Best things to do in Glasgow

Must Visit Places in Glasgow

Glasgow is brimming with amazing things to do in Glasgow, from vibrant museums to lively music venues and charming street trails. Here’s a friendly guide to some of the best things to do in the city:

1. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Nestled in Glasgow’s lovely West End, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has been a treasured landmark for nearly a century. With its stunning architecture and diverse exhibits, it’s a real gem that you won’t want to miss. It has to be in your list of things to do in Glasgow. Best of all, it’s a free attraction and just a short stroll from the Kelvingrove Metro Station.

2. Glasgow Film Theatre

If you’re a movie lover, the Glasgow Film Theatre is the perfect spot for you. Whether you enjoy classic international films or contemporary indie features, there’s always something exciting playing. Don’t forget to check out Cafe Cosmo while you’re there—it's a great place to grab a delicious artisan beer or a tasty slice of cake.

3. Kelvingrove Park

Looking for some fresh air? Kelvingrove Park, situated along the scenic Kelvin River, is a fantastic choice! You might even catch a glimpse of unique wildlife like kingfishers and otters or the more common red foxes. This place has to be your things to do in Glasgow list, if you want hangout for dog walkers and local university students on sunny days.

4. Pollok Country Park

Just a ten-minute jaunt from Glasgow Central, Pollok Country Park is a delightful escape into nature. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes as you stroll among highland cows and horses. Inside Pollok House, you can admire impressive Spanish paintings and a fascinating collection of antiques. If you enjoy walking or jogging, this park is truly one of the bestplaces in Glasgow to unwind.

5. City Chambers

Step inside the City Chambers, and you might feel like you’ve stepped into a scene from Bridgerton. The magnificent interiors will surprise you, given that the outside doesn't reveal much about the beauty within. The tour guides are fantastic, providing just the right amount of information to help you appreciate this stunning Glasgow attraction.

6. Ashton Lane

Ashton Lane is such a charming spot! If you love aesthetic places, this should be on your things to do in Glasgow list. It’s a quaint, cobbled backstreet that's perfect for a cosy evening stroll. This hidden gem is super popular for its lovely bars and restaurants. Plus, when the evening rolls around, the fairy lights add a warm, rustic charm that makes the atmosphere just magical.

7. Mono

Next up is Mono, a one of the popular places in Glasgow where you can enjoy independent music, art, and delicious food. It's known as one of the best restaurants in Glasgow. Mono is a unique spot that combines a vegan café, bar, record store, performance venue, and art gallery all in one. The food keeps getting better each year, so whether you’re a lifelong vegan or a meat lover looking to try something new, you'll find something yummy here.

8. House of an Art Lover

Then there’s the House of an Art Lover, a true tourist attraction in Glasgow. Designed by the renowned Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, this beautiful retreat will truly captivate you. Built based on drawings from a competition in the early 1900s, the interiors are a stunning showcase of natural light and space, beautifully reflecting fine art at its best.

9. The West End

Don’t miss the West End the one of the beautiful places to visit in Glasgow. Many people consider it the most beautiful part of the city, and for good reason. It’s one of those places that leaves a lasting impression, with its unique personality hard to define. You'll find adorable vintage shops and charming alleyways filled with cosy bars and restaurants. The blend of character and gorgeous architecture is simply delightful.

10. Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

Last but not least, check out the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre. This quirky venue offers a mesmerizing experience, with captivating performances by carved figures and bits of old junk, all set to whimsical music and dramatic lighting. It beautifully narrates the funny yet poignant stories of human life, making you reflect on the ups and downs we all face. Hence, it is must place to include in your things to do in Glasgow list. Enjoy your adventures in Glasgow.

So, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a film buff, or love the great outdoors, Glasgow has something for everyone.

Attraction in Glasgow for students

If you're a student in Glasgow, you're in for a treat. This is packed with amazing Glasgow attractions, from fascinating museums and art galleries to exciting historical tours and beyond. The city centre is buzzing with culture and offers plenty of affordable student accommodation in Glasgow. Here’s a fun list of the top 5 attractions in Glasgow that you definitely shouldn't miss:

1. The Riverside Museum

Step into Glasgow’s award-winning transport museum, where you'll find over 3,000 fascinating objects on display. Whether you’re into skateboards or locomotives, paintings, prams, or even Stormtroopers, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy a stroll through Glasgow's streets, complete with shops, bars, and a subway experience. Climb aboard a train, tram, or bus for a taste of the old public transport scene. Don’t forget to check out Glasgow’s rich shipbuilding history and our interactive fire engine—put your firefighting skills to the test.

Ticket Price: Free 

Duration: 1-2 hours 

Location: 100 Pointhouse Rd, Glasgow G3 8RS, United Kingdom 

2. The Tenement House

Visit The Tenement House, a hidden gem in Glasgow's city centre, managed by the National Trust for Scotland. This charming property was originally featured in 1892 and offers a rare glimpse into early 20th-century life in Glasgow. Experience the home of Miss Agnes Toward, who lived there for over 50 years. It’s a unique chance to see what life was like for an “Independent Woman" back then and appreciate the household amenities we now consider standard but were once luxuries! 

Ticket Price: £8.50 

Duration: About 113 minutes 

Location: 145 Buccleuch Street, Garnethill area 

3. Scottish Football Museum

For football fans, the Scottish Football Museum and Hampden Park Stadium Tour is a must! Dive into Scotland’s rich football heritage and pay tribute to the legends who inspire today’s champions. Experience the stadium as the players do on match days—explore the underground roadway, peek into the changing rooms, and even measure the speed of your shot in our indoor warm-up area.

Ticket Price: £8 

Duration: 1-2 hours 

Location: Hampden Park, Glasgow G42 9BA, United Kingdom 

4. Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour

Ready for an adventure? This tour packs in some of Scotland’s must-see highlights in one exciting day! Forget about the hassle of planning your route—enjoy the ride in a comfy minibus while learning local insights. You’ll visit Stirling Castle, take in the beauty of Loch Lomond, and check out a whisky distillery, too. 

Ticket Price: £66.73 

Duration: 7 hours and 10 minutes 

Location: Typically departs from either Edinburgh or Glasgow 

5. Merchant City Music Walking Tour

Glasgow's music scene is vibrant. Join us for a guided walking tour of Merchant City and the East End led by passionate music lovers and writers. Explore concert venues, both old and new, and hear the stories of the musicians who shaped Glasgow’s cultural vibe. With a small group size, you’ll navigate the oldest streets and legendary pubs that make Glasgow so special. 

Ticket Price: £20.02

Duration: 2 hours

Location: 80 George Square, Glasgow G2 1DU, United Kingdom

So, grab your friends and get ready to explore all the amazing attractions Glasgow has to offer.

Awesome Things to Do in Glasgow

If you’re planning a trip to Glasgow, you’re in for a treat. Here are some fantastic activities to add to your must-do list for a truly memorable experience.

• Shopping Experience: Glasgow is a dream come true for shoppers. Head to the city centre, where you’ll find everything from big high street brands to chic designer stores in places like Princes Square, St Enoch Centre, and Buchanan Galleries. If you love supporting local makers, don’t miss the Scottish Design Exchange, The Clydeside Collective, and the Hidden Lane, or explore the charming mix of vintage and pre-loved shops tucked away in the neighbourhoods.
• Food Experience: You can’t visit Glasgow without indulging in its vibrant food scene. There’s so much to choose from, whether you’re craving traditional Scottish fare like haggis, neeps, and tatties at the Ubiquitous Chip or fresh seafood delights at Gamba. Whether you're grabbing a bite from street vendors at Platform or enjoying a Michelin-starred experience at Cail Bruich, you’ll find tons of amazing local chefs ready to impress you with their delicious dishes made from sustainable ingredients.
• Whisky Experience: Scotland's national drink is whisky, and tasting a dram is a must when you’re in Glasgow. Check out the Clydeside Distillery, the first dedicated single malt distillery in the city in over a century. Their visitor centre and distillery tours are a great way to learn more about this fascinating drink. You should also swing by traditional pubs like The Pot Still and The Ben Nevis, where the friendly locals can help you navigate their impressive whisky selections.
• Explore Neighborhoods: Glasgow is a compact city, so you can easily wander through multiple neighbourhoods in a single day. Whether you’re walking, cycling with the OVO Bike Scheme, or hopping on the historic 125-year-old Subway, each area offers its unique vibe. From the creative east end to the artsy and green Southside, there’s so much to discover.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, we’ve shared some of the bestthings to do in Glasgow for both visitors and students. We also highlighted popular spots along with details like location, duration, and ticket prices (if applicable). Plus, there’s a handy list of the top five attractions favoured by students. If you're on the lookout for affordable student accommodation in UK, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Graddinghomes experts. They’ll be there to help you every step of the way. Enjoy your adventure in Glasgow.

FAQs

1. What Is Glasgow Best Known For?

Glasgow is famous for its vibrant culture, diverse art scene, historic architecture, particularly Victorian and strong music scene. In addition, it is Scotland’s largest city and hub for sports, especially football.

2. Why Glasgow Is so Popular?

Glasgow City is known for its mix of cool, quality and affordable venues. From brunch to afternoon tea, and street food to Michelin-star dining, the city had plenty of taste options. So much so that it was named one of the best cities in the UK for food and drink.

3. Does Glasgow Have Uber?

Yes, the Uber app gives you the power to request a ride to get around Glasgow City anytime.

4. How Much Does Transport Cost from Glasgow Airport to City Centre?

A bus ticket price on the Glasgow Airport Express costs around £11 for adults and £6.50 for kids. Moreover, the taxi ride costs around £25. However, other options like Uber and pre-booked transfers are also available.