The former industrial center of Glasgow may not have the postcard charm of Edinburgh, its sophisticated neighbor to the east.
But what Scotland’s largest city lacks in fairy-tale castles and manicured landscapes, it more than makes up for in its cheeky attitude, style and atmosphere.
Digging deeper, Glasgow is at the forefront of the British arts and culture scene, home to renowned museums and architecture (old and new), and one of 31 UNESCO cities recognized as City of Music worldwide.
The bars and nightlife are also notoriously good for a good time, and its reputation as one of the sportiest cities in Europe precedes it.
However, tourism statistics show that around one million more people visited Edinburgh than Glasgow in 2016, suggesting that many travelers to Scotland are missing out on the charm.
History
History is everywhere in Edinburgh, from the narrow alleyways of the Old Town to Holyroodhouse Palace, the official residence of the Queen when she visits the city.
In Glasgow, visitors may have to search a bit for their historical dose. But not for too long. More than 1800 buildings in the city are listed as historically significant.
The oldest house in Glasgow dates back to 1471 and is a mainstay of the city’s many historical tours, while the impressive Glasgow Cathedral, built between the 13th and 15th centuries, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s medieval past.
Elsewhere, Cochrane highlights the Gowanus Stones, a collection of Viking-era monuments from the 9th to 11th centuries widely recognized as some of the best surviving medieval sculptures in Britain.
Music
Franz Ferdinand, Simple Minds, Mogwai, Primal Scream, Belle and Sebastian, Arab Strap, Chvrches, Teenage Fanclub, The Delgados, The Jesus and the Mary Chain – Glasgow has been an incubator for countless bands that have gone on to become successful.
The iconic Barrowland Ballroom continues to host the best in the business, while smaller venues such as King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut – where Oasis were famously discovered by Creation Records boss Alan McGee – Nice N Sleazy, Stereo and SWG3 promote the best exciting new acts.
Scottish folk artists are the focus of Celtic Connections, but the festival also looks to international and global music genres. Great performers to have come over the years include Joan Baez, Bob Geldof, Sinead O’Connor and Shane McGowan.
Edinburgh may be home to exciting young bands like the Young Fathers and old hats like Idlewild, but Glasgow is dancing to its own music.
Architecture old and new
The shipyards on the River Clyde once employed thousands of skilled craftsmen and gave birth to legendary British ships such as HMS Hood and QE2. They also helped shape much-loved personalities such as former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson and comedian Billy Connolly.
Today, only a part of the old industry remains. But the banks of the Clyde are far from deserted, with many shining new buildings appearing in recent years.
The impressive Riverside Transport Museum, designed by Zaha Hadid, was named European Museum of the Year in 2013. A short walk away are the Science Center and Clyde Auditorium (creatively nicknamed “Armadillo” because of its resemblance to the armored South American mammal), which add a futuristic theme to the riverside.
The ultra-cool Hydro, meanwhile, is the work of Foster + Partners and opened in 2013. In 2016, there were only seven arenas around the world that saw more visitors.
Skip the glass
Scotland is famous for its whisky, and Glasgow and Edinburgh offer a lot to see and do for those looking for a glass.
Edinburgh is home to The Scotch Whisky Experience on the popular Royal Mile, as well as a number of specialized bars throughout the city.
Naturally, Glasgow pays tribute to the national drink of Scotland. Two of the country’s largest whisky festivals – the National Whisky Festival (January) and the Glasgow Whisky Festival (November) – are held annually in the city.
Meanwhile, several old-fashioned whisky establishments offer tastings and events all year round.
The Pot Still bar in the city center offers a selection of more than 700 whiskies and was recognized as the Scottish Whisky Bar of the Year in 2017. Similarly, the Ben Nevis bar in the West End and the nearby Bon Accord offer a wide selection from around the world.