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.
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.
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.
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.
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.