Recently voted the world’s friendliest city, get to know the vibrant and dynamic streets of Scotland’s second city and you’re sure to become firm friends with it too. There’s wit, there’s culture, there’s fierce pride and there’s architecture to treasure.
From science to shopping
Wandering through this handsome city centre, you’ll find bustling shopping streets with a huge array of bars and restaurants that come to life once the sun goes down. Nestled among the designer boutiques and high street shops, you might catch a glimpse of the architectural marvels of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, such as the Glasgow School of Art and former Glasgow Herald building. Take a tour of his house, now a part of Glasgow University, in the leafy west-end suburb of Kelvingrove.
The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is home to a myriad of treasures, including notable works by Salvador Dali. The palatial exterior is a fine display of Victorian grandeur. Inside, fine art, stuffed animals and even an old Spitfire plane takes pride of place within splendid surroundings.
The ultra-modern Glasgow Science Centre will keep kids and adults entertained for hours. Witness science and technology brought to life through hundreds of interactive exhibits. Catch a glimpse of Glasgow’s imposing skyline from the rotating observation tower, or enjoy live science demonstrations in the Science Theatre.
Meet the locals
It’s likely the outgoing charm of Glaswegians that has shaped the image of Scots across the globe. Witness the friendly face of the city first hand by visiting the local bars and restaurants in the evening. Sample the sumptuous menu at the Ubiquitous Chip – it’s inspired by regional Scottish dishes using solely Scottish produce. A compact little neighbourhood bistro, Fanny Trollopes in Finnieston focuses on honest, seasonal food that is locally sourced and skilfully prepared.
After dinner, take in the city’s dynamic music scene and rub shoulders with the locals on a night out to remember. Pubs and clubs pulse with cool jazz, fiery folk and indie jams.
Unlock the lochs
Get a taste for remote Scottish island life away from the bustle of the city with a day trip to the Isle of Arran. Picture-perfect white croft houses perch on isolated beaches. Hillside walks and forest trails will lead you to mystical stone circles and cascading waterfalls.
An hour’s drive from Glasgow, the Trossachs National Park is the Scotland straight from postcards. Snowy peaks and crystal clear lochs make up the vast spaces in between petite villages. Head out on woodland walks through ancient forests, try water sports on Loch Lomond or ascend one of the 21 munros (mountains over 3,000ft) the park has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a dynamic music and art scene, cutting-edge museums or the rugged charm of rural Scotland, a visit to Glasgow will leave you aching to return. Arrange car rental in Glasgow and give yourself the best chance of seeing it all.
