Last Updated on the 3rd of December, 2025
Situated 42 miles from Edinburgh, Glasgow is one of Scotland’s most exciting cities to visit.
It is the largest city in Scotland, famed for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture. These buildings are a rich legacy of Glasgow’s prosperity from the 18th to the 20th century due to trade and shipbuilding.
The wonderful port city is located on the River Clyde and is a vibrant cultural hub famous for its food, architecture, and historical heritage, meaning you’ll have plenty to see and do here.
It is also home to institutions including the Scottish Ballet and National Theatre of Scotland, the Scottish Opera, as well as acclaimed museums such as Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Charles Rennie Mackintosh House.
The city has tons of attractions, both new and old, and the best part is that most of them can be seen for free.
Read More: The Perfect Road-Trip Itinerary for 5 Spell-binding Days in Scotland
Our Experience Visiting Glasgow
Visitors to Scotland often tend to overlook Glasgow in favour of Edinburgh.
And when I say visitors, I’m including myself.
Over the last decade, I visited Edinburgh a dozen times before I gave Glasgow a chance.
As a new permanent February public holiday was introduced for St Brigid’s Day in Ireland, we decided to use the extended weekend for some much-needed time away.
As a return flight from Dublin Airport to Glasgow was less than a dinner at the pub, I made flight reservations and off we went.
We loved the city and how its modern buildings with floor-to-ceiling windows bumped elbows with historical red brick houses and shops, from the moment we arrived.
Over three days, we were happy to discover Glasgow’s fascinating museums, contemporary art spaces, striking architecture and one of the oldest Universities in Scotland.
This city has everything you need for a city break, and we’d say three days is enough to really get stuck in.
Read More: How to Visit Enchanting Stirling Castle & Gardens in Scotland: An Easy Guide
#1. Stroll through Glasgow Botanic Gardens
Showcasing a wonderfully diverse range of plant life, Glasgow Botanic Gardens offers a peaceful escape right in the city.
The floral haven is located in the West End, spreading over 20 hectares.
One of the best things to do in gardens is to stroll through the various collections, as each of them tells a unique story from different parts of our planet.
The highlight of the gardens is the imposing Kibble Palace. The Victorian-era glasshouse houses many tropical plants, including rare ferns, tall palms and a variety of orchids.
If you desire an informative lecture, you can sign up for a guided tour and enjoy learning more about the garden’s history and plant life.
- Address: 730 Great Western Road, Glasgow
- Opening hours: Daily 7am–dusk for the Gardens; other hours may vary depending on season
- Website: www.glasgowbotanicgardens.com
Read More: Top 11 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul
#2. Explore the Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis
If there’s one place in Glasgow that should be on your list, it’s Glasgow Cathedral and neighbouring Necropolis.
Not only is it the oldest building in the entire city, but it is also the most ancient cathedral in mainland Scotland, and the only one, alongside St. Magnus Cathedral in Kirkwall, in the Orkneys, whose ceilings are originally Medieval.
It’s an impressive building with an impressive history, where you can immerse yourself in the relics of medieval history and in the details of Scottish medieval architecture.
It’s also where you can admire beautifully stained glass windows, some of them placed in the cathedral windows as late as the 1950s.
Depending on your preferences, you can wander around at your own pace or book a guided tour.
*Fun Fact – the famous cathedral is not a cathedral! This is because it has not been the seat of a bishop since 1690.
- Admission: free of charge, but donations are welcome to keep the cathedral in tip-top shape.
- Address: Castle Street, Glasgow
- Website: www.glasgowcathedral.org
Read More: A Short Guide to the Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile In Edinburgh, Scotland
#3. Stop By Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
There are many incredible museums in Scotland, but the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum in Glasgow is one of my favourites.
There are 22 galleries spanning diverse themes, and you can immerse yourself in art, natural and local history, as well as explore a vast array of artefacts from around the globe.
Some of the highlights are the works by Salvador Dalí and Charles Rennie Mackintosh, but my favourites were the Canadian moose and totem pole and the majestic Scottish wildlife.
Once you explore the galleries, make sure to take the time to walk around the building. The interior architecture is stunning, with its warm sandstone and gorgeous Spanish Baroque style.
- Address: Argyle Street, Glasgow
- Opening hours: Mon–Thu & Sat 10am–5pm; Fri & Sun 11am–5pm
Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Holiday In Scotland
#4. Explore Glasgow University Grounds
Originally founded in 1451, Glasgow University has been at the forefront of intellectual movements with a list of alumni that includes economist Adam Smith and physicist Lord Kelvin.
In 1881, the institution pioneered electricity with fully lit houses on the campus, and fifteen years later, a graduate opened the world’s first X-ray department.
In my humble opinion, a visit to the university buildings is one of the city’s highlights, as it’s where you can see the gigantic East and West Quadrangles linked by the fluted columns and ribbed ceiling of The Cloisters.
The best thing about visiting the university is that you don’t have to be enrolled to soak up the intellectual atmosphere. You can arrive on any day, follow a self-guided itinerary crafted by the university or join a guided tour, and grab a souvenir or two from the gift shop.
- Address: University Avenue, Glasgow, G12 8QQ
- Opening Hours: Grounds are open 24/7
Read More: What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For First-Time Visitors
#5. Spend A Few Hours at the Riverside Museum
Glasgow’s award-winning Riverside Museum is a wonderful place where you can travel through the history of transport.
The museum has a wealth of transport treasures such as a South African steam locomotive, an old train carriage, and old-world trams that make for an exciting day out.
There are over 3,000 items chronicled across nine different display themes, so it does take some time to see them all.
On top of that, the museum has three amazing street replicas from late 19th-century Glasgow, where you can discover various immersive exhibits like a car garage from the 1960s. and Edwardian photography studio.
We loved walking down the old street, and it was so interesting to see what shops would have looked like historically.
Right outside the museum, you’ll find a three-masted steel ship that was built in the late 19th century and is open for guided tours.
- Address: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Glasgow G3 8RS
- Admission: Free entry
Read More: A Pocketguide To Help You Witness the Splendid Beauty Of Stirling Town In Scotland
#6. Stop by the Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art
Home to the City’s modern art collections, GoMA is the country’s most visited modern art gallery.
Here, you can discover an impressive range of modern and contemporary artworks and exhibitions, as well as admire the stunning architecture.
Make sure you don’t miss the Duke of Wellington statue located right outside the front door. Originally built by Italian artist Carlo Marochetti, the statue was erected in 1844 as a tribute to Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington.
But today, the Duke is overshadowed by his beloved hat, an orange traffic cone! This famous statue is a testament to the priceless Glaswegian sense of humour.
- Location: 111 Queen St, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AH
- Opening Hours: Mon – Thu & Sat: 10am – 5pm, Fri & Sun: 11am – 5pm
- Admission: Free of charge
Read More: 11 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Edinburgh, Scotland Even Locals Don’t Know
#7. The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery
Founded in 1807 and set within Glasgow University, the Hunterian is the oldest public museum in Scotland.
It’s a treasure trove of history and art, where you can learn about palaeontology and archaeology and browse the fossils and oddities of Dr. William Hunter’s collection.
The Hunterian Art Gallery has paintings by Rubens, Rembrandt and others as well as several works by James Whistler and Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Among the variety of objects and art, you can also find pickled organs, Roman artefacts from the Antonine Wall, and a collection of works by James McNeill Whistler.
There’s also a separate room dedicated to Roman artefacts and architecture, an ancient Egyptian wooden coffin and the gleam of a 17th-century surgical instrument, just to name a few.
- Address: The Hunterian Museum is located in the main Gilbert Scott building.
- Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday, 9-5
- Admission: Free entry
Read More: St. Conan’s Kirk: A Captivating Architectural Marvel on the Shore of Loch Awe
#8. Go For A Stroll Along Buchanan Street
Going for a stroll along the vibrant Buchanan Street in Glasgow, a pedestrianised half-mile stretch, is a real treat.
Not only does it have a wealth of cafes, shops, bars and restaurants, but it is also lined by grand Victorian buildings and is frequented by incredible street performers.
Once you make an effort to look past all the usual fast food outlets and shops found in any other city, you’ll find a wonderful array of gems.
My favourite and most unexpected find was Prince’s Square shopping centre, which is a real architectural gem.
In 2016, the ornate building was voted as Scotland’s Favourite Building by the public, and once you step inside, it’s easy to see why.
- Address: Princes Square, 48 Buchanan St, Glasgow
- Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10.00am – 6.00pm (doors open 9am)
Read More: 7 Days Scotland West Coast Road Trip: Glencoe To The Isle Of Skye
#9. Embark on a Street Art Tour of Glasgow
One of the best ways to have a peek into the city’s character is to go on a street art tour around Glasgow.
It is one of the best free attractions in Glasgow city centre as it includes political and historical works by locally based artists like Smug and Rogue-One
The popular mural trail is funded by the council, and among the must-see murals and street art to visit in Glasgow are:
- The Thenue Mural: created by artist Mark Worst, which features motifs in honour of each of the 29 young women and girls who were killed in the Templeton Carpet Factory disaster in 1889.
- St Mungo: by SMUG is one of the most photographed pieces of street art in the city, showcasing a re-interpretation of St Mungo, the Patron Saint of Glasgow.
- The World’s Most Economical Taxi: created by Rogue One, is another one of Glasgow’s most recognisable street murals.
Read More: 10 Unforgettable Edinburgh Day Trip Ideas From a Former Local
Go On A Tour Around the City Chambers
Dominating George Square, Glasgow City Chambers is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings, decorated with classical columns, reliefs and a tower.
The grand Victorian building was inaugurated in 1888 by Queen Victoria, and today it serves as the headquarters of Glasgow City Council.
The city chambers have heaps of history, stunning, opulent staircases. The grey façade looks rather cool and gives no hint of the splendour of warmth and colour inside.
If you wish to catch a glimpse, twice per day at 10.30am and 2.30pm Monday – Friday, City Chambers staff guide visitors through the lavish corridors and rooms of the building.
*Fun Fact – It is said that Glasgow Chambers contain more marble than the Vatican
- Address: George Square, Glasgow
- Opening hours: Mon–Fri 8:30am–5pm, Sat & Sun closed
Read More: Isle Of Skye Guide: 5 Amazing Stops You Should Visit On The Trotternish Loop
How to get to Glasgow City Centre from the Airport
Travelling from Glasgow Airport to the city centre is very easy as there are many options.
- Bus: Bus 77 is the cheapest option for getting from the airport to the city centre or to the West End. While the journey might take a while, the single one-way adult ticket costs £4.95, and you can’t go wrong with that.
- Glasgow Express: Alternatively, you can use the Glasgow Airport Express service 500, which departs every ten minutes, seven days a week. The tickets cost £8.50 per adult for a single ticket and £4.50 per child.
- Taxi: Getting a taxi from Glasgow Airport to the city centre is the fastest way to travel. You can find taxis waiting outside the door of the airport. The taxi fare is calculated based on the time of day, the number of passengers, the journey time and the vehicle type. On average, you can expect to pay around £30 (€35.60).
Read More: A Local’s Guide: Some Of The Best Things To See And Do In Edinburgh’s New Town
Getting around Glasgow
Glasgow is rather compact, and it’s easy to get around and find your way around the city.
- Walk: Glasgow’s city centre is especially walkable. The best way to explore it is to walk around and enjoy its atmosphere and architecture.
- Bicycle: Glasgow is also great for cycling. OVO Bikes operates a bicycle hire scheme. All you need to do is download the app and register before renting a bicycle parked in various locations around the city.
- Underground Railway: Glasgow’s underground is known as the Clockwork Orange, due to the regularity of its orange trains. Trains run every 4 minutes during peak times, and it takes just 24 minutes to complete the 15-station circuit.
- Bus: Buses are a convenient method of transport in Glasgow, as First Bus Glasgow operates more than 80 routes across the city. You can choose from a variety of tickets, such as day tickets offering unlimited travel within a specified area, and weekly tickets that are ideal for longer stays.
Read More: Some of The Best Things To See At The National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh
Interesting Facts About Glasgow
Before you start your journey filled with the best things to do in Glasgow, here are a few interesting facts about the city.
Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city
You’d think the capital, Edinburgh, would be Scotland’s largest city, but Glasgow lays claim to that crown. Its estimated population of 631,970 residents.
Legend says the patron saint of salmon founded Glasgow
A legend goes that St Mungo, the patron saint of salmon, was Glasgow’s founder, but according to history, there was a settlement on the banks of the Clyde in prehistoric times. The area was also known to the Romans, who built several outposts to prevent Pict incursions into their territory further south.
Some tree stumps in Glasgow are older than the dinosaurs
In Victoria Park’s Fossil Grove, you can see 11 tree stumps that were discovered during quarry excavations in 1887. The fossilised stumps have been dated to the Carboniferous period, which makes them 300 million years old. That’s twice as old as the dinosaurs!
Chicken tikka masala was invented in Glasgow
The popular dish of chicken pieces served in a spiced tomato-based curry sauce known as chicken tikka masala was invented by a British Bangladeshi chef named Ali Ahmed Aslam, who ran a restaurant in Glasgow.
Read More: 8 Incredible Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once
… … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … … …
Now, over to you!
Have you been on a road trip around Glasgow? Let us know in the comments!
Let us know if you are planning a visit to Glasgow and have travel-related questions!
Subscribe
Subscribe to our monthly email newsletter to stay up to date with all our outdoor adventures
Enter your email below to receive updates
OUR CROSSINGS 
What a wonderful article about the many things to see and do in Glasgow! When I was a student here, I visited Kelvingrove and loved it. I’d really like to go back sometime, and your article makes me want to revisit many of the places I enjoyed, particularly the Hungarian Museum, which was very interesting indeed. 😊💜
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was quite impressed by everything we had a chance to do and see, especially all the art galleries and Glasgow University grounds. You would love the Hunterian Museum as it offers a diverse range of exhibits, including historical and archaeological artefacts, natural history specimens, and medical and scientific instruments. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s quite awhile since I was in Glasgow but your well researched guide has prompted me to consider a return visit Aiva. I’ve so far never stayed there but just travelled over for the day from Edinburgh so I’ll look into that too !
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’ve been to Glasgow many, many years ago and mostly just passing through, Marion. I have to say that Glasgow is a vibrant and interesting city worth visiting, as it offers a mix of rich history, cultural attractions, and a lively atmosphere. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Definitely a city with a whole lot to offer. As for outdoor murals, I’m a big fan of them. I live near Philadelphia, which, like Glasgow, has a huge number of them.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glasgow’s street art scene is very impressive, and you would very much enjoy the city’s “City Centre Mural Trail” as it features a collection of large-scale, vibrant street art pieces, many by local artists like Smug. I loved how the murals covered various themes, including historical figures, contemporary interpretations, and even local landmarks. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Definitely I must plan a trip for it is a city worth visiting! Thank you so much Aiva for such phenomenal pics and important information!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glasgow is a wonderful city to visit, Francisco, as it boasts free museums, numerous parks and gardens, and a thriving music scene. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Always a pleasure Aiva!
LikeLiked by 1 person
🥰🥰🥰
LikeLike
I’m a big fan of the works of Charles Rennie MacKintosh so, of course, I like Glasgow.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am glad to hear that you are a fan of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, too. It’s amazing to see that he still remains internationally recognised as a true exponent of design. I finally had a chance to catch a glimpse of Queens Cross Church, which is the one and only church designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Inside, I found Mackintosh’s signature style in the centrepiece, a blue, heart-shaped, stained glass window. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
You too Aiva
LikeLiked by 1 person
🥰🥰🥰
LikeLiked by 1 person
You have made a strong case to visit Glasgow Aiva. We have done little more than pass through Glasgow on our way to somewhere else. Truth be told, in 1977, that was likely for the best, but since then, it seems Glasgow has developed a bit of polish and pride of place. Happy Monday Aiva. Allan
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, Glasgow has undeniably come a long way. From a city grappling with industrial decline and a reputation for tough times, it has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub and a major tourist destination. This transformation is evident in areas like its redeveloped Clydeside, its thriving arts and music scene, and its diverse and high-quality food and dining options. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
I have always loved Glasgow though we haven’t been since 2004…Thanks for the updated virtual tour. (Suzanne)
LikeLiked by 1 person
I loved Glasgow, too, as it has a distinct character. We were in the city just for three days, but it was enough time to make us fall in love with its vibrant culture, rich history, and the warmth and friendliness of its people. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
I have not been to Glasgow yet, but your post has intrigued me!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am glad to hear that. The city is home to some of Scotland’s best cultural attractions, and most of them are completely free! Glasgow would also be a good base for exploring other parts of Scotland, such as the Scottish Highlands. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Your post has piqued my interest in Glasgow! It looks like it is definitely worth a visit. My husband attended an academic conference at the university several years ago and enjoyed the city very much. What a fascinating fact about chicken tikka masala! One of my favorite dishes to order when dining out. And that shopping center looks amazing! I could spend some time getting lost in there😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
We passed by the shopping centre many times before we nipped in shortly before our departure, and I am so glad we did because it was a real feast for the eyes. While most of the people visit it for the many shopping, dining and entertainment options, for me it was to check out the stunning architecture. I can attest that there’s a good reason why a few years ago, Princes Square accepted the Best Building in Scotland award – it is a beautiful building. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
So many reasons to visit Glasgow. The university looks like something I wouldn’t want to miss. Maggie
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly, Maggie. Glasgow University was the main reason why we travelled to Glasgow. The university’s buildings, particularly the Gilbert Scott Building, feature stunning Gothic Revival and Brutalist designs, with pointed slate turrets, antique windows, and greenery. Given the beauty and atmosphere of the campus, it could easily be featured in the Harry Potter series. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glasgow looks like a beautiful city to explore, my camera would be working overtime. The architecture looks amazing especially those cloisters. The street art tour would be high on my list of things to do too. I’m very familiar with the works by the artist SMUG, he is incredible! I’ve watched him create one of his photo realistic murals here in South Australia and am a big fan of his.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hello, Glenys 🙂 As I explored Glasgow and discovered the many wonderful street art murals by SMUG, I thought of you and all your wonderful mural posts from Australia. I was in awe seeing his photorealistic murals in person – he’s such a skilled artist. I just love how his realistic portraits often depict working-class people and showcase their individual stories. A few years ago, he created a very powerful and striking breastfeeding mural in Greenock – you should check it out. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love following his work wherever he paints around the world, what an incredible talent he has. 🥰 Have a great day.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Smug is a graffiti artist from another planet – he is really bringing what you can do with a spray can to a whole other level. I know there are two hyper-realistic portraits of a man and a woman in Waterford, Ireland, but I haven’t seen them yet. Take care xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I last visited Glasgow almost a decade ago, while traveling throughout the UK and Ireland. I enjoyed the city, as it was filled with plenty of museums, street art, and a trendy vibe. The Kelvingrove and the Glasgow Cathedral were some of the highlights, and I’m super happy to have visited them. I hope to return to Scotland sooner than later to discover more! Thanks for sharing Glasgow with us, Aiva 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am glad to hear you’ve been to Glasgow, too, Rebecca. After spending a long weekend in Glasgow, I can safely say that Glasgow is an extremely interesting city to visit, and the people are just lovely. I especially loved how the city has a lot to offer by way of architecture, arts & culture. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Tikka masala is my go-to Indian dish, though even before we were vegetarians, I usually had paneer rather than chicken (I love cheese). We only had time to see the Necropolis in our very short time in Glasgow, but it was pretty amazing. Clearly there’s much more to see. Thanks for the introduction to this interesting city.
LikeLiked by 1 person
As a fellow vegetarian, I couldn’t think of a better option to devour tikka masala than by adding a healthy pile of paneer – I love cheese, too! You know, I never made it to the Necropolis, and I was gutted. Due to a heavy downpour, we had to skip the significant cemetery with all the incredible burials and tombs and leave it for some other time. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glasgow sounds delightful. The architecture is beautiful and it sounds like there’s quite a bit to do in the city. My brother-in-law is travelling to Scotland with his family this summer. I’ll be sure to pass along your suggestions. Many of these seem family friendly.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You know, while Edinburgh is the stuff of fairytales and can’t be topped, Glasgow offers authentic urban charm. Not many tourists visit Glasgow, but it’s such a fun city to explore, and it’s very easy to have a day-trip from Edinburgh, as it takes about an hour by train, and trains run all day long, so that’s the easiest way to visit. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glasgow really has so much to offer; I love the cloisters in particular and I had no idea the Cathedral was so beautiful inside. I’m heading up to Edinburgh for a few days soon (with work, sadly, but will do my best to see some things the weekend before), I’ll have to head to Glasgow another time.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was surprised by how much there was to see and do. The city centre is much smaller in Glasgow so you can see most of it attractions in half day, but there are other interesting stuff to see that are further away from the centre, like many museums worth visiting, Glasgow’s university with beautiful architecture, Pollok house and country park, Botanic gardens, Glasgow Science centre and so on… Have a wonderful time visiting Edinburgh. I look forward to reading all about your trip. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
We visited Glasgow during our week in Scotland. It was completely different than Edinburgh. We walked to the cathedral and necropolis and by the river and all around the city center. Interesting city but I preferred Edinburgh.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I prefer Edinburgh, too, but loved Glasgow as it offered contemporary culture, vibrant nightlife, and a warm, authentic city atmosphere. It is an artistically edgy city, and that’s what makes it special. I think it is always best to visit both cities as they’re only 50 minutes apart by train! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aiva, this is an amazing travel guide, and someday when we travel to Glasgow, we will have to check these places out!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly. Glasgow doesn’t fit the traditional mould of beauty—but that’s what makes it special. Its Victorian architecture, mural trail, lush parks, and art deco gems give it a different kind of charm. It’s grittier, more eclectic, and constantly evolving. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are demonstrating that Glasgow has everything it takes to please the visitor. I went through it all too quickly, ill-prepared and put off by the persistent rain, a memory attached to the whole of my trip to Scotland. But I’m willing to return when the opportunity arises.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You should choose to visit Glasgow if you enjoy connecting with locals and experiencing authentic city life, crave a modern, creative city vibe and want to explore live music, street art, and local pubs. We were there only for three days, yet we managed to fall under the city’s charm. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glasgow has long been on our list to visit and the next time we’re in Scotland I’m sure we’ll spend several days there.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope you get to visit Glasgow. It may not be as picturesque as Edinburgh, but it is still a very charming city worth visiting. The city is home to some of Scotland’s best cultural attractions, and most of them are completely free! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great post on Glasgow, Aiva, the lively city has much to offer. Years ago, on my first European trip, Glasgow was my first stop. I very much enjoyed my time there.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly 🙂 I am so glad to hear you enjoyed visiting Glasgow. It may not be quite as photogenic as Edinburgh, but Glasgow has an urban appeal all of its own. There’s a dynamic arts vibe, with plenty of museums and galleries to keep you occupied during a weekend break. It feels more modern, with an attractive industrial character that harks back to the shipbuilding trade for which the city was once known. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
One of my big travel regrets is going to Glasgow but then not seeing hardly any of Glasgow. I love this post and it just makes me want to go back and have a redo of this city all the more 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope you get to go back to Glasgow to see its many interesting sights and attractions. I cannot believe how long it took me to finally give the city a chance, but I am so glad I did. I found the local attractions in Glasgow were less touristic than in Edinburgh, but that’s perhaps a good thing. Here, everything felt authentic and aimed at the culturally curious visitor, rather than the overseas traveller looking to tick tartan and tatties off their list. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for this great guide! It is true that Glasgow is often overlooked next to beautiful Edimburgh, but it does sound like a great city to visit too. Next time I’m in Scotland I’ll try to spend some time there too!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love both cities, but if you’re looking for more of a touristic, first-time visit to Scotland kinda experience, then choose Edinburgh. However, if you want a cultural weekend with some unusual sights thrown in for good measure, then opt for Glasgow. I am glad I gave a city a chance, as it ended up being a wonderful place to explore with my family. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a wonderful post! Clearly there’s a lot to love in this Scottish city, gardens, galleries, fabulous museums and so much history. You brought it all to life for us Aiva. Thank you. Have a fabulous weekend. xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly, Miriam 🙂 Glasgow is a beautiful, albeit very industrial-looking, city in certain areas. I think that it was one of the reasons why I didn’t enjoy Glasgow when I first visited two decades ago. But then again, there’s no denying or hiding the industry that built Glasgow, and we shouldn’t want to, as it’s very much part of Glasgow’s own unique history. I was excited to return to Glasgow and see it with more mature eyes, and found it to be lively and grounded and absolutely beautiful. Also, the city was cheaper and less touristy than Edinburgh, with gorgeous gardens and architecture. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Never been Aiva but with so many interesting museums. it sounds like I would need more than three days to visit Glasgow. I like that it’s more walkable to encounter.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, you could easily spend more than three days in Glasgow, especially as it is an excellent base for exploring Scotland, offering easy access to a variety of day trips to popular destinations, including Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Edinburgh, Stirling, and the Isle of Arran. I hope all is well with you and your family. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
Thanks for caring. There’s a bit of a stir with immigration issue in my country right now. I am looking forward to some kind of geographic escape.
LikeLike
Another excellent review, Aiva. I only ever spent one day in Glasgow, which you can imagine, is nothing like enough. The character is so different from Edinburgh but every bit as worthwhile. I’d be happy to go back xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly, Jo. You know, Edinburgh has the castle atop the Royal Mile, but the often overlooked Glasgow is just as fun, less crowded, equally beautiful, and offers plenty to do for families. It is a wonderful city where you can navigate the Glasgow Mural Trail to spot stunning street art, visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, known for its unique floating heads installation in the atrium, or explore the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Glasgow Cathedral is stunning, and the university is gorgeous!
Thank you, Aiva, for the great tour!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Discovering the rich history and architectural marvels of Glasgow Cathedral, Scotland’s oldest and most iconic monument, is a must when in the city. We all loved its storied past and its stunning Gothic features, which made for an unforgettable experience. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
I have been several times to Glasgow and I like it. It is different to Edinburgh but each city has its own atmosphere and attractiveness.
Thank you for sharing this list of things to visit.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is very different to Edinburgh, indeed, but nevertheless a beautiful city worth visiting. Glasgow is a great option for those after a modern, big-city vibe with great nightlife and live music. Glasgow is also a good place for those looking for a more affordable visit, as the city has fewer of these ‘tourist tax’ price rises and is overall still marginally cheaper for everything, from public transport to accommodation and restaurants. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beautiful ten Incredible attractions in Glasgow. Well shared 💐👏🏼
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you kindly 🙂 Glasgow is an industrial city that’s often compared to Edinburgh. It is also overlooked in favour of Scotland’s busier, more glamorous capital city. However, Glasgow is absolutely worth visiting! There are genuinely so many things to do in Glasgow, and because it’s easy to get to most places on foot, you’re able to properly experience the city when you visit. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
That staircase in the museum is lovely. You’re right, Glasgow has a bit of everything – gardens, cathedral, street art, and museums. It’s mind-blowing how old their university is – love those cloisters. And the ancient tree stumps – incredible! And I just have to add, I can’t believe how cheap it was for you to fly between Dublin and Glasgow (either that or it’s very expensive for a dinner at the pub)!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That beautiful staircase leading to the museum entrance was such a wonderful find, Corna and the soft light coming through the stained glass windows made it very appealing. You know, Glasgow is an amazing city filled with historic sights, engaging museums and scenic landscapes, and I was pleasantly surprised by an astounding number of things to do. We had a wonderful time exploring it, and can highly recommend it to others. Regarding iur flights to Glasgow – I paid less than 100 euros for four airline tickets – a real bargain! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike
This is a fantastic guide to Glasgow, thanks for sharing! I appreciate how you’ve highlighted such a diverse range of attractions, and I loved the inclusion of both popular spots and perhaps lesser-known gems. Will be referencing this when/if I visit!
LikeLiked by 1 person
From museums to parks to art galleries and shopping to good eats, there are SO many things to do in Glasgow, and I was so happy to finally properly experience everything this wonderful city has to offer to visitors. I loved how the work of one of Glasgow’s most famous sons, the architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, could be seen all over the city. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh Aiva! I’m so keen on visiting Glasgow – I was sure that there would be beauty and culture to find if I just looked! And it turns out I was right – thank you so much for this post. You managed to see a lot in your time there – I think the two I’d absolutely love to see would be the botanical gardens and the Riverside museum.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the excitement oozing from your lovely comment, dear Mandy. After spending three full days in the city I can safely say that Glasgow is a worthwhile destination. You may not find the iconic postcard views that Edinburgh offers, but there’s plenty of unique and authentic Scottish experience with its own distinct character. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx
LikeLike