If you’re looking for a city with an abundance of culture, character, and charm, then Glasgow should be high on your city break list. It’s Scotland’s largest city and it’s bursting at the seams with creativity, music, history, and that famous warm Glaswegian humour, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. In this blog, we’ll discuss how you can make the most of 48 hours in Glasgow, or as the locals call it: “Glesga”!
Arts, Heritage and Attractions
Glasgow is a powerhouse of culture and history with plenty of museums and galleries to wander around. Start with Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, especially if you’re interested in natural history, fine art, and local heritage. It’s also a free museum that’s as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside. For modern art lovers, the The Gallery of Modern Art is right in the heart of the city, housing contemporary art collections, including works by Turner prize winners. Architecture fans will love exploring the works of Charles Rennie Mackintosh at House for an Art Lover in Bellahouston Park. Of course, no trip to Glasgow is complete without a stroll down the Buchanan Street, also known as Glasgow’s “Style Mile”, it’s great for shopping and soaking up the city buzz.
Culture and Live Music
Glasgow is a recognised UNESCO City of Music, and this is no surprise when you discover the city’s live music scene. Glasgow is known for its strong support of local upcoming artists and emerging talent, with many playing acoustic sets in local pubs or taking the stage at perhaps the city’s most famous live music venue, King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut – this is also where Oasis was discovered! There is also the Barrowland Ballroom which has seen many famous faces headline over the years. Glasgow is also great for theatre lovers with the Theatre Royal, the Citizens Theatre, and the Kings Theatre putting on weekly performances across many different genres.
Food and Drink
Glasgow’s food scene is thriving with something for everyone. If you’re looking for street food, the Dockyard Social is the place to be, or if you fancy something a bit more gourmet, Glasgow has its own Michelin starred restaurants including Ox and Finch, known for its unique and inventive sharing plates. If you’re craving something Scottish, then the newly opened Gael & Grain or Mharsanta offer great value menus showcasing local produce, including the famous haggis, neeps and tatties! If drinking is your thing, you’ll fit right into Glaswegian life. Whether its craft beers, fancy cocktails, or good old Scotch whisky, Glasgow delivers! For those wanting to taste and explore, The Glasgow Food and Drink Tour provide guided tastings hosted by locals who pair each plate with stories.
Where to Stay
Glasgow has something for everyone’s needs, from stylish boutique hotels to affordable city stays. Hotel du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens in the leafy West End offers a luxurious and comfortable stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. If you want to be in the heart of the city, head to Motel One or Yotel, seconds away from Glasgow Central Station. If you’re on a budget, Grasshoppers Hotel offers a great local and cosy rooms at an unbeatable price.
Hidden Gems
While the city centre offers plenty to marvel at and enjoy, sometimes the best days out are discovered by stepping off the beaten path. The Glasgow Mural Trail winds through the city’s back lanes and buildings and allows you to explore some stunning street art that tells the story of the city. You can also discover The Necropolis, A Victorian cemetery with excellent views of the city – the perfect place to sit and watch the sunset! Or if you’re looking for something truly unique and quirky, pop into the Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre where you’ll find carved figures and mechanical sculptures created from old scrap metal performing choreographed routines alongside a music and light show. If you’re a museum buff looking for something a bit different, try the Burrell Collection or St Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art.
Whether you’re visiting for the culture, the live music, the food, or just to see what all the hype is about, Glasgow packs a lot into one weekend. It’s a city with heart, humour, and it’s compact enough that you can explore it all in 48 hours. Best of Scotland Holidays are a destination management company with over 40 years of experience working in the travel trade, crafting personalised itineraries for our overseas clients looking to visit the UK and Ireland. We offer plenty of Scottish vacation packages that can be completely tailored to your requirements. If a trip to Glasgow is on your wish list, then contact us today and one of our friendly team will be happy to help you.
