Things to do in  Glasgow

Scotland’s biggest city is known for its rich cultural scene—some of Britain’s most renowned artists and musicians are from Glasgow. The city’s earthy character is a striking contrast to the more refined Edinburgh, but its museums rival those of the capital and its food and nightlife scenes are the country's best.

Two days should be enough time to see all of Glasgow’s major attractions, but you should try to spend longer to get a feel of the city’s distinctive, down-to-earth character. With more than three days to spare, you could also take a day trip to nearby Loch Lomond or Ayrshire.

Glasgow’s top visitor attractions include the striking Zaha Hadid-designed Riverside Museum on the Clyde; the red-brick Victorian Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum; Glasgow Cathedral and the grand Victorian Necropolis; the lush Glasgow Botanic Gardens; and the eclectic collections of the Hunterian Museum and Burrell Collection.

Start your day in the West End, among the shops and cafes of Finnieston. Explore the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and Riverside Museum. Then walk along the Clyde to the center. Wander Merchant City, have a picnic on Glasgow Green, and see some live music—Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music.

Glasgow is filled with creative people, so going to art galleries and watching live music are popular activities. Design lovers visit for the works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, while foodies enjoy exploring the food scene. Although a big city, Glasgow has green space and easy access to surrounding mountains and lochs.

Yes. Visitors to Scotland should not miss Glasgow. The city has a unique, earthy character, and Glaswegians are renowned as a friendly and talkative bunch. The art and music scenes are among the best in Britain, and the city is filled with interesting architecture and free museums and galleries.