Glasgow

Glasgow is Scotland’s largest and most diverse city, famed for the friendly demeanor of its residents, its strong connection to Scotland’s unique culture, and great live music scene. The city also has some of the best retail shopping in the UK.

With 4 universities within 16km, Glasgow has a very densely packed student population, making it ideal for extroverts who like meeting new people. The people of Glasgow are also very friendly, with the city being voted the world’s friendliest city by Rough Guide readers in 2014.

There are 3 internationally ranked universities in Glasgow, the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow Caledonian University, and the University of Glasgow, which is ranked 77th in the world by QS World Universities ranking 2020, and is one of the most prestigious universities in the UK.

Feeling Hungry?

Here are some affordable food options near Glasgow’s city centre

Cafes:

The 78 - The laid back cafe-bar The 78 serves vegetarian food at criminally low prices. Its focus on food sets it apart from sister establishment, and is evident in many of their menu deals, like their weekday burger, served with a pint for only £6.25.

Tibo - Tibo serves cheap, freshly made dishes all day, and is the perfect budget breakfast option. Try their french toast for just £6.50, or treat yourself to their delicious eggs benedict for £5.95.

Asian Food:

The Hanoi Bike Shop - Glasgow’s first Vietnamese restaurant has a casual, canteen-like vibe surrounding it, and serves delicious, affordable delights from the country. Their prawn-crackers with peanut butter dip is a must-try, as is their summer rolls. Don’t skip out on their pho noodles, which come in a wide variety of broth options.

Dumpling Monkey - This Chinese restaurant offers some of the best dumplings in the city, coming with a variety of different fillings. Don’t miss out on their generously sized char siu pao, or their noodle soup.

Farmer's Market:

Sloans Market - Held every weekend, this market sells everything from jewelry and delicious street food to unique, artisan gifts. The market is on a lane between Buchanan Street and Argyle Street.

Park Lane Market - This market, which takes place on the first and last Sunday of each month, is set in a small lane in the south of Glasgow. Here, local traders sell their products, which can range from second hand clothing to mini cacti and fresh, home baked bread. The market also contains a food and performance space at the back, where musicians play throughout the day.

Getting Around

Glasgow’s expansive subway network is the main method of public transport, covering most of the city. Many subway stations also have direct connections to local bus services, easing transfers. The subway runs every 5 minutes, and takes only 24 minutes to complete its circuit throughout the city. Walking is also common, especially in the city centre, and allows you to take in the beautiful architecture covering most of the city

Instagrammable Places in Glasgow

Places to take amazing photos in Glasgow

Glasgow Cathedral

The oldest building in the city, Glasgow Cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting or studying in Glasgow.

Image credit: Instagram @wanderintwo

Glasgow Botanic Gardens

While the plants here are beautiful, the 19th century greenhouse that they live in is the main attraction of this gorgeous plant sanctuary.

Image credit: Instagram @lova_tany

Kelvingrove Art Gallery

This art gallery is filled with everything from dinosaur sculpture to floating heads, making wonderfully unique Glasgow shots.

Image credit: Instagram @rachaelsims

Glasgow City Chambers

The Glasgow city council building is also home to some of the most gorgeous staircases you’ll ever see.

Image credit: Instagram @bbcbritain

The Lighthouse

At the top of Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture you’ll find possibly the best view in the whole city.

Image credit: Instagram @thelighthouseglasgow

Go on a Road Trip

Travel further outside Glasgow’s city center for graduation trips or mini-vacations

Loch Ness - The Scottish Highlands are closer to the city than one might think, and there’s no better place to visit there than Loch Ness. Cruise its waters, visit the nearby Urquhart Castle or take part in Whisky tastings. The trip will take up the whole of your day(including an early morning), but it’s well worth it.

Isle of Arran - Only 267 square kilometers big, the Isle of Arran is well known for having examples of everything that makes Scotland worth visiting, earning its nickname, “Scotland in Miniature”. The isle is just an hour ferry ride from Ardrossan, which is a short train trip from Glasgow.

Oban - A pretty Victorian town in the West Highlands, Oban is the seafood capital of Scotland. Climb to the top of McCaig’s Tower for a gorgeous view encompassing the entire town, harbor and all the way to the Isle of Mull. The journey from Glasgow is a scenic one, passing through many of Scotland’s beautiful mountains, moors, lochs and castles.

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