Itineraries for Your Trip to Glasgow
3 Days in Glasgow for First Timers
Travelers to Scotland often overlook Glasgow’s gritty glamour in favor of Edinburgh. And when I say travelers, I’m including myself. I’d visited Edinburgh several times before I gave Glasgow a chance, and wow, was I glad I did.
My favorite things about Glasgow include—but aren’t limited to—mist-shrouded mountains steeped in legend and folklore, some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet, an art scene to rival some of the European greats, a raucous nightlife scene, and an up-and-coming culinary scene that makes the most of stunning Scottish ingredients. Here’s how to experience the best of Scotland’s second city in three days.
Wear warm layers because Glasgow’s northern location means that it regularly experiences rain and chilly gales of wind.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a visit to George Square, a 19th-century plaza famed for its grand architecture.
Get to grips with Glasgow’s historic center this morning. Opt to explore on foot or, if it’s raining, ride a hop-on, hop-off bus—a weatherproof way to explore the city. Must-see sights include George Square, an open-air sculpture museum, and Glasgow Cathedral.
Glasgow’s thriving art scene contributed to it being voted a European Capital of Culture, so spend this afternoon perusing its world-class galleries. Start at Scotland’s most-visited gallery, the neoclassical Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA), before delving into more than 8,000 pieces—some by Dalí, Renoir, and Rembrandt—at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
Spend today investigating Scotland’s most famous legend—that of the Loch Ness Monster. Sit back and soak up mist-shrouded hills and emerald green highlands on a guided day trip; there are plenty to choose from, and most cover the renowned body of water and the volcanic landscapes of Glencoe.
Spend tonight enjoying Glasgow’s nightlife. Start by exploring Buchanan Street, a pedestrianized half-mile stretch bursting with bars, restaurants, and street performers, before stepping inside a cozy pub in Merchant City.
Scotland is well-known for producing some of the world’s best whisky, so spend today sampling some wee drams. Tour the nearby Clydeside Distillery, which specializes in single malt scotch whisky. The distillery is perched on the banks of the River Clyde and is around 30 minutes from the city center by car.
After dark, delve into Glasgow’s haunted history at some of the city’s ghostly sites. Start at the 19th-century Theatre Royal, where long-dead thespians are said to roam the hallways, before wandering over to Glasgow Necropolis, a sprawling Victorian cemetery home to the graves and mausoleums of famous Glaswegians.
