Things to do in Glasgow

Best Things to do in Glasgow

Planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Glasgow? From historic landmarks to modern experiences, the city offers something for every traveller, making it a perfect getaway in 2026.

With over 314 activities in Glasgow, there is plenty to explore. Visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in , including iconic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, sampling local delicacies or relaxing at scenic spots, every corner has something new to discover.

With experiences starting at INR 539, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect trip. Make the most of your visit to Glasgow in January and create memories that will last a lifetime.

A Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Glasgow

About Glasgow

Glasgow is straightforward, lively, and welcoming. The city centre is busy with shops, bars, and galleries, while the West End gives you leafy streets, the Botanic Gardens, and the University. Music is everywhere, from small pubs with folk nights to big venues that host international bands.

Well-known things to do in Glasgow include visiting the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, walking through George Square, and spending time along the River Clyde. The Riverside Museum and the Gallery of Modern Art also stand out if you’re into culture.

It’s a city that mixes old landmarks with a strong creative streak, and that balance makes it easy to enjoy whether you’re here for a weekend or longer.

Unique Experiences

Glasgow Street Art Daily Walking Tour

You’ll wander through back lanes and under bridges to discover one of the city’s most vibrant creative scenes. Street murals here have become a local love affair and you’ll find yourself lingering, snapping photos of mural after mural, each one a snippet of Glasgow’s voice. It’s one of those things to do in Glasgow that doesn’t feel touristy.

Where: Meet at 81 Mitchell St and finish near 69 Ingram St

Pricing: It starts from INR 1,700

Timing: Every day at 2:00 pm, lasting around 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes

When to Visit: Best from spring through early autumn, when outdoor art shines and the daylight lingers

Find a Hidden Glen in Scotland’s Woods

This walk takes you off the beaten track to a quiet glen tucked deep into Scotland’s woods and it’s peaceful, green, and a reminder of how much beauty lies beyond the main tourist paths. A simple but memorable way to connect with nature.

Where: 19 Killermont St, Glasgow

Pricing: It starts from INR 10,500 per person.

Timing: Tours usually begin at 09:30 AM, lasting about 3 hours.

When to Visit: Best in spring and summer (April to September) when the woods are at their greenest.

Top Attractions

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is one of the must-see Glasgow tourist attractions. Inside, you’ll find everything from Renaissance paintings to quirky modern pieces and even a Spitfire plane hanging overhead. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Glasgow if you want art, culture, and history all under one roof.

Where: Argyle Street, West End

Pricing: Free entry

Timing: Monday to Thursday and Saturday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Friday and Sunday 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

When to Visit: Year-round; afternoons are quieter

Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis

Glasgow Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in the city and still impressive with its Gothic stonework and stained glass. Right behind it, the Necropolis spreads across the hill with monuments, winding paths, and views across the city. Together, they’re two of the most important stops if you want a real feel for Glasgow’s history.

Where: Castle Street, Glasgow City Centre

Pricing: Free entry

Timing: Monday to Saturday 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; Sunday 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM

When to Visit: March to October for longer daylight hours, though winter mornings feel just as dramatic

Riverside Museum

This museum of transport and travel is one of the top things to do in Glasgow for families. Vintage cars, trains, and even recreated old streets make it interactive and fun to wander. It also counts among the best things to do in Glasgow if you’re keen to see how the city’s industrial past shaped its present.

Where: Pointhouse Place, by the River Clyde

Pricing: Free entry

Timing: Monday to Thursday and Saturday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Friday and Sunday 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM

When to Visit: All year, though summer weekends bring a lively buzz with more outdoor displays

Sightseeing Tours

Glasgow City Centre Walking Tour

A guided walk through the city centre lets you dive into Glasgow’s stories, from George Square to Merchant City. You’ll hear about its past and spot details you’d otherwise miss. This is one of the most grounding things to do in Glasgow if you enjoy walking a city to understand it.

Where: Glasgow City Centre

Pricing: It starts from INR 1,400 per person

Timing: Around 2 hours; slots available at 10:30 AM, 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM

When to Visit: March to October for the best weather

Glasgow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

If you want to see more in less time, this bus tour covers highlights like the Cathedral, Riverside Museum, and West End. You can jump off at stops that catch your eye and rejoin later. It’s among the top things to do in Glasgow for first-time visitors.

Where: Departs from George Square, multiple stops across the city

Pricing: It starts from INR 2,400 per person

Timing: Buses run 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM; ticket valid for 1 day

When to Visit: Year-round, but spring and summer give clearer views

Day Trips

Day Trip to Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands

This full-day trip takes you out of the city into Scotland’s landscapes. You’ll pass Glencoe’s dramatic mountains, stop in Fort Augustus, and cruise Loch Ness. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Glasgow when you want a mix of history and nature.

Where: Departs from central Glasgow

Pricing: It starts from INR 6,100 per person

Timing: Starts at 7:30 AM (12 hours and 30 minutes approx.)

When to Visit: April to October for longer daylight and green scenery

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Whisky Tour

This day trip blends history, scenery, and whisky tasting. You’ll visit Stirling Castle, stop by Loch Lomond, and tour a distillery. It’s one of those fun things to do in Glasgow that gives you variety in a single day.

Where: Departs from central Glasgow

Pricing: It starts from INR 7,900 per person

Timing: Starts at 9:00 AM (7 hours and 10 minutes approx.)

When to Visit: May to September for clear skies and longer days

Boat Tours

Cruise on Loch Lomond, Kelpies and Stirling Castle (Private Tour)

This private tour blends Scotland’s landscapes and history in one day. You’ll sail on Loch Lomond, see the striking Kelpies sculptures, and explore Stirling Castle, all at a relaxed pace with your own guide.

Where: Departs from Glasgow, covering Loch Lomond, Falkirk, and Stirling.

Pricing: It starts from INR 73,000 per group (up to 4 people).

Timing: Departs around 9:00 AM, lasting about 9 hours.

When to Visit: May to October for clear skies and comfortable weather.

Glasgow Shore Excursions (Princess & Norwegian Cruise Ships)

Perfect if you’re docking in Scotland, this excursion lets you see Glasgow’s highlights without rushing. You’ll cover landmarks, local culture, and scenic spots before heading back to port in time for your ship.

Where: Pick-up and drop-off at Greenock port, exploring Glasgow.

Pricing: It starts from INR 87,000 per group (up to 7 people)

Timing: Start times vary with cruise arrivals, but tours usually last 6 to 8 hours.

When to Visit: Summer months (June to August) are the most pleasant, though spring also works well with fewer crowds.

Getting Around

• Subway: Glasgow has a compact subway loop, handy for quickly reaching the West End or hopping back into the city centre. If your list of things to do in Glasgow includes museums, the subway saves time.
• Trains: For day trips to Stirling or Loch Lomond, trains from Queen Street station are fast and frequent. It’s also useful if you’re extending your top things to do in Glasgow into the nearby countryside.
• Buses: They cover the areas the subway doesn’t, and are helpful if you’re ticking off Glasgow tourist attractions like Pollok Country Park or heading south of the Clyde.
• Cycling: There are cycle paths along the Clyde and through Kelvingrove. Renting a bike is one of the more relaxed things to do in Glasgow, especially in summer.
• Walking: The city centre is compact. Walking lets you discover street art, old lanes, and small cafés tucked between the main activities you’ve planned.
• Taxis: Easy to flag down, especially around George Square or Buchanan Street, if you’re out late or carrying shopping bags.

Traveller Tips

• Catch live music: Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music. If your list of things to do in Glasgow includes nightlife, add a small gig venue or pub session for a real taste of the city. It’s one of those fun things to do in Glasgow that locals swear by.
• Dress for rain: Even in July, showers can appear without warning. Keeping a light jacket handy means you don’t have to pause your plan of top things to do in Glasgow, whether it’s walking tours or exploring the Riverside.
• Try the markets: Barras Market is a classic weekend stop. If you’re here on a Saturday, add it to your Glasgow tourist attractions list for antiques, vintage finds, and a local vibe.
• Plan museum timings: Many museums close around 5:00 PM. To make the most of your things to do in Glasgow, visit indoor spots in the morning and leave parks and riverside walks for later.
• Use Sundays wisely: Some shops shut early, but gardens, parks, and riverside paths are quieter. It’s one of those underrated activities that helps you see a calmer side of the city.