Glasgow is Scotland's largest city – a vibrant, creative hub known for its Victorian architecture, world-class museums, thriving music scene and friendly locals. Once an industrial powerhouse, Glasgow has reinvented itself as a cultural destination while retaining its authentic character. This guide covers the essential attractions, from free museums to atmospheric neighbourhoods, plus day trips to Loch Lomond and the Highlands with a private driver-guide.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum is one of Scotland's most visited free attractions, housed in a magnificent red sandstone building in the West End. The collection spans natural history, archaeology, art and design, with highlights including Salvador Dalí's "Christ of St John of the Cross", works by the Glasgow Boys and Scottish Colourists, and an extensive collection of arms and armour. The building itself is a masterpiece of Victorian architecture, and the museum's layout makes it easy to explore different themes. Allow at least two hours – many visitors spend half a day here.
Glasgow Cathedral & Necropolis
Glasgow Cathedral is Scotland's only medieval cathedral to have survived the Reformation intact. The building dates from the 12th century, with the lower church containing the tomb of St Mungo, Glasgow's patron saint. The cathedral's Gothic architecture and stained glass windows create an atmospheric space. Just behind the cathedral, the Necropolis is a Victorian cemetery on a hill overlooking the city. The elaborate monuments and mausoleums reflect Glasgow's 19th-century wealth, and the views from the summit across Glasgow and the River Clyde are exceptional. The walk through the Necropolis takes about 30 minutes and offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian Glasgow.
Riverside Museum & Tall Ship
The Riverside Museum, designed by Zaha Hadid, is Glasgow's award-winning transport museum located on the banks of the River Clyde. The building's striking architecture – a zigzagging zinc-clad structure – houses an extensive collection of vehicles, from vintage cars and trams to locomotives and ships. The museum tells the story of Glasgow's transport heritage and its role in the Industrial Revolution. Moored outside is the Tall Ship Glenlee, a three-masted barque built in 1896 that visitors can explore. Both the museum and the Tall Ship are free to visit, making this one of Glasgow's best-value attractions.
West End & Ashton Lane
Glasgow's West End is the city's bohemian quarter, centred around the University of Glasgow and Byres Road. The area is known for its independent shops, cafes, restaurants and bars, with Ashton Lane being particularly atmospheric – a cobbled lane lined with pubs and restaurants, often bustling with students and locals. The University of Glasgow's main building is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture, and the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery on campus houses collections of art, archaeology and scientific instruments. The West End's relaxed, creative atmosphere makes it a favourite neighbourhood for both visitors and locals.
Merchant City & George Square
Merchant City showcases Glasgow's Victorian prosperity, with grand buildings that once housed the warehouses and offices of tobacco lords and textile merchants. Today, the area is home to art galleries, restaurants, bars and shops, with many of the historic buildings converted into modern uses. George Square is Glasgow's main civic square, surrounded by impressive Victorian architecture including the City Chambers, one of Britain's finest municipal buildings. The square features statues of notable Scots including Robert Burns, James Watt and Sir Walter Scott. Merchant City's mix of history and contemporary culture makes it a fascinating area to explore on foot.
Music scene
Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, and its live music scene is one of the best in the UK. The city has produced internationally successful bands including Simple Minds, Franz Ferdinand and Primal Scream, and continues to nurture new talent. King Tut's Wah Wah Hut is a legendary venue where Oasis were discovered, while the Barrowland Ballroom is one of the world's most iconic live music venues. The SSE Hydro arena hosts major international acts, and smaller venues throughout the city offer everything from folk and jazz to rock and electronic music. Glasgow's music scene runs seven nights a week, making it easy to catch a live performance during your visit.
Day trips from Glasgow
Glasgow is an excellent base for day trips into the Scottish countryside and Highlands. The most popular options include:
- Loch Lomond and the Trossachs – Scotland's largest loch, just 45 minutes away
- Stirling Castle – one of Scotland's most important castles, 45 minutes away
- Doune Castle – featured in Monty Python and Outlander, 1 hour away
- Multi-day Highland tours – the Highlands, Skye, Loch Ness and more
We offer private day tours from Glasgow and multi-day Scotland tours with a dedicated driver-guide and luxury vehicle.
Frequently asked questions
- How many days do you need in Glasgow?
- Two to three days covers the main attractions – Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow Cathedral, Riverside Museum, and the West End. Add a fourth day for day trips to Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle or the Highlands.
- What is the best time to visit Glasgow?
- May through September offers the best weather and longer daylight hours. Glasgow's music scene and cultural events run year-round, but summer brings outdoor festivals and easier access to day trips. December has Christmas markets and festive events.
- What are the best day trips from Glasgow?
- Popular day trips include Loch Lomond and the Trossachs (45 minutes), Stirling Castle and the Wallace Monument (45 minutes), Doune Castle (1 hour), and longer day trips to Glencoe or the Isle of Skye with a private driver-guide.
