotel.

Meals... Breakfast and 'Good-bye' Dinner

Liverpool Day 7   The National T rust Tour, Stroll down Mathew Street & Beatles Liverpool Museum

[times may vary by tour]

Meet in Hotel Lobby at 9:00 am...  

Usually scheduled in the morning... guided tour of John and Paul's childhood homes presented by Britain's National Trust. Your Beatles Host will escort you to the tour pick up point where a National Trust coach driver will meet you and drive you to each home where you will be greeted by a  professional guide and see the homes where young John & Paul collaborated "eyeball to eyeball" on such hits as Love Me Do, I Saw Her Standing There, When I'm Sixty Four and One After 909 to name but a few.

Stroll down Mathew Street and see Beatles History!!!

In the Afternoon... Liverpool Beatles  Museum on Mathew Street. Pete Best's brother Roag displays an amazing collection of Beatles memorabilia from Pete and his late father, Neil Aspinall, Beatles Road Manager and former Apple Corp. president.

Evening... The Cavern is always best bet for great music night

Liverpool Day 8 - Check Out Liverpool Hotel

Check out time at your Liverpool is usually 11am. Please confirm at the hotel desk.

If your return flight departs Manchester Airport today,  car service will be scheduled to pick you up at the hotel at least 3 hours prior to your departure time. We will confirm the time with you the night before departure. This transportation service is included in your tour package.

If your plans call for another airport or travel destination, you have made arrangements, either independently or through our travel associate, to get to your next destination. In this case, the transportation service is not included in your tour package.

The Beatles in Liverpool: 9 Top Places & Map (+Best Tours)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

There are many great reasons to visit Liverpool in the UK. The city is known for its museums, culture, and vibrant waterfront. Liverpool’s main attraction, however, is its strong connection to one of the greatest bands the world has ever known – The Beatles .

The city played a huge part in the band’s development. At the time when The Beatles were growing up, many young men from Liverpool were traveling back and forth to New York with the Merchant Navy. Musical influences from the Big Apple started to creep into Liverpool’s culture, triggering a whole new sound in British music – Merseybeat – with the Beatles at the forefront.

There are now countless sights and attractions throughout the city commemorating this amazing band and all of its accomplishments. And no visit to Liverpool would be complete without visiting at least a few places related to The Beatles!

To help you choose where to go, in this article, we highlight the best The Beatles attractions in Liverpool. For each site, we include some practical tips for your visit. You will also find a map showing all the best Beatles sights in Liverpool, and suggested The Beatles tours . Find out!

Top 3 Beatles Experiences in Liverpool:

• The Beatles Story .
• Magical Mystery Tour & Cavern Club .
• Liverpool Beatles Museum .

These are the best The Beatles sights and attractions in Liverpool:

1. The Beatles Story

If you visit just one The Beatles attraction in Liverpool, make it The Beatles Story . This is the largest Beatles exhibition in the world.

Located right on the UNESCO World Heritage site at the Albert Dock, it tells the story of the entire career of the Fab Four. You can listen to one of the band’s hits after another as you view replicas of The Cavern, the Casbah, and other Beatles sites in Liverpool.

You can also see clothing, original instruments, rare album sleeves, and other memorabilia.

An audio guide in 10 different languages is available at the start of your visit. Interestingly, it is narrated by John Lennon’s sister, Julia.

Practical information: The Beatles Story is open daily. The Discovery Zone is open from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. However, these times are subject to change in the winter months, so be sure to check their website ahead of your visit.

We highly recommend buying your tickets online in advance . This is one of the most popular attractions in Liverpool !

The Albert Dock is a 20-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street Station. There is parking available at the dock if you are visiting by car (although it’s quite expensive). Alternatively, it can be reached by the 800, 500, and 25 bus services.

Good to know: There are two museums dedicated to The Beatles in Liverpool: The Beatles Story and Liverpool Beatles Museum (formerly known as Magical Beatles Museum). Although both tell the story of the Beatles, they approach it from rather different angles.

You’ll find that Liverpool Beatles Museum gives you a more intimate perspective, whereas The Beatles Story has more of a commercial feel, with immersive and interactive exhibits. The Discovery Zone is especially loved by kids, as it gives them the chance to try out a giant floor piano and perform on a mini Cavern Club stage.

Whilst both museums are excellent, die-hard Beatles fans may find the more personal exhibits at the Liverpool Beatles Museum more interesting. But if you are looking for music, costumes, colors, and simply want to have a great time, The Beatles Story is a better choice.

You can read more about the Liverpool Beatles Museum further below.

2. The Beatles Statues at Pier Head

These life-size bronze statues of the Fab Four arrived on Liverpool’s waterfront in December 2015, commissioned and donated by the managing director of the Cavern Club.

The statues immortalize a moment just before the band left Liverpool to become megastars and change the face of music forever.

The Beatles Statues at Pier Head quickly became one of the must-visit Beatles spots in Liverpool. Getting a selfie with these statues is now one of the most popular things to do for first-time visitors!

Be sure to check out the interesting details, like the L8 on the sole of Ringo’s shoe (related to where he once lived) or the Sanskrit on George Harrison’s belt. John Lennon is holding two acorns that were cast from acorns collected from outside the Dakota Building, where he was shot in 1980.

Good to know: The date on which the statues were placed on the Pier Head marked the 50th anniversary of the last gig the band played in the city.

You can find the statues in front of the famous Cunard Building, overlooking the River Mersey.

3. Mathew Street

Mathew Street is a small but vibrant alley located right in the city center. It’s here that you will find some of the main Beatles attractions , including the Cavern Club and the Liverpool Beatles Museum (more detail on those below). This area is sometimes referred to as the ‘Cavern Quarter’.

But there are a few more places worth visiting whilst you’re here. One is the Beatles Shop at number 31 Mathew St, about 200ft from the entrance of the original Cavern Club. Quaint and charming, it’s a must-see for die-hard Beatles fans, packed with cool souvenirs and memorabilia.

On a wall along the street – aka The Wall Of Fame – you can see a sculpture entitled ‘Four Lads That Shook the World’, which was created as a tribute by Arthur Dooley.

And just a few doors along from the Cavern Club you’ll come to a pub called ‘The Grapes’ . At the time the Beatles were performing, the Cavern Club didn’t sell alcohol – so The Grapes is where they’d head for a drink after their gigs. Inside the pub, you can see a photo of them sitting on a bench there. The bench remained in the exact same spot to this day!

Good to know: On Stanley Street just nearby, look out for the Eleanor Rigby statue . Sitting on a stone bench next to a plaque dedicated to ‘All the Lonely People’, this bronze statue was created by musician and artist Tommy Steele in 1981.

4. Cavern Club

The Cavern Club is undoubtedly the most famous Beatles venue in Liverpool! Although the building we see today was actually rebuilt from the bricks of the original club which closed in March 1973.

It was here that the Beatles cut their musical teeth, playing regularly during lunchtime and evening shows. It was also the venue in which they were discovered by Brian Epstein, a local record shop proprietor who managed the band from 1962 until his death in 1967.

This lively cellar is an amazing place to visit and has played host to fabulous live music for decades. You can enjoy everything here from acoustic sets to rock and roll, with plenty of Beatles tribute bands to remind you of where it all started. There are also lots of great photographs and memorabilia lining the walls.

As you enter the club, don’t miss the statue outside depicting John Lennon casually leaning against the wall.

Good to know: The Cavern Club gets very busy, especially during evenings and weekends. If you just want to take a look inside, you can avoid the crowds by visiting soon after opening, before the live bands take to the stage.

Practical information: The Cavern is open daily from 11 am. It closes at midnight from Sunday to Wednesday, at 1 am on Thursdays, and at 2 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets for entry can be bought at the door. Children under 12 are free but all children under 18 must leave the club by 8 pm. You can find more information and info on current shows and events on their website .

TIP: The entrance to the Cavern Club is included with the Beatles Magical Mystery Tour – one of the most popular things to do in Liverpool for the Beatles fans. You can read more about it further below at #9.

5. Liverpool Beatles Museum

Liverpool Beatles Museum (aka Magical History Museum) is spread over three floors of a Grade-II listed building on Mathew Street in Liverpool. Featuring items from the personal collection of the ‘fifth Beatle’ Pete Best’s brother Roag – it gives you a whole new perspective on the band! It is also one of the largest collections of authentic items in the world and is beautifully curated.

Charting their lives from their early days up to and beyond their rise to international fame, it contains original instruments, the John Lennon Sgt Pepper medals, Paul McCartney’s bass amp, and more. For a more personal insight, you can read letters along with fascinating unseen footage. Everything is chronologically laid out, so it makes it easy and enjoyable to follow the Beatles’ story from the very start.

TIP: Make sure you set aside enough time for your visit. It takes a good 2-3 hours to explore the vast collection of items.

Good to know: Because this is a listed building, there is no elevator. This might make a visit difficult for anyone with limited mobility, as there are three flights of stairs.

Practical information: The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. You can book your tickets online .

6. Strawberry Field

Strawberry Field is another popular Beatles attraction in Liverpool. This was a Salvation Army children’s home at the time when John lived close by with his aunt and uncle. It is believed that he had happy memories of going to summer garden parties there as a child, inspiring the 1967 hit ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’.

The home has now gone but in its place is an interactive visitor exhibition center, with a cafe and shop. There are lots of calm garden spaces that you are invited to explore and reflect in, just as John would have done as a child. You can also see replicas of the site’s famous red gates.

The chief attraction, however, is the ‘Imagine’ piano. Loaned to the exhibition by the estate of the late George Michael, this is the piano that John Lennon used to create one of the most important peace anthems of the 20th century.

Good to know: Some of the profits from this attraction go towards funding the ‘Steps at Strawberry Field’ programs, designed to help those with learning difficulties or other barriers to employment.

Practical information: Strawberry Fields is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. Entrance to the gardens is free but there is a fee to visit the exhibition You can book tickets online in advance .

The venue has a minibus shuttle service that runs from the Jury’s Inn Hotel at Albert Dock. It costs £4 one way or £7 return, departing at 9 am, 10 am, 11.15 am, 2.30 pm, 3.30 pm, and 4.30 pm. Alternatively, you can take local bus route 76 from the Liverpool One Bus Station and get off at Beaconsfield Road. The journey takes around half an hour.

7. Casbah Coffee Club

The Cavern Club may be the place most often associated with The Beatles, but The Casbah was where they held some of their first live performances. Indeed, Sir Paul McCartney has said in the past that it was at the Casbah where everything started and that all the band members saw it as their ‘personal club’.

The basement club was opened by Mona Best – mum to Pete Best, The Beatles’ original drummer – in an attempt to match the coffee bar clubs popular in London at the time. Its resident band was ‘The Quarrymen’, which included John Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison. So closely involved that they even helped decorate it, they went on to perform here 44 times.

When you visit now, you can see the Casbah just as it looked in the beginning. You can even see a silhouette of John Lennon on the wall, painted by his then-girlfriend Cynthia (who later became his wife). Perfect for true Beatles fans, it has a much less commercialized feel than venues like the Cavern Club and offers a very authentic Beatles experience in Liverpool.

The guides here will have had a personal connection to the band or experience growing up with them. Occasionally, tours are even conducted by Pete Best’s brother, Roag.

Practical information: You need to make an appointment to visit the Casbah Coffee Club, which you can book through Pete Best’s website . Although, their contact form is really sketchy, so it might not be straightforward.

Good to know: This place is quite far from the other Beatles-related sights of Liverpool and isn’t reached by any of the standard tours. The best way to get there is by the number 15 bus, which leaves the city center frequently. The journey takes around half an hour.

8. The Jacaranda Club

The Jacaranda Club, also known as ‘The Jac’, was founded in 1957 by Allan Williams, the first manager of The Beatles. Originally friends with the early Beatles bassist Stuart Sutcliffe, he got to know the rest of the band whilst they were still teenagers.

One of their early compositions – ‘One After 909’ – was written at the Jacaranda, a bar in which they would often meet. The Beatles performed here several times too, and the time they spent here is seen as pivotal to their future success.

These days you can catch live music every night at the basement level or visit Liverpool’s favorite jukebox on the ground floor. Above the ground floor is the venue’s unique Record Store. Here you’ll find vinyl record players sunk into the tables, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of music along with your coffee or drinks.

With a distinct ’60s beatnik vibe, quirky decor, and a plethora of Beatles photos lining the walls, this place is a ‘must-see’ for true fans of the Fab Four.

Practical information: The Jacaranda Club is open from 3 pm to 3 am Monday to Thursday, and from 3 pm to 4 am Friday to Sunday. It’s a 5-minute walk from Liverpool Lime Street railway station, just around the corner from Mathew Street.

9. The Beatles Magical Mystery Tour

If you don’t have time to go and see all of The Beatles’ attractions in Liverpool separately, then the Magical Mystery Tour is the perfect solution.

Starting at the Albert Dock, this highly-rated 2-hour tour takes you to some key locations in the Beatles’ story all over Liverpool. You’ll learn lots of facts about the band and get to enjoy plenty of their music along the way.

Places you will see include the childhood homes and schools of the bandmates, along with Penny Lane, St Peter’s Church Hall (where John and Paul met), and Strawberry Field. There are lots of stops for taking photos and the tour ends at Mathew Street. Free entry to the Cavern Club that day is included with this tour.

Practical information: Tours depart at the Magical Mystery Tour Ticket Office, Anchor Courtyard, Albert Dock. I strongly recommend booking your tickets online in advance as these tours are hugely popular and sell out quickly!

More Beatles Attractions In Liverpool

If you have time, there are a few more interesting Beatles-related sights dotted throughout Liverpool that you might want to visit.

Eleanor Rigby’s grave , St Peter’s Church, Woolton: It is unclear whether this was the grave that inspired the 1966 song. Nevertheless, this is the churchyard where John and Paul met for the first time. It is also where John Lennon’s uncle and aunt are buried.

Penny Lane , Mossley Hill: This is the street that inspired the 1967 hit. Unfortunately, it contains few of the details mentioned in the song, so it can be a little disappointing to visit!

Yellow Submarine , Liverpool John Lennon Airport: This large model was created by a group of apprentices from Cammell Laird’s shipyard in 1984. It formed part of an exhibition and was featured in a Beatles-themed garden. 51 feet long and 15 feet high, it even has a replica control cabin with real equipment. It was finally placed on display at the airport in 1995.

Map of The Beatles Sights in Liverpool

To help you plan your time, we created this map indicating all The Beatles places mentioned in this article.

As you can see, most sights are located in the city center. And – as mentioned before – you can also see many of the places that are further away by taking the Magical Mystery Tour .

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Liverpool Beatles Tours

If you want to learn more about the Beatles in a short time, one of the best ways to do this is by taking a dedicated Beatles tour.

There are several options.

• Magical Mystery Tour . Already mentioned above, this is by far the most popular Beatles tour in Liverpool. It includes a visit to the Cavern Club as well.
• Beatles Explorer Bus . This is a similar bus tour that covers many sights in Liverpool related to the Fabulous Four. The itinerary is pretty much the same as the Magical Mystery Tour. The main difference between the two is that this one is an open-deck bus and that it doesn’t include a ticket to the Cavern Club (which you can visit separately).
• Private Tour by Traditional Taxi . This is a great option for those who rather explore Beatles sites in Liverpool with a personal guide. Also, this tour brings you to the childhood homes of the Fab Four, Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane, Eleanor Rigby’s grave, etc.
• Walking Tour . This tour is actually a combination of two guided tours (City & Cavern Quarter and The Beatles and Waterfront) and a self-guided app. It’s very different from all the others because it focuses on The Beatles landmarks in the center of Liverpool. You can just do one of the tours or both, and the ticket is flexible and valid for 3 days.

I hope you have found this guide to the best Beatles attractions helpful.

It is wonderful to see the real places that inspired the music of this world-famous band and to appreciate live music at venues in which they would have performed.

Have a great time in Liverpool!

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool

More travel inspiration for the UK:

• How to Visit Liverpool from London
• Best Things to Do in London
• London Travel Tips
• 2 Days London Itinerary
• London Hidden Gems
• Where to Stay in London
• Best Day Trips from London
• BEST Things to Do in London with Kids
• FREE Things to Do in London with Kids
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• 1 Day Manchester Itinerary
• Yorkshire Day Trips
• Best Things to Do in Cornwall
• Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Best Things to Do in Blackpool
• Blackpool Travel Tips
• Best Places to Visit near Blackpool
• Where to Stay in Blackpool
• Isle of Skye Itinerary
• Scotland Whisky Tour
• Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• One Day in Glasgow
• Best Cities to See in The UK
• …For more travel inspiration for these and other destinations, take a look at our  UK travel guide .

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Saturday 8th of July 2023

Jurga, you are the best... I have used Full Suitecase for sooo many of my trips. From Iceland, to Italy, Switzerland and now Liverpool. Thank you much for your insight and easy to follow information...

Thank you for your kind feedback, Mary Ann. It's always great to hear from our loyal readers! Greetings from Portugal, Jurga

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10 Famous Beatles Locations You Can Visit

Between London and Liverpool, the Fab Four's history comes to life before your kaleidoscope eyes

On Location is a new series that brings to life the places you know from songs, album covers, and music history. Consider it a blur between travel guide and liner notes to your favorite albums. 

The Beatles : you’ve heard the songs, seen the footage, and heard about the places. What you may not have done yet, though, is step into their world. The Midas touch of the Fab Four has turned everyday locations from London to Liverpool — such as a crosswalk, an office building, a local street, and a pub — into some of the most iconic locations in music history.

To see these locations in person for the first time is like finally being in the same place as a partner with whom you’re in a long-distance relationship: they’re always there, but to be able to actually see them adds an almost indescribable level of surrealism. The familiar comes to life in a way that is completely anew, and as a result, the regular feels revolutionary.

Between London and Liverpool, opportunities to see some of the most seminal spots in Beatles history are abundant. From locations that inspired hit songs to the venues where significant performances took place, you can immerse yourself in the “places you’ll remember” having heard of and some that will be completely new — all of which act as cornerstones in The Beatles’ legacy.

Click ahead to discover 10 legendary Beatles places you can visit…

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Ultimate Liverpool Itinerary for Beatles Fans (+ best tours & top tips)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 24, 2023

Are you a Beatles fan? In this article you will find the best one day itinerary for Liverpool. It includes what to see and do, where to stay and tips to make the most of your visit.

This handy guide of things to do in Liverpool for Beatles fans is the ideal starting point for planning your trip.

While many of the places in this guide are very famous (and feature in many Beatles songs) this list and my Beatles fans one day itinerary for Liverpool will ensure you make the most of your time in this great English city and don’t miss any of the must-see sights!

Considering a day trip to Liverpool from London? We recommend this Liverpool & The Beatles Rail Day Trip from London . It is an action-packed day and includes the sites any Beatle lover will want to visit including the Cavern Club and the Beatles Story Exhibition (plus train tickets).

The Cavern Club

The grapes pub, the beatles story museum.

• Statues of the Beatles – the group statue, John Lennon's statue and the Eleanor Rigby statue

Strawberry Field 

Mendips – 251 menlove avenue, 20 forthlin road , beatles tours of liverpool, liverpool accommodation options for beatles fans, one day liverpool itinerary for fans of the beatles, how to get to liverpool from london, how to get around liverpool, discover more about the beatles, enjoy your visit to liverpool.

THE ULTIMATE EXPERIENCE FOR ANY BEATLES FAN!

Imagine no more! Yes, you could sit and strum a guitar in the same room that George, Paul, and John sat and rehearsed during the early years.

The Harrison’s lived in this terrace home at 25 Upton Green from 1950-1962 and moved just as the Beatles started gaining stardom and success.

This house is located in a cul-de-sac in a residential neighbourhood of Speke (around 20 minutes from Liverpool).

For more information email [email protected] with the subject line Upton Green/UKTP or pop over to their Facebook page (please let them know you came via UK Travel Planning)

8 MUST-VISIT PLACES IN LIVERPOOL FOR BEATLES FANS

You can’t go to Liverpool as a Beatles fan without wanting to visit the legendary Cavern Club –  probably the most famous club in the world. The Beatles were playing at the club when Brian Epstein visited one lunchtime in November 1961. He decided to manage the band and the rest is history!  

Since the 1960s the Cavern Club has been through a lot of changes. The club today has a different entrance and has been turned 90 degrees from its original orientation but do not let that put you off visiting. The atmosphere is great and the club features live music 7 days a week from 10am (9.30 am during the summer holidays).

There is lots of memorabilia to check out in the club (as well as lots of names scrawled all over the walls and ceilings by Beatles fans over the years) We couldn’t believe our eyes when we saw our names – Doug and Tracy – written on the ceiling above us.

FAQS FOR PLANNING YOUR VISIT TO THE CAVERN CLUB

◊  Location of the Cavern Club – 10 Mathew Street, Liverpool, L2 6RE

⇒ Opening times and prices

Monday – Wednesday

10am -12 noon FREE

12 noon onwards – £2.50

10am – 12 noon FREE

12 noon – 7pm £2.50

7pm onward £4

Friday/Saturday/Sunday 

Open 10 am to 2 am

10 am – 12 pm FREE

12 pm – 8 pm £2.50 (no re-entry)

8 pm – 2 am (12 am Sunday) £5 (no re-entry) 

All day/All night ticket (re-entry allowed) £6 (£5 if purchased in advance)

Good to know – If you book the Magical Mystery Tour your ticket also entitles you to free general admission to the front stage of the Cavern Club on the evening of your tour!

Check out the Cavern Club’s official website for further information about which live bands are appearing. 

Note – Children under the age of 18 are not allowed in the Cavern Club after 8 pm

Just along from the Cavern Club (on Mathew Street) is the legendary pub where the band would chill out between gigs. Recently reopened (2019) the pub has been revamped and refurbished and has lots of Beatles memorabilia on show for fans.

◊  Location of the Grapes Pub –  Mathew Street (along from the Cavern Club)

Located at Albert Dock the Beatles Story Museum is an award winning attraction which takes you on an immersive journey telling the story of the Fab Four and their rise to international fame and fortune.

The museum is a must visit for Beatles fans with lots of memorabilia, exhibitions, photographs as well as replicas of the Casbah, Mathew Street and The Cavern to experience.

→CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS TO THE BEATLES STORY MUSEUM

Statues of the Beatles – the group statue, John Lennon’s statue and the Eleanor Rigby statue

There are a number of Beatles statues you really can’t miss when visiting the city!

Every time I visit Liverpool I have to have a picture posing with the group statues of the Beatles. The problem is so does every other visitor! Be patient you will eventually get the picture but do expect a wait in the busy summer months when there can be lots of people posing with the Fab Four!

The group statue is located at the Albert Docks.

The other statues to look out for are the John Lennon statue which can be found on Mathew Street and the Eleanor Rigby statue located at Stanley Street around the corner from Mathew Street!)

Strawberry Field was a former Salvation Army children’s home and is of course the inspiration behind the Beatles song of the same name.

Apparently John Lennon used to play in the grounds of the home and following the release of the song the red gates have become something of an attraction for fans. So much so that a few years ago they were actually stolen!

Located on Beaconsfield Rd Strawberry Field is a quick stop on any Beatles tour (photo opportunity with the gates!)

If you want to visit independently and spend more time at Strawberry Field (to explore the grounds and exhibition ) tickets are available. 

→CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK YOUR TICKETS TO STRAWBERRY FIELD

If you take a tour you will get the chance to hop off the bus and take a shot of the sign for possibly the most famous lane in the world!

So many of the signs have been stolen over the years that the council eventually resorted to installing theft-proof ones (though apparently some still get pinched!)

At the end of Penny Lane was the terminus for bus routes taken by the lads during their childhood and the inspiration behind the song.

The childhood home of John Lennon – “Mendips” – belongs to the National Trust .

After that date, it is possible to purchase a combined tour of “Mendips” and 20 Forthlin Road and step inside the childhood homes of both John Lennon and Paul McCartney. 

Click here for more information about the National Trust Tour

The former home of Paul McCartney and his family is located at 20 Forthlin Road. The house belongs to the National Trust.

It is possible to take a tour of both childhood homes with the National Trust.

How to see all of these Beatles sites in Liverpool

There are lots of great Beatles tours to choose from which will ensure you can visit some of the sites that are a little harder to get to.

The advantage of a tour is that you also find out a lot more about the history of the band and their lives before they became famous (and get to listen to a lot of Beatles music along the way).

We had great fun on our tour so highly recommend booking some tickets and joining one. These are my top choices

BEATLES MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR

Hop onto the Magical Mystery Tour bus for a 2 hour tour of the places associated with the Beatles around Liverpool. We loved hearing all the stories about the Fab Four from our guide Neil and he knew everything there was to know about the band (I can’t remember exactly how many years he had been taking tours but it was in double digits!)

I recommend booking tickets asap if you plan to take the tour as it is VERY popular. We took the tour during the first week of January and the bus was full. We had a fab time and at the end of the tour the bus drops you off along the street from the Cavern Club (Mathew Street) and the Beatles themed Hard Day’s Night Hotel.

Tip – Collect your tickets the Magical Mystery Tour Ticket office at Anchor Courtyard at Albert Dock at least 10 minutes before your tour departure time. I recommend giving yourself time to find the ticket office as it took us some time to locate!

→ CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY AND PRICES FOR THE MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR

Beatles City Explorer Bus

Enjoy a bus tour of many of the famous Beatles sites in Liverpool including Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane plus the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

There is a tour guide on the bus who will provide live commentary as you enjoy your Beatles tour.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A TICKET ON THE BEATLES CITY EXPLORER BUS

Beatles Tour by Taxi

If you prefer a smaller tour (and a more personalised option) why not take a Beatles tour by taxi? This 3-hour private tour by traditional taxi includes iconic sites such as Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields.

Sit back and relax while a local guide shows you the landmarks that inspired the legendary “Fab Four.” 

→CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK YOUR BEATLES TOUR BY TAXI

BEATLES TOUR FROM LONDON

If you want to visit Liverpool from London it is possible to take a Beatles themed day tour. The tour I am recommending also includes all of the following and is a fantastic option for any Beatles fan. ( Read more here about the Beatles in London)

• Return train ride from London to Liverpool
• A free city map
• 2-Hour Guided Magical Mystery Tour of Liverpool including the Cavern Club
• Entrance to the Beatles Story Exhibition 

→ CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK YOUR BEATLES TOUR FROM LONDON

I loved writing that question because the answer is so easy. Liverpool is the home of the world’s only Beatles-themed hotel – The Hard Day’s Night Hotel!

If you are planning to stay overnight in Liverpool and are a Beatles fan there is no other option – THIS is the hotel to stay at! (Though it is popular so BOOK AHEAD – of it is fully booked the other hotel option I would recommend (and have stayed at) is the Ibis Styles Liverpool Centre Dale Street – Cavern Quarter)

If you prefer an apartment try the Beatles Apartment which has excellent reviews for its location, clean and modern interior and themed memorabilia. 

→ CLICK HERE FOR AVAILABILITY AND PRICES AT THE HARD DAY’S NIGHT HOTEL IN LIVERPOOL

So if you have only one day to see as much as possible what should you include in your itinerary? This is my suggested itinerary based on our own visit to Liverpool. 

Head down to the Albert Docks for an early morning selfie with the statue of the Fab Four. 

Spend an hour at the Beatles Story Museum before taking a stroll around the Albert Dock and purchasing a few Beatles souvenirs and sweets! 

Stay at Albert Docks where there are lots of restaurants and cafes to choose from for lunch. 

Highly recommend any of the following places to eat

A selection of North/South American and Tex-Mex style dishes served up in former Granada TV studios.

For burgers, sandwiches and sharing platters head to Revolution. 

Join one of the Beatles tours and learn even more about Paul, George, Ringo and John whilst singing (or humming) along to some of their most famous tunes!

Head to the Cavern Club after checking into the Hard Day’s Night Hotel (which is literally around the corner from Mathew Street the location also of the John Lennon statue and the Grapes Pub.)

If you are a fan of Cilla Black don’t miss the opportunity for a selfie with her statue which is also located in the street.

If you are hungry I highly recommend booking at table at Mowgli for delicious Indian street food. 

Dance the night away at the Cavern Club before retuning to the Hard Day’s Night Hotel!

Practical tips and information for visiting Liverpool

Trains from London take approximately 2 1/2 hours from Euston station direct to Liverpool Lime Street.

Click here for train times, prices and tickets to Liverpool Lime Street

Liverpool is a walkable city with lots of shops, restaurants and of course Beatles sights around the Albert Dock area and city centre.  

If you are intending to visit some of the Beatles sights that are a little further out I would recommend a tour.

There are Beatle-themed walking tours available or alternatively take the hop-on-hop-off bus which includes 14 stops around the city.

Read – Things to do and see in Liverpool

I am sure you will love your time in Liverpool. This itinerary and guide will have given you loads of ideas and tips to make the most of your visit.

International Beatles Week is held annually in Liverpool. With over 70 bands from over 20 countries and fans travelling from all over the world, it is a fantastic time to visit the city. 

• Find out more about visiting Liverpool in my Liverpool Travel Guide .
• Recommended accommodation in Liverpool (including Beatles-themed hotels and apartments)
• Discover more to do in North West region of England in my top 10 guides to the area. If you are a city lover my guide to the 12 best cities to visit in England is essential reading.
• How to take a day trip from London to Liverpool

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

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London for Beatles Fans: 7 Places to Visit

The Beatles remain one of England’s most important bands, having played a significant role in shaping the sounds of the 1960s and beyond.

Their role in the making of modern London also can’t be underestimated. There are many locations dotted around the city which would not be the same if not for the Beatles, and this influence helps show why they are still so revered, decades after their split.

With a cultural impact unlike any other band of their era, the group may have originally hailed from Liverpool, but they soon made their mark on London – an influence which can still be seen in some of the locations on this list.

For Beatles fans staying locally, we recommend taking a trip to a few of these venues to discover more about London during the era of the brand.

Abbey Road Studios

This site is important for a few reasons. Abbey Road Studios proved pivotal in the creative development of The Beatles as we now know them. The studio is where Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road albums were both recorded, representing a significant part of the Beatles back catalogue.

In addition, Abbey Road is responsible for one of the most iconic shots ever taken of the band. The zebra crossing outside provided the cover to the Abbey Road album, and has been recreated countless times by music fans and fellow musicians.

You can create your own Abbey Road image here during your trip to a 5 star hotel in Bond Street London , and take a tour of the studios themselves while you’re here.

This is a great way to truly immerse yourself in an important part of music history, and a must-see location for Beatles fans.

The EMI House

This property includes the staircase which appeared on the cover of several of the Beatles’ albums, including the Blue Album and the Red Album.

The property in Marylebone was once the HQ of EMI Music, and though it has since relocated, the headquarters were located here between 1960 and 1995. You can still visit to take a look, and though it may not be as immersive as a trip to Abbey Road, you’ll also be getting closer to one of the key venues which helped form the band and their musical legend.

57 Wimpole Street

This house has a significant role to play in the story of The Beatles. The property was home to Paul McCartney’s then-girlfriend, Jane Asher, and many of her family members.

After first moving to London, McCartney had nowhere else to live, and so ended up residing for an extended stay in the family attic. Asher’s mother worked as a music teacher, and it was here that McCartney wrote some of the most famous early Beatles’ songs, including ‘Eleanor Rigby’, ‘Yesterday’ and ‘I Wanna Hold Your Hand’.

A trip here is a trip down musical memory lane, and an opportunity to visit a location which served as home to a musical legend long before the world was convinced of their significance.

Getting here is easy thanks to the London transport system while staying at The Marble Arch London .

7 Cavendish Avenue

This property was the home of Paul McCartney in 1966. Having moved out of Wimpole Street, he was now living solo and started work on many more of the biggest hits The Beatles ever released.

Songs which McCartney wrote while living here include prominent tracks such as ‘Hey Jude’ and ‘Penny Lane’, helping to give 7 Cavendish Avenue plenty of historical significance for Beatles fans visiting London.

Saville Row

Saville Row is famous around the globe as a home for great tailoring, but it also has a strong connection with The Beatles.

In 1965, the band were informed by their accountant that it would be wise to invest in business. Having only recently developed their newfound wealth, they weren’t quite sure to what to do with it, but ultimately purchased the property at #3 Saville Row, where they founded Apple Corps.

This business went on to diversify into a range of subsidiary brands, including Apple Films, Apple Retail, Apple Electronics and Apple Records. The new headquarters was a raucous place, used in the 1960s to store not only business-related items but goods for parties.

George Harrison invited some Hells Angels to live there at one point, and it was also briefly home to a group of nudist hippies. Sufficed to say, #3 Saville Row is intertwined with the history of both The Beatles and the story of the Swinging Sixties.

Trident Studios

Situated at 17 Anne Court, Soho, Trident Studios was the place where the band recorded some of their songs on both The White Album and Abbey Road. In addition, it also proved pretty important to George Harrison’s solo work, as this is the venue where he recorded his first album, All Things Must Pass.

While the studio itself is now gone, the building it was housed in has a heritage Blue Plaque on the exterior, providing a great place for you to grab a few photos while enjoying London hotels special offers and discovering more about the locations which moulded The Beatles.

The Apple Boutique

Situated at 94 Baker Street, The Apple Boutique was the location first used to host the Apple Corps brand while the band continued to construct their HQ at Saville Row.

Selling clothing and accessories, the band decided to adorn the exterior with a large psychedelic mural, which offended local businesses and residences – ultimately leading to a swift repainting.

On the opening night, huge crowds arrived, but the store was ultimately not particularly profitable. Many items were stolen and the casual way the business was run proved quite bad for business.

In a move to rid themselves of the boutique, the band announced that all items were now free, and after they’d gone, they closed the store for good.

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• A Tour Of Beatles Attractions...

A Tour of Beatles Attractions in Liverpool, UK

Freelance Travel and Music Writer

Liverpool is the birthplace of The Fab Four – The Beatles – and there are plenty of wonderful attractions for Beatles fans to visit during your time in the city. Here are some of the best!

The beatles story.

The first stop on any Beatles tour should be The Beatles Story on Albert Docks. This exhibition tells the story of The Beatles, from John and Paul’s early days as The Quarrymen, through to the band’s key trips to Hamburg and America, and their eventual solo careers. Visitors are taken on a special trip through the Fab Four’s careers via replicas of The Cavern Club, Abbey Road studios and the famous Yellow Submarine, with a wealth of original memorabilia along the way. There is also a second exhibition at the Pier Head area, with a hidden gallery and additional memorabilia on show. The new Beatles statue is now outside here too!

It’s recommended that you spend several hours here as you really can get lost in the exhibition!

Thankfully, the Magic Mystery Tour bus starting point is also on Albert Docks – that’s handy! This two-hour bus tour takes you to various Beatles-related landmarks like Penny Lane, Strawberry Field, the Beatles’ childhood homes and St Peter’s Church, where the grave of ‘Eleanor Rigby’ can be found, but more importantly where John and Paul met for the first time. The tour ends at Mathew Street, the home of the Cavern Club.

Strawberry Field

The area of Woolton in Liverpool shot to fame with the 1967 hit ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’, written by John Lennon. Strawberry Field was a Salvation Army orphanage until the 1970s, which was then replaced with a smaller children’s home. John grew up near the home and would play on the fields surrounding the house and attend summer garden parties. It was from this memory that Strawberry Fields Forever was written, and although the home has now been knocked down, fans can still visit the area and the graffiti-laden gates.

Another area of the city made famous by a Beatles song, Penny Lane is another Liverpool hotspot for Beatles fans to explore. John and Paul would meet at the bus terminus on Penny Lane to catch the bus in to the city centre, and various landmarks noted in the song are still there today. The “shelter in the middle of the roundabout” is still there to this day – though derelict following a stint as a Beatles-themed café – as is the bank (“the banker never wears a mac in the pouring rain”) and the barbers, in reference to “photographs of every head he’s had the pleasure to have known”.

The Cavern Club

Definitely the most famous club in the world, The Cavern on Mathew Street was the official birthplace of The Beatles. On Thursday 9th February 1961, The Beatles played their first show at the venue and would later go on to become the venue’s house band. The Beatles’ manager, Brian Epstein, would then go on to sign them in 1962 after seeing them perform here, and the rest is history.

The Cavern Club is a popular tourist attraction and functioning live music venue for a number of local and international touring bands. The venue features countless items of memorabilia from The Beatles and other bands who have graced its tunnel-like walls, so don’t forget to check out the brick wall outside with the names of bands who have played inside the iconic venue.

The Cavern Pub

Across the alley from the Club is the Cavern Pub, another basement bar and venue on Mathew Street. The Pub houses memorabilia from both The Beatles and other worldwide artists who have graced the stage at the Club across the street. Near the venue there’s an iconic bronze status of John Lennon leaning against the wall and regular live music takes place here, with Beatles merchandise also available to purchase.

Casbah Coffee Club

While The Cavern is internationally known as the birthplace of the band, the Casbah Coffee Club was also highly significant for The Beatles. The Casbah was a venue in the cellar of the Best’s family home (Pete Best as the original Beatles drummer) after Mona, Pete’s mother, wanted to give The Quarrymen a place to play to their friends and fans. The cellar venue opened in 1959 and closed in 1962, but in 2006 it was given a blue plaque by English Heritage and is now a Grade II listed building. It’s now a tourist attraction and various 1960s artifacts still remain, such as original chairs, amplifiers and a silhouette of Lennon painted on the wall by Cynthia, John’s first wife.

Beatles childhood homes: Mendips & 20 Forthlin Road

Around the same time that the Casbah Coffee Club was opened as a tourist attraction, Lennon and McCartney’s childhood homes were too. In the houses you’ll be shown where the pair would practice as The Quarrymen and write some of the band’s biggest hits as The Beatles. The houses have been kept as they would have been in the ’50s and ’60s, with rooms and gardens still intact. Joint tours of the two houses are bookable via the National Trust .

Hard Day’s Night Hotel

For a real Beatles accommodation experience, you must stay the Hard Day’s Night Hotel . This Grade II listed building has been beautifully restored to mimic its original state and features over 100 pieces of rare artwork relating to the band. The hotel is just a stone’s throw away from the Cavern Club, so when you’re worn out from dancing all night long, your perfect retreat is just around the corner.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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5 Beatles Spots to Visit in the U.S.

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In the movie “Yesterday,” an unknown cosmic event erases all traces of The Beatles and their music. Main character Jack Malik, a struggling musician, decides to take it upon himself to reintroduce everyone to the songs of the most famous forgotten band because as another character puts it, “a world without The Beatles is a world that’s infinitely worse.” Whether you’ve just discovered the group’s songs after watching this film or have always been a loyal fan, here are five places around the country that pay homage to John, Paul, George and Ringo and their indelible mark on the world of music — and the world itself.

Beatles Exhibit at The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

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Drumsticks used by Ringo Starr during a concert in Cleveland’s Public Auditorium in 1964. A suit worn by George Harrison during a 1966 tour. Paul McCartney’s handwritten musical score and notes for “Birthday.” A Hofner Senator electric guitar purchased by John Lennon in Germany and used for practice and in the studio. Cleveland’s Rock Hall, as it’s called, is a must for any music fan, and its impressively vast collection of letters, lyrics, instruments, photographs will bring sheer joy to any fan of the Fab Four, who were inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1988. New additions include an Archibald Ramsden upright piano where Lennon and McCartney composed iconic songs like “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” “And I Love Her,” and “We Can Work It Out.” Long live rock, indeed.

Beatles Love Cirque du Soleil at The Mirage Hotel

The Mirage Hotel and Casino

Inspired by conversations in 2000 between George Harrison and friend Guy Laliberté, one of the founders of Cirque du Soleil, this vibrant psychedelic trip loosely tells the story of the rise, fall and (fictional) reunion of The Beatles. During the three-time Grammy Award-winning show audience members experience interpretations of fictional characters like Eleanor Rigby, Lady Madonna, and Sgt. Pepper through costumes, choreography, digital projections, and acrobatics from 65 performers on aerial Russian swings, trapeze, bungee and inline skates. The soundtrack features new mash-ups and interpretations of 26 Beatles songs from Giles Martin, son of legendary Beatles’ producer Sir George Martin. Each seat is fitted with three speakers, including one in the headrest, so you’ll never miss a beat.

Strawberry Fields

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This tranquil spot in Central Park is a memorial to John Lennon, who spent the last years of his life in New York with wife Yoko Ono and son Sean Lennon before being tragically gunned down nearby. Lennon took the title for the song "Strawberry Fields Forever," by the way, from the name of a Liverpool orphanage where he used to spent time playing with the kids.  A collaboration between Ono, landscape architect Bruce Kelly and the Central Park Conservancy, Strawberry Fields is a designated quiet zone and was dedicated on October 9, 1985, on what would have been Lennon’s 45th birthday. A Greco-Roman mosaic from the city of Naples, Italy, is inscribed with the title of Lennon’s most famous solo song: “Imagine.” Shady elm trees and benches are joined by blooming flowers in the warmer months and a plaque listing the 121 countries that recognize it as a Garden of Peace.

Abbey Road Pub & Restaurant

Amid the ice cream shops and all-you-can-eat seafood buffets in this family-friendly East Coast beach town, you’ll find a Beatles-themed pub that’s been around since 1982. Heavily influenced by the group while growing up, owner Bill Dillon named his restaurant after the last album they recorded (Astute fans will point out that “Let It Be” was the last one released.) Obviously there are references on the menu, from a Sgt. Pepper burger to a Penny Lane sandwich; a weekend Beatles Breakfast features Bungalow Bill’s Benedicts and Sexy Sadie’s Sides. Each week the venue welcomes local and regional artists to the stage, and you can head home with merch like hooded sweatshirts and baseball caps printed with their logo and cartoon of the Beatles' iconic walk across the namesake London street.

Beatles Park

Thomas R Machnitzki / Wikimedia Commons /  CC BY 3.0

It may seem completely random for Beatles sculptures to be installed in this small Arkansas town, but it all stems from a visit by the group on September 18, 1964, when they landed their small plane at the local airport en route to a getaway at a dude ranch in southern MIssouri. Word quickly spread and when they returned to the airport a few days later to depart they were surrounded by fans. Today, the park’s "Abbey Road" sculpture created by local artist Danny West with life-size carbon steel plate silhouettes of the group from the album cover is a perfect photo opp. It’s accompanied by a street scene with more than 30 hidden references to titles and names that uncover themselves as the lighting changes throughout the day. The park is also the site of a yearly music festival in September.

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The Beatles and Friends Spill the Beans in a New Tell-All Book

‘all you need is love’ gives a gossipy inside view of the fab four’s chaotic world.

Tim Appelo,

Peter Brown, 87, worked for the Beatles , introduced Paul McCartney to his wife, Linda Eastman, was best man at John and Yoko’s wedding and was immortalized in John Lennon’s lyric, “Peter Brown called to say you can make it OK, you can get married in Gibraltar.” But the McCartneys reportedly ceremonially burned his 1983 book with coauthor Steven Gaines, The Love You Make , a warts-and-all Beatles bestseller many have called “The Muck You Rake.”

Brown and Gaines, who conducted hundreds of interviews with the Fab Four, their spouses, friends, families and business associates in the early 1980s for the book, had a lot more material than what made it into The Love You Make . Now Brown and Gaines present All You Need is Love: The Beatles in Their Own Words — Unpublished, Unvarnished, and Told by The Beatles and Their Inner Circle , an oral history created from those original transcripts. Though light on musical insights, the book is heavy on personal drama and a piercing look inside the band. Here are 10 juicy takeaways.

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Things got surprisingly nasty at times between the Fab Four.

Brown and Gaines detail some of the rougher moments among the Beatles. For instance, when Ringo Starr told Paul that the group voted to delay Paul’s solo album release until after the Beatles’ Let It Be, the generally genial McCartney lost it. “He was the only person I’ve ever told to get out of me house,” McCartney said. “I felt sorry for him.” In 1976, when Paul rang John and Yoko’s doorbell for a surprise visit, they turned him away. And George Harrison had harsh words about Lennon when confiding that he feared John wouldn’t like his 1980 memoir (and he didn’t). “You probably think John is a piece of s---,” Harrison said. “He’s so negative about everything. What’s wrong with John, he’s become so nasty.”

George made a play for Ringo’s wife … in front of his own wife and Ringo.

At dinner with Ringo and his then-wife, Maureen, Harrison announced his passion for Maureen — in front of his own wife at the time, Pattie. As Maureen recounted: “He just turned to Rich [Ringo] and said, ‘I’m in love with your wife.’ I was totally stunned. I think men are dogs anyway.”

​ No, Yoko Ono did not break up the band.

“I don’t know if you can put the blame on Yoko; it was meant to happen anyway,” John’s first wife, Cynthia, said about the band’s collapse.

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​ But the Beatles made it rough on her anyway.

​“We didn’t like her at first, and people did call her ugly and stuff,” McCartney said, “and that must have been hard for someone [John] who loves someone. Looking at it now, I feel a bit sorry for her because, if only I had been able to understand … here’s a girl who’s not had enough attention.” Yoko and John bonded over cruel neglect by their parents in childhood, and Paul wished he’d not made a fuss when Ono invaded the band’s recording studio, sat on their amplifiers, sang on their records and suggested what the Beatles should do.

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​ Yoko wasn’t easy on the band either.

In the book, Ono revealed that she dressed as an Arab to attend a Beatles meeting with a bunch of Jewish businessmen. “They hated me anyway, but yeah, that made it worse,” she said. “Funny.”

Beatles manager Brian Epstein made them stars … but cost them billions.

Epstein did some things right, but, according to Brown and Gaines, he sold the band’s merchandising rights (lunch boxes, Beatle wigs), worth more than half a billion in modern dollars, for a pittance, and he gave away half of their songwriting royalties, worth many billions. He gave the Beatles a fee for the movie A Hard Day’s Night , and the accountants got a percentage, so they made more than the Beatles.

After Epstein fatally overdosed on pills, the Beatles made even worse decisions.

“It was one lunatic scheme after another,” recalled film producer David Puttnam, whose career began with the Beatles. According to the book, the Beatles trusted sketchy people such as their post-Brian manager Allen Klein, who sued them and later went to prison, and “Magic” Alex Mardas, a handsome and magnetic former TV repairman who convinced them he was a genius inventor. (Klein and Mardas tell their sides of the stories at length in the book.) “They were terrible, terrible judges of character,” said Apple Records President Ron Kass. “They were boys from Liverpool who thought they couldn’t be taken, but they knew nothing.”

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Paul revealed the secret of getting along with John and Yoko.

“If I absolutely lie down on the ground and just do everything like they say and laugh at all their jokes and don’t expect my jokes to ever get laughed at and don’t expect any of my opinions ever to carry any weight whatsoever, if I’m willing to do all that, then we can be friends. But if I have an opinion that differs from theirs, then I’m sort of an enemy.”

​ ‘Magic’ Alex Mardas wowed the Beatles for years with his crazy concepts.

Though Harrison told the authors Mardas was “a turkey,” he captivated all the Beatles for years with his planned inventions: wallpaper that functioned as loudspeakers, paint that changed color, a typewriter that sang as the songwriter typed the music, a machine that turned music and words into colors so deaf people could hear through seeing. He actually did create an apple with a radio in it, but most of his inventions either did not work or were sheer fantasy.

John was incredibly awful to his first wife, Cynthia.

According to the book, right after the couple had their son, Julian , Lennon left to vacation in Spain with Brian Epstein to cement more power in the group. (“It was almost a love affair, but not quite. It was never consummated,” Lennon said in 1980.) Later, Lennon hatched a horrible plan. He had the charming Mardas seduce Cynthia, so John could sue her for adultery and threaten to take Julian away if she didn’t go quietly. Cynthia gave him an uncontested divorce and settled for about $2 million in today’s dollars. John gave Mardas an Italian Rivolta car now worth $160,000.

Want to learn more? Read All You Need Is Love

Tim Appelo covers entertainment and is the film and TV critic for AARP. Previously, he was the entertainment editor at Amazon, video critic at  Entertainment Weekly , and a critic and writer for  The Hollywood Reporter, People , MTV,  The Village Voice  and  LA Weekly .

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Surprising Little-Known Beatles Facts

Posted: April 23, 2024 | Last updated: April 23, 2024

Little did Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr know when they formed in Liverpool in 1960 that they would become one of the most influential bands in history. Starting out playing popular music of the era, The Beatles soon developed their own distinct style, continually evolving with the times and their life experiences. Pushing beyond what was thought to be possible in music, they established themselves as true musical pioneers and one of the greatest bands ever. Keep reading to learn more about the iconic band and their music.

They Planned On Starting A Utopian Community

In 1967, the Beatles came extremely close to buying an island off of the coast of Athens, Greece. It was there, they discussed the idea of starting a utopian community with their families and friends. John Lennon appeared to be the most involved with the idea claiming that "They've tried everything else. Wars, nationalism, fascism, communism, capitalism, nastiness, religion – none of it works. So why not this?"

Paul McCartney later commented, "It's a good job we didn't do it because anyone who tried those ideas realized eventually there would always be arguments, there would always be who has to do the washing-up and whose turn it is to clean out the latrines."

"Michelle" Was Inspired By Paul's Favorite Way To Pick Up Girls

In an interview, Paul McCartney revealed that the Beatles song "Michelle" was inspired by one of his favorite strategies to pick up girls. Before they became incredibly famous, the band would frequent parties with John Lennon, who was older and in art school at the time.

To increase his chances with the ladies, McCartney would dress in all black and sit in the corner with his guitar singing songs in made-up French. While it was an effective method, Lennon encouraged McCartney to make an actual song out of it and "Michelle" was the result.

The First Lyrics To "Yesterday" Were "Scrambled Eggs"

When Paul McCartney woke up with the idea for the song we now know as "Yesterday," it wasn't nearly as fleshed out as it ended up being.

McCartney had an idea for the instrumentals and a few lyrics, so he walked around his house singing "scrambled eggs…baby, I love scrambled eggs" so he didn't forget the tune. In the end, scrambled eggs helped make the song "Yesterday" into the hit Beatle's song that it is today, and we're thankful for it.

Not Everyone Was Happy About Ringo Joining The Band

After signing their first record deal, the band's producer, George Martin, suggested that the Beatles get a new drummer because Pete Best's skills weren't cutting it. So, they had their manager fire Best and in turn, hire Ringo Starr.

While Ringo would go on to become one of the most famous drummers in the world, he wasn't always so loved. When he showed up for his first show with the band at the Cavern Club in 1962, the crowd wasn't very pleased to learn that Best had been replaced. Yet, over time, he earned his place in the fan's hearts.

They Recorded Their First Album In A Day

After the success of their single "Please, Please, Me," the record company was trying to release a full album as soon as possible. Their producer, Geroge Martin, decided to harness the skills that the band learned from their nights in Hamburg and recorded the entire album Please, Please, Me in just 13 hours.

They even strategically saved "Twist and Shout" for the end so that John Lennon wouldn't lose his voice early on in the recording session. This is largely contrasted to their later music which took much more time to record than just 13 hours.

Paul McCartney Was Robbed By A Fan

At one point, Paul McCartney's home was broken into by a crazed fan. Once inside, she decided to take a few items of clothing and other precious items of McCartney's for some personalized mementos.

The break-in inspired the Abbey Road song "She Came In Through the Bathroom Window," as that's exactly how the intruder got into his house. She used a ladder to hoist herself through the bathroom window. All in all, McCartney wasn't that broken up about the robbery although he was a little more cautious than before.

Ringo Starr Wanted To Be A Hairdresser

After the band first started experiencing the sweet taste of success, during an interview, they were each asked what they would do if they weren't in the band. This was also still a very relevant question, as their fame could still disappear just as fast as it had arrived.

Drummer Ringo Starr responded saying that he had "always fancied having a ladies hairdressing salon." While he never did open up his salon, he did end up marrying a hairdresser named Maureen.

Soviet Russians Had To Get Creative In Order To Listen To The Beatles

During the time of Beatlemania, the Beatles, along with several other Western bands were banned in the Soviet Union. So, this meant that getting your hands on a Beatles vinyl was incredibly difficult, expensive, and at times even dangerous.

However, a loophole was discovered where the music could be imprinted onto used X-Ray scans which could be found in hospital dumpsters or bought from a medical store. This form of music was called "music on the bones" and started in the 1950s, but became incredibly popular during the Beatlemania craze in the early 1960s.

"Norwegian Wood" Was Widely Misinterpreted

For John Lennon, the song "Norwegian Wood" was about an extramarital affair, and for George Harrison, it was his debut on the sitar. The song followed a man who slept at a girl's apartment, was forced to sleep in the bathtub and lit her apartment on fire the next morning. Yet, many people were still wondering about the song's title.

On the song, Paul McCartney stated, "A lot of people were decorating their places in wood. Norwegian wood. It was pine, really, cheap pine. But it's not as good a title, 'Cheap Pine,' baby. So it was a little parody really on those kinds of girls who when you'd go to their flat there would be a lot of Norwegian wood."

Ringo's Real Name Is Richard Starkey

No, Ringo Starr as we know him was not born with that name. In fact, his real name is actually Richard Starkey. He began playing the drums in a hospital band when he was 13 and sick with tuberculosis, becoming the drummer for the Beatles in 1962.

His nickname "Ringo" actually started off as "Rings" for his habit of wearing numerous rings at the same time. He later changed it to Ringo because he wanted it to sound more like a cowboy. If you listen closely during recordings, you can hear the band members calling him Richard and not Ringo.

John Lennon Grew Up By A Place Called Strawberry Fields In Liverpool

At the age of five, John Lennon moved in with his aunt and uncle, Mimi and George Smith. During that time, one of his favorite places to go and explore was a nearby garden by the Salvation Army orphanage called Strawberry Fields.

Paul McCartney commented that "John's memory of it [was]…There was a wall you could bunk over and it was a rather wild garden, it wasn't manicured at all, so it was easy to hide in." This wasn't the only Beatles song written about a location, as Lennon's first childhood house was located near a Penny Lane.

They Ran Into Some Trouble After Their US Tour

After their tour in the United States, the band experienced some major backlash from various religious and social conservatives, even the Ku Klux Klan.

In an interview, John Lennon reportedly states, "Christianity will go. It will vanish and shrink. I needn't argue about that; I'm right and I will be proved right. We're more popular than Jesus now; I don't know which will go first, rock 'n' roll or Christianity. Jesus was alright but his disciples were thick and ordinary. It's them twisting it that ruins it for me." Many people took offense to this statement - it even got them in trouble with the Pope for a period of time.

Pete Best Released A Misleading Album

After being replaced by Ringo Starr as the drummer in 1962, three years later Pete Best went on to release an album titled Best of the Beatles. However, the album had absolutely no music by the Beatles and he managed to fool so many people into buying it that he was investigated for consumer fraud.

Luckily for Best, the charges were eventually dropped as no fraud had been committed. He simply had named the album Best of the Beatles because he considered himself to be the best of the Beatles in real life.

Ringo Starr's Life Was Threatened

When the Beatles were touring in Canada, Ringo Starr was forced to bring around a bodyguard and police sharpshooters that accompanied him when he was on stage. He had previously received death threats from a group of anti-Semites about having him play in Canada.

Starr responded to the threats by saying, "Some people decided to make an example of me, as an English Jew. The one major fault is I'm not Jewish." Luckily, there was never an attempt made on his life while touring in Canada.

Ringo's Fear Of Flying Tomatoes

When the Beatles were originally writing their hit song "With a Little Help from My Friends," the original lyrics were, 'What would you think if I sang out of tune? Would you throw ripe tomatoes at me?'

Ringo Starr felt that might encourage their fans to actually bring tomatoes to their show and actually throw tomatoes after them, so he changed the tomato line to 'Would you stand up and walk out on me?' Luckily, nobody threw tomatoes at the band when they played the song.

They Were The First To Have "Devil Horns" On An Album

The Beatles have had lots of monumental firsts when it comes to the music industry. Whether it was writing their lyrics on the back of their records or creating music videos, these are a few of the things that made them so influential.

However, they are also the first to display the rock and roll "devil horns" on their Yellow Submarine album. This is believed to be one of the earliest instances this was shown in relation to rock and roll.

A Teenager May Have Started Beatlemania In The United States

Legend has it that Beatlemania sweeping through the United States can be attributed to a 15-year-old named Marsha Albert from Maryland. Supposedly, after hearing a Beatles song, she wrote a letter to a local radio station in Washington D.C. and asked if they could play something similar.

The DJ managed to get their hands on a copy of "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and the public went wild, increasing the demand for the Beatles all over the United States. DJ Dick Boone also claims to have tried to popularize them by playing them on stations in LA and Chicago although they didn't catch on.

The Fifth Beatle

Since the Beatles first formed, there has been a debate over whether there was a fifth Beatle or not. Many people believe that the original drummer for the band, Pete Best, should be considered the fifth Beatle because he was in the band before he was fired.

However, Paul McCartney claims that their long-time producer, George Martin, is the most deserving of the title as he played the keyboard on almost every one of their albums.

The Meaning Behind "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds"

The song "Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds" is believed by many to be a reference to the psychedelic drug LSD. With the lyrics "marmalade skies," "kaleidoscope eyes," and the acronymic rendering of the title being "LSD," it doesn't seem unlikely.

However, that's not what the song is really about. In reality, the the song was inspired by John Lennon's son who showed his father a picture he drew of a girl he sat next to in class claiming that she was "in the sky with diamonds."

"I Am The Walrus" Was Banned By BBC

After BBC banned "I Am the Walrus" for its lyrics "pornographic priestess" and "let your knickers down," George Harrison spoke out. Annoyed at the songs banning for seemingly harmless lyrics, he made it clear that they weren't going to be dissuaded from being edgy.

In an interview, he stated, "Why can't you have people [expletive] as well? It's going on everywhere in the world, all the time. So why can't you mention it? It's just a word, made up by people... It doesn't mean a thing, so why can't we use it in a song? We will eventually. We haven't started yet."

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17 Top Tourist Attractions in Moscow

The capital of Russia is an incredible place to explore. Visitors to Moscow come away spellbound at all the amazing sights, impressed at the sheer size and grandeur of the city. Lying at the heart of Moscow, the Red Square and the Kremlin are just two of the must-see tourist attractions; they are the historical, political and spiritual heart of the city – and indeed Russia itself.

A fascinating city to wander around, stunning cathedrals, churches, and palaces lie side-by-side with bleak grey monuments and remains from the Soviet state. In addition to its plethora of historical and cultural tourist attractions, Moscow is home to world-class museums, theaters and art galleries.

Renowned for its performing arts, fantastic ballets and amazing circus acts, catching a show while in Moscow is a must. The wealth of brilliant restaurants, trendy bars, and lively nightlife means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

See also: Where to Stay in Moscow

17. Tsaritsyno Palace

Once the summer residence of Catherine the Great, the stunning Tsaritsyno Palace is now a museum-reserve. The architecture is magnificent and there is a lovely park surrounding it for visitors to explore.

Located in the south of Moscow, the palace was commissioned in 1775 and recent renovations mean its lavish interior looks better than ever before with its elegant halls and beautiful staircases.

The exhibits on display look at the life of the empress as well as the history of Tsaritsyno itself. The huge palace grounds are also home to some other delightful buildings with the elegant opera house and wonderful brickwork of the Small Palace being particularly impressive to gaze upon.

Starting out in 1935 as the ‘All-Union Agricultural Exhibition’, VDNKh has slowly morphed over the years into the fascinating open-air museum of today. Remarkably, over 400 buildings can now be found within its confines.

The huge park complex has numerous pavilions representing former Soviet republics on show, such as those of Armenia and Turkmenistan and the distinctive architecture of each of the buildings is always interesting to gaze upon. In addition to this there is the fascinating Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics which is dedicated to space exploration and the fun Moskvarium aquarium even offers you the chance to swim with dolphins.

With lots of eateries scattered about and numerous entertainment options such as horse-riding and zip-lining, there is something for everyone to enjoy; the Friendship of Nations fountain truly is wonderful.

15. Kremlin Armoury

One of the oldest museums in the city, the Kremlin Armoury has a wealth of treasures; highlights include the ornate Grand Siberian Railway egg, the historic Cap of Monomakh and the stunning Imperial Crown of Russia which often has a crowd of tourists around it, jostling to take a photo.

Once the royal armory, there are loads of fascinating objects on display. Perusing the many sabers, jewelry, armor and more is as interesting as it is educational and entertaining and the swords are so finely crafted that you’ll almost wish you could pick up one and wield if yourself.

Established in 1851, the museum is situated in the Moscow Kremlin.

14. GUM Department Store

Standing for ‘Main Universal Store’ in Russian, GUM is stunning. Its wonderful skylights and beautiful facades mean it doesn’t look out of place alongside its illustrious neighbors on Red Square.

With over 200 shops, boutiques and upmarket eateries inside, it is a shopaholic’s heaven and concerned partners will be glad to find more affordable options alongside luxury brands such as Dior and Prada.

The main department store in the city, GUM was opened in 1893. The stunning architecture makes it well worth a visit even if shopping isn’t your thing.

13. Moscow Metro

It’s not often that public transport looks like a work of art. So many stops on the Moscow Metro will astound visitors with their beauty and elegance.

Decked in marble and with frescoes covering the walls, the stations are amazing to gaze upon and are part of one of the longest metro systems in the world, with the first stations opened in 1935.

Using the metro is the quickest and easiest way to get around Moscow and braving the crowds of commuters is well worth it for the beauty all around you.

12. Arbat Street

An elegant yet lively street, Arbat is full of impressive architecture and was once a popular place to live for aristocrats, artists, and academics.

A historic place, it is down Arbat Street that Napoleon’s troops are said to have headed on their way to capture the Kremlin.

Nowadays, there are many cafes, restaurants, and shops, as well as various monuments and statues to former residents such as Alexander Pushkin who was reputed to be a lover of the Russian Empress due to his massive influence in court.

11. Novodevichy Convent

Drenched in history, the Novodevichy Convent is located in a striking building that was once a fortress. This captivating place is well worth visiting when in Moscow.

Founded in 1524, the convent houses four cathedrals; Smolensk Cathedral is the undoubted highlight due to its delightful 16th-century frescoes.

Wandering around the grounds is like stepping back in time. The Novodevichy Cemetery is where many famous leaders of the Soviet Union are buried, such as Yeltsin and Khrushchev.

10. Pushkin Museum

Despite its name, the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts actually has no connection at all to the famous poet other than that it was named in his honor after his death. A delight to visit, its extensive collection focuses on European art with masterpieces by Botticelli, Rembrandt, and van Gogh all featuring.

Sculptures, graphic art, paintings and more can be found in its beautiful galleries; various sections look at themes and epochs such as the Renaissance, the Dutch Golden Age, and Byzantine art.

Among the many highlights are the clownish characters which can be found in Cezanne’s Fastnacht (Mardi Gras) and the twirling ballerinas who look so elegant in Degas’ Blue Dancers. Picasso’s Young acrobat on a Ball is also well worth checking out for its interesting use of shapes and colors.

9. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This gorgeous Russian Orthodox cathedral is located on the banks of the Moskva River, just a stone’s throw away from the Kremlin.

The church as it stands today was consecrated in 2000, as the original church that stood here was destroyed on the command of Josef Stalin in 1931 due to the anti-religious campaign.

With its delightful golden dome, spires and dazzling white facades, the Christ the Savior Cathedral is stunning. The interior is just as captivating to wander around, with its beautifully tiled floors and impressive altar.

8. Lenin Mausoleum

Opened to the public in 1924, Lenin’s Mausoleum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Moscow. The red granite structure is located at the heart of the city in Red Square.

Lenin’s embalmed body lies in a glass sarcophagus; it is a somewhat eerie experience walking past the former leader of the Soviet Union but is well worth doing as you understandably can’t do it anywhere else in the world.

After visiting the mausoleum, head to the Kremlin wall right next to it for more graves of important communist figures such as Stalin and Brezhnev.

7. Tretyakov Gallery

Home to the most extensive and impressive collection of Russian fine art in the world, the State Tretyakov Gallery is definitely worth visiting when in Moscow for the wealth of amazing art pieces that it has on display.

Having started out as the private art collection of the Tretyakov brothers, there are now over 130,000 exhibits. Highlights include the iconic Theotokos of Vladimir which you will almost certainly recognise despite probably not knowing the name and Rublev’s Trinity which is considered to be one of highest achievements in Russian art.

An absolute must for art lovers, the State Tretyakov Gallery will delight visitors with all that is has to offer.

6. Kolomenskoye

Once a royal estate, Kolomenskoye is now a museum-reserve and lies a few kilometers outside of the city center. A captivating place to visit, there is a plethora of history on show and the site overlooks the Moskva River.

Consisting of four historical sites, there are extensive gardens for visitors to explore, as well as loads of interesting old buildings, the former village of Kolomenskoye itself and the impressive Palace of the Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich – once considered the Eighth Wonder of the World by contemporaries.

Among the many stunning sights, it is the brilliantly white Ascension Church that is the undoubted highlight – dating back to 1532.

5. Gorky Park

Lying alongside the Moskva River, the huge Gorky Park is a lovely place to visit. Its extensive gardens are home to numerous cultural institutions and visitors should definitely check out the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art and while the eclectic exhibits may not always feature such incredible sights as a balloon-covered rider on a zebra; they certainly always succeed in pushing back the boundaries of art.

Pop-up exhibitions and festivals can be found from time to time in the park itself and there is an open-air theatre and numerous eateries alongside a plethora of leisure activities.

Whether it’s cycling, table tennis or yoga that you are after or beach volleyball and rowing, Gorky Park certainly has it. In winter, there is a huge ice rink for visitors to enjoy.

4. Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the main theater in the country. The amazing opera and ballet performances it has put on over the centuries go a long way in explaining Russia’s rich history of performing arts.

While the Bolshoi Ballet Company was established in 1776, the theater itself was opened in 1825. The glittering, six-tier auditorium is lavishly and decadently decorated; it is a fitting setting for the world-class performances that take place on its stage.

Spending a night watching a performance of such classics as The Nutcracker or Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theatre is sure to be a memorable experience and the beauty all around you only adds to the sense of occasion.

3. Moscow Kremlin

This famously fortified complex is remarkably home to five palaces and four cathedrals and is the historic, political and spiritual center of the city. The Kremlin serves as the residence for the country’s president. It has been used as a fort, and this fact is made clear by its sheer size. The Kremlin’s outer walls were built in the late 1400s.

Under Ivan III, better known as Ivan the Great, the Kremlin became the center of a unified Russian state, and was extensively remodeled. Three of the Kremlin’s cathedrals date to his reign that lasted from 1462-1505. The Deposition Church and the Palace of Facets were also constructed during this time. The Ivan the Great Bell Tower was built in 1508. It is the tallest tower at the Kremlin with a height of 266 feet (81 meters).

Joseph Stalin removed many of the relics from the tsarist regimes. However, the Tsar Bell, the world’s largest bell, and the Tsar Cannon, the largest bombard by caliber in the world, are among the remaining items from that era. The Kremlin Armory is one of Moscow’s oldest museums as it was established more than 200 years ago. Its diamond collection is impressive.

The Kremlin’s gardens – Taynitsky, Grand Kremlin Public and Alexander – are beautiful. The Kremlin has also served as the religious center of the country, and there is a tremendous number of preserved churches and cathedrals here. The collections contained within the museums include more than 60,000 historical, cultural and artistic monuments. Those who enjoy the performing arts will want to consider attending a ballet or concert at the State Kremlin Palace. Completed in 1961, it is the only modern building in the Kremlin.

2. Red Square

Lying at the heart of Moscow, Red Square is the most important and impressive square in the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions due to its wealth of historical sights and cultural landmarks.

Drenched in history, the huge square is home to incredible sights such as the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, among others. Consequently, it is not to be missed when in Moscow as it really is home to the city’s most stunning monuments.

It is here that many important moments in Russian history took place; the former marketplace has hosted everything from Tsar’s coronations and public ceremonies to rock concerts and Soviet military parades. Wandering around the massive square is a humbling experience and undoubtedly one of the highlights the city has to offer.

1. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Located in the impressive Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral is gorgeous; its delightful spires appear as if out of a fairytale. The most recognizable building in the country, the cathedral is very much a symbol of Russia. No visit to Moscow is complete without having taken in its unique and distinctive features.

Ivan the Terrible ordered the cathedral’s construction in the mid-16th century, and legend holds that Ivan put out the architect’s eyes so that he would be unable to build another cathedral more glorious than St. Basil’s. Designed to resemble the shape of a bonfire in full flame, the architecture is not only unique to the period in which it was built but to any subsequent period. For various reasons, both Napoleon and Stalin wanted to destroy the cathedral but fortunately did not succeed.

Known for its various colors, shapes and geometric patterns, St. Basil’s Cathedral houses nine different chapels that are all connected by a winding labyrinth of corridors and stairways. On the lower floor, St. Basil’s Chapel contains a silver casket bearing the body of St. Basil the Blessed.

Throughout the cathedral are many beautiful murals, frescoes, wooden icons and other art works and artifacts. Outside the cathedral is a lovely garden with the bronze Monument to Minin and Pozharsky, who rallied an all-volunteer Russian army against Polish invaders during a period of the late 16th century known as the Times of Troubles.

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

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• Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Comprising of palaces, monasteries, cathedrals, museum’s, parks, hills, towers, and galleries, travelers must include these places to visit in Moscow and St. Petersburg in their itinerary for a complete travel experience. Taking you through its modern culture, ancient traditions, and rich historical past, these places to see in Moscow are not just interesting, but are beyond magical.

20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg

Here is a list of places to explore in the beautiful city of Moscow and St. Petersburg on your trip that you might not want to miss. Keep scrolling down and read along:

• Hermitage Museum
• Krestovsky Stadium
• Peterhof Palace
• Pushkin Museum
• Kolomenskoye
• Novospassky Monastery
• Kremlin Armoury
• Sparrow Hills
• Cathedral Of The Archangel
• Diamond Fund
• Losiny Ostrov National Park
• Ostankino Tower
• Grand Kremlin Palace
• Bolshoi Theatre
• Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics
• Saint Basil’s Cathedral
• Moscow Kremlin

20. Hermitage Museum

Hermitage Museum at St Petersburg is the second-largest art museum in the world, after The Louvre in Paris, France. The establishment was founded in 1764 by Empress Catherine the Great. From Egyptian antiquities, Renaissance art, Dutch and Flemish Baroque art to Neoclassical, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and modern European fine art – Hermitage Museum artworks are any art-enthusiast’s paradise.

Location: Palace Square, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 190000 Timings: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm (Monday closed)

19. Krestovsky Stadium

Named after Sergey Kirov, the stadium was also home to the Zenit Football Club for certain periods in the 1900’s. The Fifa Confederations Cup took place in the Krestovsky Stadium, with several group matches and the final between Germany and Chile taking place at the stadium. The 2018 Fifa World Cup also took place there, when Russia hosted the competition.

Location: Futbol’naya Alleya, 1, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia, 197110 Timings: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

18. Peterhof Palace

One of the most important sites of cultural importance in Russia is the Peterhof Palace. It is a series of palaces and gardens which are located in Peterhof, St Petersburg. One of the best features of the area that catches the eyes of the many tourists who come to visit the area is a 16-metre high cliff. One of the best features of the Palace is the Chesma Hall. The Hall is decorated with painting from the Battle of Chesma, where Russia won a naval victory during the Russo-Turkish war.

Location: Razvodnaya Ulitsa, 2, Sankt-Peterburg, Russia Timings: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm

17. Pushkin Museum

Image Source

If you want to visit one of the best tourist places in Moscow to explore a wide selection of European masterpieces, then you must visit the Pushkin Museum. Here, you can explore The museum is divided into three sections which cover the themes: Byzantine art, the Renaissance, and the Dutch Golden Age. For a collection donated by individuals, you can also visit the Museum of Private Collections.

Location: Ulitsa Volkhonka, 12, Moskva, Russia, 119019 Timings: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Must Read: Villas In Moscow: 7 Places That Offer Unparalleled Luxury In The Heart Of Russia

16. Kolomenskoye

Nestled just a few kilometers outside of the city center, Kolomenskoye was once a royal estate which is now converted into a museum-reserve. Overlooking the Moskva River, you will get to gain a plethora of history from this museum. You can take a stroll in the garden at this museum which is one of the top places to visit in Moscow, Russia.

Location: Andropova Ave, 39, Moskva, Russia, 115487 Timings: 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

15. Novospassky Monastery

With attractions like Novospassky Monastery, there is no need to worry as to what to see in Moscow . Dating back to the times of the 14th century, Novospassky Monastery happens to be the first monastery established in the heart of Moscow. Located in the southeastern region, it is one of the must-visit places in Moscow.

Location: Krest’yanskaya Ploshchad’, 10, Moskva, Russia, 115172

Suggested Read: Russia Plans To Open A Luxury Hotel In Space By 2022 Since Earth Is Too Mainstream!

14. Kremlin Armoury

Kremlin Armoury is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow which is located within the premises of Moscow Kremlin. A treasure house in the heart of Moscow, Kremlin Armoury is a unique museum that has put up about 4000 unique and precious belongings from 1851 on display.

Location: The Moscow Kremlin, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

Suggested Read: 8 Cities With Best Russia Nightlife; Say It Aloud, “Lights, Vodka, & Russians!”

13. Sparrow Hills

Much famed as the Lenin Hills until 1999, it is a must for every traveler to include a visit to the Sparrow Hills on their Moscow city tour . Standing tall at an elevation of 220 meters, it is the highest viewpoints in the city that rises above the Moskva River. Get atop the hills to enjoy breathtaking views of the Moscow skyline.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 119270

Suggested Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More

12. Cathedral Of The Archangel

Perched in between the attractions of Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the great Great Kremlin Palace, this orthodox cathedral in the heart of Moscow and the mighty Archangel Michael is the patron saint of the cathedral. Reflecting the charm of the Italian Renaissance architectural style, this cathedral is built on the site of the original structure which dates back to 1333.

Location: Cathedral Square, Moscow Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Closed on all public holidays)

Suggested Read: The Glass Beach In Russia Turns Empty Beer Bottles Into A Stunning Kaleidoscope Of Colourful Pebbles!

10. Diamond Fund

Image Credit: Shakko for wikipedia

A mine of precious stones, jewelry, Diamond Fund is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Moscow for those whose love for diamonds is limitless. Established by Emperor Peter I of Russia in the year of 1719, this gem of a place resides within the premises of the famous Moscow Kremlin.

Location: Proyezd Proyektiruyemyy 813, Moskva, Russia, 125009 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 1 PM, and 2 PM to 5:20 PM (Closed on Thursdays)

9. Losiny Ostrov National Park

Of all the Moscow points of interest , Losiny Ostrov National Park offers a perfect amalgamation of nature and wildlife. Often compared to the Pedra Branca State Park in Rio de Janeiro, and the Table Mountain National Park of Cape Town, in terms of its size and grandeur, it is the first-ever national park of the Russian capital wherein one can witness many species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.

Location: Poperechny Prosek, 1G, Moscow 107014, Russia

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8. Ostankino Tower

Standing tall at a height of 1,772 feet, Ostankino Tower is famous for being the only free-standing structure in the whole of Europe. Apart from being the eleventh high-rising structures of the world, the observation deck at Ostankino Tower is the place to be for those who wish to relish the best views of Moscow’s skyline.

Location: Akademika Koroleva St, 15, Moskva, Russia, 127427 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM

7. Grand Kremlin Palace

Established in the year of 1849, Great or Grand Kremlin Palace is one of those places to visit in Moscow that will leave you beyond astonished. Constructed beautifully and with a great eye for detail, the intricate decor inside the Grand Kremlin Palace reflects the pure charm of the Revival architecture in Russian that blends perfectly with the architectural style of Byzantine Revival.

Location: Moscow Kremlin, Moscow 103073, Russia

Suggested Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

Image Courtesy: publicdomainpictures.net

What Pragati Maidan is to Delhi, VDNKh is for Moscow. Being one of the popular Moscow sightseeing places , VDNKh or Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyaystva is a grand trade and exhibition center in Moscow that assures the travelers an experience like none other. Home to numerous palaces, fountains, architectural marvels, arches, and pavilions, there will never be a dull moment on your visit to VDNKh during your trip to Moscow .

Location: Prospekt Mira, 119, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Monday to Sunday – 24 Hours

5. Bolshoi Theatre

Image Credit: DmitriyGuryanov for wikipedia

For the lovers of art, and culture, Bolshoi Theatre is the place to be for them to witness one of the finest live performances of opera and ballet performances. Famous for featuring a neoclassical facade, Bolshoi Theatre is one of the renowned landmarks of the city.

Location: Theatre Square, 1, Moskva, Russia, 125009

Suggested Read: Moscow In Winter: 10 Things To Do In The City That Holds To The Key To Russia’s Past

4. Memorial Museum Of Cosmonautics

Striking, unique, and aiming to touch the sky, the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is one of the best Moscow tourist sites which the travelers cannot afford to miss. Educating the visitors about the significant part of Russia’s history in the domain of space, it is a strict no-no to miss out on visiting the Museum of Cosmonautics when in the city.

Location: Prospekt Mira, 111, Moskva, Russia, 129223 Timings: Thursdays & Saturdays – 10 AM to 9 PM; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, & Sundays – 10 AM to 7 PM; Closed on Mondays

3. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Considered to be one of the top places to visit in Moscow , Saint Basil’s Cathedral is also famed as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed amongst the locals. Being one of the crucial landmarks of Moscow located in the heart of Red Square, the cathedral dates back to the times of 16th century. Serving as a visual treat to the travelers, it happens to be one of the most-captured attractions in Moscow.

Location: Krasnaya Square, 2, Moscow 109012, Russia

Suggested Read: The List Of Top 10 Places Travelers Are Eager To Visit Is Out!

2. Red Square

Separating the royal citadel of Kremlin from the ancient merchant quarter of Kitai-gorod, Red Square is one of the most interesting places in Moscow . Bearing the weight of Russia’s history to a great extent, Red Square serves not just as an attraction but as the heart, soul, and symbol of the whole country.

Location: Krasnaya Ploshchad, Moscow, Russia

1. Moscow Kremlin

If all the attractions serve as members of the city, then Moscow Kremlin serves as the home in which all these tourist sites reside. Encompassing of almost all the famous sightseeing attractions, the royal residence of the President of Russia, the Moscow Kremlin is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Moscow . Offering breathtaking views of River Moskva and located at the heart of the city, it is a must for everyone to explore this fortified complex once in their lifetime.

Location: Moscow, Russia, 103073 Timings: Friday to Wednesday – 10 AM to 5 PM; Closed on Thursday

How To Get There

Air Astana has resumed daily operations, and with the launch of 2 additional flights starting 2nd September 2019, they will now be operating 11 times a week offering even more onward connections. You can now make the most of this special offer by Air Astana and plan your trip to the biggest metropolitan city of Kazakhstan. Transit passengers can also visit Nur – Sultan and Almaty hassle – free in their journey with Kazakhstan’s 72-hour transit visa-free regime . You can now also apply for an e-visa before traveling to Kazakhstan. The process is very simple!

Explore Two Countries In One Trip

There is good news for all transiting passengers. With Air Astana’s 1$ Stopover Holiday Package, you can enjoy a one-night stay in Almaty or Astana starting at just 1$ for the first night. Simply pay online and you will receive instant confirmation for your Stopover Holiday Package with Air Astana . The package includes a one-night stay in 3-4 star hotel, buffet breakfast, and airport transfers. What more could you possibly need!

Further Read: 101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30

While these are some of the famous places to visit in Moscow and St.Petersburg, this is just the beginning of what this incredible city has to offer. Hence, make sure you include these Moscow attractions and St. Petersburg sights to your bucket list while you gear up to fulfill your dream on your sojourn to Russia !

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Moscow

What is the best time to visit Moscow?

April to August happens to be the best time to visit Moscow when the summer season lets the tourists make the most of their journey.

What is that one experience that one must not miss out when planning a trip to Russia?

A ride on the Trans-Siberian Railway that crosses eight time zones across 9300 kms is one of the most unique experiences that one should not miss out on their trip to Moscow!

What are some of the must-visit attractions in Moscow?

Moscow Kremlin, Saint Basil’s Cathedral, Red Square, and Bolshoi Theatre are some of the famous must visit attractions in Moscow.

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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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