Discover Glasgow: Scotland’s Most Underrated City

Scotland just got a little closer! With Ryanair now offering direct flights from Malta to Glasgow, there’s never been a better time to explore this Amazing city. I had the opportunity to visit this gem of a city a couple of years back and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.

Nestled on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow is a perfect mix of rich history, stunning architecture, and a buzzing cultural scene. Glasgow has something for everyone; there’s art, history, shopping and a unique local vibe. So, let’s dive into the must-see spots and a few hidden gems to make your trip unforgettable!

Must-See Attractions in Glasgow:

Glasgow Cathedral: Start your Glasgow adventure with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral, an outstanding example of medieval architecture. This 12th-century Gothic masterpiece is a beautiful testament to Scotland’s religious heritage.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Home to an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, the Kelvingrove is a treasure trove of culture. The museum houses works by renowned artists like Salvador Dali and Vincent van Gogh, as well as fascinating displays covering Scotland’s history.

The Riverside Museum: For a journey through Glasgow’s transport history, head to the Riverside Museum, where you can explore everything from vintage cars and trams to locomotives and paddle steamers. The iconic Zaha Hadid-designed building is a work of art in itself.

Glasgow Science Centre: Fun for visitors of all ages, the Glasgow Science Centre offers interactive exhibitions, an IMAX cinema, and a planetarium. Learn about the wonders of science and space while enjoying panoramic views of the city from the tower.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens: The Botanic Gardens are an oasis of tranquility within the city. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, glasshouses, and exotic plant collections. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon.

The People’s Palace and Winter Gardens: This museum is a window into Glasgow’s social history, featuring exhibits about the lives of ordinary Glaswegians over the years. The adjacent Winter Gardens offer a lush escape to admire tropical plants.

University of Glasgow: The university’s stunning neo-Gothic architecture and sprawling campus make it a must-visit. The Cloisters, in particular, are a sight to behold and have even been featured in the Harry Potter films.

Glasgow Green: As the city’s oldest park, Glasgow Green is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It’s also home to iconic landmarks like the People’s Palace and the Doulton Fountain.

City Centre Mural Trail: Glasgow’s streets are adorned with vibrant street art and murals. Embark on the Mural Trail to discover impressive artworks by both local and international artists that reflect the city’s creativity.

Whisky & Beer Lovers, Rejoice!

Glasgow isn’t just about history and architecture—it’s also a haven for whisky and beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re a whisky connoisseur or a craft beer lover, the city offers some fantastic spots to experience Scotland’s best pours.

Whisky Distilleries in Glasgow:

• Clydeside Distillery – Located on the River Clyde, this distillery offers guided tours where you can learn about the whisky-making process and sample their single malts.
• Glasgow Distillery – The city’s first independent single malt distillery in over a century, known for its award-winning Glasgow 1770 whisky. Tours include tastings of their various expressions.
• Auchentoshan Distillery (Just outside Glasgow) – Famous for its triple-distilled whisky, this Lowland distillery is a short drive from the city and offers in-depth whisky experiences.

Beer Breweries in Glasgow:

• WEST Brewery – A unique German-style brewery housed in a stunning 19th-century building. They brew their beers according to the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law), and their beer hall is a great place to try their lagers and wheat beers.
• Drygate Brewing Co. – A craft brewery with an on-site bar and restaurant, offering brewery tours and tastings of their ever-changing range of beers.
• Shilling Brewing Co. – A trendy microbrewery in the city center known for its fresh, unfiltered beers brewed on-site, with a great selection of pizzas to pair with your pint.
• Jaw Brew – A family-run craft brewery just outside Glasgow, known for its sustainability-focused beers and creative small-batch brews.

Nearby Locations:

While exploring Glasgow, consider taking day trips to some nearby destinations to make the most of your visit:

1. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park (Approx. 45 minutes by car): Just a short drive from Glasgow, you can experience the natural beauty of Scotland at Loch Lomond. Enjoy hiking, water activities, and stunning landscapes in this national park.
2. Stirling (Approx. 45 minutes by train): Explore the historic city of Stirling, home to Stirling Castle, the Wallace Monument, and the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre. It’s a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.
3. Edinburgh (Approx. 1 hour by train): Scotland’s capital is easily accessible from Glasgow. Don’t miss the chance to visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and Arthur’s Seat.

Glasgow is a city that effortlessly blends its rich history with a modern, creative energy. From its historic sites to its vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for every traveler to discover. With its proximity to stunning natural landscapes and other Scottish cities, Glasgow serves as an ideal base for exploring the beauty and history of Scotland. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, a visit to Glasgow promises an unforgettable journey.