Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is a vibrant and dynamic destination that boasts a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving cultural scene. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s museums and galleries, attending a concert or event, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Glasgow has something to offer for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best attractions and things to do in Glasgow, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will give you a comprehensive overview of all that Glasgow has to offer. So, buckle up and get ready for an exciting journey through one of Scotland’s most fascinating cities!

The 14 Best Things You Have To Do In Glasgow

1. Glasgows West End Private Tour
2. Private Glasgow West End Tour
3. The Braveheart Tour
4. Glengoyne Distillery Guided Tour Whiskey Tasting
5. Celtic Park Stadium Tour and Dining Experience
6. Discover Glasgow Full Day Private Tour in Mercedes Benz People Carrier
7. Glasgow Private Historical Walking Tour
8. Stirling Private Day Tour and Sightseeing With Luxury Chauffeur
9. Glasgow Day Tour and Sightseeing Luxury Private Chauffeur
10. Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus 2 Day Ticket
11. Glasgow Afternoon Tea Experience Aboard a 1966 Routemaster Bus
12. Highland Experience 2 Day Tour from Glasgow
13. Edinburgh Private Day Tour With Luxury Chauffeur
14. City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Tour

The 14 Best Things You Have To Do In Glasgow

1. Glasgows West End Private Tour

Get to know Glasgow’s West End with the help of a private guide on a walking tour that offers a personalized experience. You’ll explore cultural sights and landmarks that include Kelvin Hall and Kibble Palace, along with the must-visit bars and cafes of Glasgow. Your private guide will share stories about the city’s fascinating history and make recommendations on where to eat as you stop for snacks and drinks. The tour is flexible, so you can choose your own start time and departure point, making it perfect for all visitors to the city. Included are all taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as a Hotel Meet & Greet (City Centre – within a walk to George Sq only), and gratuities, with pickup and drop-off options provided outside of Glasgow, such as cruise ships at Greenock.

2. Private Glasgow West End Tour

Discover Glasgow’s West End with a private walking tour led by a local guide. During this 1.5-hour tour, immerse yourself in the history of Glasgow’s development as you explore important monuments like the University of Glasgow and the Botanic Gardens. Your expert guide will also take you to hidden gems only known by the locals. Explore Kibble Palace at the Botanic Gardens, the Lady of the Lake in Kelvingrove Park, and even a hidden railway line. Hotel pickup is included for an intimate and immersive experience. Don’t miss out on discovering the affluent and unique history of Glasgow’s West End.

3. The Braveheart Tour

If you’re a fan of the story of William Wallace, the Braveheart Tour is the perfect way to explore Scotland’s rich history. This private guided tour takes you to key landmarks including Stirling Castle, Bannockburn, and the National Wallace Monument. With the tour focused on William Wallace, you’ll learn all about Scottish history while enjoying a personalized experience. You can explore at your own pace without waiting around for others. The tour includes bottled water, a DVD player, and admission tickets. You can head directly to the meeting point at the Carlton George Hotel or request pickup from a select location. The start time and opening hours vary, so be sure to confirm with the local provider in advance.

4. Glengoyne Distillery Guided Tour Whiskey Tasting

Experience the fascinating world of whiskey-making with the Glengoyne Distillery Guided Tour Whiskey Tasting. Led by an expert guide, you will learn the intricate process of whiskey-making from the mashtun and washbacks to the swan-necks of copper stills. Get lost in the captivating aroma of the distillery and discover how every ounce of flavor is captured before they send the spirit to the cask.

After the tour, indulge in a tutored tasting of three Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Whiskies, each with its unique taste and character. To top the experience off, pair your whiskey with award-winning chocolates from a renowned Highland Chocolatier.

Please note that this tour includes additional drinks and is not suitable for children under 18 years. Book your Glengoyne Distillery Guided Tour Whiskey Tasting now to discover the magic behind Scotland’s beloved whiskey.

5. Celtic Park Stadium Tour and Dining Experience

Experience behind-the-scenes access to Celtic Park stadium, the home of Celtic Football Club. Take a guided tour and discover the Celtic FC boardroom, home dressing room, tunnel and dugouts. After the tour, enjoy a delicious 3-course meal in a restaurant. Adults will dine on a set menu while children can choose from the kids’ menu. Please note that the Tour and Dine package doesn’t include any drinks, tea, coffee or extras, which must be paid directly at the restaurant before departing. Children under 5 can join the stadium tour for free. If they want to dine at the restaurant afterwards, simply inform your server and the fee will be added to your bill. Don’t miss this great opportunity to experience one of Glasgow’s most iconic attractions.

6. Discover Glasgow Full Day Private Tour in Mercedes Benz People Carrier

Discover Glasgow at your own pace on this private full-day tour in a Mercedes Benz people carrier. Customize your itinerary to your preferences and interests as your driver and guide take you to the city’s most important landmarks and hidden gems. Learn about Glasgow’s rich history and culture from your guide, who will provide fascinating insights and answer any questions you may have. Bottled water, soda, snacks, and tours of the Tennents brewery and Clydeside distillery are included in the package. You can head directly to the meeting point at 40 George Square or request pickup. The activity ends back at the meeting point outside the Millennium hotel. This private tour exclusively caters to your party, providing a personalized experience with flexibility to ensure your satisfaction.

7. Glasgow Private Historical Walking Tour

Step into the past on a walking tour of Glasgow’s historical highlights, including George Square, Glasgow Cathedral, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Police Museum. Explore the hidden alleys and lanes of the Merchant City, and discover the original Medieval city center. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights into the city’s rich history. This private tour includes entrance to the Cathedral, Gallery of Modern Art, and the Police Museum, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Food, drinks, and tips are not included. Don’t miss this opportunity to uncover the secrets of Glasgow’s past!

8. Stirling Private Day Tour and Sightseeing With Luxury Chauffeur

Explore the historic city of Stirling in style with this private day tour and sightseeing experience with luxury chauffeur. This tour is perfect for those with limited time, as all of the planning has been taken care of for you. Travel in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz vehicle and enjoy on-board Wi-Fi as you visit top sights including Stirling Castle, the Church of the Holy Rude, The Battle of Bannockburn Experience, and more. With door-to-door transfers included, there’s no need to worry about map reading or getting lost. Plus, this tour is completely private, so you won’t have to wait for anyone else. Pickup points are available throughout Glasgow, making it easy to start your adventure. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to see some of the best highlights of Stirling with the services of a knowledgeable Scottish chauffeur. Entrance fees to visitor attractions are included, and gratuities are at the passenger’s discretion. Book your private day tour now and experience Stirling like a VIP.

9. Glasgow Day Tour and Sightseeing Luxury Private Chauffeur

Explore the top attractions of Glasgow hassle-free with the luxury private chauffeur service that picks you up right from your hotel. Discover Glasgow Cathedral, St. Mungo Museum, The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, and George Square while enjoying comfort and convenience. Forget about crowded public transport and waiting for other travelers, instead sit back and relax while your chauffeur takes you to multiple destinations in a single day. With a private tour, you can tailor your itinerary to your personal interests and make the most out of your experience. The package includes entrance fees to visitor attractions, gratuities, and door-to-door service, making it a truly hassle-free day. This private excursion is available for up to six passengers, making it perfect for families and small groups.

10. Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus 2 Day Ticket

Explore one of the most vibrant Scottish cities with a 1 or 2-day ticket to Glasgow’s hop-on and hop-off bus. The tour covers the city’s main attractions and places of interest, including museums, art galleries, parks, buildings as well as shopping opportunities. This tour is perfect for families as you can get a family ticket that covers 2 adults along with 3 children between the ages of 5 and 15.

In addition, Glasgow’s pubs, cafés, bars, and nightclubs make it one of the new preferred destinations for short breaks. The visitor attractions and places of interest are spread throughout the city, and the best way to visit the attractions and see the city is to step on one of the open-top tour buses for a fully guided tour around all the main sights.

You can jump off at any of the 22 stops conveniently located throughout the city, including the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow Cathedral, St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art, Merchant Square, Barras Market, and People’s Palace & Winter Gardens. This tour is a great way to get to know Glasgow, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to explore all that the city has to offer.

11. Glasgow Afternoon Tea Experience Aboard a 1966 Routemaster Bus

Board a vintage bus for a driving tour of Glasgow complete with afternoon tea. Enjoy traditional sandwiches, warm scones with cream and jam, and a selection of petit fours as you cruise through the streets, admiring top attractions including the West End and Glasgow University. Sip on tea, coffee, or wine (available for purchase) while taking in the sights. With several departure times available, you can choose one that suits your schedule. The tour passes by famous landmarks such as the Gallery of Modern Art and City Chambers. The activity concludes where it started, at Shuttle Street in Glasgow. Don’t forget to take home a souvenir drinks cup to remember this unique afternoon tea experience.

12. Highland Experience 2 Day Tour from Glasgow

Explore the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands with a 2-day sightseeing tour of Loch Ness. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, admire breathtaking views of Glen Coe and the towering mountain of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the British Isles. Begin your journey north to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park before arriving at the charming village of Luss on the banks of Loch Lomond. Look out for stunning flowers and wildlife as you pass through. This tour includes comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation, transportation, and entrance fees. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old. Join us for an unforgettable Highland experience.

13. Edinburgh Private Day Tour With Luxury Chauffeur

Discover the best of Edinburgh in one day with this private tour that includes a luxury chauffeur. Avoid the hassle of public transport and enjoy the convenience of traveling in an air-conditioned Mercedes Benz with a personal driver to take you to different landmarks and attractions. With this flexible tour, you can create your own itinerary based on your interests, and visit attractions like Edinburgh Old Town, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood Park, and Calton Hill. This private tour also includes entrance fees to visitor attractions, Wi-Fi access, and pickup and drop-off services from cruise ships or Glasgow locations. You can sit back and enjoy the scenery while your knowledgeable Scottish chauffeur tells you stories of the places you visit. With everything tailored to your needs, this luxury private tour is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Edinburgh at their own pace.

14. City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Tour

Go sightseeing around Glasgow at your leisure through the City Sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour. Enjoy the flexibility to set your own itinerary and explore the city’s top attractions at your own pace. With the full commentary available in seven languages (including a Kids Commentary!), you’ll be informed of everything you need to know about the lively and cosmopolitan city. Hop on and off at multiple stops around the city where the strategically placed stops make discovering Glasgow even simpler. You’ll be provided with free headphones for the audio commentary, and your sightseeing pass will be valid for one or two consecutive calendar days from the time of its first usage. An open-top double-decker sightseeing bus tour, this experience is on included in the food, drinks, gratuities, hotel pickup and drop-off.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About the City Glasgow

Glasgow is a vibrant Scottish city full of character, culture, and history. It is often referred to as the “dear green place,” as it boasts over 90 parks and green spaces. With so much to see and do, it’s no surprise that tourists flock to Glasgow every year. Here’s a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about the city to help you plan your trip.

1. What’s the best time to visit Glasgow?

The best time to visit Glasgow is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, so expect crowds and higher prices. The fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) are great times to visit if you want to avoid the crowds but still enjoy mild weather. Winter (December to February) is the quietest time of the year, and you can enjoy lower prices and holiday festivities.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Glasgow?

Glasgow is full of attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum – a world-renowned museum with over 22 galleries
• The Glasgow Cathedral – a stunning medieval cathedral that dates back to the 12th century
• The Glasgow Science Centre – a hands-on museum that focuses on science and technology
• The Riverside Museum – a museum that tells the story of Glasgow’s transport history through interactive exhibits
• The Glasgow Necropolis – a Victorian era cemetery that is known for its gothic architecture and beautiful views of the city

3. What is the best way to get around Glasgow?

The best way to get around Glasgow is on foot, as many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other. If you prefer public transport, the subway system, also known as the “Clockwork Orange,” is a fast and efficient way to get around. You can also use the buses, trains or taxis to get around the city.

4. What are the best areas to stay in Glasgow?

Glasgow has a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. Here are some of the best areas to stay in:

• The West End – a trendy neighborhood that is home to the University of Glasgow and many restaurants and bars
• The City Centre – the heart of the city, with many shops, museums, and attractions
• Merchant City – a historic area with beautiful architecture and many art galleries and restaurants
• Finnieston – a former industrial area that has been transformed into a hip neighborhood with many bars, restaurants, and music venues

5. What is Glasgow known for?

Glasgow is known for many things, including:

• The University of Glasgow – one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK
• The River Clyde – a historic river that was once one of the busiest shipping ports in the world
• The Glasgow music scene – many famous musicians have come from or performed in Glasgow, including Franz Ferdinand, Simple Minds, and Primal Scream
• The Glasgow accent – a distinct Scottish accent that is known for its rolling “r”s and unique pronunciations
• The Glasgow style of architecture – a distinctive style that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by ornate decoration and the use of natural motifs

6. What is the weather like in Glasgow?

The weather in Glasgow is generally mild and rainy, with cool temperatures throughout the year. Summer temperatures are usually around 20°C (68°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 5°C (41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so be sure to pack a raincoat and umbrella.

7. What are some traditional Scottish dishes to try in Glasgow?

Glasgow has a variety of restaurants that serve traditional Scottish cuisine. Here are some dishes to try:

• Haggis – a savory meat pudding made with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, traditionally served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes)
• Cullen skink – a thick soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions
• Cranachan – a dessert made with whipped cream, Scottish oats, honey, and raspberries
• Scotch pie – a small, savory meat pie that is a popular snack in Scotland

8. What are some free things to do in Glasgow?

Glasgow has many free attractions and activities. Here are some of the best ones:

• The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• The Glasgow Cathedral
• The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens
• The Gallery of Modern Art
• The Glasgow Green park

9. What are some day trips from Glasgow?

Glasgow is a great base for exploring other parts of Scotland. Here are some popular day trips:

• The Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park – a beautiful area of mountains, lochs, and forests that is popular for hiking and outdoor activities
• The Isle of Arran – a picturesque island with beautiful beaches, castles, and hiking trails
• The Loch Ness and the Highlands – a scenic area that is known for its stunning landscapes, historic castles, and the legendary Loch Ness Monster
• The Stirling Castle and the Trossachs – a historic castle that played a key role in Scottish history, surrounded by beautiful countryside

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Glasgow

Glasgow is a wonderful city that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a guide on how to make the most of your time in Glasgow as a tourist.

1. Visit the Glasgow Cathedral

One of the oldest buildings in Glasgow, the Cathedral is a beautiful example of medieval architecture. You can attend worship services, take a guided tour or explore the building on your own. Make sure to stop by the St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art, located next to the Cathedral. The museum is free, and it focuses on the role of religion in the city’s history and present.

2. Walk around the Glasgow Necropolis

Located on a hill overlooking Glasgow, the Necropolis is a Victorian cemetery filled with impressive tombs and monuments. You can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the beautiful views of the city from the hill. If you’re interested in history, take a guided tour to learn more about the notable people buried there.

3. Explore Glasgow’s Museums and Galleries

Glasgow is home to several museums and galleries, including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Riverside Museum, and the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA). Kelvingrove is one of the most visited museums in the UK, and it features an extensive collection of art, natural history, and artifacts from around the world. The Riverside Museum is dedicated to the city’s transport history, and GoMA showcases contemporary art.

4. Sample Scottish cuisine

Glasgow is famous for its food scene, and there are plenty of places to sample traditional Scottish cuisine. Try haggis, a savory pudding made of sheep’s organs and oatmeal, or neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). For a sweet treat, try a deep-fried Mars bar or a piece of tablet, a Scottish version of fudge.

5. Take a walk in the parks

Glasgow is known as the “dear green place” because of its many parks and green spaces. Take a walk in the Botanic Gardens, located in the West End of the city, or explore the Pollok Country Park, home to the Burrell Collection art museum.

6. Visit the Glasgow Science Centre

If you’re travelling with children or have an interest in science, then the Glasgow Science Centre is a must-visit attraction. It features over 300 interactive exhibits, as well as a planetarium and an IMAX cinema.

7. Attend a concert or show

Glasgow is a popular destination for music lovers, and it has a vibrant live music scene. Check out what’s playing at the famous King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut or attend a concert at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. If you’re interested in theatre, book tickets for a show at the Citizens Theatre, the Tron Theatre, or the Theatre Royal.

8. Take a day trip to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

Located just a short drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park are some of Scotland’s most beautiful natural landscapes. Enjoy the stunning scenery, go fishing, or take a boat tour on the loch.

Book Your Tour Now

There’s always something to do in Glasgow, whether you’re interested in history, art, music, or nature. By following this guide, you’ll be able to experience the best that the city has to offer. Don’t forget to try some Scottish cuisine, and take the time to soak in the friendly local culture.