Top reasons to visit Glasgow
- Cultural Vibrancy: Glasgow boasts a rich cultural scene with diverse theatres and renowned music venues that enhance its artistic heritage.
- Architectural Beauty: The city features stunning architecture and lively street art, perfect for urban exploration.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a range of attractions suitable for families, from urban parks to interactive museums.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Discover welcoming neighbourhoods that offer a warm atmosphere and unique local experiences.
- Diverse Accommodations: Glasgow provides a variety of lodging options, ensuring a perfect fit for all travellers.
Find great hotels in Glasgow
Glasgow offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from modern hotels to charming guesthouses, ensuring every traveller finds the perfect fit. Whether you're seeking a business-friendly hotel or a pet-friendly retreat, the city caters to all. With options like YOTEL Glasgow, you can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA guests and easy access to local attractions. Experience the warmth and hospitality of Glasgow during your stay.
- Britannia Inn Glasgow: Located in the heart of Glasgow, the Britannia Inn Glasgow is a comfortable 3.5-star hotel that caters to both leisure and business travellers. The hotel features dining options including a bar and lounge, as well as an onsite restaurant offering buffet breakfast for an additional fee. Guests can unwind with entertainment amenities such as premium TV channels and digital television. The hotel is ideally situated near shopping and entertainment districts, with convenient access to nearby locations such as the airport and hospitals, making it a practical choice for those exploring the vibrant city.
- Leonardo Royal Hotel Glasgow: A distinguished 4-star establishment, the Leonardo Royal Hotel Glasgow stands out with a guest rating of 9.2. This hotel is an excellent choice for eco-conscious travellers, boasting eco-certification alongside modern business facilities. Its central position in Glasgow makes it convenient for both work and leisure. The hotel seamlessly combines sustainability with comfort, ensuring a memorable stay for those prioritising an eco-friendly experience without compromising on quality.
- Leonardo Inn Glasgow West End: The Leonardo Inn Glasgow West End is a 3-star hotel that provides an eco-certified environment suited for both business and leisure visitors. This property offers a blend of comfort and sustainability, making it an appealing choice for environmentally aware guests. Conveniently located in the West End, it allows easy access to various local attractions while providing essential amenities for a productive stay. The hotel is designed to meet the needs of modern travellers seeking both efficiency and eco-friendliness in their accommodations.
Where to stay in Glasgow
Glasgow offers an unforgettable travel experience, blending vibrant city life with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Explore the bustling city centre, adorned with stunning architecture and lively street art, or unwind in its charming neighbourhoods. From family-friendly attractions to romantic spots, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the breathtaking city views and the rich cultural offerings that make visiting Glasgow a delightful adventure for all types of travellers.
- City Centre Glasgow: The vibrant heart of Glasgow, City Centre Glasgow is a hub of activity and culture. Known for its year-round appeal, this area attracts visitors seeking family-friendly entertainment and cultural experiences. The city centre boasts a range of venues, from grand theatres to bustling shopping districts. Major landmarks include the iconic stadium and the expansive national park, perfect for a leisurely stroll. With peak visitor numbers in August and October to November, you’ll find plenty of events and activities, making it an ideal base for exploring the city's rich history and modern attractions.
- Glasgow Westend: A charming and eclectic neighbourhood, Glasgow Westend is renowned for its picturesque streets and vibrant cultural scene. This area is popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a fantastic blend of historic sites and modern amenities. You can enjoy a variety of activities such as visiting renowned theatres and educational institutions like historic college universities. The local landmarks, including a lively town neighbourhood and a sports stadium, add to its unique character. With peak visits in August and October to November, the Westend is a delightful area to explore for those seeking an enriching experience.
- East Kilbride: Located just outside Glasgow, East Kilbride is a quaint village that beckons visitors with its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. This area is popular throughout the year, particularly in the summer months of June to July. Visitors can explore shopping centres and entertainment facilities while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty, including a national park and serene lakes. East Kilbride offers a perfect getaway for those looking to combine leisure with adventure, making it a must-visit destination for any traveller.
Things to do in Glasgow
Shopping
In the heart of Glasgow, you can explore Buchanan Galleries for a range of high-street brands and unique boutiques. If you're up for a drive, head to Braehead Shopping Centre, which offers extensive retail options, or visit Silverburn for a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Recreation
In Glasgow, the Blythswood Square Hotel offers a tranquil spa experience with a range of rejuvenating treatments and a soothing thermal suite. For outdoor relaxation, visit Pollok Country Park, where you can stroll through lush gardens and enjoy peaceful picnic spots amidst nature.
Adventure
Explore the striking landscapes of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, located a short drive from Glasgow. Enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking, and cycling amidst breathtaking scenery, or relax by the tranquil loch while soaking in the stunning views of rolling hills and lush forests.
Experience the thrill of indoor climbing at The Climbing Academy, where challenging walls cater to all skill levels. Test your limits while enjoying a vibrant atmosphere, and meet fellow adventurers as you navigate routes designed to enhance your climbing abilities.
For a unique challenge, try the Escape Rooms in Glasgow. Engage your mind as you solve puzzles and unravel mysteries within themed rooms, all while racing against the clock. Bring your friends for an exhilarating experience filled with teamwork and excitement.
Take a guided mountain biking tour through the scenic trails of the nearby Campsie Fells. With routes suitable for various skill levels, you can enjoy the thrill of biking while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Unleash your inner adventurer at the Glasgow Climbing Centre, where you can scale indoor walls of varying difficulty. Experience the excitement of climbing in a safe environment, with expert instructors on hand to guide you through the challenges.
Nightlife
Start your evening at The Butterfly and the Pig on Bath Street for a quirky atmosphere and hearty food. Then, explore the vibrant scene at The Garage on Renfield Lane for dancing and live DJ sets, or unwind at The Scotia Bar on Stockwell Street with traditional folk music.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Glasgow
Glasgow is an affordable destination with various free activities, such as exploring Buchanan Street, the University of Glasgow, and George Square. For public transport, consider the subway, buses, or simply walking, as the city is quite compact. To save on accommodation, visit in January or October to November, and book your hotel about a month in advance. Monday is typically the cheapest day to stay, while Saturday is the most expensive. Check Expedia for last-minute deals and consider package bookings for flights and hotels to maximise your savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Glasgow are January and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Glasgow is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Glasgow is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Glasgow is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Glasgow with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Glasgow
Glasgow is an ideal destination for family, entertainment, and romantic getaways, offering a variety of attractions such as urban parks, museums, and vibrant streets. The city's points of interest cater to those seeking cultural experiences, family fun, and urban exploration, making it a perfect choice for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the local scene.
- Buchanan Street: Explore Buchanan Street, a vibrant pedestrian precinct renowned for its shopping and lively atmosphere. Lined with an array of shops, cafés, and street performers, it offers a delightful experience for families and those seeking outdoor enjoyment in the heart of Glasgow.
- Glasgow Green: This expansive urban park is an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and family picnics. With its beautiful gardens, historical monuments, and open spaces, Glasgow Green invites visitors to unwind while soaking in the city’s natural beauty.
- George Square: As the cultural hub of Glasgow, George Square boasts impressive architecture and significant statues. This lively piazza is perfect for exploring local art, history, and attending events, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Best time to go to Glasgow
The best time to visit Glasgow is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Glasgow
Flying into Glasgow offers three major airports. Glasgow International Airport (GLA) is situated 11km from the city centre, with nearby hotels like the 5-star JA Mar Hall Scotland and the Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, both providing convenient access. Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) is located 45km away, with quality hotels such as the 5-star Marine Troon and the 4-star Fairfield House – Ayr. Lastly, Edinburgh Airport (EDI), 56km from Glasgow, features options like the 5.5-star Crescent House and the 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh. Each airport offers various transportation services to their respective hotels, ensuring a smooth arrival experience.