They are two of the most famous cities in the world, steeped in history with some of the most recognisable architecture that has helped establish both in international folklore. However, while many Brits savour the prospect of a trip to the Nou Camp, La Ramblas and Barri Gotic in Barcelona, they overlook the treasures that await them much closer to home in Liverpool with its picturesque Albert Dock, its bustling new shopping centre and of course some notable football and musical history of its own.

So if you’re travelling on a budget this year – can a stay in Liverpool really outpace a holiday in Barcelona?

Capitals of culture

There are few cities in the world that can compete with Barcelona for its architectural magnificence. Barri Gotic, the Gothic Quarter of the city, is renowned for its open markets and winding streets, but is also the home to Barcelona Cathedral – a real masterpiece of Gothic architecture that has stood since the 13^th Century and features a roof guarded by mystical gargoyles. Also in the heart of the city you’ll find Plaza Catalonia, which is situated between the 19^th Century L’Eixample and the medieval old part of the city with a circular plaza that hosts live musical performances and brilliant sculptures.

Yet for all the wonders of Barcelona, Liverpool can make a unique claim of its own – because its impressive waterfront has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status, placing it in the same bracket as the Great Wall of China and the Egyptian Pyramids. In terms of historic buildings, there is Liverpool Cathedral, described by Sir John Betjeman as “one of the greatest buildings in the world”; the Imperial Arch, which is the largest outside China; the Bluecoat Arts Centre, one of the city’s most distinctive buildings; and St George’s Hall, widely regarded as one the finest neo-classical buildings in the world.

Both cities will also allow you to delve into their history. For example, Mont Juic is a hill that overlooks the harbour in Barcelona and comes complete with its own historic castle as well as a military museum, a “Magic Fountain” and botanic gardens. Meanwhile Liverpool is awash with museums and galleries ranging from the alternative Tate Gallery on the Albert Dock; to the Museum of Liverpool, the Merseyside Maritime Museum and World Museum Liverpool which bulges with historic treasures from around the world and even boasts its own planetarium.

From sports to shopping

If there is one thing that Liverpool and Barcelona share on an international stage, it is their love of sport – and particularly, football. Camp Nou, the home of FC Barcelona, is the largest stadium in Europe with a seating capacity of just under 100,000 and is a constant draw for tourists with modern day greats such as Xavi, Iniesta and Messi plying their trade there; as well as legends from the past having graced the turf including Maradona and Ronaldo. However, Liverpool FC and the famous Anfield stadium is one of the few in the world that can match, and perhaps even surpass Barcelona for history – the club is England’s most successful on the European stage, currently boasting stars such as Gerrard and Suarez as well as past legends including Dalglish, Barnes, Keegan and more. Indeed even if you’re not a “Red” you can always travel across Stanley Park to the “Blue” half of Merseyside, and visit Goodison Park, home of Everton FC.

However, as much as “scousers” and “Catalans” love to watch their football, they also enjoy shopping – and there are plenty of brilliant places to shop in both cities.

You don’t have to look any further than La Ramblas in Barcelona, the city’s most famous street, with countless shops and restaurants; as well as vendors that sell food, drink and souvenirs; and its own street performers. You can also stop by La Boqueria, a lively market town where you can meet local farmers and taste what they have to offer. By contrast, Liverpool’s shopping options are a brilliant blend of the old and new. There are traditional wonders to be found on famous streets like Bold Street, or along the Albert Dock – while the Met Quarter and Liverpool One provide a very modern shopping experience, the latter boasting fabulous restaurants, cafes and its own cinema complex.

Our verdict – Liverpool on a budget or Barcelona

To be honest we’ve only begun to scratch the surface of what Liverpool and Barcelona have to offer. In the Spanish city you could enjoy the art scene at Museu Picasso for example; or check out Barcelona Zoo with everything from gorillas to penguins. Meanwhile Liverpool is a thriving destination for clubbers with a real party atmosphere around the famous bars of Mathew Street; while to not check out some of the famous Beatles sights and memorabilia in the city would be almost sacrilege.

In reality choosing between the two cities is too difficult – they should both be visited by everyone at some point in their lifetime. However, if you haven’t been to Liverpool in the last five years, then make sure you give it another look – because it has emerged as one of Europe’s finest offerings and is more than a match for its Spanish counterpart.

Friday: Cambridge on a budget or Prague.