Here’s a list of the 15 best things to do in Glasgow (Scotland), along with famous landmarks, museums, and other points of interest.
Glasgow Cathedral
The magnificent Glasgow cathedral marks the birthplace of the city of Glasgow and is one of Scotland’s most significant medieval buildings. It’s thought that the temple was built on the site of St Kentigern’s, the patron saint of Glasgow’s, tomb.
Marvel at the beautiful medieval architecture of the building, both externally and internally. Inside, admire carved stone ceilings, see a fascinating mid-1200s crypt built to house St Mungo’s tomb, and appreciate a stunning collection of stained-glass windows.
The Necropolis
Close to Glasgow cathedral is the Necropolis, a beautiful Victorian garden cemetery designed to resemble Père-Lachaise in Paris. The graveyard is filled with stunning architecture and sculptures, and it’s thought that over 50,000 burials have taken place within the grounds.
On a walking tour of the cemetery, you’ll see just some of the 3,500 tombs built in the Classical Revival architectural style. The focal point is the towering monument of John Knox atop the hill; erected in 1825, it dominates the landscape.
Buchanan Street
Do you love to shop? If the answer’s yes, then a visit to Buchanan Street is a must. The pedestrianized boulevard is home to some of Glasgow’s finest shopping outlets and magnificent architecture.
Whether you want to shop for a great deal or treat yourself to high-end luxury, you’re sure to find something you love to take home with you. From beauty halls to in-store boutiques, department stores to hipster emporiums, Buchanan Street is a shopper’s paradise.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is home to a fantastic 8000 objects, displayed across 22 state-of-the-art galleries. The museum includes numerous collections of wide-ranging and internationally significant artworks, historical artifacts, and more.
Visitors will relish the opportunity to see the famous Salvador Dali artwork” Christ of St John of the Cross” or marvel at a Spitfire plane hanging from the ceiling. The family-friendly exhibitions are a must-see to learn more about Glasgow’s history.
Clydeside Distillery
In the heart of Glasgow, Clydeside Distillery offers the ultimate visitor experience, allowing you to learn more about Glasgow’s first dedicated whisky distillery. For over 100 years, Clydeside has produced single malt scotch whisky, a vital part of the city’s industrial heritage.
Discover tales of Glasgow’s whisky industry, meet the craftsmen who make the liquor, learn how whisky is distilled, taste delicious whisky samples, and shop for signature whiskies to take home with you.
Hunterian Art Gallery & Museum
Scotland’s oldest public museum is home to over one million unusual artifacts spanning an impressive history. From mummies to meteorites, animal life to artwork, there are several different museum venues to discover on one campus.
See rare and important objects from the animal kingdom at the Hunterian Museum and famous Mackintosh works of art at the Hunterian Art Gallery.
There are live animals (think snakes, lizards, and frogs!) at the Hunterian Zoology Museum and research into the human body at the Anatomy Museum as well as much, much more.
Glasgow Film Theatre
The Glasgow Film Theatre began its life over 40 years ago as a single-screen cinema. Today, it has blossomed into Scotland’s biggest and most popular independent cinema. It’s also the home of the Glasgow Film Festival, one of the best in the UK.
The theatre provides a place for audiences and filmmakers to watch or display film and moving image media, with over 600 films screened each year. This national center brings together like-minded individuals to connect over their love of the silver screen.
The Scottish Football Museum
The Scottish Football Museum is a must-see for sports lovers. The museum takes you on a journey through football history, with thousands of objects showcasing Scotland’s extensive connection with the sport.
On a tour of the museum, you’ll see footage of the most memorable games and sit in the original dressing room of the old Hampden stadium. Learn about the country’s best players at the Scottish Football Hall of Fame and marvel at the world’s oldest national trophy, the Scottish Cup.
Glasgow Science Centre
Discover science and technology as you’ve never experienced it before at Glasgow Science Centre. With interactive exhibits, workshops, and a planetarium, the centre aims to teach people about science in exciting and inspiring ways.
Watch an entertaining live science show, explore the wonder of the night sky in the planetarium and see amazing 3D effects at the IMAX cinema. If that wasn’t enough, interactive exhibits will show you how to look into the future, build a rollercoaster or master the art of telekinesis.
The Riverside Museum
Glasgow’s renowned Riverside Museum is a fabulous display of everything transport-related. Over 3000 objects showcase the history of transportation, from skateboards to prams.
As you make your way around the museum, you’ll learn the fascinating stories behind the artifacts on display. Touch screen panels enhance your experience, with films and images available at the tip of your finger.
Interactive exhibits transport you to Glasgow’s streets, or you can step aboard trains, trams, buses, and vintage cars to get a feel for transport from a bygone era.
Glasgow Botanic Gardens
Located in the heart of the West End, Glasgow Botanic Gardens offers an escape from city life. Wander around the tranquil grounds, set beside the River Kelvin, and you’ll see a variety of plant species and other flora and fauna, all in a serene environment.
Visit the famous Kibble Palace, a stunning glasshouse with a tropical rainforest and the national collection of tree ferns. There’s a play area to entertain younger children, while adults will love the opportunity to sip tea and enjoy tasty nibbles at the Gardens’ tearoom.
Snow Factor
Ski the UK’s longest slope at Scotland’s only year-round snow resort. There’s something for everyone, with activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding to ice sliding and climbing.
Learn how to ski, eat alpine dishes at the Bavarian restaurant, or head to the Ice Bar for a drink in chilly conditions. Open 364 days a year, the Snow Factor boasts over 1,500 tonnes of snow and is the perfect place for winter fun just a short distance from Glasgow city center.
Paisley Abbey
Dating back to the 12th century, Paisley Abbey is one of Glasgow’s most important religious sites and offers a glimpse into the city’s history. The ancient church was established by 13 monks and had its status raised to that of an abbey.
This huge abbey is a place for visitors to worship, contemplate or appreciate the magnificent architecture of the building. The beautiful stained-glass windows are a must-see, and you may want to consider visiting a Sunday service to see the choir perform accompanied by an orchestra.
Pollok House and Country Park
Explore one of Scotland’s grandest properties, Pollock House, set within lush grounds just a short distance from the city center. The Georgian house boasts an incredible collection of art, luxurious Edwardian rooms, and stunning surroundings.
After taking in the house and its vast array of artifacts, immerse yourself in nature with a walk around the Country Park. Admire the sprawling lawns and greenery before stopping for a bite to eat at the Edwardian Kitchen cafe – the scones are a must to try!
The Tenement House
Experience life as it was in the 20th century at The Tenement House, a wonderful time capsule depicting a time gone by. The house, once owned by Miss Agnes Toward, houses an impressive array of well-preserved furniture and possessions from 1911 to 1965. There’s even a jar of jam from 1929!
The Victorian flat retains many of its original furnishings, from a coal-fired kitchen range to gaslights. Children can enjoy taking quizzes around the house or learning what each object was used for. The Tenement House is a real treasure trove of history.