Top five reasons why you should visit Glasgow

Although Glasgow is Scotland's largest city, it is often left undiscovered by many visitors to Scotland. Here at Thistleborn Tours we've put together our top five reasons why you should visit Glasgow on your next trip to Scotland.

1. Friendliest Folk in Scotland

Glasgow has been repeatedly voted one of the friendliest cities in the world, with an impressive 93% of visitors saying they find it welcoming. Indeed, Glaswegians are known across the world for their friendliness, generosity and humour. The city’s humour is legendary, a mixture of sharp intelligence and a healthy dose of mischief. You may not always understand every word of the local accent on first listen, but you’ll definitely get the feeling behind it: genuine kindness and a cheeky charm!

When you join a Thistleborn Tour, your local guides — all proud, born-and-bred Glaswegians — will show you the true heart of their hometown, delivering the warmest welcome and an unforgettable, entertaining glimpse into the spirit of Glasgow.

2. Culture and Creativity

Glasgow is a city that thrives on creativity. Whether you’re drawn to art, music, dance, or theatre, you’ll find it here in abundance. As a UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow hosts an average of 130 gigs every week, from packed indie nights at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut (where Oasis was famously discovered) to full symphony performances at the Royal Concert Hall, or intimate sessions of traditional Scottish ceilidh music.

The city is also home to around 30 museums and galleries, showcasing an inspiring mix of local talent and world-class exhibitions.

Glasgow’s theatre scene is equally vibrant. At its heart stands the Theatre Royal, Scotland’s oldest theatre and home to both the Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet. But it’s not just about the classics — contemporary and experimental productions thrive too. Whether it’s a hard-hitting political drama or a night of laughter at a comedy club, theatre in Glasgow is more than entertainment; it’s an expression of the city’s bold, creative, and endlessly human spirit.

3. Architecture

   
   

Glasgow’s architecture is a living timeline of the city’s vibrant history – it hosts a bold mix of grand Victorian splendour, cobbled lanes, riverside promenades as well as new, sleek modern designs.

In the 19th century, Glasgow was known as the ‘Second City of the Empire,’ and its prosperity is still reflected in the magnificent sandstone buildings that line its streets. The City Chambers on George Square is a showstopper of the Renaissance, while the Glasgow Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century, offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past.

And no discussion of Glasgow’s architecture is complete without mentioning Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the city’s most celebrated architect and designer. His distinctive Art Nouveau style helps define Glasgow’s visual identity and iconic examples such as the Glasgow School of Art, The Lighthouse, and the Willow Tearooms continue to inspire artists and architects all around the world.

However, Glasgow certainly isn’t stuck in the past. The city has embraced contemporary architecture with confidence, from the shimmering curves of the Clyde Auditorium (nicknamed The Armadillo) to the striking Riverside Museum of Transport, which was designed by Zaha Hadid. These modern landmarks stand proudly alongside the city’s historic buildings, reflecting Glasgow’s ongoing story of creativity and transformation.

Ultimately, Glasgow’s architecture mirrors its character: bold, diverse, and full of personality. 

4. Food, Drink and Nightlife

Glasgow is a city that takes its food and drink seriously, offering a tremendous selection from all different price points and cuisines. You can start off your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast, enjoy a fine lunch of locally sourced produce, or even indulge at Michelin star restaurants.

Glasgow is only one hour away from sea, lochs and mountains and as a result all different types of local sourced, good, hearty Scottish food is readily available.

The city also truly shines when it comes to whisky and drinking culture. Historic pubs sit alongside sleek cocktail bars and craft breweries, offering everything from smooth single malt Scotch whiskies to locally brewed ales. Sharing a drink in Glasgow isn’t just about tasting it - it’s all about the stories, laughter, and community that come with it.

Thanks to Glasgow’s famous welcoming spirit, visitors will also find genuine, heartfelt hospitality. And when you come on a Thistleborn Tour, your expert Tour Guides will not only show you Glasgow’s landmarks and hidden gems but also recommend you the very best spots; from beloved cafés and pubs to local markets and cultural hangouts, all the places that Glaswegians themselves return to time and again. With their insider knowledge, you’re guaranteed an experience that goes beyond sightseeing, giving you an authentic taste of life in Glasgow.

5. Dear Green Place

Despite being Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow is remarkably green, with over 90 parks and gardens, Glasgow is one of the greenest cities in Europe.

At the heart of it all is Kelvingrove Park, a Victorian gem that stretches along the River Kelvin, perfect for walking, picnicking, or taking in views of the iconic University of Glasgow.

Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest park, is steeped in history and often hosts festivals, concerts, and sporting events.

Pollok Country Park, the city’s largest park, offers sprawling woodlands, riverside walks, and is home to the famous Burrell Collection, one of the city’s most incredible museums, when you visit here nature and art is combined in a truly unique way. You can also even find Highland cows in this park!

Meanwhile, the Botanic Gardens in the West End feature stunning glasshouses filled with tropical and subtropical plants – providing a peaceful escape and refreshing balance to the city’s urban energy.