Discover Glasgow
Glasgow seduces with its creative energy, majestic Victorian architecture and warm atmosphere. Cradle of an important industrial and artistic heritage, the city is today a hotbed of culture, music and design. It’s an essential stop-off point for exploring a modern, lively and deeply authentic Scotland.
Why visit Glasgow?
Glasgow is famous for its world-famous museums, Victorian buildings and art scene. Whether you’re a history buff, music lover or shopping enthusiast, Glasgow is full of exciting things to do. Each neighborhood reveals a unique facet of the city, always enhanced by the warm welcome and authenticity of its people.
Must-sees in Glasgow
- Glasgow Cathedral: A superb 12th-century medieval cathedral, a rare example of Scottish Gothic architecture that is still intact.
- The Glasgow Science Centre: interactive science center with fun exhibitions, planetarium and IMAX cinema. An ideal family outing.
- George Square: the city’s central square, lined with majestic buildings and bustling with events all year round.
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: an iconic museum featuring works of art, historical artifacts and curiosities, in a remarkable architectural setting.
- The Riverside Museum: award-winning museum dedicated to transportation and technological ingenuity, perfect for young and old.
- Buchanan Street: Glasgow’s most vibrant shopping street, with a mix of designer boutiques, high street names and street artists.
Neighborhoods not to be missed
- Merchant City: A trendy, chic and lively area, with a mix of art galleries, modern restaurants and designer bars.
- West End: A leafy, bohemian neighborhood renowned for its parks, bookshops, cafés and Glasgow University.
- Glasgow Green: One of the city’s oldest public parks, ideal for a riverside stroll or picnic.
- Finnieston: Glasgow’s creative food epicenter, with a thriving arts scene.
Practical tips for your stay in Glasgow
| Transport | Efficient bus and metro network. Day passes available for visitors. |
| Hosting | A wide choice of hotels, B&Bs and inns to suit all budgets. |
| Currency | Pound sterling (£). Card payments accepted almost everywhere. |
| Language | English, with a strong but warm Scottish accent. |
| Weather | Changeable weather. Bring a raincoat or umbrella. |
| Visa | Check whether you need a visa or ETA authorization before departure. |
Where to eat?
- The Willow Tea Rooms: an iconic tea room designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, perfect for a typical Scottish afternoon tea.
- The Gannet: Award-winning gourmet address, featuring local produce in an elegant atmosphere.
- Ubiquitous Chip: West End culinary institution, offering modern Scottish cuisine in a green and friendly setting.
- Ox and Finch: Inventive small plates to share, in a contemporary and refined setting.
- Paesano Pizza: One of the city’s best pizzerias, loved for its affordable prices and authentic Neapolitan flavours.
When to go to Glasgow?
Glasgow can be visited all year round, but May to September are the most pleasant months to enjoy mild temperatures and more clement weather. Summer is also marked by numerous cultural festivals and open-air concerts. Autumn and winter are wetter, but the atmosphere remains warm, with museums, cosy pubs and festive illuminations in December. Remember to bring waterproof clothing whatever the season.
Finally
Compared to other major British cities, Glasgow stands out for its artistic atmosphere, local authenticity and legendary music scene. Less touristy than London or Edinburgh, Glasgow’s creative energy, friendly people and transformative neighborhoods make it a great place to visit.
If you loved the historic elegance of Oxford, the musical heritage of Liverpool or the effervescence of Manchester, you’ll love Glasgow’s ebullient and endearing character.
The formalities for visiting Glasgow depend on the nationality of the traveller and the length of their stay. For short stays, nationals of the European Union, the United States, Canada and many other countries are now required to obtain an ETA if they do not have a visa for England.
The UK ETA can be applied for via the official UK ETA application. UK residents and Irish citizens are not concerned.
