Glasgow

Glasgow, the largest city of Scotland, is nicknamed ‘Dear Green Place’ after its 90+ parks and gardens. The city is also home to most of Scotland’s art organisations, so whether you are a nature lover or are after a bit of Scottish culture, Glasgow won’t disappoint. The city’s architecture is striking and looking up regularly is recommended as so much of Glasgow’s beauty is up high. The many independent shops, bars and cafes have ensured the city’s identity is clear and there’s always something new to discover.

Glasgow hostels are spread all around the city but most of them are located north from the River Clyde. Accommodation in Glasgow is affordable. A Glasgow hostel can cost you less than £10 a night, which is ideal when you want to save for activities and restaurants. Hostels in Glasgow are a perfect way to meet fellow travellers, but bear in mind that private rooms are available too if you prefer to have a bit of time for yourself. Many hostels have big, well-equipped kitchens so cooking dinner is great for budgeting and sociable mealtimes. Free breakfast is offered in some hostels and there’s even a hostel hot tub to be found! There are hostels that offer laundry services, so freshen up your wardrobe before heading out on the town.

The city of Glasgow is divided in two parts: The West End and the East End. The former is the wealthy part of the town where the Botanical Gardens and the University of Glasgow are located. There you’ll also find Ashton Lane with its trendy bars and restaurants. The East End, on the contrary, is more popular and laid-back – and it’s also where you’ll find the cheapest food options.

Whether you want to spend time inside or outside, Glasgow has a lot of activities to keep you entertained. On a sunny day, the Botanical Gardens is the obvious choice, but don’t forget the Necropolis, the city’s cemetery, another popular destination for an interesting stroll. From there, you’ll have an amazing view of the city. If the weather is poor, don’t despair, you can visit the Glasgow Cathedral or one of the city’s famous museums like the Gallery of Modern Art, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, or the Riverside Museum of Transport and Travel. And the good news is that they’re all free!

Glasgow’s city centre is compact, and you can walk from one attraction to another, or pick-up one of the many bikes for hire. Bus services are frequent, but the underground railway (the Subway) is probably the easiest way to travel around the city in the fastest time, taking just 24 minutes to complete its loop of 15 stations. If you’re heading out of the city you’ll either need to travel from Glasgow Queen Street Station for Edinburgh and the north, or Glasgow Central Station for the south and into England.