Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is a vibrant metropolis that is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and friendly locals. With a plethora of attractions and events throughout the year, Glasgow has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, art enthusiast, foodie or sports fan, there is always a new experience waiting for you here. In this blog post, we will explore the best attractions and things to do in Glasgow, so you can plan your trip and make the most out of your visit to this charming Scottish city.

The 14 Best Guided Tours in Glasgow

1. Glasgows West End Private Tour
2. Private Glasgow West End Tour
3. The Braveheart Tour
4. Glengoyne Distillery Guided Tour Whiskey Tasting
5. Celtic Park Stadium Tour and Dining Experience
6. Discover Glasgow Full Day Private Tour in Mercedes Benz People Carrier
7. Glasgow Private Historical Walking Tour
8. Stirling Private Day Tour and Sightseeing With Luxury Chauffeur
9. Glasgow Day Tour and Sightseeing Luxury Private Chauffeur
10. Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus 2 Day Ticket
11. Glasgow Afternoon Tea Experience Aboard a 1966 Routemaster Bus
12. Highland Experience 2 Day Tour from Glasgow
13. Edinburgh Private Day Tour With Luxury Chauffeur
14. City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Tour

The 14 Best Guided Tours in Glasgow

1. Glasgows West End Private Tour

Discover Glasgow’s vibrant West End on a private walking tour with an expert guide. Explore cultural landmarks like Kelvin Hall and Kibble Palace, and hear fascinating stories about Glasgow’s history. Your guide will show you the best bars and cafes, so you can experience authentic Scottish cuisine. Along the way, stop for drinks and snacks while learning interesting facts about the city. This personalized tour is tailored to your schedule and interests, and includes hotel meet and greet, taxes, fees, and gratuities. Book now to discover Glasgow’s West End like a local!

2. Private Glasgow West End Tour

Discover the affluent and prosperous area of Glasgow’s West End on a 1.5 hour private walking tour with a local guide. Explore important monuments like the University of Glasgow and Botanic Gardens, as well as hidden gems only known by locals. During the tour, immerse yourself in the history of Glasgow’s development and learn about the unique stories that make this area so special. Hotel pickup is included for this intimate and immersive experience.

3. The Braveheart Tour

The Braveheart Tour is a private tour that is perfect for those who are fascinated by the story of William Wallace. This guided tour takes you to some of the landmarks associated with him such as Stirling Castle, Bannockburn, and the National Wallace Monument. You will get a chance to explore at your own pace without waiting around for others. The tour offers a personalized experience that allows you to learn all about Scottish history from your guide. Bottled water, DVD player, and admission tickets are included in the tour. You can head directly to the meeting point, which is the Carlton George Hotel or you can request pickup from outside the Millennium Hotel on George Square. The tour time needs to be confirmed in advance with the local provider. The Braveheart Tour is available from Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

4. Glengoyne Distillery Guided Tour Whiskey Tasting

Discover the whiskey-making process at a world-class distillery on this guided tour of Glengoyne Distillery. Led by an informative guide, you’ll follow the journey of whiskey-making through mashtun and washbacks to the swan-necks of copper stills. Learn how every ounce of flavor is captured before sending the spirit to the cask. The tour includes a tutored tasting of 3 Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Whiskies and a chocolate matching experience with award-winning chocolates from Iain Burnett the Highland Chocolatier. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 18 years.

5. Celtic Park Stadium Tour and Dining Experience

Experience behind-the-scenes access to Celtic Park on a guided stadium tour. Explore the Celtic FC boardroom, home dressing room, tunnel, and dugouts. After the tour, enjoy a three-course meal in a restaurant (kids menu available for children) just a stone’s throw away. Please note drinks and any extras requested in the restaurant are not included in the tour price and must be settled before departure. Children under five receive free admission to the stadium tour, and if they wish to dine in the restaurant, inform your server, and it will be added to your bill to be settled before leaving. Don’t miss out on this fantastic Celtic Park Stadium Tour and Dining Experience.

6. Discover Glasgow Full Day Private Tour in Mercedes Benz People Carrier

Discover Glasgow at your own pace with a full-day private tour in a Mercedes Benz people carrier. This personalized experience takes you to the most important landmarks as well as hidden gems, which can be customized to your preferences. Your driver/guide will provide fascinating insights into the city’s history and culture and answer any questions you may have. The tour includes bottled water, soda/pop, snacks, Tennents brewery tour, Clydeside distillery tour, and gratuities. You can either head directly to the meeting point at 40 George Square or request pickup from your preferred location. The activity starts at 10:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point. Get ready to discover the best of Glasgow on a guided tour!

7. Glasgow Private Historical Walking Tour

Step into Glasgow’s fascinating past on this private historical walking tour. Explore the city’s magnificent architecture and hidden alleys with a knowledgeable guide. Begin at George Square and learn about the city’s history as you stroll through the beautifully designed square. From there, wander through the merchant city to discover the city’s hidden gems. You’ll also get to visit Glasgow Cathedral, the Gallery of Modern Art, and the Police Museum for a more in-depth look into the city’s past. This tour includes entrances to all of the mentioned attractions, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Food, drinks, and tips are not included. Join us to uncover Glasgow’s original Medieval city center and learn more about the city’s captivating history.

8. Stirling Private Day Tour and Sightseeing With Luxury Chauffeur

This Stirling private day tour with a luxury chauffeur is perfect for those with a tight schedule. With all the hassle taken out of the equation, you’ll experience an action-packed tour, complete with transport in a luxurious Mercedes-Benz vehicle. Explore Stirling Castle, the Church of the Holy Rude, The Battle of Bannockburn Experience, the Wallace Monument, and more – all in one day without worrying about directions or map reading. The private chauffeur ensures you won’t have to wait for other travelers, and with on-board Wi-Fi, you’ll stay connected as you travel through the stunning Scottish scenery. This tour includes entrance fees to visitor attractions, services and stories from the Scottish chauffeur, and door-to-door service with pickup available at multiple locations throughout Glasgow.

9. Glasgow Day Tour and Sightseeing Luxury Private Chauffeur

Explore Glasgow in style with a Glasgow day tour and sightseeing luxury private chauffeur. You will be transported in a private excursion accommodating up to six passengers, and enjoy door-to-door service with Glasgow hotel pickup and drop-off included. The tour will take you to several major Glasgow sites and attractions in a day such as Glasgow Cathedral, St. Mungo Museum, The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, and George Square. With a private tour, you can customize your experience and maximize your time without any hassle of waiting around for other travelers. Entrance fees to visitor attractions and gratuities are included. The pickup point is available at all Glasgow locations, and cruise ship pickup and drop-off services are also available.

10. Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Bus 2 Day Ticket

Explore Glasgow at your own pace with a 1 or 2-day ticket to the city’s hop-on and hop-off bus tour. With 22 stops conveniently located throughout the city, you can jump off and visit the Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow Cathedral, St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life & Art, Merchant Square, Barras Market, Peoples Palace & Winter Gardens, and much more. This tour offers the perfect way to see everything Glasgow has to offer. You can even get a family ticket that covers 2 adults and up to 3 children between 5 and 15 years old. Don’t miss out on the best way to explore one of Scotland’s most vibrant cities!

11. Glasgow Afternoon Tea Experience Aboard a 1966 Routemaster Bus

Board a vintage bus for a unique afternoon tea experience combined with a Glasgow sightseeing tour. Enjoy the delicious taste of traditional sandwiches and warm scones with cream and jam garnish as well as a selection of Petit Fours while the bus rolls through the streets of Glasgow. Sip on your choice of tea, coffee, or wine and admire the city’s top attractions, including Glasgow University and the West End. Choose a convenient departure time to fit your own schedule. This activity includes sandwiches, scones, petits fours, and a souvenir drinks cup. Alcoholic drinks are available to purchase separately. The tour starts and ends at Shuttle Street, adjacent to Amore Restaurant. During the tour, you will pass by the Gallery of Modern Art, the City Chambers, and other top attractions of Glasgow.

12. Highland Experience 2 Day Tour from Glasgow

Explore the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands on a 2-day sightseeing tour of Loch Ness. Your adventure will start with leaving Glasgow behind and heading north to the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. You’ll stop at the quaint village of Luss, located on the western banks of Loch Lomond, to see its wildlife and stunning flowers.

Your guide will then take you on a journey to historic sites such as the towering mountain of Ben Nevis, the site of the Glencoe Massacre, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Glen Coe. As you take in the beauty of the Highlands, keep an eye out for the legendary Loch Ness Monster on your hunt for Nessie.

You’ll spend a comfortable night at a bed and breakfast before continuing your adventure the next day. The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and meals. Please note that the tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old. Come and experience the magic of Scotland’s Highlands on this unforgettable tour.

13. Edinburgh Private Day Tour With Luxury Chauffeur

Explore the stunning sights of Edinburgh on this private day tour with a luxurious chauffeur. Enjoy a comfortable and convenient travel experience in a private vehicle as you visit a range of top attractions in the city, such as Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Holyrood Park, and Calton Hill. Your itinerary is completely flexible based on your needs, ensuring that you have a personalized experience. The tour also includes Wi-Fi access, entrance fees to visitor attractions, and the services and stories of a Scottish chauffeur. Cruise ship pickup and drop-off are also provided, giving you a hassle-free experience from start to finish. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to tick off many top Edinburgh sights in just one day!

14. City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop on Hop Off Tour

Go sightseeing in Glasgow with an open-top double-decker bus on a hop-on hop-off tour. The City Sightseeing tour allows you to explore Glasgow at your own pace and set your own itinerary while listening to recorded commentary, available in 7 languages plus a Kids Commentary. Hop on and off at multiple stops around the city to see top attractions such as museums, galleries, and landmarks. The sightseeing pass is valid for one or two consecutive calendar days from the time of first use. Your ticket includes unlimited hop-on hop-off bus tour, free headphones, and gratuities. Hotel pickup and drop off, as well as food and drinks, are not included unless specified.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glasgow

Glasgow is a beautiful city in Scotland that is known for its rich history, culture, and architecture. Tourists from all around the globe visit Glasgow every year to explore its marvels. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Glasgow that tourists have:

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Glasgow?

Glasgow is a city that can be explored all year round. The best time to visit Glasgow, however, is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and sunny. The temperature ranges from 12°C to 19°C during this time, which makes it perfect for outdoor activities.

2. What are the Must-See Sights in Glasgow?

Glasgow is filled with numerous sights that one must visit. However, some of the must-see sights in Glasgow include:

• The Glasgow Cathedral
• The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• The Riverside Museum
• The Glasgow Science Centre
• The George Square
• The Glasgow Necropolis
• The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens

3. What is the Best Way to Reach Glasgow?

Glasgow has excellent transport links, and it is easy to reach from anywhere in the world. One can reach Glasgow by air, road, or rail. Glasgow has its international airport, which connects it to major cities worldwide. The city is also well-connected through an extensive network of roads and highways, making it easy to reach by car or bus. There are also regular train services from other cities in the UK to Glasgow.

4. What is the Local Currency in Glasgow?

The local currency in Glasgow is the pound sterling (£). It is recommended to exchange currency in advance, but one can also exchange currency at banks or exchange offices in the city.

5. What is the Local Language in Glasgow?

The local language in Glasgow is English. However, the city has a unique accent, and some slang words might be difficult to understand for non-locals. But don’t worry; Glaswegians are friendly and will help you with any language barriers you might face.

6. What is the Food and Drink Culture in Glasgow?

Glasgow has a vibrant food and drink culture with a range of options for tourists to choose from. The city is known for its traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties. However, Glasgow also offers international cuisine options, such as Italian, Indian, Chinese, and more.Glasgow has a rich brewing history, and it is well-known for its whisky. One must try Scottish whisky when in Glasgow.

7. What is the Nightlife Scene in Glasgow?

The nightlife scene in Glasgow is lively and diverse. The city has an array of bars, nightclubs, and pubs that cater to all tastes. The west end of Glasgow is popular among students and tourists, with an abundance of pubs and bars. The Merchant City area is where the trendy crowd hangs out, with chic bars and clubs. Glasgow also hosts numerous music events and festivals throughout the year.

8. What is the Safety Situation in Glasgow?

Glasgow is considered a safe city to visit for tourists. However, tourists should take the necessary precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings, avoiding unlit areas at night, and not walking alone at night in desolate areas.

9. How Much Time Should I Spend in Glasgow?

To explore Glasgow’s beauty, one must spend at least a week in the city. A week will give tourists enough time to explore the city’s major attractions, try out the different cuisines, and experience the nightlife.

10. How Can I Explore Glasgow?

Glasgow has various modes of transport, making it easy for tourists to explore the city. Tourists can rent a car or use public transport, such as buses, trains, and taxis. Glasgow also offers walking tours for tourists who want to explore the city’s beauty on foot.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Glasgow

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest city, and it is a fascinating place to visit with a rich history, distinct cultural identity, and plenty of attractions. For tourists, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Glasgow. Here’s a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Glasgow.

1. Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of Glasgow’s most popular attractions, and for a good reason. The museum has a vast collection of art from different periods, including works by the Dutch masters, Impressionists, and Scottish artists. In addition to art, the museum has a natural history collection, arms and armor exhibit, and many interactive displays. It is a great place to spend a day.

2. Walk Through Glasgow’s West End

The West End of Glasgow is a trendy neighborhood with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is the perfect place to walk around, take in the atmosphere, and do some people watching. There are plenty of unique shops worth browsing, including vintage clothing stores, record shops, and independent bookstores. Be sure to visit the Ashton Lane, a cobbled lane with plenty of bars and restaurants.

3. Explore Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow Cathedral is a stunning medieval building that is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and history. The cathedral has stood in its current location for over 800 years and is a perfect example of Scottish Gothic architecture. Inside, there are impressive stained glass windows and a crypt that contains many interesting artifacts.

4. Experience the Vibrant Nightlife

Glasgow’s nightlife is lively and varied, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to suit all tastes. The area around the Merchant City is a perennial favorite, with many stylish bars and clubs. If you are looking for live music, check out King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, which has hosted many famous artists over the years.

5. Tour the Glasgow Distillery Company

For whiskey lovers, a visit to the Glasgow Distillery Company is a must. The distillery produces several different whiskies, including malt, blended, and single grain. Tours include a tasting session, during which you can sample some of the distillery’s best offerings.

6. Take a Stroll Through Glasgow Green

Glasgow Green is the city’s oldest park and is a perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park has several attractions, including the People’s Palace, which is a museum dedicated to Glasgow’s social history. You can also rent a bike and explore the park’s many trails.

7. Visit the Riverside Museum

The Riverside Museum is a transportation museum located on the banks of the River Clyde. The museum has over 3,000 objects on display, including vintage cars, bicycles, and boats. The museum is also famous for its interactive displays, including a flight simulator, where visitors can experience what it’s like to fly a plane.

8. See a Show at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall

The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall is the city’s premier music venue and hosts many world-famous musicians throughout the year. The hall is also home to the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and hosts many classical music concerts. Be sure to check the schedule of events and book tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

9. Visit the Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens is a beautiful park with stunning gardens and glasshouses. The gardens are home to many exotic plants and flowers, including several species of orchids. During the summer months, the gardens host many events, including outdoor concerts and art exhibitions.

10. Shop at the Barras Market

The Barras Market is Glasgow’s oldest market and is a great place to experience the city’s vibrant street culture. The market has many stalls selling everything from vintage clothing to artisanal foods. The market is open every weekend and attracts many locals and tourists alike.

The Bottom Line

Glasgow is a fascinating city with plenty to see and do. Whether you are interested in history, art, music, or nature, you will find something to suit your interests. Make sure to see the above-listed attractions and enjoy your time as a tourist in this fantastic city.