9 Amazing attractions in Glasgow

Admire the red stone and intricate architecture of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, set in sprawling parkland in the west of the city. Inside, it’s home to an incredible array of 8,000 exhibits, spanning everything from a World War II Spitfire to Salvador Dalí's mesmerising Christ of St John of the Cross. Look up at prehistoric dinosaur skeletons, see your reflection in medieval armour, or take your time to enjoy stunning works of art by the Dutch Old Masters, French Impressionists and Scottish Colourists. Other highlights include Sir Roger the Elephant, a taxidermy measuring 10.5 feet in height and one of Kelvingrove's most popular exhibits. It's without a doubt a must-visit in Glasgow! 

Plan your visit to Kelvingrove 

Roam through over 50 acres of leafy parkland in the heart of the west end at Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Visit Kibble Palace, a magnificent wrought iron-framed Victorian glasshouse filled with exotic tree ferns. You can also explore 11 other balmy glasshouses to see rare orchids and a collection of begonias in bright pinks, yellows and greens. If you feel like stretching your legs, take the path to reach the riverside walk. Listen to the gentle current of the river as you follow this picturesque route through the city towards Kelvingrove Park and the art gallery and museum. 

Adventure around Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Step inside the vast interiors of The Burrell Collection, taking a moment to soak up the light spaces and engaging architecture of this award-winning museum. It’s one of the greatest art collections ever amassed by one person, consisting of more than 9,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of history. The collection includes work by artists such as Rodin, Degas and Cézanne and you can spend the day getting inspired by the range of art on show, from late medieval artefacts to Islamic art. Get some fresh air with a wander around the leafy green trees and woodland trails in Pollok Country Park, where the museum is situated, and say hello to the Highland coos that call the grounds home. It’s hard to believe you’re in the middle of a busy city! 

Discover The Burrell Collection

Stroll through characterful streets lined by impressive architecture and get to know the bustling streets and merchant history of Glasgow. Invisible Cities offers alternative walking tours around the city, all run by experienced tour guides who have been affected by homelessness. Dive beneath the surface of the city and discover hidden stories about its history, people and landmarks all through the eyes of a local. The tour revenue is invested in providing support to the guides who run the tours and donations are welcome.  

Book an Invisible Cities walking tour

Glasgow is a sprawling city to explore, so make sure you take the time to rest and watch the world go by. Slow down and connect with Glasgow's characterful neighbourhoods by stopping for a brew at an artisan coffee spot across the city. From beans roasted in the Outer Hebrides to Italian-inspired elegance in the city centre, there are so many places to refuel with a strong coffee and experience the warm welcome of Glasgow locals. The city is also well-known for its excellent baking and pastries, so treat yourself to some freshly baked goods still warm from the oven alongside your coffee.  

Music has long been the beating heart of Glasgow. Liven up your evening and experience traditional music sessions, from authentic toe-tapping folk music in a cosy pub, to cutting-edge contemporary bands in a sleek city bar. Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, so it's unsurprising that there are always opportunities to hear live music and feel part of the buzz in the city. If you want to know more about Glasgow’s musical history, join a music tour led by local experts as you set foot inside hallowed venues where iconic bands, DJs and other great artists cut their teeth, from the legendary Barrowland Ballroom to King Tut's Wah Wah Hut.  

Enjoy live music in Glasgow 

Book your Glasgow Music City Tour 

No trip to Scotland is complete without a visit to a whisky distillery to sample our national drink! The Clydeside Distillery is in the heart of Glasgow and is the first dedicated Single Malt Scotch Whisky Distillery in the city for over 100 years. Book a tour with an expert guide and learn more about the whisky industry and its rich history in Glasgow. Finish your visit swirling and sampling this amber liquid, as you gaze out over the Clyde.  

Visit Clydeside Distillery 

Street art is a huge component of Glasgow’s unique character and feel. Follow this trail to admire the bright colours and urban artworks which have enlivened walls and corners of the city centre. See standout creations by acclaimed street artists like Ali Wyllie, Art Pistol and Ejek, including the Spaceman on New Wynd by Wyllie and Recoat and the stunningly realistic Shadow Hand Puppets by Rogue-One found on the Cowcaddens underpass. The trail also features other famous examples of Glasgow street art, such as the life-like Four Seasons on Ingram Street and the vibrant murals framed by the rail arches on Clyde Street. 

Discover the Glasgow City Centre Mural Trail 

Glasgow's Women's Library is a library like you've never experienced before – it's the only accredited museum in the UK dedicated to the stories, history and achievements of women. Spend an afternoon wandering through towering rows of books, find a hidden corner to lose yourself in a good read or browse their engaging collections and exhibitions from Suffragette memorabilia to dress-making patterns. They also frequently run events and workshops throughout the year, including their Women's Heritage Walks which offer tours across the city to uncover the history of the women who shaped it.  

Visit Glasgow Women's Library 

This list was created by VisitScotland to showcase a range of experiences. It isn’t ranked in any specific order.