First time visitor's guide

Day 1: History, architecture, and city sights

Morning - Start with George Square and the City Chambers

Begin your Glasgow adventure in the heart of the city at George Square, a historical hub surrounded by grand Victorian buildings. Take a moment to soak in the bustling atmosphere, admire the statues, and visit the City Chambers, an impressive building with opulent interiors. Free guided tours are often available, offering insight into Glasgow’s political history and architecture.

Mid-morning - Visit the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA)

Just a short walk from George Square is the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), housed in a neoclassical building that once served as a mansion and library. Inside, you’ll find a thought-provoking collection of contemporary art from local and international artists.

Don’t miss the iconic statue of the Duke of Wellington outside the gallery, usually adorned with a traffic cone, a quirky and now iconic symbol of Glasgow’s sense of humour.

Late morning - Explore Buchanan Street

After the GoMA, head down Buchanan Street, Glasgow’s famous pedestrian shopping street. It is one of the city’s main shopping streets and a bustling pedestrian thoroughfare. Known for its elegant Victorian architecture, it’s lined with high-end shops, department stores, and popular cafés, making it a hub for both locals and visitors. The lively street is also a hotspot for street performers, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch - Merchant City

For lunch, head to Merchant City, an area rich in history and now home to some of Glasgow’s trendiest cafés, bars, and restaurants. Whether you’re craving traditional Scottish fare like haggis, or something more international, Merchant City has something for every palate. A favourite spot is The Corinthian Club, a luxurious bar and restaurant housed in a former 19th-century bank.

Afternoon - Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis

In the afternoon, venture east toward Glasgow Cathedral, one of the city’s most significant historical landmarks. This stunning medieval building is over 800 years old and remains one of Scotland’s few cathedrals to have survived the Reformation intact. Next to the cathedral, climb the hill to the Necropolis, a sprawling Victorian cemetery with ornate tombs and breathtaking views over the city.

Evening - Dinner and drinks in Finnieston

As the day winds down, make your way to the Finnieston neighborhood, known for its trendy vibe and excellent dining scene. Finnieston has been dubbed Glasgow’s “foodie quarter,” and with good reason. There are plenty of excellent options, from seafood to vegan delights.

The Gannet and Ox and Finch are two top picks for those seeking contemporary Scottish cuisine with a modern twist. After dinner, enjoy a drink at one of the neighbourhood’s cosy bars, such as Kelvingrove Café or The Finnieston.

Day 2: Culture, nature, and local vibes

Morning - Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Start your second day in Glasgow at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, one of the city’s most beloved cultural institutions. The museum is housed in a magnificent Spanish Baroque-style building and offers a wide-ranging collection, from natural history to fine art.

Highlights include works by the Old Masters, the famous Christ of Saint John of the Cross by Salvador Dalí, and an entire gallery dedicated to Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Best of all, admission is free!

Mid-morning - Wander through Kelvingrove Park

After exploring Kelvingrove’s treasures, take a leisurely stroll through Kelvingrove Park, a beautifully landscaped green space that stretches along the River Kelvin. With its rolling hills, serene ponds, and Victorian monuments, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some fresh air. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the park’s resident wildlife, including squirrels and herons.

Late morning - University of Glasgow and The Hunterian

From Kelvingrove Park, it’s a short walk to the University of Glasgow, one of the oldest and most beautiful universities in the world. The university’s Gothic Revival architecture is nothing short of stunning, with grand towers and cloisters that look like they belong in a Harry Potter movie.

While you’re there, visit The Hunterian Museum, Scotland’s oldest public museum, located within the university. The museum houses an eclectic collection ranging from Roman artifacts to 19th-century scientific equipment.

Lunch - Ashton Lane

For lunch, head to Ashton Lane, a cobblestone street in the West End known for its charming atmosphere and quirky bars and eateries. Grab a bite at Ubiquitous Chip, a Glasgow institution that serves up contemporary Scottish cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The leafy rooftop terrace is an ideal spot to enjoy your meal if the weather cooperates.

Afternoon - Riverside Museum and Tall Ship

In the afternoon, head to the Riverside Museum, Glasgow’s museum of transport and travel. This award-winning, futuristic building is home to everything from vintage cars to steam trains and an old subway station. It offers a fascinating look at the evolution of transportation in Scotland.

Just outside the museum, you can board the Tall Ship Glenlee, a beautifully restored 19th-century ship that once sailed the world’s oceans.

Evening - Soak in the music scene at a live venue

Glasgow is famous for its live music scene, and no visit would be complete without experiencing it firsthand. For your final evening, head to one of the city’s iconic music venues. King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, where Oasis was famously discovered, is a small but legendary spot to catch up-and-coming bands.

If you prefer something more traditional, check out Òran Mór, a former church turned venue, offering live folk music and a lively pub atmosphere.

Final thoughts

In just 48 hours, you can experience the rich diversity Glasgow has to offer. From its deep-rooted history and architectural wonders to its vibrant food, art, and music scenes, the city is a feast for the senses.

While two days will only scratch the surface, this itinerary ensures you see many of the must-visit sights and leave with a true sense of what makes Glasgow so special. With its warm and welcoming spirit, Glasgow is a city you’ll want to return to again and again.