The Ultimate Weekend in Glasgow Itinerary 2023
An hour west of Edinburgh, you will be welcomed with open arms by the wonderful city of Glasgow and this weekend Glasgow itinerary for 2023 will keep you entertained.
Glasgow is located on the River Clyde and was once a fishing village. Today the city is full of architectural delights, green spaces, museums, lively nightlife, live music and has an excellent food scene. One of the best things you can do is to explore the city’s character and charm by walking around and taking in the history. History is everywhere you look when visiting Glasgow .
Why should you visit Glasgow, Scotland?
Is Glasgow worth visiting? Definitely, there is something for everyone in this city and there are many incredible things to do in Glasgow.
The European Commision named Glasgow the UK’s top cultural and creative city in 2019. Arguably, this is because there are so many wonderful and free things to do in the city.
How to get to Glasgow
BY AIR: Glasgow International Airport (GLA), is the closest airport to the city, located 10km west of the centre.
From the airport you can book a hassle free transfer with Welcome Pickups. They offer:
– Local English-speaking drivers
– Flat, pre-paid fee
– Flight monitoring for delays
– 24/7 Customer support + free cancellation
There is also the option to fly into Prestwick Airport (PIK) but this is 51km out of the centre.
BY TRAIN: there are two main train stations in Glasgow city centre – Queen Street Station and Central Station. Glasgow is well-connected by the trainline throughout the UK and it is possible to take a sleeper train from London too.
BY BUS: the main bus station is Buchanan and you can access popular services, such as National Express, Megabus and Scottish Citylink.
BY CAR: Glasgow is located 6 hours and 30 minutes from London (415 miles), 3 hours 30 minutes from Manchester (215 miles) and 50 miles (around 1 hour) from Edinburgh.
If you have a car, you should definitely consider extending your stay in Scotland. For example, you could go on one of the conveniently located ‘day trips’ mentioned at the end of this post. Or you could head to the Isle of Skye on a wonderful Scottish road trip?
When is the best time to visit Glasgow?
Glasgow is one of Scotland’s more mild areas. However, the weather in the city can vary day to day. For example, one day it can be sunny one day and then the next quite rainy and cool. Arguably the hottest month is July, with an average temperature of over 20 °C.
Therefore, there’s not really a good or bad time to visit the city, just make sure you are prepared with layers and a raincoat! You never know.
How to get around Glasgow
Public transport is well established in Glasgow but you can reach many of the main attractions by foot. There are regular bus services all over the city centre and you can use Uber too.
Alternatively, you can use the metro/subway in Glasgow, it is the third oldest underground in the world. There are 15 stops and 2 lines that serve the city centre. The lines include all the city’s main attractions and even the quirky suburbs. It is very easy to navigate your way around Glasgow.
We always download maps and especially love Maps.me because of the recommendations from other travellers. Read about it in our Top 10 Travel Apps post.
How many days do you need visiting Glasgow?
This is a tricky question and really depends on how much time you have and what your priorities are. We strongly believe that Glasgow is a wonderful weekend destination but you certainly could spend longer if you were planning on doing day trips out of the city centre.
We recommend having at least 2 days in the city because a weekend in Glasgow is fabulous. But to decide what is best for you, consider the list of the best things to do in Glasgow below.
For example, we did our weekend in Glasgow itinerary on our West of Scotland Road Trip and decided to spend two days in Glasgow city, a day in Loch Lomond, and a day visiting Stirling and the Kelpies.
Top 17 things to see on your Weekend in Glasgow Itinerary
You may be wondering, what can we do in Glasgow? What should be on ou weekend in Glasgow itinerary? This list will have you covered for one day, two days or even three days in Glasgow. There are so many things to do in Glasgow, that you will not get bored easily.
Pick and choose based on your interests and budget and you will have the perfect custom weekend in Glasgow itinerary.
George Square and City Chambers
In the centre of the city you can and should admire the beautiful architecture. The city has a wealthy past and you can really feel it through the buildings. Ensure you see the City Chambers which faces George Square.
It’s a wonderful city to walk around, as you can clearly see where medieval buildings meet modern buildings. There are also walking tours that you can go on to see what Glasgow has to offer too.
Good to know: Hollywood loves to use the extraordinary buildings for their film sets. For example, WWZ and Fast and Furious 6.
University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow is one of the oldest universities in the world and was built in 1451. Of course, the reason you need to visit is to see the gothic architecture in its grounds. If you only visit one part, you need to see the Cloisters (Undercroft) which are impressive archways dating back to the 1860s .These have been the star in TV shows as well as several instagram snaps…
I recently went to a wedding in the University Chapel and it was so unbelievably pretty. The University of Glasgow is beautiful (although a bit of a walk from most other things) and needs to be on your weekend in Glasgow itinerary if you love architecture.
The Mural Trail:
In the last few years Glasgow has transformed its buildings and streets, thanks to some very talented artists. This is one of our favourite things to do in Glasgow, so no wonder it made it onto Time Out’s DO list for ‘exciting things to do in the world in 2020’.
You can experience the Mural Trail which is a self-guided tour of these ever-growing colourful creations or you can simply admire them as you walk around the city. Also, there is the option to go on a Street Art Tour by a local if you want to know further information about them. The urban art made us feel like we were back in Melbourne or Orgosolo in Sardinia. We love street art and this really made our weekend in Glasgow exciting.
The Lighthouse
A free way to see the city from above by walking 6 floors up a spiral staircase. Set in Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture you will enjoy 360 views across Glasgow city. As well, you can visit a permanent exhibition exploring Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a Glaswegian architect and designer’s work.
Arguably, he is one of the most innovative figures in the 20th century.
Botanical Gardens
Glasgow’s Botanical Gardens were founded in 1817 and are free to visit all year round. They have been one of Glasgow’s many green spaces for over 100 years and are still enjoyed today. Visit the 19th century Kibble Palace and then relax with some food or an afternoon tea at the teahouse if you’re feeling fancy.
Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis:
North East of the city you can travel 800 years into the past. Dating back to the 13th century, this medieval Cathedral is worth a visit. Be sure to spot the city’s coat of arms on the lamp posts in front!
Behind the cathedral, on the hill, you’ll find the 37 acre Necropolis, which is a Victorian Cemetery on a hill with panoramic views of the city. 50,000 people are resting here which means it’s full of stories. Undeniably, this is a perfect space for some peace and quiet amongst the sculptures and needs to be on your weekend in Glasgow itinerary.
Glasgow Shopping
It can sometimes get busy shopping in Glasgow because it is a popular shopping destination for people all over Scotland. You’ll be able to find global brands in the centre and if you venture into the West End you can shop in vintage stores and book shops.
Alternatively, go to the market ‘The Barras’ to have a true Glaswegian experience. It is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10am- 4pm – perfect for a weekend in Glasgow itinerary.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum:
This free museum is divided into two sections – the museum and the art gallery. There are over 8000 objects housed in the museum that are of international significance. A whopping one million visit every year to see the world-class collection in the beautiful red building. Next to it is one of Glasgow’s green parks ‘Kelvingrove Park’, and you should consider combining your visit to enjoy this space. Especially if it is a sunny day.
It is also free to enter and you do not need to book – just walk right in!
The Riverside Museum and Tall Ship
Another free museum that is situated next to the River Clyde and is a transport and historical museum. The museum won the European Museum of the Year Award in 2013 and has a cobbled street with historical shops to explore.
Behind the Riverside Museum, you can visit the Tall Ship. It is a Victorian era Glenlee that was originally built in Glasgow. Today, you can go on a self-guided tour or you can buy an audio guide to learn more!
GOMA
Furthermore, the Gallery of Modern Art is in the city centre in Royal Exchange Square and is the most popular art gallery in the country. What’s more, it is free to enter – which we love. The building was built in 1778 and today hosts local and international artists.
Interestingly, in front of the building is the statue of the Duke of Wellington. He is accessorised with an orange traffic cone on his head. It’s said that as soon as someone takes it down, it appears again, which is really quite amusing. It gave us a good laugh, that’s for sure. You’ve got to see it on your weekend in Glasgow itinerary.
Day Trips for your Glasgow itineray:
By now, it’s clear that Glasgow is a great city to visit. But did you know it is also a great base to go on a day trip to some of the most beautiful places in the country? We only recommend day trips if this is NOT your first time in the city or if you are spending longer than a weekend for your Glasgow itinerary.
For example, you can easily reach the following places by public transport or by car for the perfect Glasgow itinerary. Of course, a car offers more flexibility, as you will need to consider timetables and remember it’s best not to leave it to the last bus, if you are in a rural area!
The Kelpies
Firstly, the Kelpies are located in Falkirk, which is halfway between Glasgow and Edinburgh. They are 100ft high sculptures of horse heads representing the Kelpies which in mythology are water spirits. Alternatively, they represent the Clydesdale horses, Duke and Baron.
You can visit every day of the year and it is free to walk around the park. If you park in the Kelpies Car Park, you will have to pay. However, if you park in the Helix Car Park, then it’s free. Guess where we parked? It is also supposed to be BEAUTIFUL at night as they are lit up so well.
Stirling
Do not underestimate Stirling because it definitely surprised us. It’s famous for the castle on the hill and we enjoyed walking up through the old town to reach it. The city itself boasts independent coffee shops and restaurants, so there’s plenty of places to rest in between all the sights.
If you want to enter the castle it costs go inside, but you can walk up to the outside for no fee. Whilst you’re there don’t miss visiting, The Old Town Jail, The Wallace Monument and taking lots of pictures in the old town.
Edinburgh
Finally, just an hour away from Glasgow, is the Scottish Capital. Therefore, if you have time whilst you are visiting Glasgow, then you should go for a day trip. It’s crazy to think that these two cities are so close, yet they have a completely different vibe. You’ll have to discover for yourself. In Edinburgh on a day trip, do not miss:
Edinburgh Castle – admire from the outside or take a tour.
The Royal Mile – stop at the beautiful St Giles’ Cathedral.
Princes Street Garden – take a picture of the castle with the fountain. Iconic!
Arthur’s Seat – a short hike for incredible views over the city centre.
Good to know: visit for Hogomany or the Fringe Festival when the city really comes to life!
Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond is the largest lake (by surface area) in the UK and showcases Scotland’s natural attractions. Of course, it is an extremely popular place due to its location because it is extremely close to Glasgow city centre. This should not deter you from visiting, there are so many beautiful things to see and do in Loch Lomond.
In our opinion, the best places to visit in Loch Lomond are:
The Falls of Falloch – a beautiful viewpoint and swimming hole.
Balmaha – rent boats on the loch and climb Conic Hill to see it from above.
Luss – admire the loch’s shores from this popular tourist village.
Glasgow Itinerary Travel Tips:
Top places to eat in Glasgow
Of course, Glasgow is known to be a haven for ‘foodies’ and here are some of the best places to eat for your Glasgow itinerary. We have you covered for brunch, lunch and dinner! Enjoy!
Firstly, go to Singl-End – for brunch (there are two cafes and both are amazing)!
Secondly, try Paesano – a local favourite for tasty pizza.
Thirdly, eat at Chaakoo Bombay Cafe – tasty indian food and lunch is excellent value.
Finally, head to Wilson Street Pantry – an alternative brunch spot.
Top places to drink in Glasgow
Also, if you’re looking to keep the party going here are the top five places to drink for your Glasgow itinerary:
- Drygate Brewery
- Bar Soba (cocktails) on Buchanan Street
- Glasgow Gin Distillery
- Gin 71 in Merchant City
- The Citizen (bar and restaurant)
- Head to Ashton Lane, which is a trendy street with plenty of bars. We love Brel and Innis and Gunn. If you only want to pick one place we suggest here.
Where to stay on your weekend in Glasgow itinerary:
You will not have any issues finding accommodation to suit your style and budget in Glasgow. It’s one of those cities that has something for everyone. The one tip is to pick somewhere central, so that you can walk around easily!
For instance, we stayed at Euro Hostel, which is located on the river. It is central, cheap and had everything we needed for our stay. Importantly, the hostel validated our parking from the Jamaica St Car Park. Therefore, if you have a car always ask your accommodation if they offer a service like this!
Good to know:
Hotel: for a double room, the price is from £70 a night.
Airbnb: the average cost for 2 people per night is around £40.
Hostel: stay at Euro Hostel from £10 a night for a mixed dorm bed.
Overall, is Glasgow worth visiting?
In summary, we hope we have convinced you to visit this wonderful city. In answer to is it worth visiting? Definitely and even more so if you combine it with a road trip in the West Coast of Scotland.
We believe the city is underrated, all you need is a few minutes in the centre to understand how beautiful the architecture is. There’s a medieval cathedral, free museums, plenty of places to take pictures, have delicious food and relax in the many green spaces the city has to offer. Book your weekend in Glasgow itinerary now!
Photo Credit: averagelives.com
Glasgow looks great! Despite growing up in Newcastle, I have never been, which feels something of a travesty. Would love to do the mural trail and check out the botanical gardens. A really useful guide for when I finally make it to this fabulous city.
There is something charming about Glasgow. Unfortunately we missed visiting it on our trip to Edinburgh. Hopefully sometime soon. Loved the murals.
Living in London I can’t believe I have never made it up to Scotland properly! I’d love to visit Glasgow and once I do, I now have an amazing guide to base my trip on! 🙂 I love such detailed guides, yours is incredibly helpful!
I have been to Glasgow numerous times but never actually considered it as a “destination”. I was either there briefly with work or on my last visit, just to break the journey up for one night before exploring the Highlands & Islands. I loved Scotland so much though, I will definitely be visiting again. You have convinced me to explore a little further. I particularly like the idea of taking a self-guided tour of the street art.
This is a trip that has been on my bucket list for years now. I lived in England before and I cannot believe I was so close but didn’t have the chance to visit Glasgow before. Thanks for this great and detailed guide, I am saving for when finally get to visit.
I’m a terrible Brit, I’ve only ever been to Glasgow once. Glasgow has always been associated with the good shopping that I never thought of it for much else. But I’m so glad I read this as next time I’m home in the UK I’ll have to visit as the direct train leaves from my city. The murals look amazing, as does the cathedral and some of those day trips
Glasgow looks amazing! I’ve been to the UK a few times, but haven’t ventured very far out of London. Definitely need to add Scotland to the next itinerary.
I can’t wait to get to Scotland. I always knew I’d get to Edinburgh, but now looks like I will have to put Glasgow on the list too! Thanks for sharing!
Wow I had no idea Glasgow was this pretty! Will definitely visit next time I’m in the UK.
Amazing and very interesting blog, loved reading it please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well.