Plan Your Trip to Glasgow
Everything you need to know before you visit Glasgow — getting here, getting around, where to stay and practical tips.
✈️ Getting to Glasgow
By Air
Glasgow Airport (GLA) is the main international airport, 8 miles west of the city centre. Direct flights from most UK and European cities, plus transatlantic routes.
- 🚌 Airport Express bus (500) runs every 10 minutes to the city centre — journey time 25 minutes, £8 single
- 🚕 Taxi to city centre: approximately £25–£30
- 🚗 Car hire available at the airport
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is 45 miles east but well connected — regular buses and trains link Edinburgh to Glasgow in under an hour.
By Train
Glasgow has two mainline stations: Glasgow Central (south and west routes, including London Euston via Avanti West Coast) and Glasgow Queen Street (east and north routes, including Edinburgh).
- 🚂 London to Glasgow: approx 4.5 hours on the fastest service
- 🚂 Edinburgh to Glasgow: 50 minutes (runs every 15 minutes)
- 🚂 Manchester to Glasgow: approx 2.5 hours
- 💰 Book via scotrail.co.uk or avantitrain.co.uk
🚇 Getting Around Glasgow
🚇 The Subway
Glasgow’s circular underground subway is one of the oldest in the world. 15 stations in a loop around the city centre and West End. Single fare: £1.75. Day ticket: £4.50.
🚌 Buses
First Glasgow buses cover the entire city. The app is essential. Most routes through the city centre cost £1.95–£2.75 single. Day tickets available.
🚶 Walking
Glasgow city centre is very walkable. Most key attractions in the West End and City Centre are within 20–30 minutes on foot of each other.
🚕 Taxis & Uber
Taxis and Uber are widely available. Black cabs can be hailed on the street. At weekends book ahead via app — demand surges after midnight.
🏨 Where to Stay
City Centre
Best for: transport links, nightlife, shopping. Hotels include: Kimpton Blythswood Square, Dakota Hotel, Radisson RED, citizenM Glasgow.
West End
Best for: restaurants, culture, Kelvingrove. More boutique options and Airbnbs. Slightly quieter than city centre but just a subway ride away.
Finnieston / Clydeside
Best for: restaurant scene, OVO Hydro, Commonwealth Games venues. Growing boutique hotel scene. Great base for 2026 Games visitors.
💡 Practical Tips
- 🏴☠️ Currency: Scottish Pounds (GBP) — same as England. Scottish banknotes are valid across the UK.
- ⚡ Power: UK standard plugs (Type G, 230V)
- 🌡️ Weather: Glasgow is mild but wet year-round. Pack a waterproof. Summer averages 18–20°C; winter 4–8°C.
- 🇬🇧 Language: English. The Glaswegian accent can be strong but locals are famously friendly and welcoming.
- 📱 Connectivity: Excellent 4G/5G coverage across the city. Free Wi-Fi in most cafes, hotels and public buildings.
- 🍺 Drinking age: 18. ID required in most venues.
- 🚍 Emergency: 999 (police, ambulance, fire). Non-emergency police: 101.
Hello Glasgow 