Glasgow on a Budget: Culture, Food, and Fun!

Experience the beauty of Glasgow without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

A budget trip to Glasgow, United Kingdom can be full of fun activities, delicious food, and amazing culture. Some must-visit places in Glasgow are Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Glasgow Science Centre. Additionally, visitors can stay in budget-friendly hostels or Airbnbs, and save money by using public transportation to get around the city.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Glasgow's Cultural Scene

  • Check-in at the Tartan Lodge, a cozy and affordable hostel in the city center.
  • Start the day with a visit to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts.
  • Walk along the River Clyde and take in the stunning views of the city's skyline.
  • Visit the Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis, an eerie but fascinating Victorian cemetery.
  • Stop by the Barras Market, a bustling bazaar filled with antique shops, vintage clothing, and local food stalls.
  • End the day at Oran Mor, a converted church that now serves as a cultural center, pub, and live music venue.
Day 2

Foodie Tour of Glasgow

  • Start with a hearty breakfast at Singl-end Cafe, a cozy spot that serves fresh pastries and excellent coffee.
  • Walk to the trendy Finnieston neighborhood and try some of the city's best seafood at Crabshakk.
  • Stop by the famous Willow Tea Rooms for a traditional afternoon tea.
  • Visit the colorful and charming Ashton Lane, lined with bars and restaurants, including the Ubiquitous Chip, known for its modern Scottish cuisine.
  • End the day with a pint at the Drygate Brewery, a lively spot that features a wide range of craft beers and a stunning rooftop terrace.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Glasgow by plane is to fly into Glasgow International Airport, which is located about 10 miles west of the city center. Multiple airlines operate flights to Glasgow International from various cities around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to get to the city center.

Car

The best way to get to Glasgow by car is to take the M8 motorway, which connects Glasgow to other major cities in Scotland and northern England. However, be aware that traffic can be heavy during peak travel times, and parking in the city center can be difficult.

Train

There are multiple train stations located in Glasgow, but the best way to get there by train is to take the West Coast Main Line to Glasgow Central Station. Trains run regularly from major cities like London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Glasgow Central Station is located in the heart of the city and is within walking distance of many attractions.

Boat

While there is no direct way to get to Glasgow by boat, you can take a ferry to other cities in Scotland and then travel to Glasgow from there. For example, you can take a ferry from Belfast, Northern Ireland to Cairnryan, Scotland, and then drive or take public transportation to Glasgow.

Bus

The best way to get to Glasgow by bus is to take a coach operated by National Express, which runs from cities across the UK. Coaches arrive and depart from Buchanan Bus Station, which is located in the city center. From the bus station, you can take a taxi or public transportation to get to your final destination in Glasgow.

Destination

Glasgow

If you love your whisky with a side of sarcasm, then Glasgow is the city for you. Get ready to be charmed by the locals' wit and bewildered by their accents.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

The Ultimate 5-Day Glasgow Adventure Guide

Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a mix of culture, history, and modern amenities. A trip to Glasgow for a tourist would include visiting various museums, galleries and historical landmarks such as the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery, Glasgow Cathedral and the University of Glasgow. The city is also known for its lively music and arts scene, which can be enjoyed at the many bars, pubs, and concert venues scattered throughout the city.

Glasgow in 48: Family Fun on a Budget

Glasgow offers a fantastic family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of culture, history, and fun activities. Start with a visit to the Glasgow Science Centre where kids can explore interactive exhibits and enjoy an IMAX movie. Take a stroll through the beautiful Kelvingrove Park, enjoy a picnic, and let the little ones loose at the extensive play area. End the day with a visit to the Riverside Museum, housing over 3,000 objects showcasing Glasgow's rich maritime history, ensuring an exciting and educational experience for the whole family.

2-Day Glasgow Adventure: Culture, Food, & Nature

As a tourist in Glasgow, you can explore this bustling Scottish city's cultural attractions, such as the Kelvingrove Museum and Art Gallery and the Glasgow Cathedral. Take a stroll through George Square, where you bask in the city's rich history and stunning Victorian architecture. Conclude your trip with a visit to the iconic Glasgow Necropolis cemetery and enjoy a night out in trendy pubs, live music venues and restaurants.

Glasgow Family Fun: The Ultimate 5-Day Adventure

A family-friendly trip to Glasgow, United Kingdom offers a splendid mix of attractions and activities for all ages. Explore the stunning Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, where kids can engage with interactive exhibits and discover diverse art collections. Additionally, immerse in the vibrant atmosphere of the Riverside Museum, home to an impressive display of vintage cars, locomotives, and maritime artifacts, ensuring an educational and entertaining experience for everyone.