Things to do in Glasgow

Glasgow, set along the banks of the River Clyde, is a city known for its dynamic blend of history, culture, and creativity. Famous for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture, this vibrant metropolis invites visitors to explore iconic landmarks such as the Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning example of medieval Gothic design, and the renowned Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which houses an extensive collection of fine art and historical exhibits. These landmarks tell the story of Glasgow’s evolution from a key industrial center to a thriving cultural capital.

No visit to Glasgow would be complete without diving into its lively atmosphere. The trendy West End is famous for its stylish cafés, eclectic shops, and buzzing nightlife, while the Merchant City area offers a mix of upscale dining, bars, and unique boutiques. Visitors can also enjoy the city's green spaces, like the beautiful Glasgow Green, or experience its world-class music scene. Whether you're exploring historic sites, enjoying local cuisine, or soaking up the city’s creative energy, Glasgow offers an unforgettable experience for all.

Fun Activities

If you want to stay in the city and you have a head for heights, you can challenge yourself at the Glasgow Climbing Centre, which has three bouldering areas and 16 meter climbing routes, and is built inside an old church. If you don’t mind venturing out of the city for a day, you’re not far from the stunning Loch Lomond, where you can hire a canoe for the best possible way to take in the scenery. As well as the above, you can also find a hugh list of activities and days out in Glasgow.

Eating Out

Being situated on one of the largest seaports in Britain certainly has its advantages, especially when it comes to sourcing world-class seafood and shellfish. Eating out is a big deal in Glasgow, and its gastronomic offerings are always highly rated by travel magazines. If you want something authentic, there are many restaurants serving a modern twist on Scottish favourites. Glasgow’s unique geography has resulted in an international mix of cultures settling in the city, so you can dine on dishes from all over the world in one visit.

Culture Vulture

Glasgow is famously the home of celebrated Art Noveau pioneer Charles Rennie Mackintosh, and his architectural works can be seen throughout the city. Visit his award-winning masterpiece, The Glasgow School of Art. Head to The Lighthouse to find out more about his highly influential style. The Scottish Opera have also made their home in Glasgow, and you can watch their innovative performances in the beautiful and venerable Theatre Royal. You can also download one of the many self guided walks from Curious About, so that you can make the most of your time exploring Glasgow

After Dark

You can’t go on a night out in Glasgow without sampling the national drink – Whisky! There’s loads of bars in Glasgow dedicated to the ‘water of life’, so you’re sure to sample a dram or two. You can also book onto a Whisky Tasting Tour or visit one of the 100 distilleries dotted across Scotland. If whisky is not your thing, there are plenty of other drinks on offer in the many bars and clubs on Sauchiehall Street. Dedicated clubbers will already be aware of Glasgow’s reputation as a clubbing capital, where you can dance the night away in underground clubs, warehouses and massive venues.

Eating Out and Places to Stay in Glasgow

 

For a memorable stay in Glasgow, Hotels.com offers a diverse selection of comfortable accommodations, perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant culture and stunning architecture. Whether you’re looking for a stylish hotel in the bustling city center or a cozy boutique guesthouse in the trendy West End, Hotels.com has options to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. 

Enjoy an exciting culinary scene, featuring everything from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine, and be sure to visit iconic attractions like the Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the Glasgow Cathedral, and the lively Merchant City. With its unique blend of history and modernity, Glasgow promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor!

Something a bit different…

Here’s something different for you – a stroll around a graveyard! Glasgow Necropolis is an incredibly ornate Victorian cemetery which is the final resting place for over 50,000 remains. The stunning monuments and gravestones were modelled on the Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris and is right next to the impressive Glasgow Cathedral, so you can take in two sights at once.

We hope that you enjoyed reading our article about Things to do in Glasgow, as you can see Glasgow has so many historical, cultural and social things to discover - we hope we’ve given you some inspiration to explore this amazing city!