Glasgow Scotland, UK Travel Guide
Glasgow caters to every traveler, with a full spectrum of lodging choices.
For budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a social atmosphere, hostels have affordable dorm beds and private rooms. Euro Hostel and Safestay Glasgow. They often feature common cooking areas and common areas.
Chain hotels like Travelodge, Premier Inn, and Ibis Budget have clean, comfortable, and no-frills accommodation at reasonable prices. They are frequently centrally located.
Brands like Novotel, Holiday Inn, Radisson RED, and citizenM have more amenities, better service, and often more stylish surroundings than budget options, without reaching luxury prices.
For a premium experience, Glasgow has luxury places like the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, The Principal Grplus The central area Hotel, Malmaison, and Dakota Glasgow. These have high-end services, fine dining, and sophisticated rooms.
Many boutique hotels in Glasgow occupy renovated Victorian buildings, with distinctive character, unique design, and a cozy atmosphere. Hotel du Vin and Grasshoppers Hotel exemplify this.
Prevalent in the West End or South Side, guesthouses and B&Bs have a more personal touch, run by local hosts who have breakfast plus local perspectives.
Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com list a range of apartments and houses. These are appropriate for longer visits, families, or groups, with more space and self-catering facilities. Serviced apartments, like SACO Glasgow, have hotel-like amenities with apartment flexibility.
No camping facilities exist within Glasgow city limits. Campsites are in surrounding areas and national parks, like Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, a short drive from the city.
Glasgow's various areas each have a different ambiance and set of conveniences.
All listed areas are generally safe for tourists. As with any city, exercise common sense, especially in the evening. Well-lit, populated areas are generally safer. Avoid walking alone in very quiet or unlit places late at night.
City Centre/Merchant City: Closest to main shopping districts, both Heart of and Queen Street train stations, museums, and nightlife. The Western part of the town/city: Good for Glasgow University, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and Botanic Gardens. Served by the Subway line. Finnieston: Convenient for the SEC, The Hydro, and the Riverside Museum.
Smart booking secures preferred accommodation and potentially saves money.
For vacation rentals further THAN airbnb, Vrbo is another option.
Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays involving pet care.
Always compare prices and perks on direct hotel websites versus third-party platforms.
Here are some top picks for different travel needs, a starting point for your search.
Euro Hostel Glasgow, Safestay Glasgow (hostels); Travelodge Glasgow Central.
CitizenM Glasgow, Motel One Glasgow, Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre (Argyle Street).
Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, The Grand Downtown Hotel, Dakota Glasgow, Malmaison.
Serviced apartments like Native Glasgow or Fraser Suites Glasgow, or Airbnb rentals.
Many mid-range hotels have family rooms or connecting rooms. Serviced apartments, like SACO Glasgow, have more space and self-catering facilities, helpful for families.
Hostels with good common areas, like Euro Hostel, are perfect for meeting other travelers. Centrally located hotels have easy access to transport and attractions, yielding convenience and security for solo explorers.
Serviced apartments, like Native Glasgow or Fraser Suites Glasgow, or Airbnb rentals are ideal for longer stays. They have amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities, making them feel more like a home away from home.
The Grand Central Hotel: A historic railway hotel, centrally located above Glasgow Central Station, with a rich past.
A historic railway hotel, centrally located above Glasgow Central Station, with a rich past.
Housed in a former church, it has an unique and stylish stay.
Occupies a historic square of Georgian townhouses, reflecting historical grandeur.
Many occupy renovated Victorian buildings, with distinctive character and unique design.
Many stylish hotels in Glasgow occupy renovated Victorian buildings, with distinctive character, unique design, and an intimate atmosphere.
Prevalent in the West End or South Side, guesthouses and B&Bs have a personal touch, run by local hosts who have breakfast and local knowledge.
Good for extended stays, families, or groups, with more space and self-catering facilities.
Hotel-like amenities with apartment flexibility, ideal for those seeking comfort and convenience.
Staying in a smaller, independent B&B has a more personal experience, enabling interaction with local residents.
