A 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Glasgow and the Scottish Highlands

Glasgow might not have Edinburgh’s old town charm, but it certainly has its own unique appeal. As someone who has visited both cities, I can confidently say that while I prefer Edinburgh’s medieval aesthetic, Glasgow makes for an excellent base to explore some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. It’s a city that thrives on its industrial past while embracing a modern, artistic, and lively culture. The energy of Glasgow is different – more raw, more urban, but still rich in history and full of surprises. It has a thriving music scene, incredible museums, and an edgier, grittier feel than Edinburgh.

When I spent seven days in Glasgow, I split my time between the city’s cultural and historical attractions and the stunning scenery of the surrounding Highlands. If you’re planning a similar trip, here’s a detailed day-by-day itinerary of what I did and what I recommend.

Day 1 & 2: Exploring Glasgow

I dedicated my first two days to discovering Glasgow itself. This city is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and vibrant arts scene. I started my journey at George Square, the heart of Glasgow, before heading to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. This place is a must-visit, with everything from Renaissance art to taxidermy exhibits. The museum is free to enter, which is always a bonus for travellers looking to maximise their experiences without breaking the bank.

Afterwards, I wandered through the West End, an area full of charming streets, trendy cafés, and beautiful green spaces. I particularly enjoyed strolling through the University of Glasgow—it genuinely looks like something straight out of a Harry Potter film. The architecture here is stunning, and if you love photography, this is the perfect spot for some great shots.

On the second day, I spent time at the Riverside Museum, which showcases Glasgow’s transport history, and then made my way to the nearby Tall Ship, a beautifully preserved sailing vessel. To round off the day, I checked out Buchanan Street for some shopping and enjoyed dinner at one of Glasgow’s famous pubs. If you’re a whisky fan, you’ll find plenty of options to sample some of Scotland’s finest.

Day 3: A Full-Day Tour of Scotland’s Breathtaking Highlands

One of the best ways to explore the Scottish Highlands is by booking an all-day tour. I booked mine through Viator, and it was one of the highlights of my trip! These tours are fantastic because they take you to places that would be tricky to reach on your own, especially if you’re not renting a car.

The tour I joined covered Loch Lomond, the Scottish Highlands, Oban, and the infamous Glencoe. Our journey started early in the morning as we drove past the stunning Loch Lomond, the largest lake in Scotland, with its mirror-like waters reflecting the surrounding hills. We made a few stops at different lochs and scenic viewpoints, and each one was more breathtaking than the last.

As we continued towards Glencoe, the scenery became even more dramatic. Towering mountains, deep valleys, and an eerie beauty that has made Glencoe one of Scotland’s most famous landscapes. It’s easy to see why it was used as a filming location for movies like Skyfall and Harry Potter.

Oban was a charming seaside town where we had a lunch break. It’s well known for its fresh seafood, so I treated myself to some local fish and chips while overlooking the harbour. After a few more scenic pitstops on the way back, the tour ended in the evening, leaving me in awe of Scotland’s raw beauty.

Day 4: Merchant City Exploration

Back in Glasgow, I spent my fourth day exploring Merchant City, a district known for its elegant architecture, boutique shops, and lively atmosphere. This area is full of hidden gems, from independent coffee shops to stylish bars. It’s a great place to take a slower pace and just soak in the city’s vibe.

One of the highlights of Merchant City is its historical significance. It was once home to Glasgow’s wealthy merchants who traded tobacco, sugar, and tea, leaving behind grand buildings that now house trendy restaurants and boutique shops. Walking through its streets felt like stepping back in time while still being surrounded by modern city life.

I visited the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), which is housed in a grand neoclassical building. While modern art isn’t always my thing, I enjoyed browsing the exhibits and admiring the architecture. I then spent time wandering down Ingram Street, which is home to some of Glasgow’s best shopping. In the evening, I found a cosy bar to unwind with a cocktail, soaking in the district’s lively yet refined atmosphere.

Day 5: The People’s Palace

One of the most interesting places I visited in Glasgow was the People’s Palace. Located in Glasgow Green, this museum tells the story of Glasgow’s social history, focusing on how the city’s working-class communities have evolved over the centuries. The exhibits are engaging and give a real insight into what life was like in Glasgow in the past.

I particularly loved how the museum showcased real stories of Glaswegians, from tenement life to labour strikes, making it feel like a deeply personal and heartfelt tribute to the city’s working-class roots. It was fascinating to see the contrast between Glasgow’s industrial heritage and the modern, vibrant city it has become.

Right next to the museum is the stunning Winter Gardens, a beautiful glasshouse filled with exotic plants. It was the perfect place to relax with a cup of coffee before continuing my explorations. Sitting amongst the lush greenery, I took a moment to appreciate how much Glasgow has transformed while still holding onto its historic charm.

Day 6: Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis

One thing about me – I’m always drawn to cathedrals and churches when I travel. There’s something about their history and architecture that fascinates me. So, visiting Glasgow Cathedral was high on my list.

Glasgow Cathedral is an impressive medieval building, and it’s one of the few in Scotland that survived the Reformation intact. Walking through its grand halls and admiring the stained-glass windows was also one of the highlights of my time in the city.

After exploring the cathedral, I walked up to the Necropolis, a Victorian cemetery with spectacular views over Glasgow. While it might sound like an unusual tourist attraction, the intricate tombstones and the peaceful setting make it a really fascinating place to explore.

Day 7: Packing Up and Heading Home

On my final day, I took things easy. After six days of exploring, I was ready for a relaxed morning. I grabbed breakfast at a cosy café in the West End, taking my time to reflect on the trip.

One of the things I loved about Glasgow is how it grows on you. It’s a city that doesn’t try too hard to impress, but once you spend time here, you start to appreciate its character, its people, and its mix of old and new. Before heading to the airport, I took one last stroll through the city, stopping by a souvenir shop to grab a few keepsakes as a reminder of my time here.

Final Thoughts

Glasgow might not have the same fairytale charm as Edinburgh, but it has so much to offer. The city itself is full of culture, history, and energy, while its location makes it the perfect starting point for venturing into the Highlands. It’s a city that rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the surface, offering everything from world-class museums to lively nightlife and scenic day trips.

If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, I’d definitely recommend spending some time in Glasgow – it’s a city that truly grows on you.

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