Categories > Guides and Tips
An Easy Travel Guide to Glasgow, Scotland
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- How to Get Around
- Where to stay in Glasgow
- Travelodge Glasgow Queen Street
- Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre (George Square)
- DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central
- Carlton George Hotel
- Argyll Guest House
- Where to Eat in Glasgow
- Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar
- The Spanish Butcher
- Mini Grill Steakhouse - Glasgow
- Cafe Gandolfi
- The Butterfly and the Pig
- What to Do in Glasgow
- Explore modern art at the Gallery of Modern Art
- Take a stroll through the vibrant Botanic Gardens
- Visit the fascinating Riverside Museum
- Catch a dramatic play at the illustrious King's Theatre
- Marvel at Gothic architecture at Glasgow Cathedral
- Where to Shop in Glasgow
- Princes Square Shopping Centre
- St. Enoch Centre
- Buchanan Galleries
- Crown Street Retail Park
- The Savoy Centre
- What to Expect from Glasgow Weather
- Apps to Download for a Trip to Glasgow
Glasgow is more than just haggis and Highland cows. It’s a city where you find contemporary cool blended seamlessly with historic allure, skyscrapers standing tall with medieval cathedrals, and urban hustle dancing effortlessly with serene landscapes.
And let’s not forget the city’s friendly locals—these folks can make you fall in love with their city and accent! Here’s a quick and easy travel guide for Glasgow for an easier trip.
Time Zone
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
Best Time to Go
The ideal time to visit Glasgow is during the summer months, from June to August, since this is when the weather tends to be warmer, and the city comes alive with a multitude of festivals and outdoor events.
However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and don’t mind temperatures, late spring (May) and early autumn (September) can also provide pleasant conditions for exploring the city.
Things to Know
Currency: British Pound (GBP) (£)
(Check the current exchange rate)
Language: English
Calling Code: 0141
How to Get Around
Bicycle: Renting and riding a bike in Glasgow is one of the common ways to explore the town. It’s an affordable option, and you can enjoy scenic views while travelling on the roads.
Buses: The First Bus in Glasgow provides a convenient way to travel between towns and cities.
Taxis: Taxis are available in Glasgow, like Uber, especially in larger towns and cities. You can easily flag one down or book an appointment on their provided app.
Subway: Getting around Glasgow’s city centre, west end, and south side is a breeze with the subway! Plus, it’s super quick—just 24 minutes to make a round trip, hitting all 15 stations along the way.
Where to stay in Glasgow
Travelodge Glasgow Queen Street
Address: 78 Queen St, Glasgow G1 3DS, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 871 559 1872
Pricing: £
Our first spot on this list is none other than the classic Travelodge Glasgow Queen Street! Some might call it a budget hotel, but hey, we think it’s the perfect home away from home!
Located in the city centre, it’s the sweet spot for venturing out to nearby attractions like Buchanan Street or the Gallery of Modern Art. Plus, with easy access to bus and train stations, this lodge has got your transportation needs sorted.
Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre (George Square)
Address: 187 George St, Glasgow G1 1YU, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 333 777 7294
Pricing: ££
Sitting pretty on George Square, the Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre is like a welcoming hug for weary travellers. Their signature purple tones and big, comfy beds (locals call them “crashpads”) make it a much-loved spot.
This location is the bee’s knees for explorers, as it’s smidgen-close to George Square’s events, the beautiful University of Strathclyde campus, and the lively Merchant City—ideal for grabbing some tasty grub and fancy tipple.
DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Central
Address: 36 Cambridge St, Glasgow G2 3HN, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 332 3311
Pricing: £££
DoubleTree is a stone’s throw from the theatre district and the buzz of Sauchiehall Street. This place might be pricier, but it’s worth every penny when you taste their legendary warm chocolate chip cookie.
Chic rooms, elegant décor, and top-notch amenities make your stay at the DoubleTree truly memorable. Did we mention the gorgeous indoor pool for a wee dip before hitting the town?
Carlton George Hotel
Address: 44 W George St, Glasgow G2 1DH, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 353 6373
Pricing: ££
The Carlton George Hotel sets the stage for a quite luxurious Glasgow adventure. Luxurious rooms with plenty of character set the tone for this trendy boutique hotel, boasting free minibars and decanters of whisky.
Oh, and I can’t forget to mention the hotel’s Conservatory Restaurant. It’s the ideal spot to fuel up delicious Scottish cuisine with a breathtaking view of Glasgow’s rooftops.
Argyll Guest House
Address: 970 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G3 7TQ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 357 5155
Pricing: £££
Now we have the Argyll Guest House, a delightful bed and breakfast with an authentic Scottish flair. Located in the West End neighbourhood, you’ll find yourself surrounded by quirky boutiques, lush gardens, delightful pubs, and delicious wee eats!
The guest house is brimming with warmth and character, and you are sure to feel right at home within its cosy arms. Oh, and let’s not forget the legendary full Scottish breakfast!
Where to Eat in Glasgow
Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar
Address: 325 Hope St, Glasgow G2 3PT, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 353 1500
Pricing: £
Ardnamurchan Scottish Restaurant & Bar’s calling card is their lovingly crafted modern Scottish dishes using the finest fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From succulent meats to fresh-off-the-boat seafood, your taste buds are in for a Scottish rollercoaster!
Their décor just oozes warmth, with rustic wooden walls and touches of tartan, making you feel right at home. So go ahead, order a dram of their finest whisky, and feast on their sumptuous, seasonal offering.
The Spanish Butcher
Address: 80 Miller St, Glasgow G1 1DT, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 406 9880
Pricing: £
Next up, we have a joint where the culinary genius of Spain meets Scotland’s finest cuts—the Spanish Butcher! This trendy restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind experience for the foodie in search of new flavour combinations.
The menu is a delightful mix of tapas dishes and mouth-watering Spanish-inspired plates. Just slide into their comfy leather banquettes and soak in the contemporary, stylish ambience (plus the stunning hanging foliage—a serious bonus!).
Mini Grill Steakhouse – Glasgow
Address: 244A Bath St, Glasgow G2 4JW, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 332 2732
Pricing: ££
The Mini Grill Steakhouse is a cosy, intimate hideaway amidst the bustling city centre. Specialising in quality Scottish steaks and fare, you can trust these guys to grill your juicy cuts to absolute perfection—after all, they are masters of the flame!
Owned and run by passionate Glaswegians, the Mini Grill Steakhouse offers a top-notch dining experience, complete with fantastic service and a down-to-earth atmosphere that makes everyone feel like an old friend.
Cafe Gandolfi
Address: 64 Albion St, Glasgow G1 1NY, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 552 6813
Pricing: £
You can’t visit Glasgow without a trip to the legendary Cafe Gandolfi which oozes local charm and an artsy vibe. The menu is packed with delicious Scottish cuisine but with creative twists that spark pure delight with each bite.
This iconic café makes use of local, seasonal ingredients to create decadent home-style dishes. Boasting an inviting, nostalgic ambiance and top-quality food and service, you’ll leave with a full belly and a happy heart.
The Butterfly and the Pig
Address: 151 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4SQ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 221 7711
Pricing: ££
Finally, we couldn’t close out our scrumptious list without mentioning The Butterfly and the Pig, a true Glaswegian gem with a quirky, eclectic atmosphere. This eatery and bar offer an unrivalled mix of hearty comfort food and entertainment.
The menu spans from classic fish ‘n’ chips to vegetarian dishes, so there’s something for everybody’s fancy. As you dig into delicious homemade meals, you’ll be serenaded by sweet tunes courtesy of their beloved live music sessions.
What to Do in Glasgow
Explore modern art at the Gallery of Modern Art
Address: 111 Queen St, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AH, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 287 3050
The Gallery of Modern Art hosts an ever-changing roster of exhibitions that give you a crash course in modern art (without the boring bits, promise!). Anything from bold new installations to innovative contemporary pieces, it’s all at your fingertips!
Stepping inside, you’ll find four floors filled to the brim with artistic wonders. You’ll leave with a broadened horizon and a freshened spirit—that’s the power of art for you, folks!
Take a stroll through the vibrant Botanic Gardens
Address: 730 Great Western Rd, Glasgow G12 0UE, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 276 1614
Next, we’re off to the Botanic Gardens, a splendid green haven in the fashionable West End. Whether you fancy a picnic, looking for nifty exotic plants, or just a chill stroll, this place has got your back!
It’s not just a garden; it’s an assembly of nature’s finest, a wee sanctuary where you can kick back and enjoy the Glaswegian sunlight—when it makes its rare appearances!
Visit the fascinating Riverside Museum
Address: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Govan, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 287 2720
If you’ve got a thing for vintage cars, old bikes, and iconic locomotives, then Riverside Museum is for you. This Zaha Hadid-designed museum is bristling with exhibits that whisk you through the streets of Glasgow’s past, present, and somewhere in between.
Trolleybuses, skateboards, locomotives, and even a recreated 1930s street—they’re all waiting for you! So, if you’re eager to take a trip down the memory lane of Glasgow, the Riverside Museum is your time machine!
Catch a dramatic play at the illustrious King’s Theatre
Address: 297 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4JN, United Kingdom
Phone: 0844 871 7627
It’s time to flock to the King’s Theatre, an iconic venue that’s been hosting tip-top performances since 1904. Whether you fancy a pantomime, ballet, or a wee bit of Shakespeare, they’ve got you covered.
Soaring arches, grand staircases, and a plush auditorium welcome you into a world of enchantment and drama. The minute the curtain goes up, you’re transported into an unforgettable theatrical adventure.
Marvel at Gothic architecture at Glasgow Cathedral
Address: Castle St, Glasgow G4 0QZ, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 552 6891
No visit to Glasgow is complete without a stop at the grand and imposing Glasgow Cathedral. A throwback to the city’s medieval past, it’s a monument where history breathes from every stone.
Standing tall over the city, the cathedral, with its intricate stained glass windows and majestic stone vaults, is a testimony to the artistry of Gothic architecture. This timeless icon may be centuries old, but the stories it tells remain as fresh as ever.
Where to Shop in Glasgow
Princes Square Shopping Centre
Address: Princes Square, 48 Buchanan St, Glasgow G1 3JN, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 221 0324
Located right in the heart of Buchanan Street, Princes Square Shopping Centre is the place to shop till you drop! With a mix of high-end and high-street, it’s a wee bit of everything under one fabulous roof.
It’s not your usual kind of mall; the interior is a breathtaking mix of 19th-century structure and modern shopping elegance. With top-notch eateries, expensive boutiques, and even a sprinkling of beauty parlours, Princes Square is a shopper’s nirvana.
St. Enoch Centre
Address: 55 St Enoch Sq, Glasgow G1 4BW, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 204 3900
Located at the junction of Buchanan Street and Argyle Street, which is pretty much the heart of Glasgow’s shopping scene, St. Enoch Centre offers a delightful mix of stores that cater to all tastes and budgets.
Whether it’s cutting-edge fashion brands or everyday essentials you’re after, this sleek shopping centre’s got you covered. Plus, with a food court filled with tempting options and regular fun-filled events, it positively buzzes with lively Glaswegian spirit.
Buchanan Galleries
Address: 220 Buchanan St, Glasgow G1 2FF, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 333 9898
You’ve not truly experienced Glasgow shopping until you’ve ventured into the Buchanan Galleries. This modern shopping centre houses an eclectic blend of high-street favourites and the crème de la crème of luxury and local labels.
From top brands to trendy restaurants, it’s your one-stop shop for a day full of shopping, dining, and even a bit of sightseeing. With Buchanan Galleries’ line-up of top-notch shops and boutiques, you’ll struggle to leave empty-handed!
Crown Street Retail Park
Address: Gushetfaulds Place, Glasgow G5 0TG, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 429 5780
For all you bargain hunters out there, Crown Street Retail Park is your happy place! This sprawling retail park boasts a range of high-quality homewares, fashion, and grocery stores that won’t break the bank.
With generous parking spaces and a crowd-pleaser vibe, it’s a joy to shop at Crown Street Retail Park. Whatever your shopping list says, chances are you’ll find it here—and probably snag a grand deal while you’re at it!
The Savoy Centre
Address: Savoy Centre, 140 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G2 3DU, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 141 331 2214
If you are looking for a more indie-market-type vibe, the Savoy Centre’s the place to be! This indoor market is bustling with independent traders, quirky boutiques, and a truckload of delicious cheap food.
The Savoy Centre is home to everything from vintage clothing and antiques to crafts and vinyl records. You never know what hidden gems you’ll stumble upon as you stroll through its narrow lanes.
What to Expect from Glasgow Weather
Spring: When spring dances into Glasgow, you’ll likely experience a mix of sun and showers, with temperatures playing in the range of 8°C to 12°C. (Fun fact: You’ll find around 10 to 13 rainy days per month to play counting raindrops.)
Summer: As summer unfolds, Glasgow tends to bask in balmy weather, boasting a comfy range from 15°C to 20°C. Just so you know, July is the warmest month and amazingly fetches us up to 17 hours of daylight a day—not to brag!
Fall: In the fall, you’ll see temperatures drop slightly, darting between 8°C and 14°C, and yes, don’t forget to expect the falling leaves to put on a spectacular colour show.
Winter: As the temperatures freewheel into a chill, lining up usually between 2°C and 8°C, wrapping up warm becomes a cool trend. Despite the dramatic drop in temperature, Glasgow rarely sees heavy snow.
Apps to Download for a Trip to Glasgow
Next Bike: This app offers an efficient mode of transportation for individuals who like to get around using a bicycle.
Uber: This app offers a safe and efficient mode of transportation for individuals who may not have access to a private vehicle, prefer not to drive, or require a reliable means of getting around.
Spotted by Locals: This app provides information about tourist spots in Glasgow, especially those lesser-known places with a smaller crowd.
Scotland’s Pubs and Bars App: It serves as a comprehensive guide and resource for visitors, providing the best spots with history to tell for a much more engaging and chilled-out night with friends.
