What's Glasgow famous for?

Glasgow is famous for quite a bit! It's the largest city in Scotland, so it's got a lot to offer when it comes to Scottish history and culture. . It may be primarily known now for its friendly locals and proximity to the highlands, but if you spend some time here, you'll find that the city is bursting with great food, fine art, and fine impressive architecture. Glasgow City Chambers has more marble inside than the Vatican, whilst the opulent Royal Exchange Building was originally a townhouse for a prominent local lord. It's not all about history in Scotland's second city, as there's fun to be had as well. It has become a cosmopolitan centre with great music and comedy venues, with fashionable bars and restaurants nestled in charming historic streets.

What's Glasgow's nickname?

Glasgow is known as "the dear green place", which is taken as the translation of the Gaelic term Glas Chu. Whilst the bright lights of the city's modern streets have replaced the rolling fields and forests of years gone by, there are still plenty of green spaces for families to enjoy, making its nickname relevant, even today.

Is Glasgow a cheap city?

As a cost-effective break, Glasgow certainly hits the mark as it was named the world's second-most affordable city by Time Out in 2022. That means your money will go a lot further, allowing you to enjoy the best restaurants and bars but have some left over for the street vendors and modern shops that line Buchanan Street.

What are some of the top free things to do in Glasgow?

Even with the low costs in Glasgow, you may still wish to take in some free attractions, and fear not, as the city has plenty. The Burrell Collection is a literal treasure trove with more than 9,000 works of art for you to take in, and it's free. It's in Pollock Country Park, so be sure to spend some time exploring Glasgow's largest park after your visit to the museum. If green is your thing, you can also step into the past and visit the Victorian glasshouse without splashing out. Home to exotic tree ferns, rare orchids and begonias, the attraction is open all year round. It's completely free to stroll around the city, and Glasgow is a perfect place to mooch. For a real treat, head to Ashton Lane, where the cobbled paving gives strong Harry Potter vibes.

What cities have direct flights to Glasgow?

easyJet operates flights from several airports in the UK, including London Stansted , London Luton , and London Gatwick . If you're in the Midlands, you can find flights departing from Birmingham . Belfast also has convenient flight options, and Southampton is another departure point to consider.

How do you get to central Glasgow from the airport?

Glasgow airport is on the city's outskirts, but there are convenient ways to find yourself quickly in the centre of town. Taking a taxi is the most convenient and they're always lined up outside the airport waiting to deliver you to the heart of the action. If you pre-book, you'll find they're a little cheaper, giving you more change in your pocket for the trip. Several shuttle bus services operate between Glasgow Airport and the city centre, with the Glasgow Airport Express service being the most popular option. McGill's 757 service also offers public transport coverage to and from the airport. While the Glasgow Airport Express service offers single adult and group ticket options, McGill's 757 service provides a day-saver ticket for individual travellers or couples, making it an affordable travel choice. These services adhere strictly to their schedules, so be prepared to wait for the next departure.

Cheap flights to Glasgow from

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Flight prices to Glasgow

Belfast City (George Best) to Glasgow

from £23.99

Belfast Intl to Glasgow

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Birmingham to Glasgow

from £17.99

Jersey to Glasgow

from £22.99

London Gatwick to Glasgow

from £23.99

London Luton to Glasgow

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London Stansted to Glasgow

from £23.99

Southampton to Glasgow

from £22.99

Why fly to Glasgow?

Glasgow is firmly established as one of Europe’s most exciting destinations. The city has so much to offer, from its wealth of cultural attractions and year-round programme of events and festivals, to its world-class architecture and design, fantastic shopping and vibrant nightlife. So, it will come as no surprise that the city was named the top in the UK in the prestigious Tripadvisor ‘Traveller’s Choice Destinations on the Rise 2012’ awards. An extensive range of museums and galleries – many of which are FREE to visit, showcase Glasgow’s cultural heritage.

Must-sees include the magnificent Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum and the fascinating Riverside Museum. Discover the work of Art Nouveau architect, designer and city icon, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and check out some of the hottest new cutting edge art talent at Trongate 103 or Tramway – host venue for the 2015 Turner Prize. The city also has a year-round programme of events and festivals and is home to a number of events, among many others, such as Celtic Connections, Glasgow Film Festival, the Glasgow International Comedy Festival, Merchant City Festival, Piping Live! and the World Pipe Band Championships. 2014 will be an even bigger year for the city as it plays host to the Commonwealth Games.As the largest retail centre in the UK outside London, the city’s Style Mile is jammed with a selection of high street stores and designer favourites. The city’s newest retail experience, Buchanan Quarter has just opened with Scotland’s flagship Forever 21 store just one of the great brands on offer.Looking for something a little quirky? Head to the Merchant City and West End districts where you will uncover some amazing vintage stores, chic boutiques and weekend craft markets.

Flying from London? View your London airport options on our London to Glasgow flights page

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When's the best time to go?

Hottest month

July

Coldest month

January

Best time to visit

Come and experience lively Glasgow in the summer months, when the temperatures peak and the days are nice and long, compared to the freezing cold winter spell. Between April and September there’s a packed events schedule, too, with pop-up comedy performances and a well-loved gin festival among the offerings.

Avoid the crowds

Glasgow is a popular city every month of the year, such is the draw of its museums, nightlife and rich Victorian architecture. Visit outside of high summer to avoid the busiest time, though – April and May are both top choices for pleasant temperatures and lower prices. Avoid Christmas, too, when the city’s ice-skating rink, shows and markets really pull in the crowds.

Your Glasgow Questions Answered

: Glasgow is famous for quite a bit! It's the largest city in Scotland, so it's got a lot to offer when it comes to Scottish history and culture. . It may be primarily known now for its friendly locals and proximity to the highlands, but if you spend some time here, you'll find that the city is bursting with great food, fine art, and fine impressive architecture. Glasgow City Chambers has more marble inside than the Vatican, whilst the opulent Royal Exchange Building was originally a townhouse for a prominent local lord.

It's not all about history in Scotland's second city, as there's fun to be had as well. It has become a cosmopolitan centre with great music and comedy venues, with fashionable bars and restaurants nestled in charming historic streets.