Hotels in Glasgow

Still wondering what to do in Glasgow? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Glasgow and book your hotel today!

Glasgow, often celebrated as Scotland's cultural heart, pulses with an infectious energy that captivates every visitor. This city on the River Clyde boasts an extraordinary blend of Victorian architecture and sleek, modern design, standing as a testament to its industrial heritage and its vibrant rebirth as a hub for music, art, and innovation. From the world-class collections at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to masterpieces like Salvador Dalí’s 'Christ of Saint John of the Cross,' to the striking architecture of the Riverside Museum by Zaha Hadid, Glasgow offers a feast for the eyes and the mind.

You can wander through the neo-Gothic grandeur of the University of Glasgow or follow the famous Mural Trail in the city centre, showcasing stunning, large-scale street art that tells the story of the city and its patron saint, St Mungo. The city’s dynamic music scene, earning it the title of a UNESCO City of Music, ensures there is always a gig or a show to catch. Prepare to be charmed by the famous Glaswegian wit and hospitality as you explore a city that is fiercely proud of its past and relentlessly focused on the future.

Finding the ideal location for your hotel is key to unlocking the best of Glasgow, ensuring your stay is perfectly tailored to your interests and travel style. Each district offers a unique flavour of the city, from historic elegance to buzzing modernity.

The City Centre is an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of the action. This area is the commercial hub, home to the famous 'Style Mile' for shopping along Buchanan Street and Ingram Street. Staying here puts you close to major transport links and venues like the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) and the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. You will find a wide range of hotel options, from established chains to elegant boutique stays.

For a more bohemian atmosphere, the West End is unbeatable. Centred around the University of Glasgow and Kelvingrove Park, this area is known for its intellectual and cultural vibe. It's packed with independent boutiques, vintage shops, and a huge variety of acclaimed restaurants and lively bars, particularly along Byres Road. Key attractions include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Botanic Gardens, which houses the stunning Kibble Palace. This area offers a quieter, leafier base while still being very well connected.

A truly hip spot is Finnieston, which sits on the edge of the West End by the river. This former industrial area has transformed into one of the coolest neighbourhoods, famed for its innovative food scene and lively nightlife. It’s the perfect place for foodies and those looking to catch a show, as it’s home to the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre (SEC) complex, which includes the SSE Hydro and the distinctive 'Armadillo' building. For a touch of history, the futuristic Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship Glenlee are close by.

For those interested in the city’s heritage and markets, the Merchant City and East End districts are worth considering. Merchant City, once home to wealthy merchants, now features beautiful restored Victorian architecture, housing upmarket bars and the City Halls venue. The East End is known for the historic Glasgow Cathedral and the atmospheric Glasgow Necropolis. It's also home to Glasgow Green, the city's oldest public park, and the famous weekend Barras Market.

When considering your hotel location, keep in mind that Glasgow is served by Glasgow Airport (GLA), with easy connections into the city centre via the Glasgow Airport Express bus service, which runs frequently. The city itself has an efficient public transport network, including the 'Clockwork Orange' subway system that circles the city centre and West End, making it easy to get around even if you choose to stay outside the immediate centre.

Securing a great hotel rate in Glasgow often comes down to timing your visit strategically and being flexible with your location. The city's peak season for tourism generally falls over the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is at its best and major events and festivals like the Glasgow International Jazz Festival take place, inevitably pushing up hotel prices.

To find more affordable rates, consider booking your stay outside of the school holidays or during the quieter winter months, particularly in January or February. A unique factor to watch out for in Glasgow, though, is the schedule for the city’s major venues. If a large-scale event, such as a major concert or sporting fixture, is happening at the SSE Hydro, hotel availability near the Finnieston and City Centre areas can quickly become limited and prices will rise dramatically. Searching for options a little further out, perhaps in the Southside near Pollok Country Park, and relying on Glasgow’s excellent transport links can often lead to a significant saving while still offering easy access to all the main sights.