14 Best Things to do in Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, offers rich history, cutting-edge culture, and warm, welcoming charm. From its grand Victorian architecture and storied past to its thriving arts scene and world-class dining, Glasgow will provide you with an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re drawn to museums and culture, green spaces, or history, Glasgow’s dynamic spirit and friendly locals will leave a lasting impression.

1. Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis

Step back in time with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral, a striking example of Gothic architecture dating back to the 12th century. Explore its intricately carved stonework, and beautiful stained glass windows. Then, walk around the Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery perched on a hill overlooking the cathedral with winding paths, and elaborate tombstones and monuments. The Necropolis is not only a resting place for over 50,000 individuals but also one of the best spots in town for panoramic views of Glasgow.

2. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Nestled in the heart of Glasgow’s West End, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is a cultural treasure trove. Its impressive collection offers a diverse array of exhibits with everything from fine art to blown glass to natural history. The museum itself is housed in a stunning red sandstone building, surrounded by gardens.

3. Buchanan Street

Buchanan Street is a bustling neighborhood lined with coffee shops, pubs, and a mix of high-end retailers and boutiques. You’ll find both upscale cashmere shops, as well as stores with cheap tourist nicknacks, and everything in between. We enjoyed grabbing coffee and people watching.

4. Glasgow Green

As the city’s oldest public park, Glasgow Green is a historic and scenic space perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation. The park features the iconic McLennan Arch, the Nelson Monument, and the beautiful Doulton Fountain. It’s a popular spot for picnics, festivals and leisurely walks. We saw Lord Huron and Hozier in concert at Glasgow Green, which was an awesome setting for a summer concert!

5. Barras Market

Established in the 1920s, the bustling market is a lively maze with Glaswegians selling everything from antiques and vintage clothing to fresh produce and handmade crafts. The market is also home to a number of street food vendors, offering delicious and diverse food options.

6. Cail Bruich

Indulge in a culinary experience at Cail Bruich, Glasgow’s Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its innovative and seasonal menu. Cail Bruich offers a sophisticated dining experience that highlights the best of Scottish produce, expertly prepared. This was our first experience at a Michelin restaurant and it was exceptional!

7. Ashton Lane

Tucked away in a tiny alley, Ashton Lane is a charming cobbled street known for its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and cafes. The picturesque street adorned with twinkling lights makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Over the course of our trip we visited a few restaurants and the brewery.

8. Clydeside Distillery

Discover the rich history of Scotch whisky at The Clydeside Distillery, located on the banks of the River Clyde. This state-of-the-art distillery offers guided tours that take you through the whisky-making process, from malting and mashing to fermentation and distillation. Not interested in a formal tour? Visit the café and order a whiskey flight or a hot toddy to sip at your leisure.

9. University of Glasgow Campus

Founded in 1451, the University of Glasgow is one of the oldest universities in the world and a center of academic excellence. The campus, with its stunning Gothic architecture and beautifully landscaped grounds, is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs. Take a guided tour to learn about the university’s rich history, notable alumni, and contributions to science and culture. The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, located on campus, houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts.

10. Street Art and Murals

Glawgow’s streets are covered in vibrant murals seemingly everywhere. These large-scale artworks, created by talented local and international artists, add a splash of color and creativity to the urban landscape. A self-guided mural trail is a fantastic way to discover these artistic gems while exploring different neighborhoods and learning about the stories behind the artists and artworks.

11. Duke of Wellington Statue at GoMA

The Duke of Wellington Statue, located outside the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), has become an iconic symbol of Glasgow’s playful spirit. The statue, which dates back to 1844, famously sports a traffic cone on the Duke’s head, a tradition that began as a prank but has since become a beloved part of the city’s identity. GoMA is Glasgow’s premier destination for contemporary art with a diverse collection of works by both local and international artists, spanning a variety of media including painting, sculpture, and video installations.

12. George Square

George Square, located in the heart of Glasgow, is a bustling hub of activity. Surrounded by impressive historic buildings, including the Glasgow City Chambers, the square is adorned with statues of famous Scots. It’s a popular spot for events, gatherings, and people-watching.

13. Botanic Garden

The Glasgow Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful retreat filled with beautiful plants and scenic walking paths. Wander through the gardens to discover seasonal displays, tranquil ponds, and a variety of flora and fauna. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll or a relaxing picnic.

14. Breweries

Glasgow boasts a thriving craft beer scene. Visit local favorites like WEST Brewery, known for its German-style lagers, or Shilling Brewing Co., where you can enjoy freshly brewed beers and delicious pizza. We also enjoyed Drygate Brewing Co. which had an impressive selection of craft beers.

Plan Your Trip

We visited Glasgow to celebrate our ten year wedding anniversary. It was such a great trip and I’d absolutely recommend it! It seems to be a bit of a hidden gem as most people think of Edinburgh or larger European cities, like London and Paris. We had a great time in Glasgow and would absolutely go back! Looking for more International trip ideas? Check out my blog posts on Paris and New Zealand.