Top 9 Must-Visit Attractions for Tourists in Glasgow

Glasgow, a city brimming with history, culture, and stunning architecture, is simply waiting for you to explore its many wonders.

As a bustling metropolis and a top travel destination in Scotland, Glasgow has something to offer everyone. So grab a cuppa, sit back, and let me guide you through the top 10 attractions you simply can’t miss during your visit to this fabulous city.

Yes, Glasgow is not on the NC500 route, but we know many of you travel through Glasgow on the way up or down and it’s worth stopping off for a wee while.

Attractions
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: Houses a vast collection of fine art and natural history exhibits. Free admission.
Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis: Medieval cathedral and Victorian cemetery with impressive monuments and views.
Riverside Museum and The Tall Ship: Award-winning museum showcasing Glasgow’s transport history. The Tall Ship is a restored Victorian sailing vessel.
The Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) Glasgow: Features thought-provoking contemporary art from local and international artists. Free admission.
The University of Glasgow and Hunterian Museum: Prestigious university with stunning architecture. The Hunterian Museum has an eclectic collection of scientific and artistic treasures.
George Square and City Chambers: Vibrant square with statues and monuments. The City Chambers offers guided tours showcasing opulent interiors and fascinating stories of Glasgow’s political past.
Pollok Country Park and Burrell Collection: Expansive green park with walking trails and a picnic area. The Burrell Collection features an impressive array of art and historical artefacts.
Glasgow Science Centre: Interactive science museum with educational exhibits for all ages, including a planetarium and IMAX cinema.
Buchanan Street and the Style Mile: Shopper’s paradise with high-street shops, designer boutiques, and Victorian architecture.
Glasgow Botanic Gardens: Serene urban oasis with enchanting gardens, exotic plants, and seasonal events and attractions.

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is an absolute gem you must visit! Housing an extensive collection that spans from fine art to natural history, this museum will keep you entertained for hours.

Be sure to catch the iconic Salvador Dalí painting and marvel at the exquisite architecture of the main hall. Oh, and did I mention it’s free? That’s right, darling, you can enjoy all these treasures without spending a penny!

Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis

Step back in time and immerse yourself in history as you visit the stunning Glasgow Cathedral. This medieval masterpiece has been standing tall since the 12th century and is a testament to the city’s rich past.

After exploring the cathedral, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery with impressive monuments and breathtaking views of Glasgow.

Riverside Museum and The Tall Ship

For something a little different, pay a visit to the award-winning Riverside Museum. Showcasing Glasgow’s fascinating transport history through interactive exhibits, this museum is a fun experience for all ages.

And while you’re there, don’t forget to check out The Tall Ship, a beautifully restored Victorian sailing vessel that you can climb aboard and explore.

The Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) Glasgow

is a haven for contemporary art lovers, and the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) is the perfect place to get your culture fix.

Located in a stunning neoclassical building, GoMA features thought-provoking and inspiring works from both local and international artists. And guess what, sweetie? It’s free too! So make sure to pop in and let your creative spirit soar.

The University of Glasgow and Hunterian Museum

The University of Glasgow’s dreamy Hogwarts-like architecture is reason enough to visit this prestigious institution. Wander around the stunning grounds, and don’t forget to snap a picture or two for your Instagram feed.

While you’re there, check out the Hunterian Museum, which houses an eclectic collection of scientific and artistic treasures, including ancient artefacts and anatomical oddities.

George Square and City Chambers

George Square, the beating heart of Glasgow, is the perfect spot for people-watching and soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

Admire the statues and monuments that grace the square, and then head over to the majestic City Chambers for a guided tour. You’ll be amazed by the opulent interiors and fascinating stories about Glasgow’s political past.

Pollok Country Park and Burrell Collection

Escape the bustling city streets and find serenity in Pollok Country Park, an expansive green oasis perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.

While you’re there, make sure to visit the Burrell Collection, which features an impressive array of art and historical artefacts collected by the late Sir William Burrell. Trust me, hun, it’s well worth your time!

Glasgow Science Centre

Unleash your inner scientist at the Glasgow Science Centre, a fantastic interactive space that offers fun and educational exhibits for all ages. Experience the wonders of the cosmos in the planetarium or catch an immersive IMAX film

in the on-site cinema. This fascinating centre is sure to keep everyone engaged and entertained, so don’t miss out on the chance to explore, learn, and have a blast while you’re at it!

Buchanan Street and the Style Mile

Ready to shop ’til you drop? Buchanan Street, part of Glasgow’s famous Style Mile, is a shopper’s paradise. With a myriad of high-street shops, designer boutiques, and delightful cafés, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

As you stroll along this bustling thoroughfare, take a moment to admire the lovely Victorian architecture that lines the street – it’s truly a feast for the eyes!

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

Last but certainly not least, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens are an idyllic retreat for nature lovers. Wander through the enchanting gardens, discover exotic plants in the stunning glasshouses, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this urban oasis. With seasonal events and attractions, there’s always something new and exciting to experience at the Botanic Gardens.

And…

So, my dear traveller, that wraps up our list of the top 10 must-visit attractions for tourists in Glasgow.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse experiences, this city is truly a treasure trove waiting to be explored. I hope you’ll have an amazing time discovering all Glasgow can offer.

Scotland is so much more than the NC500 and we wish you happy travels; that might just include a wee trip to Glasgow on the way through.