Glasgow on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun!

Discover the Beauty of Glasgow without Breaking the Bank.

21 June 2023

A trip to Glasgow on a limited budget can be a fantastic experience, with plenty of free activities to enjoy, including the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Affordable accommodations are available throughout the city, including student hostels and budget hotels. Visitors can also take advantage of the city's extensive public transportation system to explore all that Glasgow has to offer.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to Glasgow

  • Check into easyHotel Glasgow for affordable, basic accommodations
  • Visit the Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning piece of Scottish architecture
  • Take a stroll through the Necropolis, a fascinating Victorian-era cemetery
  • Have a pint at the Blackfriars, a cozy pub known for its vast selection of beers
  • End the day at the Glasgow Green, a peaceful park perfect for a picnic or an evening stroll
Day 2

Artistic Exploration

  • Visit the Glasgow School of Art Mackintosh Building, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh
  • Explore the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, featuring collections ranging from ancient Egypt to modern art
  • Take a walk through the trendy West End neighborhood with its independent shops and cafes
  • Stop for lunch at The Hug and Pint, a vegan-friendly bar and restaurant with live music
  • Spend the evening at the Theatre Royal or the King's Theatre, both known for their impressive performances
Day 3

History and Culture

  • Head to the Riverside Museum, a transportation museum that showcases Glasgow's industrial past
  • Visit the People's Palace and Winter Gardens, which document Glasgow's social history and heritage
  • Have a light lunch at the Willow Tea Rooms, inspired by Mackintosh's designs
  • Take a guided tour of the Glasgow City Chambers, a grand Victorian building with impressive decor
  • End the day exploring the city's music scene catch a show at King Tut's Wah Wah Hut or The Garage
Day 4

Nature and Scenery

  • Take the train to Loch Lomond and explore the surrounding Trossachs National Park
  • Enjoy a hike or cycle through stunning landscapes and take in the views of hills, lochs, and forests
  • Stop for lunch at the Oak Tree Inn, a traditional Scottish pub with local cuisine
  • Visit the Glengoyne Distillery to learn about the whisky-making process and enjoy a tasting
  • Return to Glasgow for a relaxed evening at The Flying Duck, a quirky vegan-friendly bar and club
Day 5

Shopping and Farewell

  • Browse the boutiques and vintage shops on the popular Buchanan Street
  • Visit the historical Barras Market, known for its unique finds and eclectic vendors
  • Have lunch in the vibrant Merchant City neighborhood, and indulge in some local seafood at Cafe Gandolfi
  • Spend the afternoon visiting the Gallery of Modern Art, known for its contemporary exhibitions
  • Finish the trip with dinner at the Ubiquitous Chip, a charming restaurant with Scottish fare and a cozy atmosphere.

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.

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