Flights to Glasgow

The vibrant metropolis on the Clyde

Glasgow is a buzzing city still proudly aware of its historical significance as a major Victorian industrial centre. These days it is reinventing itself as Scotland's creative hub for culture, commerce and nightlife.

The best time to visit Scotland's largest city

Cold wet winters are a characteristic of the Glaswegian climate but the late spring and early summer months are mellow and an ideal time to stroll the city's parks. Cultural activities are spread throughout the year, with highlights including the Jazz Festival and West End Festival in June. Glasgow's Hogmanay festivities on 31st December are legendary. 

Handy tips before you travel

Visitors coming from Edinburgh will find prices generally lower than in the capital, particularly when it comes to accommodation. Be aware that cheap rooms can be difficult to find when there is an important football match at Hampden Park or Parkhead or a major show at the SECC. Glasgow has an abundance of restaurants and pubs and it's easy to find an evening meal for around £10 and a pint of beer for around £3. Visitors with hire cars should be aware that it can be difficult finding parking spots in the centre. Charges for the city car parks are around 40p for every 12 minutes.

Transport and lodgings in Glasgow

Glasgow International Airport is located near Paisley, 8 miles (13 km) west of Glasgow. There are several transport links, including the airport shuttle service 500 for around £5 single and the First 747 bus for around £4. The cheapest, if slowest, option is the local 66 bus to Paisley Gilmour Street for a connecting train to Glasgow Central Station, at a cost of around £3.50. Many budget airline routes use Glasgow Prestwick Airport, around 30 miles (50 km) south of central Glasgow. Direct trains take 45 minutes from the airport to Glasgow Central. Tickets are available at the discounted price of around £3.50 if you show an airline ticket or boarding pass.

A day travelcard for Glasgow buses costs around £4.50. A day pass for the underground costs around £4. Combined Daytripper cards for buses, underground and low level trains cost around £11.50.

Budget accommodation options include dormitory beds for around £10 a night or private rooms for around £25. A double room in a 3-star hotel starts around £50 a night.