Glasgow
Glasgow
Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, sits on the banks of the River Clyde with a rich industrial past that has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. The city blends Victorian architecture with modern design, creating a unique urban landscape that tells the story of its evolution through time.
The city center buzzes with energy, featuring the Style Mile shopping district and the iconic George Square. Glasgow's arts scene is world-class, with the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum housing an impressive collection spanning centuries and cultures. The Glasgow School of Art showcases the genius of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, while the riverside has been revitalized with the striking Riverside Museum and the SSE Hydro arena.
Glasgow's music scene is legendary, with venues across the city hosting everything from classical performances to indie bands. This earned the city its UNESCO City of Music status in 2008. The locals, affectionately known as Glaswegians, are famous for their warmth and quick wit, often making visitors feel immediately welcome with their distinctive accent and friendly banter.
Unlike Edinburgh's refined reputation, Glasgow offers a more authentic, gritty Scottish experience. The city's motto 'People Make Glasgow' isn't just a marketing slogan – it genuinely reflects the community spirit that defines this place. With excellent transport links, Glasgow serves as a perfect base for exploring the stunning Scottish countryside and lochs beyond.
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Things to do in Glasgow
Top things to do in Glasgow by www.timeout.com
Where to stay in Glasgow
Best hotels in Glasgow:
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AC Hotel (budget hotel)
AC Hotel Glasgow places you right in the center of the city, making it incredibly easy to access Glasgow's highlights. Located just steps from George Square and within a few minutes’ walk of Queen Street and Central stations, it’s an ideal base for both leisure and business travelers. The rooms are sleek and well-equipped, featuring comfortable beds, air conditioning, and city-facing windows that offer a great view of Glasgow’s skyline.
The hotel strikes a nice balance between design and function. Guests can enjoy a varied breakfast with continental, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, and the on-site restaurant and bar provide a relaxed space to grab a meal or drink. It’s also conveniently close to major attractions like Glasgow Royal Concert Hall and the Cathedral, so you won’t have to go far to explore the city. This hotel delivers a polished experience in a highly convenient location.
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Number 10 Hotel (luxury hotel)
Number 10 Hotel sits in a beautiful spot on a quiet, tree-lined street in Glasgow's south side, just a stone's throw from Queen's Park. This Victorian town house hotel has tons of character with its double-fronted facade and lovely outdoor space featuring wooden decking where you can relax with a drink when the Scottish weather cooperates.
Inside, the rooms are comfy and well-equipped with everything you need, from tea and coffee facilities to free WiFi. The staff here get amazing reviews for their friendliness and attentiveness - they really seem to go above and beyond for guests. Plus, with the train station just a 2-minute walk away, you're well-connected to central Glasgow while still enjoying a peaceful setting away from the city buzz.
The hotel's restaurant is worth checking out even if you're not staying overnight - their food gets lots of praise, especially the steak pie which apparently is a must-try! There's free parking too, which is always a bonus in a city. If you're planning to catch a game at Celtic or Rangers, you're only about 15 minutes away by car, making this a great base for football fans.
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Celentano's Restaurant with Rooms (medium range hotel)
Celentano’s Restaurant with Rooms sits beside Glasgow Cathedral in a striking 19th-century Scottish Baronial building, offering a memorable stay in a location full of history. With only eight guest rooms, each space highlights the original architectural features of the era, complemented by handmade beds and rainfall showers. Many of the rooms provide impressive views of either the cathedral or the Necropolis, and breakfast is brought directly to your door—an appreciated detail for a relaxed start to the day.
The restaurant, open from Wednesday to Sunday, has built a solid reputation for its creative Italian-Scottish dishes. The setting is relaxed and personal, with a welcoming atmosphere that’s a world away from large hotel chains. It’s worth noting that due to the building’s age, there are stairs to navigate—but those looking for a unique and character-filled experience will find it adds to the sense of place.
book now on booking.com
Best hostels in Glasgow:
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Glasgow Youth Hostel (hostel)
Glasgow Youth Hostel is set in a striking Victorian townhouse overlooking Kelvingrove Park in the lively West End. It's a great base for discovering the city, just a short stroll from the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and surrounded by a wide range of cafés and restaurants. The accommodation suits different types of travelers, with options from shared dorms and private en-suite rooms to a fully equipped apartment ideal for groups.
This hostel offers a blend of classic architecture and useful amenities. Guests can relax in a lounge with views over the park, enjoy free WiFi throughout the building, and rely on a 24-hour reception for flexible check-in. The staff consistently earn praise for their warm and helpful approach. While it’s not designed for luxury, it delivers reliable comfort in a well-connected part of Glasgow, making it a solid choice for exploring the city.