Glasgow Unveiled: Dive into Scotland's Vibrant Urban Gem

Advisor - Gillian Spatz
Curated By

Gillian Spatz

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  • Arts & Culture

  • City Travel

  • Glasgow

  • Scotland

  • Architecture

A cathedral spire on a hillside next to a river with trees at sunset in Glasgow.
Curator’s statement

Welcome to Glasgow, a city pulsating with energy and cultural richness at every turn. As Scotland's largest metropolis, Glasgow seamlessly blends its industrial past with a dynamic present, offering visitors a multifaceted experience. From its grand Victorian architecture to its thriving arts scene and world-class culinary delights, Glasgow captivates travelers with its eclectic charm. Join us on a journey to explore the beating heart of Scotland, where each cobblestone street and bustling square tells a story of resilience, creativity and boundless spirit.

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Where to stay in Glasgow

Virgin Hotels Glasgow

Refined hotel in Glasgow with a trendy restaurant and bar, plus an intimate lounge.

Fora Perks
  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel

Glasgow’s most stylish stay, with wood-lined guestrooms, a prized Afternoon Tea service and distinctive heartfelt service.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

  • Welcome amenities.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

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Things to do in Glasgow

The cloisters at the University of Glasgow, with arches over a concrete walkway.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: This museum and art gallery is one of Scotland's most popular free attractions, housing an extensive collection ranging from arms and armor to natural history and artworks by renowned artists.

Glasgow Science Centre: A futuristic complex that includes interactive exhibits, a planetarium and the Glasgow Tower. It's a family-friendly destination that makes science fun and accessible to all ages.

The Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel: Award-winning museum showcasing Glasgow's rich industrial heritage, with exhibits ranging from vintage cars and trams to bicycles and ships, located on the banks of the River Clyde.

Glasgow Cathedral: A magnificent example of Scottish Gothic architecture, dating back to the medieval period. It's a historical landmark that tells the story of the city's religious past.

The Necropolis: A Victorian garden cemetery located on a hill next to Glasgow Cathedral. It offers a peaceful place for a walk, with stunning views over the city and impressive funerary architecture.

The University of Glasgow: Founded in 1451, it's one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world. The campus is worth exploring for its beautiful architecture, reminiscent of Hogwarts from the Harry Potter series.

The Glasgow School of Art: An iconic building designed by the famous Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Although it suffered fire damage, guided tours are available to learn about its history and architecture.

Pollok Country Park: The largest park in Glasgow, offering extensive woodlands and gardens. It's home to Pollok House, a grand country house and the Burrell Collection, a museum displaying a diverse range of art and artifacts.

Buchanan Street: Glasgow's main shopping thoroughfare, known for its architectural beauty and a wide range of shops, from high-street favorites to designer boutiques.

Merchant City: A historic district known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a mix of galleries, bars, restaurants and unique shops. It's a great area to experience Glasgow's contemporary culture and nightlife.

Day trips

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Just a short drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park offer stunning scenery, outdoor activities and charming villages. Visitors can take a cruise on Loch Lomond, hike through picturesque landscapes or explore the quaint villages of Luss and Aberfoyle. The area also boasts opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands

Stirling Castle: A day trip to Stirling provides the opportunity to visit two iconic landmarks in Scottish history. Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's most historically significant castles, offers guided tours and exhibits showcasing its rich history. Nearby, the Wallace Monument commemorates the life of William Wallace, the Scottish hero immortalized in the film Braveheart. Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Culzean Castle and the Ayrshire Coast: Located on the Ayrshire coast, Culzean Castle is a magnificent 18th-century castle surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. A day trip to Culzean Castle allows visitors to explore the castle's opulent interiors, stroll through the manicured gardens and enjoy scenic walks along the coastal cliffs. Nearby attractions include the charming town of Ayr, known for its sandy beaches, and the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum dedicated to Scotland's national poet.

Places to eat & drink in Glasgow

The interior of Stravaigin, with wooden tables set with red napkins and brick walls.

Courtesy of Stravaigin

Cail Bruich - This Michelin-starred restaurant blends Franco-Scottish cooking to perfection, offering an exquisite dining experience with attention to detail in both cuisine and service. It's renowned for its seasonal and tasting menus that showcase the best of Scottish produce.

The Hanoi Bike Shop - For a taste of Vietnam in Glasgow, this canteen-style restaurant serves authentic dishes in a casual setting. With a menu that encourages sharing, you can enjoy classics like pho and glass noodle salad.

The Gannet - This restaurant offers contemporary Scottish plates with an emphasis on local, sustainable ingredients. Its Bib Gourmand award speaks to the quality dining experience at moderate prices.

Dakhin - A standout for South Indian cuisine, Dakhin offers a completely gluten-free menu. It's well-regarded for its flavorful dishes, including specialties like uttapam and dosas.

The Ubiquitous Chip - A staple of Glasgow's dining scene, offering contemporary Scottish cuisine with dishes that celebrate local ingredients. The restaurant provides a lush dining atmosphere with ponds and greenery.

Five March - Known for its Mediterranean-inspired brunch and small-plates dinner, this restaurant is celebrated for its unique offerings and stylish setting.

The Finnieston - Specializes in Scottish seafood and a wide selection of gins. Its rustic, seafront vibe complements the fresh, coastal menu.

Stravaigin - Meaning "to wander aimlessly with intent," this restaurant lives up to its name with a menu that takes pub grub to a new level. The weekend brunch here is particularly recommended.

Mother India - As a beacon of Indian cuisine in Glasgow, it focuses on innovative dishes beyond the usual curry house offerings, making it a favorite among locals.

Nanakusa - Offering a blend of traditional Japanese and Scottish cooking techniques, its unique ethos makes it a must-visit for lovers of Japanese cuisine.

Paesano - Praised for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, Paesano's wood-fired ovens produce pizzas with a perfect crust and simple, high-quality toppings.

Gaga - A recent addition to Glasgow's dining scene, focusing on Malaysian-inspired dishes and cocktails. It's quickly becoming a local favorite for its vibrant flavors and atmosphere.

Advisor - Gillian Spatz

Travel Advisor

Gillian Spatz

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Glasgow. For more travel inspiration, check out my guide, Exploring Edinburgh: A Comprehensive Guide to Scotland's Historic Capital.