10 Amazing attractions and things to see and do in Glasgow City Centre

From dawn to dusk and into the night, there are a huge range of things to do in Glasgow. The city is home to some of Scotland's best cultural attractions and most of them are completely free! Explore Glasgow's music scene on a city walking tour, or uncover countless treasures inside its fantastic museums and art galleries. 

  1. Explore The Burrell Collection Pollok Country Park

    Glasgow Burrell Collection

    The Burrell Collection is one of the greatest art collections ever amassed by one person, consisting of more than than 9,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of history. The award-winning collection is housed in the heart of Pollok Country Park and includes work by artists such as Rodin, Degas and Cézanne. Spend the day getting inspired by the range of collections on show, from late medieval artefacts to Islamic art. 

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • On Public Transport Route
    • Hearing Loop
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
    • Level Access
    • Accessible toilets
    • WiFi
    • Cafe or Restaurant
  2. Join an Invisible Cities Walking Tour Across Glasgow

    Glasgow

    Invisible Cities offer alternative walking tours around Glasgow, all run by experienced tour guides who have been affected by homelessness. Delve beneath the surface of the city and learn more 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. 

  3. Relax at Glasgow Botanic Gardens West End

    Kibble Palace; Glasgow Botanic Gardens

    © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

    Wander 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 step inside the 11 other balmy glasshouses to see rare orchids and a collection of begonias. If you feel like stretching your legs, you can follow the path to reach the riverside walk. This provides a picturesque route through the city towards Kelvingrove Park and the art gallery and museum.

  4. Sample the coffee scene Across Glasgow

    1841 coffee shop

    © 1841 coffee

    Glasgow is a sprawling city to explore, so there are plenty of spots to take a break 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 meet the locals. Be sure to sample some of the freshly served bakes alongside your coffee to complete the experience! 

  5. Get your culture fix at Kelvingrove West End

    Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum

    Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is 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. Discover dinosaur skeletons, medieval armour, stunning works by the Dutch Old Masters, French Impressionists and the 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!

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • On Public Transport Route
    • Hearing Loop
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
    • Level Access
    • Accessible toilets
  6. Enjoy live music in a Glasgow pub Across Glasgow

    The Scott Wood Band perform at Celtic Connections Festival at Òran Mór

    © FirstThreeSongs / James Carney

    Glasgow is a UNESCO City of Music, so it's unsurprising that there are always opportunities to enjoy live music in the city. Liven up your evening and experience some traditional music sessions, from authentic folk music in a cosy pub to cutting-edge contemporary bands in a sleek city bar. 

  7. Sample a dram at Clydeside Distillery City Centre

    The Copper Stills in the Still House Overlooking The Clyde

    © The Clydeside Distillery

    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 and follow it up by sampling some delicious whisky with views out over the Clyde. 

    Key facilities
    • Parking
    • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
    • Level Access
    • Accessible toilets
    • WiFi
    • Cafe or Restaurant
  8. Follow the City Centre Mural Trail Across Glasgow

    The Glasgow City Centre Mural Trail

    © VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

    On of the most famous Glasgow attractions is the street art. Follow this trail to admire these 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 Hand Shadow Puppets found on the Cowcaddens underpass by Rogue-One. 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.

  9. Discover Glasgow Music City Tours Across Glasgow

    Glasgow Music City Tours

    © VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

    Music has long been the beating heart of Glasgow, as music journalist Fiona Shepherd knows only too well. Join her or one of her fellow music afficionados on a choice of walking tours of Glasgow's musical heritage. Along the way, set foot in 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. You won't find a better introduction to one of the most vibrant and diverse music scenes in the world.

  10. Find your next great read at Glasgow Women's Library Bridgeton

    Glasgow Women's Library in Bridgeton

    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. As well as a lending library, you can browse their engaging collections and exhibitions from Sufragette 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. 

    Key facilities
    • On Public Transport Route
    • Parking
    • Level Access

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