One Day in Glasgow: 20 Best Things To Do

Feeling overwhelmed about how to spend one day in Glasgow, Scotland? We understand; we’ve been in your shoes.

There are an astounding number of things to do in Glasgow – and trying to plan a succinct itinerary is not so simple. No need to fret. We are sharing the perfect way to see Glasgow in a day!

 

Best Things To Do in Glasgow in One Day 

Glasgow is an amazing city filled with historic sights, engaging museums and scenic landscapes.

The vibrant and lively downtown is the heart of the city, but what to see in Glasgow extends beyond the urban core.

With so many attractions from one end to the other – deciding where to go in Glasgow in 1 day can be perplexing.

However, with a solid trip plan, even travelers limited to one day can still see the all the prime places!

 

One Day Trip to Glasgow

We were in Edinburgh when we decided to take a one day trip to Glasgow. The two cities are just 45 miles apart and it’s easy to travel between them. 

Intent on making the most of it, we thoroughly researched what to do in Glasgow. Bearing in mind opening hours and walking distances, we carefully planned our detailed day trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow.

In the end, we saw everything on our One Day Itinerary Glasgow list, but realized we could have easily spent more time here.

Update: Since our first One Day Glasgow Trip, we returned for a much longer stay and have discovered additional fun things to do!

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How To Spend One Day in Glasgow: 20 Sights to See

Our outline for how to spend a day in Glasgow covers the must-see sights – as well as tips for what to eat during your trip.

We have organized our Glasgow 1 Day Itinerary so that the attractions are listed in the order we recommend visiting them.

We share a pin-drop to each spot so you can easily route yourself from one to the next. To save time, we recommend using the Glasgow Underground on two occasions. You’ll find a complete Map of Glasgow Attractions at the end of the article.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Glasgow Travel Guide for your trip to Scotland!

 

#1 Glasgow Cathedral

MAP. Start your One Day in Glasgow Itinerary at the Cathedral. The grand structure dates to 1136, making it the oldest building in Glasgow.

The interior is dimly lit by sunlight that filters through the colorful stained-glass windows. Queen Elizabeth II attended services here twice, once in 1977 and again in 2012 to mark her Diamond Jubilee. 

The Glasgow Cathedral is dedicated to St. Mungo (also called St. Kentigern). The city’s patron saint is buried in the crypt, so be sure to go down the stairs to see the cavernous space. 

 

#2 Glasgow Necropolis

MAP. Some travelers might think it’s strange to include a cemetery in their Glasgow One Day Itinerary, but the Necropolis is truly one of the best sights in the city. Covering 37 acres, it is believed to be one of the first mixed-faith burial sites in the world.

Located on a hill that rises behind the Cathedral, the Glasgow cemetery – where 50,000 Glaswegians are buried – hosts a number of ornate and striking monuments.

Pedestrian paths weave through ‘The City of the Dead,’ passing gravesites and memorials which date to the mid- to late-1800s.

 

#3 St. Mungo Street Art

MAP. It would be impossible to spend a day in Glasgow and not notice the impressive displays of street art.

Detailed murals and graffiti tags grace the sides of buildings and are tucked along inconspicuous side streets.

While street art has decorated the city since the 1970s, Glasgow’s recent Mural Project has brightened blighted spaces.

Local artist Smug has contributed many works – including Saint Mungo, one of his most famous Glasgow art murals, at 287 High Street. 

 

#4 High Street, Glasgow

MAP. High Street is one of the oldest in Glasgow, and in Medieval times, was the main thoroughfare.

Lined with Victorian tenements, the curving street slopes down toward the River Clyde, marking the eastern edge of Merchant City. (We’ll visit this area properly later in the day.)

The most significant sight along Glasgow High Street is the 7-story Tolbooth Steeple, a clocktower that was built in the year 1626.

Adjacent to the steeple is another interesting site – the replica Mercat Cross. Historically was used to mark the location of the market (but this one was built in 1930).

 

#5 St. Andrew’s Square, Glasgow

MAP. St. Andrew’s Square is dominated by the namesake 18th century church. The exquisite classical structure was designed in a style similar to St. Martin-in-the-Fields in London and ranks as one of the oldest churches in Glasgow.

Although St. Andrew’s in the Square no longer functions as a place of worship, it is still worth including in your 1 Day in Glasgow Itinerary. Take a peek into the square to admire the outstanding architecture.

Travel Tip: Music lovers will want to squeeze in a stop at the nearby Barrowland Park. Popular with workers on lunch and local dog walkers, what makes it a Glasgow tourist attraction is the list of musical acts that have performed at the nearby Barrowland Ballroom concert venue. 

 

#6 The Barras Market

MAP. Certainly worth stopping by on the weekend when the market is in full swing, Barras is a long-standing marketplace for antiques and oddities.

Open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday and Sunday, The Barras is a fascinating gathering of locals and visitors hunting down unique wares along with everyday needs and souvenirs.

Once the city’s thriving daily market, Barras Market was established by James and Maggie McIver in the early 1900s.

Today, weekend shoppers can find bargains on everything from vintage clothes to household appliances to heaps and piles of random items.

 

#7 Glasgow Green and People’s Palace

MAP. A spacious park on the East End, Glasgow Green is the city’s oldest park, dating to the 15th century.

The Green, which hugs the curve of the River Clyde, is crisscrossed by walking paths and dotted with monuments.

At the center is the opulent People’s Palace, a small but wonderful museum detailing the city’s history – and it’s free to enter.

In front of the building is the impressive Doulton Fountain, which stands as the largest terracotta fountain in the world.

Travel Planning Tip: There are many excellent museums in Glasgow – most of which are free of charge. When visiting Glasgow in one day, it is unlikely that you will be able to enter them all.

We recommend thoroughly enjoying the one that is of most interest to you – and breezing through the others.

 

#8 Shawarma King

MAP. If you want to see all of the sights on our itinerary, it’s probably best to eat a quick meal rather than sit down at a restaurant and wait for table service.

Our top pick for take-away in Glasgow is the famous Shawarma King. This highly rated kebab house has been voted the Best Shawarma in Glasgow for several years running.

Behind massive spits of swiveling meats, the staff whip up delicious wraps, falafels and kebab plates at affordable prices. We recommend getting it to go and eating it on the bank of the Clyde River.

 

#9 River Clyde and Glasgow Bridges

MAP. The Clyde River has had a significant influence on the city. Essential for trade and vital for shipbuilding, the waterway was instrumental in the city’s industry and expansion.

Victoria Bridge, built in 1854, is the oldest surviving bridge in Glasgow. However, the pedestrian only South Portland Street and St. Andrew’s Suspension Bridges are our favorite to walk across.

The River Clyde Walkway allows walkers, joggers and cyclists to travel along the riverside under the shade of trees with a scenic view.

That said, to get to the next stop, we recommend riding the Glasgow Subway. Use the St. Enoch Underground Station and travel to Partick Station.

 

#10 The Tall Ship Museum

MAP. Free. Visiting The Tall Ship Museum is one of the fun things to do on a one-day trip in Glasgow – especially if you are traveling with kids.

The 3-mast Glenlee was built in 1896 and still proudly floats on the Clyde. Guests are invited to hop aboard and freely explore the ship from bow to stern, as well as deep below deck.

 

#11 Riverside Museum

MAP. Free. The Riverside Museum – which sit directly next to The Tall Ship – is one of the best places to visit in Glasgow in one day.

Dedicated to the history of transportation, the space is chock-full of old cars, train compartments, motorcycles and bikes.

The Wall of Cars is an impressive sight – but we personally liked the Glasgow Old Town Street displays.

The short street features typical shops from the early 1900s – and visitors are invited to go inside each establishment to learn more about their history.

 

#12 Kelvingrove Art Gallery Museum

MAP. Free. Housed in a magnificent red sandstone building, the Kelvingrove Museum features more than 8,000 pieces of artifacts and artworks.

Originally opened in 1901, the property completed an extensive renovation program in 2006. Displays are separated into two categories, Life and Expression, and spread across 22 galleries.

The pieces range from ancient Egyptian mummies to masterpiece paintings to modern sculptures. There is even one of Elvis Presley, apply titled Return to Sender!

While the Floating Heads in the East Court continue to haunt us, don’t miss (and it is likely impossible to do so), the grandiose Centre Hall – complete with a pipe organ towering over the far end.

 

#13 University of Glasgow

MAP. Next up is the beautiful University of Glasgow campus on Gilmorehill. The institution was founded in 1451 and moved to the Glasgow West End in 1870.

With some 30,000 students, it’s the largest university in Scotland based on enrollment and gives the entire area a youthful vibe.

The main campus building is a stunning Gothic revival double-quad, complete with a soaring bell tower.

Enter through the main entrance and step into the Cloisters, then walk around the interior of both quads.

If you are intrigued by interesting artifacts and unusual collections, then make time to visit the unique Hunterian Museum (free admission).

Art aficionados should pop into the nearby Hunterian Art Gallery and architecture enthusiasts will want to tour the attached Mackintosh House

 

#14 Kelvingrove Park

MAP. An 85-acre site, Kelvingrove Park was designed in the mid-1800s as the city was expanding (and the center was becoming overcrowded and undesirable).

The River Kelvin streams through the hilly park, which features numerous monuments and spacious lawns.

Visitors are free to explore the many paths, but it is worth seeking out the Stewart Memorial Fountain.

Fans of fine 19th century architecture should make the effort to climb up Woodlands Hill to see the elegant Park Circus Crescent. 

Travel Tip: To get back into central Glasgow from Kelvingrove Park, we suggest taking the subway from Kelvinbridge Station to St. Enoch.

 

#15 Street Art Murals in the Glasgow City Centre

MAP. We have already mentioned the incredible street art – and seeking out more works is one of the top things to do in Glasgow for a day.

From St. Enoch Square, walk north and cross Argyle Street and then west to Mitchell Street (a narrow one-way alley).

There you will find the Most Economical Taxi, Girl with a Magnifying Glass and Wind Power murals.

While seeking out street art on Mitchell Street, check out The Lighthouse. This unique building was designed by renowned Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh in 1895. It now serves as Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture.

 

#16 Buchanan Street

MAP. Marking the epicenter of the city and the thriving shopping district, Buchanan Street is a must on your Glasgow one day trip.

The pedestrian-only street is lined with high-end retailers and department stores. Even if you don’t intend to shop, stroll through to see the extravagant Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

Along the way, you will likely be entertained by street performers and feel the buzz of modern day Glasgow.

Sightseeing Tip: Need an afternoon pick-me-up? Detour from Buchanan onto Gordon Street to Tantrum Doughnuts for a sugary sweet treat. The artisan donuts are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate!

 

#17 Gallery of Modern Art and Duke of Wellington Statue

MAP. From Buchanan Street, walk through the Royal Bank Palace archway into Royal Exchange Square.

At its center is the Gallery of Modern Art (free), which is housed in the former Royal Exchange Building (dating to 1829). The GoMa has four galleries of rotating contemporary art exhibits.

Standing directly in front of the GoMa is the Duke of Wellington Equestrian Statue – which has become one of the quirky Glasgow landmarks.

The statue was erected in 1844 – but since the 1980s, fun-loving Glaswegians have taken to decorating the Duke’s head with various traffic cones.

The city attempted to thwart the ‘cone bandits’ by making a plan to elevate the statue, but the move was met with fierce outcry (and even more cones).

The people of Glasgow prefer their ornate statue to be adorned with a cone, it seems!

 

#18 Merchant City

MAP. Continue your Glasgow sightseeing with a leisurely walk through Merchant City. The district marks the first Glasgow New Town, when wealthy residents moved west from crowded High Street. The grid plan included wide streets, stately homes and tobacco warehouses.

Today, the area is a mecca of shops, bars, restaurants and residences housed in beautiful old buildings.

At the center is Merchant Square – the former fruit market and now a hub of eateries and entertainment. The stylish district is also the site of many festivals in the summertime.

 

#19 George Square

MAP. George Square is a Glasgow must see sight. Named for King George III, the space was developed in the early 1800s.

Ringed by regal government buildings and elegant architecture, the area represents the civic center of Glasgow.

On the east end sits the Glasgow City Chambers and free tours of the building are offered twice daily.

Unlike some urban public spaces, George Square features four green lawns, where visitors can stretch out and relax.

Monuments of Scotland’s most revered citizens stand here – including statues of Robert Burns, James Watt and Sir Walter Scott – along with The Cenotaph war memorial.

 

#20 Dinner and Drinks in Glasgow

End your Glasgow one day tour with dinner and drinks in the city center. There are a copious number of bars and restaurants to choose from, but we have a few recommendations.

 

Glasgow Restaurants on George Square

A lively spot right on George square is The Counting House. The modern Weatherspoon-chain pub serves real cask ale and a typical pub menu.

The beautiful building (don’t miss the ceiling) served as a bank for more than 100 years and the outdoor patio is a top spot for imbibing al fresco.

The Piper Whisky Bar, on the south side of the City Chambers, is a fun pub that offers a menu of iconic Scottish Food – like Haggis and Fish and Chips, plus occasional live music. 

 

Other Glasgow City Eats

Just a block west of George Square is Shilling Brewing Company, which is also housed in a former bank building.

At the Shilling Brew Pub, they make craft beer onsite – and feature guest taps from other Scottish brewers, as well. Woodfired pizzas are the only menu item, but they are delicious!

Another favorite Glasgow restaurant is the hip Paesano Pizza on Miller Street. Utilizing authentic Italian ingredients to top a variety of pizzas, Paesano offers patrons a friendly and casual place to dine, along with excellent prices.

Alternatively, we like the festive atmosphere at the buzzing bars and restaurants at Merchant Square. Sloans (one of the oldest pubs in the city) makes a wicked mac-and-cheese! 

 

Ashton Lane, Glasgow

If you prefer (or are staying in) the Glasgow West End, Ashton Lane is a lively spot to finish off your visit.

The super popular Ubiquitous Chip offer modern Scottish cuisine, while the Innis and Gunn Brewery has excellent pub grub.

If you are in the mood for Belgian dishes, check out Brel, but if it’s more of a drinks and nosh kind of mood, drop into The Gardener.

 

Whisky Tasting

After a long day of ticking off your list of what to see in Glasgow for a day, get a taste of the local flavor with a whisky tasting. 

The Pot Still is the best bar in Glasgow for a fun and unpretentious whisky tasting. It is located just a short walk from George Square and they make delicious savory pies, too!

For a more formal introduction to Scotch Whisky, you can join a tour at The Clydeside Distillery. The West End distillery is state of the art and provides views over the River Clyde. Cheers!

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Glasgow Map of Attractions

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Glasgow, Scotland Map below.

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More Glasgow Things To Do

We shared our top tips for what to do in Glasgow in one day, but there is more to see if you have time. Consider adding (or swapping out) some of these for your itinerary.

 

Glasgow City Walking Tour

Visitors can use our outline of things to see to create their own Glasgow walking tour. However, travelers who would rather a personal introduction should consider joining this popular and highly rated tour.

 

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Dating to 1817, the Botanical Gardens are one of the top sights in Glasgow. The gorgeous green space encompass 27 acres of colorful flora from regions around the world. All areas are free – including the Kibble Palace Greenhouse.

 

Tennent’s Brewery Tour

One of the oldest brewers in the United Kingdom, Tennent Caledonian Brewing is located just below the necropolis – and is open for tours.

Visitors can discover the Wellpark Brewery complex – including the Heritage Center and a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. The tour ends with a fresh pint poured beer straight from the source.

Prefer craft beer? Us, as well! Next door is Drygate, a collaboration brewery offering unique and diverse beers. Plus, they have an excellent outdoor space! 

 

Glasgow Street Art Tour

Glasgow’s street art scene is truly part of it’s culture. Interested travelers can join a local guide for a tour of the best art murals in Glasgow. Tour participants will gain a better understanding of the artwork and area as well. 

 

Sharmanka Kinetic Theatre

An unusual and somewhat dark museum, the Sharmanka Kinetic Theater boasts mechanical sculptures that move to eerie music. There are two shows and multiple performances a day. 

 

Pollok House and Gardens

Located 4.5 miles to the southwest, the Pollok Estate is an elaborate country house. In addition to the large collection of Spanish artwork, the home itself is open for tours and the on-site café is atmospheric. Tickets are required.

The gardens and surrounding park are lovely for a walk – and free to visit. A highlight is the hairy Highland Cows. The Burrell Collection Museum (free) is also located within Pollok Estate.

 

More Glasgow Museums

In our one-day itinerary for Glasgow, we featured a few of the best museums – but not all of them! Fellow travelers may want to make time to see some of the other fantastic cultural venues.

 

Provand’s Lordship

One of the oldest houses in Glasgow dating to 1471, Provand’s Lordship Museum (free) features 17th century furniture and informational plaques.

 

St. Mungo Museum of Religious Life and Art

Dedicated to Glasgow’s Patron Saint, the St. Mungo Museum (free) contains religious artworks and relics.

Much more interesting than we had anticipated, the displays are intriguing and engaging. It sits right across from the Cathedral and is worth popping into for even just a half hour (and the free toilets).

 

Glasgow Science Center

A fun science and technology museum, the Science Centre (tickets required) is one of the fun things to do in Glasgow with kids.

Highlights of the hands-on museum are an IMAX theater, a planetarium and the Glasgow Tower observation deck. 

Top Tip: Take a moment to cross the Millennium Bridge for River Clyde views. The panoramic view to the east encompasses the often-photographed Bell’s Bridge, the Clyde Arc Bridge and historic Finnieston Crane.

 

Fairfield Heritage Museum

A fascinating venue detailing the history of shipbuilding in Glasgow, Fairfield Heritage Museum (free) features well-displayed exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the city’s influence on shipping worldwide.

The museum is housed in the old shipyard offices – and knowledgeable and friendly staff are on hand to offer personal insight and additional information. 

 

Govan Old Church Stones

An ancient collection of carved standing stones and Viking ‘hogbacks’ are housed in the repurposed Govan Old Church.

The museum (free) invites visitors to learn about the history of the land and unusual stones that date back more than 1,500 years. Enthusiastic volunteers are happy to help guests make sense of the massive stones. 

The Govan Old Church is just a short walk from Fairfield Heritage Museum, making it easy to see both attractions in just a couple of hours.

 

1 Day Tours from Glasgow

Perhaps the most popular 1 day trip from Glasgow is an adventure into the Scottish Highlands. Top attractions on an excursion to Highlands from Glasgow are Loch Lomond, ancient castles and amazing Glencoe. Find out more!

Alternatively, you can plan day trips from Glasgow to Loch Lomond on your own using the train to Balloch.

Once in Balloch, we recommend hopping aboard a 2-hour loch cruise. Other day trips near Glasgow are Outlander Tours and excursions to Scottish Whisky Distilleries.

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Tips for Planning a Trip to Glasgow, Scotland

Now that you know what to see and do in Glasgow, we have some advice that will help you best plan your vacation to Scotland!

 

Scotland Trip Planning Info

We suggest starting with our Scotland Travel Tips and Guide to Planning a European Vacation. Then, our Ultimate Scotland Itinerary details how we prepare for our trips. We share even more in these specific destination articles.

• Fun Things To Do in Edinburgh 
• Free Edinburgh Royal Mile and New Town walking tours
• Finding Unique Edinburgh
• Things To Do in Inverness 
• See sunny Dunbar, pretty Portree or Plockton, Scotland
• Find out the Top Things To See on Isle of Skye then create your Perfect Itinerary
• Check out the East Coast of Scotland (including fabulous St Andrews)
• Read how we Trekked the West Highland Way for 4 days

As you plan your Scotland trip, organization is key! Stay on top of the details with our 26 page printable Travel Planner.

 

Timing Your Visit to Glasgow

On a quick Glasgow one-day trip, timing is of the utmost importance. Make note of the current opening time of attractions.

The museums, cathedral and graveyard all close by 5pm – if not earlier (plus, the church closes mid-day for lunch).

We purposely routed our Glasgow 1-Day Itinerary so that we could enter museums early in the day and then wander outdoors in the evening.

Our trips to Glasgow were in summer when there is plenty of day light. Travelers visiting outside of the summer season should ensure you will have enough time to see all the best Glasgow sights.

 

How To Get to Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow is well-connected to regional destinations (like Manchester) by bus and train. The main Buchanan Bus Station is located on the north edge of the city center. There are two main Glasgow train stations – Glasgow Central and Queen Street.

If you are travelling to Glasgow by plane, you will arrive at Glasgow International Airport (GLA) that is located just 10 miles west of downtown. The best way into the city is via the Airport Express 500 Bus, which takes about 30 minutes.

Looking for cheap one-way flights to Glasgow, Scotland? Use our tips for Finding the Best Deals and then start your search on Skyscanner. 

 

Getting Around Glasgow

The subway in Glasgow is one of the easiest transportation systems we have ever used. The entire Glasgow Underground consists of 15 stations, which are connected in a loop with two lines: The Outer Circle and Inner Circle.

The Outer Loop runs clockwise and the Inner Circle goes counter-clockwise. The complete circuit takes just 24 minutes and trains run frequently.

Tickets cost £1.85 per ride and can be purchased from kiosks or from the ticket office. Keep your ticket handy, as you need it to exit the station.

The Hop On Hop Off Bus is another great way to get around, especially for short stays. The bus makes stops at all of the recommended attractions on our One-Day Glasgow Itinerary. 

 

Where To Stay in Glasgow for One Night

The boutique Carlton George Hotel is situated right next to the Queen Street Rail Station and offers luxury rooms at fair prices.

Plus, they have a complimentary mini-bar, as well as decanters of whisky, gin and vodka in every room!

Situated just steps from George Square, the Z Hotel offers affordable rates for the prime location. The rooms are on the small side, but they are clean and the beds are comfortable. 

 

What You Will Need for your Glasgow 1 Day Tour

Now that you know what to do in Glasgow, it’s time to get ready to go! So grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to Scotland!

 

Comfortable Shoes

It’s important to have the right shoes! I like to wear lightweight and versatile trainers and Kris prefers trail shoes for sightseeing. Read all our reviews on the Best Travel Shoes! 

 

Travel Camera

Glasgow is a unique place! Upgrade to a real camera to properly capture the sights. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens.

We believe it’s the best cameras for budget travelers because it is easy to use, takes quality photos and comes with loads of accessories.

 

Day Pack

On a day trip, you will want to make sure you bring everything you need along with you. Therefore, a good day bag is necessary.

We like using these small backpacks – but share reviews for other styles in our article on the Best Day Packs for Travelers.

 

UK Travel Insurance

Trip insurance may help if travel goes wrong (airline loses your luggage, flight cancels, someone becomes ill). Check out the affordable rates and robust coverage at World Nomads.

 

Start planning your trip to Scotland! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing!  Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!

 

 

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