Liverpool is undergoing a tourism boom, and Virgil van Dijk understands why.

Visitors to Merseyside have increased to the point where travel brand Expedia has named Liverpool as one of their ten global trending destinations in their Unpack 2024 guide, with searches for trips to Liverpool up 100 percent year on year as tourists flock in from the United States, Canada, Australia, Norway, and Ireland.

“Travel is a real passion of mine,” Van Dijk explained.

“We visit so many cities through football but don’t get to really immerse ourselves in them, so any free time I have, I look forward to going on an adventure with my friends and family.

That is why I am thrilled to be working with Expedia, as we both feel that we are born to travel.”

To celebrate Liverpool’s growing popularity, Expedia has signed Reds captain Van Dijk as their new ambassador, with the Dutch defender creating the ultimate travel guide taking you through his favorite destinations around the city, including the iconic Cavern Club, which launched The Beatles’ careers, the world-famous Royal Albert Dock, and, of course, Anfield, which has been Van Dijk’s home for the last six years.

Aside from the historical sites and, of course, the football, Van Dijk’s travel guide to the top ten things to do in Liverpool, curated with the help of some of his teammates, includes a visit to the new luxury five-star Municipal Hotel and Spa on Dale Street, the independent restaurants and bars of Lark Lane, and the immersive culture, gaming, and art of Cains Brewery Village.

Virgil van Dijk visits Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club

Virgil van Dijk visits Liverpool’s renowned Cavern Club (Image: Expedia)

Van Dijk hopes the book will lead to an increase in travel to Liverpool, and he’s also planning some visits of his own.

“The football calendar is quite busy, but one day I’d like to visit Japan, a nation I’m captivated by. I am also a great admirer of city breaks. “I enjoy exploring new cities and cultures with my family,” he stated.

“I adore many cities, including Amsterdam and Paris, but Liverpool holds a special place in my heart, which is why I’m thrilled to collaborate with Expedia to create my Liverpool travel guide. I hope it benefits future visitors to this wonderful city!”