this listplaces to see in glasgowwill help you get to know Scotland's second largest city, with a wide range of cultural and entertainment activities.
Living practically all your life in the shadow of neighboring Edinburgh, we are sure that Glasgow will delight you with the Gothic architecture of its churches and the most representative historical buildings, where you can also enjoy walks in well-kept parks, visit countless museums, be surprised by quality street art, drink a good beer in one of the most famous pubs and enjoy the good energy transmitted by the Scots from Glasgow.
Based on the experience of our time in the city during ourtrip to scotland, we've created this list of what we think it is10 places you must visit in Glasgow. Let's start!
1. Cathedral of Saint Mungus
St Mungo's Cathedral or High Kirk, a symbol of Gothic architecture in Scotland, is the oldest building and one ofThe best preserved places to see in Glasgow.
Built in the 12th century but restored and enlarged in the 15th century, this church has its greatest jewel in the tomb of São Mungo, the patron saint of the city, which is hidden in a 13th-century crypt.
Inside the cathedral, apart from the crypt, you can see huge contemporary stained glass windows, seven figures symbolizing the seven deadly sins and a wooden ceiling from the end of the 15th century.
Opening hours: from Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 3.30 pm and on Sunday from 1 pm to 3.30 pm.
Catedral de St. Mungus
2. Necropolis
The Necropolis, located on a low hill next to the cathedral, is a beautiful Victorian and other cemetery.Glasgow'sunmissable places to visit.
Inspired by Paris's Père-Lachaise Cemetery, this garden cemetery has around 50,000 people buried there, although many graves are unmarked, while others are decorated with elaborate carvings, mausoleums and tombstones.
In addition to walking through the cemetery, we recommend climbing to the top to enjoy a wonderful view of the Cathedral.
Visiting hours: daily from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Necropolis
3. St. George's Square
George Square, located in the downtown commercial area known as the Merchant City, is the main square and another one of themplaces to see in glasgow. This square, built in 1781 in honor of King George III, is decorated with sculptures and monuments dedicated to famous figures and surrounded by historic buildings, including the impressive town halls.
This huge Victorian building is worth a visit on one of the free 45-minute guided tours held throughout the week: one at 10.30am and another at 2.30pm.
Apart from the Town Hall, this area of the Merchant City is lined with pedestrian avenues such as Buchanan Street, where you can find all kinds of shops, bars, restaurants and street performers, giving it a unique atmosphere.
A good option to get to know the history of the city and not miss anythingbook this free tour of Glasgowwith an English-speaking guide, departing from George Square, orthis private trip.
Opening hours of the Town Hall: from Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
4. Kelvingrove Museum, one of the best places to see in Glasgow.
If I had to tell you to visit one of the many free museums the city has to offer, we recommend the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which is undoubtedly one ofbest things to do in glasgow.
This museum, surrounded by one of the most beautiful parks in the city, is the most visited museum in the UK outside of London and has a wide range of exhibits including works of art such asAnnunciationSandro Botticelli, oChrist Saint John of the CrossSalvador Dalí and paintings by great masters such as Van Gogh and Rembrandt, which mingle with collections of Egyptian and medieval art, alongside an area of the museum dedicated to the natural sciences.
If you don't have much time, we recommendbook a Glasgow sightseeing buswhich stops at points of interest farther from the center, such as this museum or the University.
Working hours: Monday - Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5. Ashton i skriveni put
Otraces, another one ofplaces to visit in glasgow, are cobbled streets full of atmosphere and charming locals, perfect for going for a drink at sunset or shopping for original items.
The most famous and atmospheric street is Ashton Lane, located in the university district of Glasgow, which is dominated by bars and restaurants that start to fill up on Friday afternoons. Recommended places includethe ubiquitous chiprestaurant for drinks and live music,Jinty McGuinty'sbar.
Note that if you're looking for peace and quiet, Hidden Lane is less busy and quiet, although that doesn't detract from its charm with its colorful facades, art studios, shops and cafes.
Our recommended hotel in Glasgow
For accommodation in Glasgow we recommend The Z Hotel Glasgow or Motel One Glasgow, both located less than 10 minutes from the city center and close to Queen Street train station. With a great location, both offer comfortable rooms, attentive staff and some of the best value for money in town.
6. Mackintosh Buildings
The famous local architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the main representative of Art Nouveau in Scotland, left a legacy of severalMust see buildings in Glasgow.
Starting at the lighthouse, a lighthouse-like tower with a magnificent spiral staircase leading to an observation deck and a small free museum about the architect. Another of Mackintosh's most important buildings and one of the first to see his hand at work is the Glasgow School of Art, another place we recommend visiting in the city.
You can finish the Mackintosh route with afternoon tea at the famous Willow Tea Rooms, as well as a visit to a beautiful Victorian art lover's house.
7. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow, one of the UK's most prestigious universities with several distinguished Nobel Prize-winning alumni, is another ofthe most beautiful places to see in Glasgow.
This former university, which dates back to 1451, has several notable gems inside, such as the beautiful Gothic cloister, the Hunterian Museum and the Mackintosh House, which is located within the library building.
In addition to these buildings, it is also worth taking a walk on the manicured lawns and admiring the facades of the schools.
For Harry Potter fans, it's also a special place because several sources believe it to be the place where author J.K. Rowling was inspired to create Hogwarts School.
Working hours: from Monday to Friday from 7 am to 10.50 pm. Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 7:20 p.m.
8. Route of walls
In recent times, urban art has strongly influenced this city and has become one of theAttractions to visit in Glasgowfor passengers.
This colorful and high-quality graffiti has dressed up some streets in the city center to such an extent that the City Council created an official route called Trilho do Mural do Centro, which also includedmap that you can see hereso you don't miss any important mural.
The mural trail includes 22 graffiti, including St. Mungo's, Glasgow's Tiger, The Clutha, The World's Most Economy Taxi, Fellow Residents of Glasgow and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, I'm Sorry, among many others.
In order not to miss any of them and learn more about their history, we recommendbook this guided tour in English.
wall route
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9. Botanical garden
The Botanical Garden, a public park of about 11 hectares created in 1817, is perfect for a walk and a break from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
The crown jewel of the park is the beautiful Victorian wrought iron and glass orangery, Kibble Palace, one of the most beautifulbeautiful buildings to see in Glasgow. Inside, statues mingle with tropical plants and flowers from around the world.
When the weather is nice, especially in spring and summer, locals use the park to walk along its paths, have a picnic surrounded by squirrels or play sports.
10. Excursions in Glasgow
If you have completed the listmust-see places in Glasgowand you still have a free day, we recommend going on one of these guided tours:
- Book a Loch Ness tour, considered one of Scotland's must-sees, where you'll learn about the legend of the Nessie monster and see the impressive Urquhart Castle.
- Book a tour of William Wallace, where you will learn the story of this mythical Scottish hero who waged war against England and was the basis of the movie Braveheart, starring Mel Gibson.
- Book a trip to Oban, where you will visit some of the most beautiful scenery and castles in the country.
- Book a tour of the Outlander set, which will take you to where Jamie and Claire are from the hit British series.
Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
Arrival in Glasgow
The fastest and most convenient way to get to Glasgow is to fly into Glasgow International Airport or Prestwick Airport. Both airports are well connected to the city center. Glasgow Airport has buses every 10 minutes and Prestick Airport has a train station next door.
Another way to get to Glasgow is to fly into Edinburgh Airport, 78 kilometers from the city, where you can catch a Citylink Air bus that takes less than an hour to reach the city.
If you want to save time and convenience, you canbook a private transfer here, where your driver will meet you outside the terminal with a sign with your name on it and take you straight to the door of your Glasgow hotel.
If you're staying in Edinburgh, you can travel to Glasgow by train from Waverley Station or by bus from Edinburgh Bus Station, both located in the city centre.
If you only have one day and are staying in Edinburgh, it might be worth itby booking this tour of Glasgow with an English-speaking guidewhich includes Loch Lomond and Katrine, otherinteresting places to see in Glasgow.
Map of places to visit in Glasgow
Would you like to organize a trip to Glasgow?
Come here:Best flight deals forGlasgowhere.
The best hotels at the best prices in Glasgowhere.
Book your transfer to Glasgow Airporthere
Book the best tours and excursions in Scotland in Englishhere
10 tips for traveling to Scotland
Rent your car in Scotland at the best pricehere
(Video) Top 10 THINGS to do in GLASGOW // Scotland Travel Guide10 must-see UK travel tips
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If you want, help us complete our list of the best10 mora-see places forvisit in Glasgow, add yours in the comments.
FAQs
10 places you must visit in Glasgow? ›
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum Glasgow
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the most visited art galleries and museums in the world, home to an incredible array of 8,000 exhibits spanning everything from a World War II Spitfire to Salvador Dalí's mesmerising Christ of St John of the Cross.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum Glasgow
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the most visited art galleries and museums in the world, home to an incredible array of 8,000 exhibits spanning everything from a World War II Spitfire to Salvador Dalí's mesmerising Christ of St John of the Cross.
Loch Lomond: Loch Lomond is, by far, one of the most beautiful places to visit near Glasgow with your family. Tucked amidst rolling hills and surrounded by quaint villages and spectacular natural landscapes, Loch Lomond is also a great place to indulge in a plethora of activitie.
What is the number 1 tourist attraction in Scotland? ›Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh
It takes the title of Scotland's most-visited paid-for attraction, and is, of course, one of the top must-see places in Scotland.
Sauchiehall Street is probably Glasgow's most famous thoroughfare. Originally, it was a winding, narrow lane, with villas standing in gardens. It was widened in 1846 . Now it is a mile-long, broad street, running from Buchanan Street in the east to Kelvingrove and the Museum and Art Galleries in the west.
What is the trendy part of Glasgow? ›Home to Queen's Park, Pollok Country Park and plenty of coffee shops and restaurants, Shawlands is officially Glasgow's coolest neighbourhood. Langside, Strathbungo and Govanhill have also contributed to the area's success recently as many residents are picking the Southside over the West End nowadays.
What is the national food of Glasgow? ›Scotland's national dish is haggis, a savoury meat pudding, and it's traditionally accompanied by mashed potatoes, turnips (known as 'neeps') and a whisky sauce.
What is the most famous street in Glasgow? ›Sauchiehall Street is probably Glasgow's most famous thoroughfare. Originally, it was a winding, narrow lane, with villas standing in gardens. It was widened in 1846 . Now it is a mile-long, broad street, running from Buchanan Street in the east to Kelvingrove and the Museum and Art Galleries in the west.
What is the most walkable city in Scotland? ›Edinburgh, Scotland
Split into two distinct halves, Edinburgh is one of the most walkable cities around.
- Lewis and Harris, Outer Hebrides. ...
- Mainland, Orkney Isles. ...
- Knoydart, Highlands. ...
- Islay and Colonsay, Southern Hebrides. ...
- Ben Nevis and the Caledonian Canal, Highlands. ...
- Great train journeys, Highlands. ...
- The Cairngorms, Highlands and Aberdeenshire. ...
- Big Tree Country, Perthshire.
What is the most colorful street in Glasgow? ›
1. Queen's Park tree-lined avenues. Glasgow means 'Dear Green Place' in Gaelic and it lives up to its name with over 90 parks and gardens open to the public. Take in the autumnal colours in one of the many tree-lined avenues in Queen's Park in the city's southside.
What is the busiest tourist month in Scotland? ›Summer in Scotland is from June to August, which also marks the peak tourism season. It attracts the most visitors because the temperatures are usually higher with averages of 15-17°C (59-63°F). There are also more daylight hours, and countless activities to do and festivals to entertain those interested.
Is it worth going to Glasgow? ›YES! Glasgow Scotland is 100% worth visiting if you're touring Scotland. Staying in Edinburgh, we were debating on whether or not it was worth it for a long time but I'm SO happy we decided to go. The day trip there is very easy – it's a short bus ride.
What are two popular sights in Scotland? ›- 1 | Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle. ...
- 2 | Eilean Donan Castle. ...
- 3 | Glenfinnan Viaduct and the “Hogwarts Express” ...
- 4 | Culloden Battlefield. ...
- 5 | Old Man of Storr. ...
- 6 | Edinburgh Castle. ...
- 7 | Calanais Stones (Callanish) ...
- 8 | Edradour Distillery.
The jewel in the West End's crown, Kingsborough Gardens has long been popular with the rich and famous in Glasgow.
What is the rough town in Glasgow? ›...
Which Is The Most Dangerous Area In Glasgow?
| Area in Glasgow | Total Crimes |
|---|---|
| Anderston/City/Yorkhill | 13757 |
| Calton | 4674 |
| Govan | 4182 |
| Southside Central | 3596 |
Buchanan Street is Glasgow's main pedestrianised shopping area lined with all the big names you'd expect from the great British high street including, the original House of Fraser department store – founded in Glasgow in 1849.
What to wear to Glasgow? ›Plan to wear layers. You can wear a cotton sweater or cardigan with a long sleeve shirt underneath. Pack a pair of jeans and trousers along with waterproof shoes and/or leather boots and you are ready to go! (Don't forget your umbrella.)
Where do celebrities live in Glasgow? ›Footballers, celebrities and business people are most commonly known to flock to Glasgow's west end or Edinburgh's Stockbridge.
What is the breakfast of Scotland? ›As well as the meaty bacon and sausages, a Scottish breakfast will normally include black pudding, which is a type of blood sausage. It's made from beef suet or pork fat, mixed with blood and lots of oatmeal, and can be grilled, fried, or boiled.
What is a typical Glasgow drink? ›
Glasgow Punch
Historically, the punch (concocted using sugar, lemon, lime, rum and water) was served at the Pig Club, the place at which wealthy aristocrats met and networked.
Scotland's iconic national dish known as haggis consists of sausage meat made from the innards of the sheep mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, stock, dried herbs and other seasonings.
What is Glasgow slang for sandwich? ›A 'piece' is generally a sandwich, regardless of filling. What the English might know as a 'chip butty' is known in Scotland as a 'chip piece' for example.
Do they have American food in Scotland? ›Fast Food. McDonald's, KFC, Burger King, Starbucks, and Subway all have a presence in the UK and Edinburgh. If you just need your American fast food and coffee, these are here for you. The menus are comparable if not exactly the same as in the States.
What is the national beverage of Scotland? ›It's no surprise that whisky is the national drink of Scotland.
Why is it called Jamaica Street in Glasgow? ›Jamaica Street, named after the largest slave plantation island in the Caribbean, was opened in 1763 at the height of Glasgow's rum and sugar trade. Jamaica was Glasgow's premier sugar producing centre. It is therefore no surprise that the street was given this name by West Indian merchants in Glasgow.
What is the nickname of Glasgow? ›Many Glaswegians will have heard Glasgow's affectionate nickname, 'The Dear Green Place', bandied around over the years.
Is Glasgow a walking city? ›Glasgow is a very walkable city, especially the city centre, so you can easily explore it on foot whilst taking in the beautiful buildings and architecture around you – don't forget to 'look up' when you're in the city.
What is the most beautiful street in Scotland? ›Circus Lane in Edinburgh - Scotland's 'most beautiful street' Recently named one of the most beautiful in the world and the most attractive in the UK.
Where is the most beautiful city in Scotland? ›Some cities that are frequently cited as being particularly beautiful include Edinburgh, with its castle and historic Royal Mile; Inverness, located in the Scottish Highlands and known for its natural beauty; and St Andrews, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and historic university.
Which city is more beautiful Glasgow or Edinburgh? ›
While Edinburgh has all the historic beauty, Glasgow is more of a city that never sleeps and still has a lot of great other cultural things to indulge in whenever you do want to do some sightseeing. It is possible to visit both cities during your trip to Scotland. They are both only a 45-minute train ride apart.
What is the best time of year to see Scotland? ›When is the best time to visit Scotland? The best time to visit Scotland is during spring (late March to May) and fall (September to November). Temperatures are warmer by spring, with averages of 43°F to 59°F, although there will still be snow in the mountains of the Highlands and the Cairngorms.
How do I get from Glasgow to Isle of Skye? ›🚉 Glasgow to Isle of Skye by Train
So, you first need to take a train to Kyle of Lochalsh (the closest train station to Skye). From there, you can take a bus to Skye. From Glasgow, take the ScotRail from Glasgow Queen Street to Kyle of Lochalsh Station. The journey should take roughly 6 hours and typically costs £103.
Nearly 40,000 people live in the Gorbals. they live for, six eight to a room, often thirty to a lavatory, forty to a tap. they live in Britain's most abandoned slum. At first sight, of an early morning, the Gorbals looks like any other poor area.
Where was what every woman wants in Glasgow? ›After selling, the Weisfelds founded a new discount department store in Glasgow, named Weisfelds, in 1994. Located in the old Goldbergs buildings (Goldbergs having closed in 1990), it had a similar style and range of merchandise to their original WEWW business.
What is the main street in Glasgow called? ›Glasgow is renowned for its shopping scene. The main pedestrianised street Buchanan Street, and surrounding streets, make up a square mile of fantastic shopping!
How many days is enough to see Scotland? ›We recommend you allow 9 - 10 days in Scotland for a satisfying tour of the country's diverse scenery and history. A 10 day itinerary, such as the Best of Scotland tour plan, would let you spend: 2 days in Edinburgh walking the historical streets and enjoying the cosmopolitan buzz.
What is the cheapest time of year to visit Scotland? ›The cheapest time to visit Scotland is during the off season between November and mid-March. However, try to avoid the inflated prices over the Christmas period to keep costs low. Just because winter is the cheapest time to visit Scotland, doesn't mean it's not still a magical time to go.
What are the rainiest months in Scotland? ›Wet seasons
Whilst it rains all year round in Scotland, the wettest periods are autumn and winter.
Glasgow in a day is barely enough to scratch the surface and there is a lot more to do and see all across the city. If you can, I highly recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Glasgow to visit more of Glasgow's fantastic museums and parks and explore further off the beaten track.
What is the best thing about Glasgow? ›
- Glengoyne Distillery. 1,745. ...
- University of Glasgow. 2,031. ...
- Buchanan Street. 5,309. ...
- Glasgow Botanic Gardens. 2,256. ...
- Wellpark Brewery. 1,405. ...
- Glasgow Cathedral. 3,042. Historic Sites • Religious Sites. ...
- Glasgow Science Centre. 2,670. Science Museums • Children's Museums. ...
- The Burrell Collection. 1,394. Art Museums.
Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, is based on the River Clyde in the Scottish Western Lowlands. The city of Glasgow is famous around the world for its art, architecture and culture and features many museums that attract many visitors every day. It's also home to the 3rd oldest underground railways system in the world.
What is the best area to stay in Scotland? ›- Edinburgh – best for short breaks. ...
- Loch Lomond – best for couples. ...
- Ullapool – best for explorers. ...
- Aberdeen – best for night owls. ...
- Dornoch – best for golfers. ...
- Inverness – best for history buffs. ...
- Cowal Peninsula – best for wildlife watching. ...
- Rannoch Moor – best for walkers.
Scotland is famous for its whisky distilleries, bagpipes, lively music culture, and beautiful lochs across the country. From its stunning landscape and architecture to its hearty food and legendary golf courses, Scotland is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world.
What is Glasgow most famous street? ›Sauchiehall Street is probably Glasgow's most famous thoroughfare. Originally, it was a winding, narrow lane, with villas standing in gardens. It was widened in 1846 . Now it is a mile-long, broad street, running from Buchanan Street in the east to Kelvingrove and the Museum and Art Galleries in the west.
Is Glasgow good for tourists? ›YES! Glasgow Scotland is 100% worth visiting if you're touring Scotland.
Is Glasgow or Edinburgh better? ›Generally speaking, Edinburgh is a good choice for those interested in historic sites, traditional Scottish culture and Harry Potter fans. On the other hand, Glasgow is a great option for those after a modern, big-city vibe with great nightlife and live music.
Why is Glasgow a must see city? ›Iconic music scene and live entertainment
It has a legendary music scene with many iconic venues and an exciting calendar of world-class festivals and events. As a UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow is a creative and cultural hub, home to all but one of Scotland's national performing arts organisations.
March-August
The most pleasant time to visit Glasgow is in the warmer spring and summer months. Average temperatures during these months peak in the mid-60s, and days are long, giving sun-starved locals up to 15 hours of daylight.
Glasgow is a very walkable city, especially the city centre, so you can easily explore it on foot whilst taking in the beautiful buildings and architecture around you – don't forget to 'look up' when you're in the city. Get your bearings by visiting our neighbourhood guides.
Why is Bath Street in Glasgow called Bath Street? ›
Bath Street got its name from William Harley, who was known as the water entrepreneur. He built a series of public baths along this street which led to 'pleasure gardens' on his estate at the northern end of the thoroughfare.
Where not to stay in Glasgow? ›Overall Glasgow is not one of the most dangerous cities, but there are some places that you should avoid. Some of the worst areas include Maryhill, Springburn and Lambhill, as well as some areas in the south side of town and around the Glasgow Central Station at night.
What famous people live in Glasgow? ›They include football legend Sir Alex Ferguson, architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Comedian Billy Connolly.
Which city is beautiful in Scotland? ›Some cities that are frequently cited as being particularly beautiful include Edinburgh, with its castle and historic Royal Mile; Inverness, located in the Scottish Highlands and known for its natural beauty; and St Andrews, a coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and historic university.