72 Hours in Glasgow
31st August 2024
You can see a lot in 72 hours in Glasgow. We, of course, believe that when it comes to trips to Scotland, the longer the better. Extended stays give you the opportunity to truly experience the country’s diverse landscapes and culture. However, if you only have a short time and you want to explore the Highlands as well as one of Scotland’s most exciting cities, sometimes you have to pack in the best bits. We’ve pulled together our top recommendations for an unforgettable weekend that gives you a taste of Glasgow’s lively and artistic vibe. After discovering the best of Glasgow, we hope you’ll be inspired to continue your journey and explore even more of what Scotland has to offer.
Friday Night
When you arrive in Glasgow’s west end, you will quickly work up an appetite from all of the delicious smells drifting out of its array of eateries. We recommend a table at Crabshakk in Finnieston for the first evening. It has a relaxed feel, and the food is incredible. The menu features lots of delicious, sustainably sourced fish and seafood with an emphasis on simplicity.
If you fancy a tipple after your meal, stop in at the Kelvingrove Cafe just across the street for a cocktail or two. They serve all the classic drinks in a lovely setting that is both sophisticated and relaxed at the same time.
Saturday
A weekend in the city calls for a good brunch. On Byres Road, Kember & Jones offers a range of delicious treats to kick off a day of exploring Glasgow’s west end. They serve wonderful coffee and pastries, as well as a heartier plate for the hungrier members of your group.
From there, it is only a short walk to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Kelvingrove is one of Glasgow’s most iconic cultural attractions. Housed in a stunning red sandstone exterior, this museum is renowned for its diverse collection, which ranges from natural history to art and design, including the famous “Christ of Saint John of the Cross” by Salvador Dali. It is a family-friendly museum with lots of interactive displays that inspire you to learn. With so much to see, you can spend hours at the Kelvingrove taking it all in.
Mother India serves up authentic, flavourful dishes from the Indian sub-continent and has been a firm favourite in the area for over 30 years. The Scots love Indian food, arguably as much as their own, and a weekend in Glasgow wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Mother India.
After dinner, enjoy live music and whisky at the Ben Nevis in Finnieston. It is a cosy and traditional Scottish pub with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Known for its authentic charm, the pub features dark wood interiors, a roaring fireplace, and a great selection of local ales, whiskies, and spirits.
Sunday
Before heading to the southside, we recommend breakfast at Café Gandolfi; a beloved restaurant in the Merchant City, known for its inviting atmosphere and commitment to quality Scottish cuisine. This café has stunning, bespoke wooden interiors with a modern yet rustic feel. The menu showcases the best of Scottish produce, offering a range of delicious and hearty breakfasts.
After breakfast, journey over to the south side of Glasgow to Pollock Country Park. Perhaps Glasgow’s most impressive park, it is home to many cycle paths and walkways, and even a number of highland cattle. After visiting the hairy coos, a visit to The Burrell Collection is a must.
The Burrell Collection is one of Scotland’s most significant and beloved art museums, located in the heart of the park. The museum houses the vast collection of Sir William Burrell, a wealthy shipping magnate and passionate art collector. The collection ranges from medieval tapestries and stained glass to Chinese ceramics, Islamic art, and works by renowned artists like Rodin, Degas, and Cézanne. The museum recently underwent an extensive refurbishment and is now even more accessible and interactive than before.
From the Burrell Collection, a walk to Strathbungo to peruse the independent shops and boutiques is in order. There are so many interesting specialty stores around the southside and there is an eclectic, eccentric vibe about the place. If you are peckish, we recommend stopping for a coffee and baked goods from Burnfield Bakery. Maybe even grab something to take away for a quick breakfast tomorrow.
After a long day exploring south of the river, head back to Finnieston for a special dinner at Unalome, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined and sophisticated dining experience. Run by renowned chef Graeme Cheevers, the restaurant’s menu showcases an exquisite selection of dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients, artfully presented with a focus on flavour. It has a luxurious fine-dining atmosphere, and with its innovative use of Scottish ingredients and flavours, it is sure to impress.
Monday Morning
Before you have to leave this beautiful city, there’s just enough time to squeeze in a visit to Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens. They are a lush and tranquil oasis offering a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle. Established in 1817, the gardens are home to a variety of plant species, with beautifully landscaped grounds. A highlight of the gardens is the Kibble Palace, a grand Victorian glasshouse that houses an impressive collection of tropical plants, tree ferns, and exotic flowers. It is the perfect place for a moment of reflection to round off your 72 hours in Glasgow.
Accommodation
Finding the right accommodation for you is paramount to a successful and enjoyable trip. Our top recommendations for hotels in and near Glasgow would include:
The Alamo
The Alamo Guest House in Glasgow is an elegant boutique bed and breakfast located in the city’s vibrant west end. Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building, the guesthouse offers a blend of historic character and modern comfort, with views of Kelvingrove Park.
Hotel du Vin Glasgow
Hotel du Vin Glasgow is a luxurious hotel set in the leafy west end of the city. Housed in a series of Victorian townhouses, the hotel offers beautiful and comfortable suites, each uniquely designed.
Cameron House
Cameron House is a luxurious five-star resort nestled on the shores of Loch Lomond, set within a stunning 17th-century baronial mansion. The hotel is a bit further away, around 45-minute drive from the city centre, and provides a serene escape with breathtaking views of the loch and surrounding hills.
If you would like to visit Glasgow as part of your trip to Scotland, get in touch with us to start booking your bespoke vacation and for more ideas, read more Scotland inspiration below: