Why visit Glasgow
Arts
Musicians and artists around the world flock to Glasgow for its vibrant creative scene. From famed concert halls to world-renowned museums, now is the time to experience Glasgow’s imaginative culture!
National Piping Centre
If Scotland were represented by one musical instrument, it would be the bagpipes. On your tour of the National Piping Centre you’ll learn the fascinating history behind this iconic instrument and its music. Test your skills on the pipes with an exclusive lesson and see if you have what it takes to be the next great piper. Your musical prowess will be rewarded as you and your fellow passengers enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at the Centre’s restaurant.
Royal Scottish National Orchestra
Our travelers have loved hearing Glasgow’s most accomplished musicians perform at the Royal Scottish National Orchestra. Founded in 1891, the orchestra plays to audiences locally, nationally, and internationally. We think this a stunning performance worth catching while in Glasgow.
Glasgow School of Art
Revel in the masterwork of famed furniture maker and architect, Charles Rennie Mackintosh. We suggest you take some time to connect with students and discover the university’s magnificent campus. Learn of Mackintosh’s influence on the city’s urban development and observe the works of a small group of GSA artists who’ve developed their own “Glasgow Style” Art Noveau.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Soak up more artistic expression at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. The museum features 22 galleries with work ranging from the likes of Dutch Old Masters, French Impressionists, and notable Scottish artists. While there, be sure to check out the piece once voted as Scotland’s favorite painting: Salvador Dali’s Christ of St John of the Cross.
Sites
Glasgow is known for offering an enchanting number of attractions. From world-class museums to bustling city squares, our guests have raved about exploring these sites in this exciting Scottish metropolis.
George Square
Head to the center of Glasgow with your local guide and take a stroll through the historic George Square. Feel the pulse of the city as visitors and Glasgow natives alike walk through the Square to shop, dine, and visit the monuments peppered throughout the space. Take in the grand City Chambers as well as statues of notable Scots including author Sir Walter Scott and poet Robert Burns.
St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art
Named after the patron saint that brought the Christian faith to Scotland in the 6th century, St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art is a tranquil spot to appreciate religious relics from around the world. Our guides note that this is a particularly moving museum, regardless of your faith. Guests have enjoyed relaxing at the museum’s café, which features an elaborate Zen garden.
Riverside Museum
Dubbed Glasgow’s Guggenheim, the Riverside Museum will offer you a look into the city’s rich history of transportation. Imagine yourself navigating a velocipede and revel in all the modes of transportation of past, present and future. Then, step aboard the berthed Tall Ship, Glenlee, where you’ll find maritime-themed exhibits.
People's Palace and Winter Gardens
Tour this social history museum with a local expert and get a glimpse into the life and times of Glasgow’s citizens. Afterwards, be sure to see the Winter Gardens where you’ll find a wide range of tropical plants.
Open Spaces
The translation for Glasgow in Gaelic is “dear green place,” and on your journey through this lush Scottish city, you’ll see exactly why this is true. Reconnect with nature or simply enjoy some downtime after a day of touring and visit one of the city’s many picturesque parks and gardens.
Glasgow Green
In the city’s East End you will find historic Glasgow Green. Make a wish at the Doulton Fountain and admire the beautiful architecture of the McLennan Arch. Many of our guests like to explore the other sites within the Green, like the People’s Palace and the Winter Gardens.
Pollok County Park
Explore the sprawling greens of the oldest country park in Glasgow. Take an invigorating woodland stroll solo or with a few members of your group, or head out to the more rustic Woodland Trail. While there, be sure to tour the park’s central attraction, the Pollok house.
Victoria Park
Bask in the floral beauty of Victoria Park, the original site for Queen Victoria's Jubilee in 1886. Enjoy a day of natural exploration and spot the many varieties of flowers in this impressive green space. If you have any archeology skills, they’ll be put to good use at the park’s Fossil Grove where you’ll discover the remnants of an ancient forest.
Kelvingrove Park
Head west of the city and take a riverside walk through Kelvingrove Park. While strolling along the riverbanks, our local experts like to point out the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and Glasgow University. Some guests have been lucky enough to hear a musical performance at the park’s open-air bandstand.