Glasgow

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Glasgow's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through George Square, where you can admire the impressive architecture of the City Chambers and the various statues. Afterward, visit the nearby Gallery of Modern Art, where you can enjoy contemporary art exhibitions and perhaps grab a coffee at the café. As you explore, take in the vibrant atmosphere and soak up the local culture.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local bistro, head to the Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning example of medieval architecture with beautiful stained glass windows. Explore the adjacent Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery atop a hill that offers panoramic views of the city. Spend some time wandering through the peaceful paths and admire the intricate gravestones and monuments.

evening
:

As evening approaches, make your way to Merchant City, known for its trendy bars and restaurants. Choose a cozy spot for dinner, perhaps sampling some traditional Scottish cuisine. After your meal, enjoy a nightcap at a local pub, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with friendly locals.

day 2
Art and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, where you can explore a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture of the building itself, which is just as captivating as the exhibits inside. Don’t forget to visit the famous Dali painting, 'Christ of Saint John of the Cross'.

afternoon
:

After lunch in the nearby West End, visit the University of Glasgow, where you can stroll through the historic campus and admire the impressive Gothic Revival architecture. Check out the Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, which houses fascinating collections ranging from Roman antiquities to contemporary art. Spend some time relaxing in the beautiful surrounding parks.

evening
:

In the evening, head to the vibrant Ashton Lane, a cobbled street filled with lively bars and eateries. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants offering a range of international cuisines. Wrap up your night by catching a film at the iconic Grosvenor Cinema, known for its vintage charm and independent films.

day 3
Clyde River Adventure
morning
:

Kick off your day with a scenic walk along the River Clyde, taking in the views of the impressive Glasgow skyline. Stop by the iconic Clyde Arc, also known as the 'Squinty Bridge', and snap some memorable photos. Along the way, you might come across various public art installations that celebrate the city's culture.

afternoon
:

Continue your river adventure by visiting the Riverside Museum, dedicated to transport and travel, which features fascinating exhibits including vintage cars and locomotives. Enjoy a light lunch at the museum café, where you can sample local snacks. Afterward, take a short stroll to the Tall Ship, a restored Clyde-built ship where you can learn about maritime history.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head back to the city center and enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood. After your meal, consider a night cruise on the Clyde to experience the city lights reflecting on the water. Conclude your day with a cocktail at one of the trendy bars along the riverbank.

day 4
Shopping and Street Life
morning
:

Start your day by exploring Buchanan Street, one of Glasgow's main shopping thoroughfares, packed with both high-street and designer shops. Take in the lively street performances and the buzz of shoppers as you meander through the area. Stop by a local café for a delicious breakfast to fuel your shopping spree.

afternoon
:

After a morning of retail therapy, head to the nearby Style Mile, where you’ll find more boutiques and designer shops. Make sure to visit the historic Princes Square shopping center, which offers a unique shopping experience with its stunning architecture. Take a break from shopping and enjoy a light lunch at one of the many eateries inside.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at a restaurant in the city center, perhaps trying some local craft beers. Afterward, immerse yourself in Glasgow's vibrant nightlife by visiting one of the many pubs or clubs that feature live music, showcasing local talent. Dance the night away to the sounds of Glasgow’s dynamic music scene.

day 5
Nature and Parks Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at Glasgow Green, the city's oldest park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk among the beautiful gardens and historic monuments. Don't miss the People's Palace and Winter Gardens, which provide insights into the social history of Glasgow. Take a moment to relax by the fountain and enjoy the greenery.

afternoon
:

After a scenic morning, head to Pollok Country Park, a vast green space offering beautiful woodlands and trails. Visit the Burrell Collection, which houses an impressive array of art and artifacts in a serene setting. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by nature and wildlife.

evening
:

As evening falls, return to the city center and indulge in dinner at a restaurant featuring farm-to-table offerings. Choose a place that emphasizes local produce and Scottish flavors for an authentic dining experience. After dinner, take a leisurely evening stroll along the River Kelvin in the West End, where the tranquil scenery will provide a perfect ending to your day.

day 6
Whisky Tasting Experience
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Glengoyne Distillery, located just outside Glasgow, where you can learn about the whisky-making process. Take a guided tour and enjoy tasting some of the finest single malts while soaking in the beautiful Scottish countryside. The stunning views of the surrounding hills and glens add to the experience.

afternoon
:

Return to Glasgow and explore the city's whisky bars, starting with the renowned Pot Still, known for its extensive selection of whiskies. Enjoy a light lunch in the area before visiting the Scotch Whisky Experience for an interactive journey through Scotland's whisky heritage. Don't forget to participate in a guided tasting session to sample various whisky styles.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a restaurant that specializes in pairing whisky with food, allowing you to explore flavors that complement each other. Afterward, visit a local bar for a nightcap and continue tasting different whiskies while mingling with fellow whisky enthusiasts. Embrace the warmth and camaraderie of Glasgow’s whisky culture as the night unfolds.

day 7
Local Markets and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day at the iconic Barras Market, a vibrant open-air market known for its eclectic mix of goods, from antiques to local produce. Stroll through the stalls, interact with the friendly vendors, and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. Grab a breakfast roll from one of the food vendors to fuel your shopping adventure.

afternoon
:

After exploring Barras, head to the Southside and visit the popular Govanhill Market, which offers a range of international foods and local delicacies. Enjoy lunch at one of the food stalls, sampling dishes from different cultures. Spend some time browsing the shops and soaking up the multicultural atmosphere of the area.

evening
:

In the evening, dine at a restaurant that focuses on local Scottish ingredients, celebrating the flavors of the region. Consider a tasting menu that allows you to sample a variety of dishes. After dinner, unwind at a nearby café where you can enjoy some traditional Scottish desserts and a warm cup of tea.

day 8
Music and Performance Showcase
morning
:

Kick off your day at the iconic King Tut's Wah Wah Hut, a venue known for its role in launching famous bands and artists. Check out any morning events or simply soak in the atmosphere of this legendary location. Afterward, explore the surrounding area, where you can find quirky shops and cafés.

afternoon
:

Head to the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall for a guided tour to learn about the venue's history and architecture. After the tour, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that caters to music lovers. Spend the afternoon visiting various live music venues, checking out local bands and discovering new sounds.

evening
:

As night falls, catch a live music performance at one of Glasgow’s many venues, such as The SSE Hydro or the O2 Academy. Enjoy dinner at a nearby bistro before the show, making sure to try some local favorites. Conclude your night by dancing and enjoying the vibrant music scene that Glasgow is famous for.

day 9
Final Day Reflection and Farewell
morning
:

On your last day, take a leisurely morning stroll through the picturesque Botanic Gardens, where you can wander among the lush greenery and vibrant flowers. Visit the iconic Kibble Palace, a Victorian glasshouse that showcases exotic plants and provides a tranquil setting for reflection. Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at a nearby café before your adventures conclude.

afternoon
:

Spend your final afternoon visiting the Glasgow Science Centre, where you can engage with interactive exhibits and enjoy stunning views from the rooftop observation deck. Make sure to grab lunch at the onsite café, featuring a selection of healthy and delicious options. Take your time to soak in the science and innovation that Glasgow has to offer.

evening
:

As your trip comes to a close, enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with views of the River Clyde, allowing you to reflect on your experience. Savor a final taste of Scottish cuisine as you reminisce about your adventures in this vibrant city. End the evening with a leisurely walk through the city, taking in the sights one last time before departing.

Discover Glasgow

Read more in our Glasgow 2025 Travel Guide.

Glasgow Travel Guide