Where to Stay in Glasgow

Our Favorite Glasgow Hotels

– Top rated: Kimpton Blythswood Square.
• 4-star: Dakota
• 3-A 3-star suggestion in Glasgow is the Brunswick Merchant City: “• 3-star: Brunswick Merchant City
• For Couples: One Devonshire Gardens
.” A romantic accommodation recommendation and navigational aid to their web presence • For Families: The Spires
• Best Pool: Village
• Near Airport: Holiday Inn Express
• Nearby Transportation Hub: Motel One Glasgow

The Best Areas to Stay in Glasgow

Bordered by the River Clyde, Glasgow, Scotland`s second-largest city, is an intriguing place to visit. Its motto is “People make Glasgow”; spend some time here interacting with locals and you`ll understand their affection for this bustling northern hub. An ancient settlement that predates Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, Glasgow rose to prominence as Scotland`s largest city during the 18th century. Its growth was fueled by industrialization, notably shipbuilding and trade with the New World, establishing it as an important British Empire port. This prosperity is reflected in the city`s numerous grand Victorian era mansions and civic structures. While postindustrial Glasgow had a reputation for crime and decay, it has managed to shed those 20th-century associations and now outpaces Edinburgh with its superb art and music offerings. Beyond urban attractions, Glasgow serves as a good base for exploring the scenic estuary of the Firth of Clyde river, as well as nearby Loch Lomond, the southern fringes of the Highlands, the Trossachs mountains, and Stirling Castle – all within an hour`s drive.

Glasgow can be separated into four quarters – City Centre, East End, West End, and Southside, with each quarter further divided into distinct neighborhoods. Many highly-rated hotels in Glasgow – ranging from prestigious 5-star icons to unique boutique townhouses to reasonably-priced hotels and casual guesthouses – are dispersed around the City Centre area, with additional 4-star hotels lining the River Clyde in Finnieston on the West Side. While Glasgow is a large city, its individual neighborhoods are very walkable, and excellent public transportation connects the urban Downtown area to more distant neighborhoods.

You’re most likely to initiate your visit to Glasgow in the very walkable City Centre – the city’s most central neighborhood, surrounded by the MB motorway to the north and west, the High Street to the east and the River Clyde to the south. The City Centre is bisected by the bustling W Nile and Renfield Streets that extend north from Glasgow Central train station. Here you’ll find the city’s best shopping venues, varied dining options, some excellent bars, as well as a couple of major attractions.

Southeast of the City Centre`s core lies Merchant City – a prosperous part of town – with a blend of handsome Victorian commercial structures, former trading warehouses, restaurants, bars and homes. Many of the city`s LGBTQ+ venues are found in the section of Merchant City called Pink Triangle, and the neighborhood is lively at night.

East of High Street, in an area running east from Trongate boulevard, Gallowgate is the primary road cutting through Calton, the somewhat rough neighborhood where Glasgow’s flax mills used to be located. The biggest hubs of activity in the historically Catholic, edgy Calton are the Barras weekend flea market and the Celtic FC stadium down the street. Between Calton and the River Clyde lies Glasgow Green – the city`s largest park, complete with a history museum.

North of Calton is Townhead, the oldest part of Glasgow, centered on the cathedral and flanked by the Necropolis, one of Britain’s largest Victorian cemeteries.

West of the M8 motorway, and running alongside the river is West End’s southernmost neighborhood, Finnieston, the former shipbuilding district, dominated by a now defunct shipbuilding crane, the Exhibition Centre, and the Riverside Museum. Spread over a wider area and cut through by the A814 road, Finnieston is best reached by vehicle or taxi.”

Just north of Finnieston, much of Kelvingrove is taken up by its vast namesake park, home to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery; next to the park is the University of Glasgow, which brings West End its youthful energy and younger crowd and has two excellent museums on site. There’s varied dining options along the Finnieston part of Argyle Street and also along Great Western Road that runs to the north of the university to the Glasgow Botanical Gardens.

From the 1840s, Govan, located south of the river from Finnieston, was a bustling shipbuilding hub in Southside. Now rejuvenated after post-WWII decline and home to the family-friendly Glasgow Science Centre, Govan is easily accessible from Finnieston via the Clyde Arc bridge. Nearby, Strathbungo, a short rail journey south of the City Centre and the River Clyde, is an artistic neighborhood near Queen’s Park’s north tip, known for its great eateries. Further south, accessible by light rail, is the green, leafy area of Pollokshaws, dominated by the expansive Pollok Country Park and the renowned Burrell Collection.

The Best Places To Stay in Glasgow

• Best Luxury Hotels in Glasgow
  Kimpton Blythswood Square – Dakota Glasgow – Hotel du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens
• Best Boutique Hotels in Glasgow
  The distinguished Sherbrook Castle Hotel, the refined Malmaison Glasgow, and the innovative citizenM Glasgow, along with the trendy The Z Hotel Glasgow are highly recommended options
• Best Cheap and Midrange Hotels in Glasgow

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The Best Areas in Glasgow for…

• Top Neighborhoods in Glasgow for Sightseeing: Merchant City, Townhead, Finnieston, Kelvingrove, Pollokshaws, Govan, City Centre
  It depends on what you’re interested in. Those who appreciate architecture should not overlook the Merchant City’s handsome town hall and the Victorian mansions of the merchants. Glasgow is especially renowned for the designs of Victorian-era architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh; some of his creations are scattered throughout the City Centre, and his private residence (with a particularly opulent interior) is attached to the eclectic Hunterian Museum of Kelvingrove. For art lovers, Kelvingrove Art Gallery combines a first-rate art selection with extensive natural history displays, while Pollokshaws’ Burrell Collection possesses priceless paintings, artifacts, and archaeological treasures. You can see traces of Glasgow’s industrial heritage and shipbuilding heyday in Finnieston and Govan, on either sides of the River Clyde. The centerpiece of Finnieston’s Riverside Museum is its broad collection of historic vehicles, while the interactive Glasgow Science Centre in Govan aims to be engaging for kids of all ages. Head to Townhead to visit Glasgow’s splendid cathedral.

>Best Areas in Glasgow for First Time Visitors to Stay: City Centre, Kelvingrove, Merchant City, Finnieston
For somebody visiting Glasgow for their initial time, and particularly if time for vacation is limited, choosing any of these neighborhoods is unlikely to lead to regret. City Centre offers a fantastic selection of lodging, numerous dining selections, and is well-connected to reach the other neighborhoods, so Glasgow’s major attractions can be accessed with ease. Merchant City is considered the most visually appealing section of City Centre, with excellent nightlife too. Finnieston allows exploration of Glasgow’s shipbuilding heritage and has a superb dining scene. Kelvingrove is great for dining and nightlife, and home to Glasgow’s premier art gallery.
• Top Neighborhoods in Glasgow for Nightlife: MerchantCity, Kelvingrove, Finnieston, Calton
  The City Centre has various centuries-old pubs with character along Great Bridgewater Street, as well as more modern cocktail bars off Bridge Street, King Street, and Deansgate. Finnieston is home to some of the city’s best traditional pubs, such as the Ben Nevis, while The Park Bar is where to listen to live Scottish folk music or attend a ceilidh (with traditional dancing). Kelvingrove’s nightlife concentrates in bars along Byers Road and Great Western Road, while Merchant City’s Pink Triangle is at the center of Glasgow’s LGBTQ nightlife scene. Beer holds significant importance in Glasgow; top brewpubs include BrewDog’s Doghouse in Merchant City and Innis & Gunn Beer Kitchen on Ashton Lane in Kelvingrove; Glasgow’s three biggest beer breweries are situated in Calton. Head for Finnieston’s Argyle Road for the cocktail bars and gin gardens. Glasgow is also Scotland’s capital of live music, where top venues include Grand Ole Opry in Govan, Barrowlands Ballroom in Calton, Slay Glasgow and City Halls & Old Fruitmarket in the City Centre.
• Best Neighborhoods in Glasgow for Food and Restaurants: Finnieston, Kelvingrove, CityCentre, Strathbungo
  The city of Glasgow, Scotland contains an exceptionally wide assortment of quality dining establishments suitable for all tastes and budgets, featuring cuisines from around the globe. Options include superb curry houses, laidback cafes serving snacks, and restaurants providing slurpy soba noodles. Fresh seafood direct from the water is readily available, and vegetarian and vegan friendly spots are plentiful too. Some of Glasgow`s most highly regarded restaurants congregate in the Finnieston neighborhood, such as The Buttery link, The Gannet link, and Ox & Finch link. The corridors of Byers Road and Great Western Road within the Kelvingrove vicinity holds a bounty for anything from casual noshes to specialized coffee; Byers Road is equally renowned for genuinely excellent modern Scottish cuisine restaurants like the Ubiquitous Chip link, Cail Bruich link, and Number 16 link. Chain eateries, pubs, coffee shops, and wallet-friendly options dot the core of the city, while the Southside neighborhood takes pride in the diversity of ethnic dining, with a good selection along Pollokshaws Road
• Most Suitable Neighborhoods in Glasgow for Families: Pollokshaw, Govan, Kelvingrove, Finnieston
  The community of Pollokshaw could be a sensible choice for families seeking a peaceful neighbourhood with expansive parks and playgrounds to remain in while still being near Glasgow’s attractions, though lodging options are limited there. Kelvingrove merits consideration as well because of its large green space and quiet streets, particularly on the east side of Kelvingrove Park, though hotel availability is scarce again. Finnieston is convenient for families owing to its concentration of 4-star hotels geared toward families ( Radisson,Moxy,Crowne Plaza), plus the exciting Riverside Museum, while the Glasgow Science Centre in Gowan presents an incredible place to bring older children One of the list items contained “
• Most Romantic Neighborhoods in Glasgow: Kelvingrove, Pollokshaws, Finnieston
  .” without any edits Springtime promenades along the River Kelvin or through the verdant gardens and parklands surrounding Glasgow could evoke feelings of intimacy between romantic partners. Strolling hand in hand amid the floral displays and manicured greenery blooming at the Botanic Garden or Pollok Country Park during late spring allows one to appreciate Glasgow`s natural beauty. Moreover, for food aficionados exploring as a couple, several of Glasgow`s finest restaurants situated near Argyle Road offer a memorable setting for a romantic evening meal and quality culinary experiences.
• Prime Neighborhoods in Glasgow for Local Atmosphere: Kelvingrove, Calton, Strathbungo
  These neighborhoods each contain unique qualities. The East End`s Calton area is roughly around the edges, but The Barras – an enormous indoor and outdoor marketplace – is a superb place to hear creative Glasgow product pitches while browsing second-hand clothing, collectibles, and replica goods. Upstairs from the market, you can catch local live bands or go dancing and swing dancing at the renowned Barrowland Ballroom. The Southside`s Strathbungo is one of Glasgow’s most inventive pockets, along with a tight-knit community of artists and performers; you’ll notice it at its most quirky if you visit during one of its many micro-festivals. In the West End, browse the vintage shops off Great Western Road near the University of Glasgow amidst Glasgow’s student population, shop at independent boutiques in the tiny lanes off Byres Road, and sit in cafes with local trendsetters.
• Best Neighborhoods in Glasgow for Walking: City Centre, Merchant City, Finnieston, Kelvingrove, Pollokshaw, Govan
  Glasgow comprises fairly concentrated neighborhoods that are easy to explore on foot (though you may need to take city buses or light rail to reach some of them from the City Centre (Downtown)). It’s difficult to outdo Finnieston and Govan for the post-industrial atmosphere and strolls along the riverside walkways (and the pedestrian bridges connecting the two). In Kelvingrove, combine park walks with exploring tiny lanes and wandering along the River Kelvin. Pollokshaw’s vast country park is specially designed for walking, while the City Centre’s and Merchant City’s relatively compact size and logical grid layout make them easy to explore on foot.
• Safest Areas of Glasgow
  In spite of its rough reputation, Glasgow is generally a safe city. All neighborhoods frequented by visitors are safe to walk during the day, with Pollokshaws and parts of Kelvinbridge being the quietest. At night, it’s a good idea to stick to well-lit areas, and avoid shortcuts through deserted streets. Alcohol-fueled celebrations in the city’s nightspots, such as parts of Finnieston and Kelvinbridge occasionally result in fights breaking out.
• Unsafe Areas of Glasgow
  Less safe neighborhoods in Glasgow are partially residential and scattered throughout the city. Caution is advised in Calton, Anderston (just east of Finnieston), Govan, and parts of Hillhead (Byers Road north of the University of Glasgow) after dark, as muggings have occurred. Watch out for pickpockets in busy areas, including around the main train station in the City Centre.

The 8 Best Neighborhoods in Glasgow for Tourists

1. Glasgow City Centre

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• Best Hotels in Glasgow City Centre
  Dakota Glasgow • Hotel phone: +44 141 404 3680
  Kimpton Blythswood Square • Hotel phone: +44 141 248 8888
  Malmaison Glasgow – Hotel phone: +44 141 378 0384
• Best Midrange Hotels
  Motel One Glasgow • Hotel phone: +44 141 468 0450
  The Z Hotel Glasgow • Hotel phone: +44 141 212 4550
  citizenM Glasgow • Hotel phone: +44 20 3519 1111

2. Merchant City

Centered around George Square and overlooked by the striking City Chambers municipal building ( offering scheduled tours), Glasgow`s eastern Merchant City neighborhood highlights some beautifully preserved Victorian-era commercial structures now serving new purposes. Notable spots include Agryll Arcade, historically known as the Style Mile, housing dozens of boutique shops. Nearby Merchant Square forms the heart of Glasgow`s LGBTQ nightlife scene, while City Halls & Old Fruitmarket is a top live music venue.

• Best Hotels in Merchant City
  The Moxy Glasgow Merchant City hotel can be reached by telephone at +44 141 846 0256
  A lodging facility in Glasgow • Hotel phone: +44 141 553 4288
  The Spires in Glasgow. Phone number: +44 345 270 0090.
• Best Midrange Hotels
  Brunswick Merchant City Hotel – Hotel phone: +44 141 552 0001
  Mercure Glasgow City Hotel • Hotel phone: +44 141 441 1022
  Premier Inn Glasgow City Centre • Hotel phone: +44 333 777 7294

3. East End

Separated from the City Centre by the High Street, the East End includes the oldest area of Glasgow called Townhead where you`ll find the Cathedral, one of Scotland’s finest places of worship, as well as the neighboring Necropolis, a beautiful and peaceful Victorian cemetery. South of Townhead, grittier Calton makes for a great weekend visit when the crafts, designs and vintage scene of the Barras Market, off Gallowgate, is in full swing. Short on lodging, the East End is great for an assortment of low-cost eateries serving a variety of cuisines, with the biggest concentration around Barras Market and along Duke Street, as well as craft beers, with Drygate and Tennent Caledonian breweries off Duke Street, and West Brewery just north of Glasgow Green. The park is home to the People’s Palace history museum, while farther east, off London Road is Celtic FC – a must for soccer enthusiasts.

• Best Hotels in Glasgow’s East End
  The Seton Guest House can be contacted by phone at +44 141 556 4377.
  Claremont House B&B • Hotel phone: +44 141 554 7312

4. West End: Finnieston

Situated west of the M8 motorway dividing the West End from the City Centre, Finnieston straddles the north bank of the River Clyde, bounded by Kelvingrove to the north. A defining feature of Finnieston is the unused crane commemorating Glasgow’s shipbuilding past. Notable are fine river views from waterside pathways and cycle routes, as well as attractions like the excellent Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship Glenlee housing Glasgow’s maritime museum near the confluence of River Clyde and River Kelvin. Finnieston’s stretch of Argyle Street highlights some of Glasgow’s finest dining alongside traditional pubs, with the West End generally reputed for Indian cuisine. (Glaswegians are quite fond of a good curry.)

• Best Hotels in Finnieston
• Historic Cancun Studios (Cancun)

Radisson RED Glasgow • Hotel phone: +44 141 471 1700

• Hotel Quórum Córdoba (Córdoba)

5. West End: Kelvingrove

Argyle Street shows the unofficial border between Finnieston and Kelvingrove, the upscale, leafy neighborhood where residential streets lined with elegant terraced housing sit right near Kelvingrove Park – one of Glasgow’s largest and most appealing green spaces. The University of Glasgow, its campus nested alongside the park, is responsible for the neighborhood’s youthful buzz. While the indisputable park highlight is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum, the university campus features the excellent Hunterian Museum and Mackintosh House – Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s masterful creation. Farther out, the Glasgow Botanic Gardens are a welcome escape from the city hubbub. The riverside path along the River Kelvin makes for a scenic walk, while those into shopping for vintage clothes should head for the stores that dot Great Western and Byers Roads – the two main routes that frame Kelvingrove to the north and the west, respectively. Both streets offer diverse dining options, while several alleyways and lanes branching off the main streets harbor unique stores, craft studios, and excellent restaurants; De Courcy’s Arcade and Ruthven Lane are particularly good.

• Best Hotels in Kelvingrove
  The Acorn Hotel – Hotel phone: +44 141 332 6556
  Alamo GuestHouse • Hotel phone: +44 141 339 2395
  15 Glasgow – Hotel contact details: +44 141 332 1263

6. Southside: Govan

Crossing the Clyde Arc bridge, the pedestrian Bell’s Bridge, or Millennium Bridge from Finnieston results in arriving in Govan, one of Glasgow’s key shipbuilding docks on the south bank of the Clyde that flourished with the opening of the first shipyard in 1840 but declined following the demise of the industry after WWII. Extensive rejuvenation in recent years has led to the construction of various cultural venues: the interactive Glasgow Science Centre is a favorite among families, as is their IMAX theater next door, and there are great views of the city from the Science Centre Tower. South of Govan Road, Once Upon a Whisky offers popular whisky tours, and the Grand Ole Opry hosts live music; dining is restricted to a handful of chain restaurants near the Odeon cinema.

• Best Hotels in Govan
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ibis budget Glasgow • Hotel phone: +44 141 429 8013

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7. Southside: Strathbungo & Queen’s Park

Visitors can tour City Hall and gain magnificent panoramic perspectives from the apogee of its tower either by purchasing an independent Tower Pass ($10) or joining a 2-hour guided excursion to learn about the tower’s historical, artistic, and architectural specifics. This visit, which is incorporated in the Sightseeing Flex Pass and the Sightseeing Day Pass, also incorporates a tour of the viewpoint deck.

• Best Hotels in Strathbungo & Queens Park
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  Glades House • Hotel contact number: +44 141 423 2346
  Crosshill House • Hotel contact number: +44 141 433 9506

8. Southside: Pollokshaws

Situated a brief walk from Pollokshaws Road as it becomes Kilmarnock Road, or a short light rail ride down from the City Centre, much of Pollokshaws is occupied by the huge green area known as the Pollok Country Park, complete with hiking and cycling paths, golf clubs, outdoor recreational areas, streams, and even a small lake. At the heart of the park lies the Burrell Collection, one of Glasgow’s premier attractions – a private museum showcasing everything from medieval furniture and Chinese porcelain to centuries-old tapestries, collected by industrialist Sir William Burrell. The historic Pollok House and Gardens welcome tours and feature a charming café. Lodging options in the area are rather scarce, but there are numerous dining selections along and off Kilmarnock Road.

• Best Hotels in Pollokshaws
  The Sherbrook Castle is located in Glasgow, Scotland. Its telephone number is +44 141 427 4227.