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Planning a quick trip to Glasgow and not sure how to make the most of it? We’ve got you covered!
This 2-day itinerary is based on our own time exploring Scotland’s largest city and includes the perfect mix of history, local culture, great food, and can’t-miss experiences. From grand architecture and quirky museums to riverside strolls and a day trip into the Scottish Highlands, it’s designed to help you see the best of Glasgow — even if you’re short on time.
We’ve included our favorite tours, restaurants, and insider tips — all you have to do is follow along for a fun and stress-free visit!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our FAVORITE thing in Glasgow was this full-day Scottish Highlands tour! It took us through Scotland’s most stunning landscapes, from the dramatic peaks of Glencoe to the mysterious depths of Loch Ness!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Where to Stay in Glasgow, Scotland
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the UK
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Day 1
Breakfast – On the go!
Day one kicks off with a great tour of the city — but since it starts bright and early around 9:30 AM, it’s best to keep breakfast quick and easy. If you’re staying in the city center, your guide can even meet you right at your hotel, so you’ll have time for a relaxed bite close by.
We recommend grabbing something simple from your hotel or popping into a nearby café to fuel up for the morning. You’ll have plenty of time to dive into Glasgow’s food scene later in the day — for now, keep it light and get ready to explore!
Morning – Explore Glasgow on a walking tour
Glasgow is full of history, culture, and some seriously impressive architecture — but if it’s your first time here, it can be hard to know where to begin. That’s why we booked this private walking tour, and honestly, it ended up being the perfect way to start our trip!
The tour starts around 9:30 am (10:00 am on Sundays), and if you’re staying within 15 minutes of the city center, your guide will meet you right at your hotel, which made things super easy for us. Otherwise, you can arrange a central meeting point or even transport if needed (for a fee).
Over a few hours, we covered a ton of ground: we started in George Square, wandered through Glasgow Cathedral, and walked up to the Necropolis for incredible city views. From there, we passed through Glasgow Green before finishing on Buchanan Street, which has a great mix of historic buildings and shopping buzz.
What we loved most was that it was a private tour, so everything was tailored to us — from the pace to the stops to the local tips our guide shared along the way. It was also hands-down the best way to see a lot of the city in a short amount of time, especially on a quick trip like this!
Read the great reviews here and book this private walking tour!
Lunch – The Anchor Line
After your walking tour wraps up, The Anchor Line is just a one-minute walk away — and it’s the perfect spot to sit down, refuel, and soak in a bit more of Glasgow’s charm. Housed in a beautifully restored building that nods to the golden age of ocean liners, the vibe here is classic and comfortable, with a focus on Scottish produce.
We went for the fish and chips, which were crispy, flaky, and hit the spot. The seafood dishes are also excellent, and if you’re feeling adventurous, this is a great place to try haggis!
Afternoon – Museums, art galleries, and more!
By the time you finish lunch, it’ll likely be around 2:00–2:30 pm, which still gives you a good few hours to explore more of Glasgow. Whether you’re into art, history, or just want to wander somewhere atmospheric, here are a few great options to choose from:
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Kelvingrove Art Gallery is one of Glasgow’s most iconic museums — and free to enter! You’ll find everything from classic paintings and natural history to a floating Spitfire suspended from the ceiling. To get there from lunch, you can either take the #77 bus from West Nile Street or hop in a taxi — both options take about 20 minutes.
Riverside Museum & The Tall Ship
The Riverside Museum is all about transport, travel, and interactive exhibits, with a real 19th-century ship docked outside you can climb aboard! It’s free to visit and open until 5:00 pm. It’s best reached by taxi or rideshare from the lunch spot — public transport here is a bit tricky.
The Tenement House
The Tenement House is a fully preserved home from the early 1900s, right down to the handwritten notes and coal-burning stove. Visiting feels like stepping straight into someone’s life over a century ago. Entry is £10, and we recommend grabbing a taxi to get there.
Princes Square Shopping Center
If you’d prefer to stay downtown, we recommend visiting the Prince’s Square Shopping Center. This beautiful indoor shopping arcade on Buchanan Street is great for window shopping or people-watching. It’s super atmospheric and stays open until 6:00 pm (or 5:00 pm on Sundays).
Dinner – The Buttery
To end your first day in Glasgow, head to The Buttery, a long-standing local favorite that serves up rich, classic Scottish cuisine with a fine-dining twist. The vibe is warm and elegant, with white tablecloths, wood paneling, and that old-school charm that makes dinner feel like a real occasion.
The menu is full of bold, comforting flavors — think fresh seafood, slow-cooked meats, and decadent desserts. The roast halibut and venison haunch are especially worth trying if they’re available.
It’s a popular spot, so we recommend booking a table in advance — especially if you’re visiting on a weekend.
Evening – Take an evening stroll along the River Clyde
After dinner, take a 10-minute walk down to the River Clyde to end your night on a peaceful note. The riverfront lights up beautifully after dark, with reflections from the bridges and modern buildings casting a soft, romantic glow.
It’s a relaxed way to wind down after a busy day of sightseeing — and a chance to see a different side of Glasgow as the city slows down for the evening.
Related Read: Heading to Ireland next? Check out our 3-day Dublin itinerary here for some great ways to enjoy your trip!
Day 2
Breakfast – On the go!
Day two kicks off early, so it’s best to grab a quick breakfast from your hotel or a nearby café before heading out. Nothing fancy needed — just something to keep you going through the first stretch of the day!
Morning/Afternoon – Loch Ness & the Highlands Day Tour
There’s no better way to experience the Scottish Highlands than on this full-day tour from Glasgow. It’s a long day — leaving around 7:45 am and returning at 8:00 pm — but if you’re short on time and want to pack in some of Scotland’s most iconic scenery, this tour is 100% worth it!
We spent the day winding through rugged mountain passes, mirror-like lochs, and tiny villages, with plenty of photo stops along the way. One of the biggest highlights was Glencoe, known for both its dramatic landscapes and the haunting story of the 1692 massacre. Our guide really brought it to life, adding so much context to the already jaw-dropping views.
Later in the day, we reached Loch Ness, where we hopped on an included boat cruise across the mysterious, dark waters. Surrounded by hills and Highland mist, it was easy to see why this place has inspired centuries of legends — and yes, we kept our eyes peeled for Nessie!
The tour also takes you through Cairngorms National Park, giving you one last dose of wild, untouched beauty before heading back to Glasgow. With a small group, comfy mini-coach, and a guide who actually made history fun, it’s easy to see why this tour has hundreds of 5-star reviews. It was easily one of the best things we did in Scotland!
Check out our favorite Glasgow tour and secure your spot here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – The Butterfly and the Pig
After a long day of Highland adventures, make your way back into the city for a relaxed dinner at The Butterfly and the Pig — about an 11-minute walk from the drop-off point.
This quirky spot has a sense of humor (you’ll see it all over the pun-filled menu), but the food is no joke — hearty, delicious, and full of comfort. They serve up everything from Scottish classics to more modern plates, with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options too.
They often have live music in the evenings, which adds to the cozy, slightly eccentric vibe. It’s the perfect place to celebrate your final night in Glasgow!
Related Read: Want even more ideas for your trip? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Glasgow for more local favorites and must-see spots.
Where to Stay in Glasgow, Scotland
Now that you have your Glasgow itinerary sorted, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay. From stylish boutique hotels to budget-friendly stays, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
To make choosing a place easier, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Glasgow so you can spend less time searching and more time exploring everything this lively city has to offer!
Luxury – $$$
Set in a stunning Georgian building overlooking a private garden square, Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel & Spa by IHG is a 5-star luxury retreat in the heart of Glasgow. This elegant hotel blends historic grandeur with modern comfort, offering beautifully designed rooms, an award-winning spa, and a stylish restaurant and bar. With a prime location near Buchanan Street and top attractions, it’s a perfect base for an upscale city stay.
Prices vary by season and room type but typically range from £200 – £400 per night. Check all the options and book this luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Motel One Glasgow is a fantastic mid-range option offering a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of the city. Located next to Glasgow Central Station, it’s an ideal base for exploring, with top attractions, shops, and restaurants just a short walk away. The hotel features sleek, modern rooms with high-quality furnishings, a trendy lounge bar, and a cozy breakfast area, making it a great choice.
Prices range from around £100 – £150 per night. Check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget-friendly accommodation in Glasgow, The Z Hotel Glasgow is a fantastic choice! Located in the city center, this modern hotel offers compact yet stylish rooms with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy complimentary cheese and wine in the evening, adding a touch of luxury to an affordable stay. Its prime location near George Square and Glasgow’s top attractions is perfect for travelers looking to save without compromising on convenience.
Room rates start at around £60 per night. Visit Booking.com to check availability and book your stay.
For more options, see all of Glasgow’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the UK
Renting a car in the UK is a fantastic way to explore beyond the cities—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the United Kingdom
- Drive on the left: In the UK, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. This means the driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a ding in a parking lot or a chipped windshield on a rural road, having full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable with Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in the UK are manual transmission, and automatic cars are limited—so book early if that’s what you need. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. With Discover Cars, it’s super easy to filter for exactly what you need.
- City driving & zones: Cities like London and Birmingham have congestion charges and LEZs (low-emission zones). Double-check before entering—some zones require advance registration or payment.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the UK
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If your license isn’t in English or doesn’t use Latin characters, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the UK on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Glasgow is full of character, charm, and some truly unforgettable experiences — from walking tours and world-class museums to riverside strolls, live music, and Highland day trips. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or just a taste of Scottish culture, this 2-day itinerary packs in a little bit of everything.
If you’re planning more adventures around Scotland or the UK, be sure to check out our other United Kingdom blogs for tips, ideas, and itineraries to help you plan your next trip!
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