Welcome to one of Scotland’s most vibrant and dynamic cities. Glasgow has long been a cultural hub for music, art, and architecture, and continues to be a top destination for those seeking a lively and engaging urban experience.
With so many neighbourhoods and districts to choose from, deciding where to stay in Glasgow can be a daunting task. But fear not! I’m here to guide you through the best places to stay in Glasgow, each with their own unique character and charm.
First time visitors will want to stay in the bustling City Centre, with its iconic architecture and world-class museums and galleries just a few steps away. The Bohemian West End, is perfect if you’re after trendy cafés, vintage shops, and beautiful green spaces.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and residential vibe, the peaceful Southside is your ideal place to stay in Glasgow.
Foodies and culture-seekers will want to stay in the hip and up-and-coming area of Finnieston which is the Mecca for innovative cuisine, live music, and contemporary art.
Here are the best places to stay in Glasgow which suit a wide variety of budgets and interests. For each area, I’ve included the best accommodation options to make it easier for you to book your favourite based on your types of travel needs.
| ❤️ Best Area for first-timers: | Glasgow Centre |
| ? Best overall hotel: | Native Glasgow |
| ? Best mid-range hotel: | Clayton Hotel |
| ?️ Best apartment: | Adagio Glasgow Central |
| ? Best B&B: | Argyll Guest House |
Table of Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- City Centre
- Best place to stay in Glasgow for first time visitors
- West End
- Ideal place to stay in Glasgow for trendy and boho vibes
- Finnieston
- Great place to stay in Glasgow for foodies
- Merchant City
- Perfect place to stay in Glasgow for architecture
- Southside
- Ideal place to stay in Glasgow for families
- More travel tips and inspiration for Scotland:
City Centre
Best place to stay in Glasgow for first time visitors
Glasgow’s city centre is the heart of the action and the best place to stay for first-time visitors who want to make the most of their time in this vibrant Scottish city. Convenient and central, the city centre is packed with hotels, restaurants, bars, and attractions, making it the perfect base for those who are keen to explore Glasgow’s highlights.
If you’re arriving in Glasgow by train, you’ll be able to walk to your hotel, and many of the city’s main attractions are within walking distance too. The city centre is also well-served by public transportation, including the metro system, so you’ll be able to explore further afield with ease.
From the shops and cafés on Buchanan Street to the historic landmarks like Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis, the city centre is brimming with things to see and do. The city centre is also a great place to base yourself if you wish to explore other wonderful places in Scotland. The two major train stations, Queen Street and Glasgow Central, are located in the city centre, and you will also have quick access to the Buchanan Street Bus Station.
While the city centre may feel more like a downtown than a neighbourhood, it’s a vibrant and bustling area that will make you feel like you’re at the heart of the action.
In Glasgow’s city centre, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options to suit all types of travellers. Luxury hotels in the city centre offer indulgent experiences, fine dining restaurants, and stunning city views. If you’re travelling on a budget, there are also affordable hostels and budget hotels in the city centre, which offer simple yet comfortable accommodation. For families with kids, there are apartment rentals with self-catering options.
West End
Ideal place to stay in Glasgow for trendy and boho vibes
For a youthful vibe, Glasgow’s West End is the place to be. Home to the beautiful University of Glasgow campus, Ashton Lane, Kelvingrove park and museum, and the Botanical Gardens, the West End has a decidedly local feel that appeals to Bohemian and trendy travellers.
The West End is the perfect base if you want to explore Glasgow’s more unique and boutique offerings. The area is packed with quirky and independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for food and drink trips.
Enjoy Glasgow’s green spaces and head to Kelvingrove Park and the nearby Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum for a relaxing backdrop of historical architecture. For nightlife, head to the popular pubs and bars of Ashton Lane, which is a favourite hangout for local university students.
The West End also offers a variety of accommodation options, but the focus here is on apartments, guest houses and hostels. There are a couple of mid-range and budget hotels as well, but I recommend renting a private apartment for more space and privacy.
While Glasgow’s city centre may offer more international chains and attractions, the West End is where you’ll find the city’s unique and Bohemian offerings. The West End has this vibrant energy, beautiful architecture, and relaxed local atmosphere, making it the perfect place to stay for a more authentic and trendy experience in Glasgow.
Finnieston
Great place to stay in Glasgow for foodies
Foodies looking for the best culinary experiences in Glasgow will want to stay in Finnieston. Located on the north bank of the River Clyde, between the city’s West End and the city centre, Finnieston has become one of the hippest neighbourhoods in the UK and Europe, thanks in part to its innovative restaurants and bars.
Anchored by The Hydro, one of the most famous live music venues in Scotland, Finnieston has a unique and trendy vibe that is perfect for foodies looking for new and exciting dining experiences. With a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, including Scottish, Indian, Japanese, and more, Finnieston is a true food lover’s paradise. In 2016, Finnieston was recognized as the top hippest place to live in Britain by The Times, and The Herald declared it the hippest place in all of Britain.
But it’s not just about the food here, as Finnieston is a great location for exploring many of Glasgow’s top attractions. The neighbourhood is close to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, the Riverside Museum, and the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre.
Accommodation options in Finnieston range from trendy boutique hotels to international chain hotels, with options for every budget. If you need to stay close to the Hydro, there are plenty of hotels located along the picturesque Clyde River.
Merchant City
Perfect place to stay in Glasgow for architecture
Merchant City is the perfect place to stay in Glasgow for architecture buffs. The area is one of Glasgow’s oldest, dating back to the 1750s when it was an active hub of warehouses for wealthy merchants who traded in tobacco, sugar, and tea. The neighbourhood features some of the city’s most stunning and historic buildings, which have been meticulously preserved and reimagined lately.
Merchant Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in the area, housed in a portion of Glasgow’s Old Fruitmarket. Originally built in the 1800s, it has been beautifully restored and is now a stylish and sophisticated destination for eating, drinking, and entertainment. Designer boutiques and stylish cafés fill former warehouses on Ingram Street and in the Italian Centre, an elegant shopping block surrounding a courtyard.
Merchant City is home to several cultural venues, including City Halls and the Old Fruitmarket, which host classical and pop concerts. As you explore the area, keep your eyes peeled for laid-back vintage shops, street art, and tucked-away art galleries.
When it comes to accommodation, Merchant City has plenty to offer. From boutique hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the right hotel for your budget.
Southside
Ideal place to stay in Glasgow for families
If you’re planning a trip to Glasgow with your family, then the Southside is an ideal place to stay. You’ll find a perfect blend of residential neighbourhoods, green spaces, and cultural attractions, all perfect for families with kids.
One of the most popular areas in the Southside is Shawlands, which is becoming an increasingly popular spot for young families. The area is filled with great places to eat, and is conveniently located near the renowned Burrell Collection and Pollok Country Park.
The Southside is known for its beautiful and traditional apartment buildings, and Glasgow’s largest parks, making it a great destination for a leisurely afternoon. You’ll find trendy little cafés, bakeries, and independent boutiques, as well as fantastic museums, galleries, and landmarks.
When it comes to accommodation, you’ll find a variety of options in the Southside. The Sherbrooke Castle Hotel is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a bit of Scottish luxury. This Baronial seat, complete with striking red sandstone and rooms nestled at the top of turrets, is renowned for its traditional mouth-watering menu. If you’re travelling on a budget, you can stay in one of the small, budget-style hotels in the Queens Park area.
Glasgow is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich history, culture, and architecture. I hope that this guide has provided you with valuable insights into planning your trip to Glasgow and finding where to stay in Glasgow for your upcoming trip.
More travel tips and inspiration for Scotland:
- Where to stay in Edinburgh
- The Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh
- Best souvenirs from Scotland
- Best things to do in Ullapool
- Most beautiful places in Scotland
- Incredible places in Scotland you won’t want to miss
Frequently Asked Questions
Which part of Glasgow is best to stay?
For first-timers, the best area to stay in Glasgow is the city centre, which is where you’ll find most of the city’s top attractions, including museums, galleries, and shopping streets. Staying in the city centre also gives you easy access to public transportation, making it easy to explore other areas of the city. You’ll find a a wide range of accommodations to choose from, including luxury hotels, budget hotels, and hostels.
How many days in Glasgow is enough?
2-3 days is enough time in Glasgow if you want to hit the major attractions and see the highlights of Glasgow. This would allow you enough time to visit popular landmarks such as the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, the Riverside Museum, and the Botanic Gardens. If you’re interested in exploring the city more in-depth, enjoying some local food and drinks, and experiencing the nightlife, then you might want to plan for 4-5 days or even longer. This would allow you enough time to see some lesser-known attractions and really get a feel for the city’s unique culture and character.
What is the main part of Glasgow?
The main part of Glasgow is the city centre which is the commercial and cultural heart of the city. It’s home to many of the city’s major landmarks, shopping districts, museums, and entertainment venues. At the core of this lively area is the iconic George Square, a magnificent 19th-century municipal masterpiece, dominated by the grand City Chambers building.
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