As Scotland’s largest city with a population of about 600,000, Glasgow has a lot to do with visitors. It’s cosmopolitan and lively, with great local crowds who love to welcome visitors to their city. The city’s motto: “People make Glasgow” is almost eloquent as it can sum up the city. Something is always going on in the city of Glasgow, so it’s welcome and fun! A quick guide to Glasgow will help you plan your visit.
A quick guide to Glasgow
There are two international airports serving Glasgow. Main Airport and Glasgow Prestwick in Ryanair.
Once you land at the main airport, the easiest way to the city centre is by means of a shuttle bus, which you can book upon arrival. Taxi fares in Glasgow are also mild, so it’s worth it if you have 3-4 passengers heading towards the city.
When you land on Glasgow Prestwick (for budget airline Ryanair), the easiest and cheapest way to town is by train (twice per hour) or bus (which is useful when the train is not running). If you notice that you are stuck there will be signs and information help desks pointing the road!
If you arrive by train (i.e. from Edinburgh – just an hour away), you will arrive at the central station by train, or by train from the UK. If you only have one day off in Glasgow, each of these stations has luggage lockers so you can explore the city for a day and travel later in the evening. The station is making a switch and if it’s very central, you’ll walk away just 10 minutes.
Traveling around Glasgow
Glasgow is a rather compact city and is one of the best options for everything in the city centre. If you are planning to visit a museum in a suburban museum (i.e. Glasgow’s most popular Kelivingrove Museum), the two main options are to catch the subway (which will be a circular movement around Glasgow) or take an urban bus tour (1 hour 45 minutes on a total round trip). These are hops, so you’ll jump off the bus, so the next bus will The usual 15 minutes.
Stay
For four days in the city, I checked in to Citizen M. This is perfect for travelers who want to maintain style but don’t want to drain their bank account. It can be described as a hostel atmosphere hotel – lots of young people, lots of great community areas, and basic rooms focused on you I really want it When you check in to the hotel, that is, a king bed, free movies and lots of channels, an iPad, free Wi-Fi and a plasma with a great buffet breakfast. Sounds lush, but the rooms are small and economical, but it’s a great price and still means an amazing level of comfort! No, they didn’t pay or pay for my accommodation to tell me this… I loved it so much!
Please take a look
Glasgow has a lot to offer to visitors, so it takes at least two days to comfortably see all the major attractions.
City Center:
Lighthouse
(Photo above) Lighthouse is proof that Glasgow is focused on innovative architecture. This is a Scottish design and architecture centre. If architecture doesn’t tickle your fantasies, head to the third floor and climb the winding stairs to the top floor to enjoy a comfortable view of the city’s skyline! Above all, it’s free!
Gallery of Modern Art (Gama)
Another great free attraction in Glasgow (all city public museums open free until 5pm) is the gallery of contemporary art. The exhibition here is always really interesting and innovative, and if you find yourself in a sudden downpour, it’s a great way to escape the rain!
Glasgow Cathedral
Glasgow Cathedral is a stunning cathedral in the city centre and is just a 20-minute walk from the CBD itself.
At the western edge:
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
The Keliving Rove Art Gallery and Museum are located outside the city centre in the West End and are just eight minutes’ walk from Buchanan Underground Station. The cheapest option is to grab a one-day pass on the day you plan to visit Kelvingrove at Glasgow University, and use it freely if you want to read West End boutiques and vintage shops.
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow is located right next to Keluvingroves and is a great way to spend time wandering through old buildings and architecture.
Riverside Museum
The Riverside Museum is unique in its focus on transportation across ages and is an interesting place to take children with you if you are traveling with your family. Free again!
Eat and drink
This is what Glasgow is famous for. It’s a friendly and fun culture centered around delicious food and drinks along with excellent companies! There are some that suit everyone’s tastes. Here are some highlights of the city.
Gunnet
This was my favorite dining experience in Glasgow. It was a great dining experience with great food, but best described as a fine dining “without faf”. Casual, understated and great service + food. 2 people who do not include drinks, expect to pay around £60-80 for three courses.
Drygate Brewery
Glasgow is famous for producing some amazing brews. So head to the Drygate Brewery for a tour + tasting. There is also an incredible restaurant here to complete a heartfelt lunch meal experience.
Bar + Pub
Glasgow is bursting with many, many, many choices when it comes to drinks + night out! Some great options include Blackfriars Bar & Kitchen. Munro and Brellbar for beer lovers. Check with your local for the latest recommendations on where to go in the evening!
Vegetarian in Glasgow?
No problem! Some locals like this: 78; mononucleosis; and stereo.
Shopping Guide to Glasgow
Glasgow is a huge city and offers a wide range of shopping options! Here’s where to go:
Buchanan Street It is Glasgow’s biggest and busiest shopping street and, if you know what you’re looking for, it certainly offers a lot in terms of international brands!
West End Perfect for more whimsical options, especially if you’re enjoying vintage shopping!
There are also many shopping centres in the town, but some would love to head indoors when exploring a new city! Enjoy shopping fixes while enjoying Glasgow as you venture around the city and the West End.
Glasgow Guide: Day Trips
If you’ve been in town for a few days and have already “see everything”, you might want to take a day trip somewhere nearby. Here’s what’s available:
Loch Lomond, Sterling Castle, Whisky Distillery Day Tour
Loch Ness & Highlands on a day tour
Day Visit to Edinburgh
World of Wonderlust visited Glasgow as a guest in Glasgow. All opinions were my own and I absolutely loved this city!