Glasgow Accommodation Guide

Scotland’s largest city is one of its most exciting. A powerhouse of creativity, culture, and commerce, Glasgow is the beating heart of our country’s west, a unique blend of cosmopolitan style and historic substance. With grand Victorian boulevards, a thriving music and arts scene, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll meet anywhere, Glasgow delights travellers who are looking for something a little different from the traditional tourist trail.

Often described as “The Dear Green Place”, Glasgow is a city of contrasts: elegant Georgian terraces alongside bold contemporary design; leafy parks just minutes from bustling shopping streets; centuries-old history wrapped in modern energy.

In this Glasgow Accommodation Guide, we introduce you to the very best this fun and fascinating city has to offer. As leaders for luxury bespoke tours of Scotland, we can craft a personal experience with a Glasgow stay which includes the perfect accommodation for your needs.

Scroll down to get started. And please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Where is Glasgow?

Glasgow is located in the west of Scotland, on the banks of the River Clyde. It’s just under an hour by train or car from Edinburgh, making it easy to pair with a visit to the capital. The city is also a gateway to the wonders of the west coast, the Isle of Arran, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, and the southern edge of the Highlands. This makes Glasgow an ideal starting or ending point for a tour that takes in Scotland’s dramatic landscapes as well as its dynamic cities.

With a long legacy as a trading port and industrial hub, Glasgow is today known for its outstanding architecture, from the grand sandstone facades of the city centre to the iconic designs of the legendary Charles Rennie Mackintosh. 

Glasgow’s neighbourhoods are as distinct as they are vibrant: the West End, with its bohemian feel and leafy charm; the Merchant City, home to sleek boutiques and buzzing restaurants; and the cultural heart of the city, centred around George Square and Glasgow Cathedral.

Glasgow is both destination and gateway, a dual nature that can add a new dimension to your Scotland experience.

What are the Best Hotels in Glasgow?

Glasgow offers a rich mix of stylish boutique hotels, heritage landmarks, and contemporary design-forward stays. Here are our top recommendations for those looking to experience the city in comfort and style.

  • Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel – Set in a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse overlooking one of Glasgow’s most elegant squares, Blythswood Square is a five-star hotel offering refined luxury. With plush rooms, a spa and wellness centre, and a highly rated restaurant, it’s a stunning sanctuary in the heart of the city.
  • One Devonshire Gardens by Hotel du Vin – Located in the leafy West End, this iconic boutique hotel offers a blend of classic Scottish charm and modern sophistication. Each room is uniquely styled, many with roll-top baths and original period features. The in-house restaurant is a favourite for special occasion dining.
  • Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort – Situated just outside the city on a private estate overlooking the River Clyde, Mar Hall is a tranquil five-star retreat. Guests can enjoy a championship golf course, luxurious spa treatments, and elegant country house hospitality — ideal for those wanting a restful escape near Glasgow.
  • voco Grand Central Glasgow – A city-centre landmark, this grand hotel directly adjoins Glasgow Central Station, blending Victorian grandeur with contemporary comfort. The sweeping staircase and chandelier-lit lobby offer a sense of occasion, while the location is perfect for those arriving by rail or exploring the heart of the city on foot.
  • Radisson Blu Hotel – With sleek, modern interiors and excellent facilities, Radisson Blu offers four-star accommodation close to the city’s shopping and business districts as well as Central Station. It’s a great choice for both leisure and business travellers who value efficiency and contemporary style.
  • Radisson RED Glasgow – Located in the emerging Finnieston area, next to the River Clyde and close to the OVO Hydro, Radisson RED brings a youthful energy to the city’s hotel scene. The rooftop bar offers excellent views, while interiors feature bold colours and playful design touches.
  • CitizenM Glasgow – This stylish, tech-savvy hotel puts you in the heart of the action with a focus on comfort, creativity, and modern design. Rooms are compact, beautifully designed, and feature XL beds. The communal spaces are perfect for relaxing or working between excursions.
  • Malmaison Glasgow – Housed in a former Greek Orthodox church, Malmaison offers moody luxury and dramatic interiors just a short walk from Sauchiehall Street. The Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar is one of the city’s best-kept secrets, offering a cosy haven after a day’s exploring.
  • Hotel Indigo Glasgow – Set in a handsome Victorian building that once housed an 1800s power station, Hotel Indigo balances period features with colourful, contemporary design. It’s centrally located, with comfortable rooms and a well-regarded restaurant serving Scottish produce with a modern twist.
  • Motel One Glasgow – Just a stone’s throw from Central Station, Motel One is a design-forward hotel that offers excellent value without sacrificing style. Interiors take inspiration from Glasgow’s industrial heritage, and the location is ideal for short stays or city breaks.

What Makes Glasgow a Special Travel Destination?

Glasgow is a city of creativity and character. Often overlooked in favour of the capital, Edinburgh, it rewards those who take the time to explore its treasures. The architecture alone is worth the visit: from the Gothic splendour of Glasgow Cathedral to the Art Nouveau flair of Mackintosh’s Glasgow School of Art and the modernist lines of the Riverside Museum.

Art lovers will find much to admire in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Hunterian, and smaller independent galleries scattered across the city. For music, few cities in the UK can match Glasgow’s scene — from intimate venues like King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut to the grandeur of the Royal Concert Hall. It’s no surprise the city is a UNESCO City of Music.

Green spaces abound across the city, including the Botanic Gardens, Glasgow Green, and the tranquil paths along the River Kelvin. In the West End, cobbled lanes and atmospheric cafes provide the perfect setting for a relaxed afternoon. Meanwhile, food lovers will be spoilt for choice: Glasgow’s dining scene ranges from high-end tasting menus to imaginative street food, with a growing focus on local, seasonal produce.

Glasgow makes an excellent addition to any custom tour of Scotland. From here, you can head west to the dramatic sea lochs of Argyll, north to the world-famous scenery of Glencoe, or take the scenic route into the Highlands via Loch Lomond. A few days in Glasgow can act as a cultural counterpoint to Scotland’s wild landscapes — and with our expert planning, it all fits together seamlessly.

Explore Glasgow and Scotland with Us

At Discreet Scotland, we believe that every journey should be tailored to you. Our bespoke private tours are designed for travellers who value both comfort and discovery. Whether you’d like to include Glasgow as a lively cultural start to your trip or as a final flourish after exploring the Highlands, we’ll help you make the most of your time.

We take care of all the details — from chauffeur-driven transport and hand-picked guides to curated hotel recommendations and exclusive experiences. If Glasgow calls to you, let us know. We’ll design an itinerary that showcases the city’s energy and elegance, then take you onwards to explore the rest of our remarkable country.

Glasgow is bold, vibrant, and full of heart. With the right accommodation and expert planning, it can be a highlight of your Scottish adventure. Find out more about our Scotland custom tours, and please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

Thinking of heading to the capital and the gateway to the Highlands during your trip? We think you’ll love our Edinburgh Accommodation Guide and Inverness Accommodation Guide.