Travel Guide Glasgow

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600 000 inhabitants, 1.2 million in the agglomeration. This always surprises many visitors, but Glasgow is much larger and more populated than Edinburgh. Its size and weight in Britain are comparable to Birmingham, Leeds or Manchester, the kingdom's other large urban areas. This is due to its industrial history diametrically opposed to that of the capital, which it exceeded in population as early as 1821. There are few very old stones here, if not on the side of the cathedral and the neighboring house of Provand's Lordship. For the rest, architecture is essentially the result of the Industrial Revolution and the Victorian era. It gave him beautiful facades of great beauty along his grid streets, as well as some stylistic treasures such as the University or the Kelvingrove Museum. In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the city claimed the second city of the Empire, even though the title was fiercely disputed at the time, notably by Liverpool. It was then one of the main gates of trade with the American colonies, thanks to its privileged situation facing the Firth of Clyde. With the war of independence, its port is moving towards shipbuilding and its prosperity attracts many workers from the Highlands and Ireland. The confrontation between Catholics and Protestants therefore triggers, for a long time, an animosity known as sectarian. At the same time, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the engineering architect, built some of his most beautiful buildings such as the School of Art or the Lighthouse. As a result of the Great War and the depression of the 1930 ' s, glaswgian suburbs were sticking to socialism and the working condition began to pose many questions, while the economic situation deteriorated. When the second world conflict erupted, the agglomeration found a little of its vitality and played an important role in the total war, by its military industry and frequent bombardments. But, with the emergence of new economies in the 1950 ' s and 1960' s, deindustrialization hit its inhabitants hard. Glasgow quickly became synonymous with poverty, unemployment and violence. Fortunately, bold investment and development plans leave the metropolis of the marasm and its neighborhoods re-emerge in the late 1980 s to become a cultural, commercial, festive and university pole of British society. Its museums compete with creativity, shopping is one of the best in the United Kingdom outside London, and its young people know how to have fun in countless pubs and clubs with unparalleled reputation. Many tourists spend only one day on their way north. Know that you can take your time, attractions are plethora and you don't get tired so quickly from this exciting city as passionate as the city of music by UNESCO.

What to visit Glasgow?

When to go to Glasgow?

Glasgow is a fascinating Scottish city to visit all year round. Here's an overview of the best times to plan your trip:

January and February: Glasgow's winter months are characterized by cool temperatures, but it's an ideal time for backpackers looking for bargain rates. You can take advantage of lower accommodation prices and avoid the tourist crowds;

March to May: Spring in Glasgow is a great time to visit the city. Prices are still reasonable, and you can discover Glasgow in a flowery setting;

June to August in Glasgow: summer is high season in Glasgow. Temperatures are higher, and the city is bustling with cultural events and festivals. It's the ideal time to enjoy the summer atmosphere, although prices are higher, and booking in advance is recommended;

September and October: Autumn is a pleasant time to visit Glasgow. Temperatures are still mild, autumnal colors embellish the city, and prices start to drop after the summer high season;

November and December: Glasgow's winter months are cooler, but the city comes alive with Christmas markets, twinkling lights and end-of-year festivities. It's an ideal time to discover the magic of Christmas in Glasgow.

Glasgow can be visited all year round, so it's hard to choose! Keep in mind that the shoulder seasons offer an ideal compromise in terms of weather and prices.

Use the map to see the lowest prices at a glance:
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Weather at the moment

Weather all year round

Glasgow enjoys a temperate climate characterized by distinct seasons. Here's an overview of the weather in Glasgow throughout the year:

High-season climate: during the summer months, from June to August, temperatures reach their peak, with maximum averages around 18-20°C. This is the ideal time to enjoy festivals and summer events;

Low-season climate: during the winter months, from December to February, temperatures plummet, with minimum averages of 2-4°C. However, Glasgow is beautifully decorated over the Christmas period, making it a charming winter destination;

Spring, March to May: temperatures rise gradually, with maximums of 10-14°C. Showers are frequent, so bring an umbrella;

Autumn, from September to November: temperatures remain pleasant, around 13-16°C, and rain is frequent.

Budget

Glasgow offers a variety of budget options for travelers:

The currency used in Glasgow is the Pound Sterling (GBP) ;

Glasgow is an easy destination for cash and credit card transactions;

Travelers on a budget will find inexpensive hostels, guesthouses and dining options for around 10-15 GBP per person;

On a comfortable budget, opt for 3-star hotels or vacation rentals. Meals in mid-range restaurants cost around 20-30 GBP/person;

And for top-of-the-range services, the city offers 4 and 5-star luxury hotels and gourmet restaurants;

Tipping is not compulsory, but common;

Tickets for museums and historic sites are affordable, between 5 and 15 GBP per person.

Tip: to save on travel costs, consider buying a tourist card, such as the Glasgow Cardwhich offers discounts on public transport and attractions.

Procedures

Are you planning a trip to Glasgow? Here's some useful information on the formalities you need to complete before taking off:

EU nationals do not need a visa to enter the UK;

If you are from outside the European Union, check visa requirements for the UK before you leave;

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Glasgow;

For specific visa information, contact the Britishembassy or consulate in your country;

Take out travel insurance to cover any health problems, flights or cancellations;

No vaccinations are required to travel to Glasgow, but it's always a good idea to check your government's current health recommendations;

Check the latest travelrequirements before you go, as these may change.

Enjoy your trip to Glasgow with complete peace of mind!

Health

Here's some important health information to bear in mind when traveling to Glasgow:

General precautions: Glasgow is a safe city with good emergency medical services;

Vaccinations: no specific vaccinations are required for travel to Glasgow;

Drinking water: Glasgow's tap water is of very good quality and completely safe to drink;

Travel insurance: we strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance to cover any medical problems, flights or trip cancellations;

Emergency numbers: know the local emergency numbers, especially 999 for medical emergencies;

General health: Glasgow has high-quality medical services, but it's advisable to have health insurance in place for any eventuality.

Finally, there are plenty of pharmacies in Glasgow, where you can buy everyday medicines without a prescription.

How to go to Glasgow? Our advice & tips

Glasgow tour packages are a great way to discover this dynamic city while leaving the planning to the professionals. This destination offers a variety of attractions from museums and art galleries to a vibrant music scene. Find a reliable tour operator and, when booking your package tour, make sure you understand what's included in the package, whether it's accommodation, meals, guided tours or local transportation. Another point to consider is the operator's cancellation policy. You need to know how cancellations are handled, should you be forced to cancel your trip for any reason. Travel insurance is highly recommended, to cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies abroad and lost luggage. Putting your trust in a quality tour operator will help you make the most of your experience in Glasgow.

Discover our selection of travel agencies for this destination

Going alone in Glasgow? It's a great experience! Look for suitable accommodation, such as a well-rated youth hostel or a hotel with single rooms, to ensure your comfort and safety as a solo traveler. Then plan your itinerary to discover Glasgow's main sights, such as the Gallery of Modern Art and the Merchant City district. Familiarize yourself with local public transport, as Glasgow is an easy city to explore. Then think about your personal safety by avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping your belongings safe. And take the opportunity to meet locals and fellow travelers on guided tours, or in lively pubs! The official language is English, but expect to hear some Scottish. Finally, sample local delicacies like haggis, or take part in ceilidhs (traditional dances) as you explore the Scottish Highlands on day trips. Travelling solo in Glasgow is a truly memorable experience!

How do you get around Glasgow? Here are some details and tips to help you:

Use public transport such as buses, streetcars and subway trains;

If you plan to travel frequently or visit remote areas, renting a car in Glasgow is a good option;

Try out self-service bikes and scooters to get around in an eco-friendly and affordable way;

Plan your transfer from the airport to your accommodation in advance;

Mobile transport apps allow you to plan your journeys, buy tickets and follow transport timetables in real time. Download them before you travel;

Use car-sharing apps to order car trips.

Before you leave, find out what transportation options are available and draw up a plan for your trip. This will save you time and money on the spot.

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Pictures and images Glasgow

Buchanan Street, centre de Glasgow. benedek - iStockphoto.com
Vue aérienne du quartier de West End. georgeclerk - iStockphoto.com
Vue aérienne du quartier de West End. georgeclerk - iStockphoto.com
Buchanan street, Glasgow. Jeff Whyte - Shutterstock.com
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Discover Glasgow

When to travel?

Glasgow is a fascinating Scottish city to visit all year round. Here's an overview of the best times to plan y...
Read more about it

Weather forecast

Glasgow enjoys a temperate climate characterized by distinct seasons. Here's an overview of the weather...
Read more about it

Budget

Glasgow offers a variety of budget options for travelers:

The currency used in Glasgow is the Pound S...
Read more about it

Formalities

Are you planning a trip to Glasgow? Here's some useful information on the formalities you need to complete bef...
Read more about it

Health

Here's some important health information to bear in mind when traveling to Glasgow:

General prec...
Read more about it

How to travel by yourself?

Going alone in Glasgow? It's a great experience! Look for suitable accommodation, such as a well-rated youth h...
Read more about it

How to get organized?

Glasgow tour packages are a great way to discover this dynamic city while leaving the planning to the professi...
Read more about it

Getting around

How do you get around Glasgow? Here are some details and tips to help you:

Use public transport such as...
Read more about it

Other destinations nearby Glasgow

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