In a perfect world, you would have all the time you like to visit the different parts of Scotland and see all the big cities and small towns. But if you only have a limited amount of time to spend here, you might have to make a choice about whether to visit Glasgow or Edinburgh. The cities are only about an hour apart, but each one has so much to see and do that it may be best to focus your trip on the city that appeals to you the most. Here’s a review of Glasgow and Edinburgh to help you decide which one to visit.
Major Landmarks
Glasgow
Some of the top things to do in Glasgow is visiting its many landmarks, including People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, the Tall Ship, the Glasgow Cathedral, and City Chambers. Glasgow is a top place to visit for history lovers, so consider choosing to visit this city if you are interested to learn more about Scottish history and already know the basics from a prior trip to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh
Many first-time visitors to Scotland choose to start their journeys in Edinburgh because the historic landmarks provide a great overview of the region’s history. Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles’ Cathedral, the National Monument of Scotland, and the Dean Village are all landmarks to add to your travel itinerary when you’re here.
Historical Attractions
Glasgow
The Glasgow Cathedral is a must-visit historical attraction here that is also an architectural masterpiece. You’ll also want to visit the nearby Provand’s Lordship house and museum that are filled with interesting things to check out. If you love history, you certainly won’t be bored with a visit to either Glasgow or Edinburgh.
Edinburgh
Touring the Edinburgh Castle is an essential part of visiting Edinburgh and learning about local history. Other attractions to tour and take a step back in time are the Real Mary King’s Close and Palace of Holyroodhouse. Canongate Kirk, the Georgian House, and the Scott Monument are other historical sites to see. It’s easy to stay busy for many days seeing the historical attractions in Edinburgh.
Museums
Glasgow
Whether you’re looking to learn something new or just be entertained on a rainy day, there are some great museums in Glasgow. The Riverside Museum has vintage cars and plenty of other impressive modes of transportation, while the Gallery of Modern Art is a place of inspiration. People who enjoy museums often prefer the big city of Glasgow for their Scottish destination.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is where Scotland’s national museums are located, including the National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery. As a smaller city, Edinburgh’s museums and attractions are more centralized and easy to get to without having to look very far or have your own personal transportation.
Food
Glasgow
Glasgow has lots of hip and trendy restaurants with seasonal menus and a laid-back atmosphere. Some of the top restaurants in town are the Ubiquitous Chip and Roastit Bubbly Jocks. Other top restaurants in this city are Mini Gill Glasgow Steakhouse, Saint Judes, Kamasutra Indian Restaurant, and the Fish People Cafe. For food, choose to visit Glasgow if you want to try traditional Scottish cuisine with a modern twist, as well as international cuisine.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a prime place to visit for fine dining and serious foodies. Here, you can check out The Kitchin and Valvona & Crolla, among many other local restaurants that you’ll instantly fall in love with. Other options are Otro, the One20 Wine Cafe, Makars Gourmet Mash Bar, and New Chapter. Choose to visit Edinburgh if your dream travels are guided by your taste buds and you’re willing to splurge for a good meal.
Breweries, Wineries & Distilleries
Glasgow
Glasgow is known as the Scottish capital for food and drink, which is why you should plan to visit Glasgow if you enjoy local craft beverages. Beer spots include the Wellpark Brewery and Drygate Brewery. For spirits, there’s the Clydeside Distillery and the Potstill.
Edinburgh
However, there are definitely some great places to enjoy some drinks in Edinburgh too, especially if you want to take a food and drink tour. While the local beer and spirits are best-known here, you can also try some Scottish wine at the restaurants in town.
Nightlife
Glasgow
Glasgow has a variety of nightlife options to keep you entertained, enjoying your travel companions, and meeting new people. Some hot spots to check out are Gin71, Bamboo, and the Sugar Cube. People who enjoy going out and partying tend to enjoy Glasgow more than Edinburgh.
Edinburgh
There is also no shortage of bars and pubs in Edinburgh, especially if you enjoy live music. Electric Circus and Sandy Bell’s are examples of a couple of favorite places to enjoy a drink in the city.
Festivals
Glasgow
While Edinburgh’s festivals are mostly scheduled in August, festivals in Glasgow are more evenly spread out during the year. Therefore, this is a good option if you love festivals but plan to visit in the winter, spring, or fall. The main festivals here are Celtic Connections, the West End Festival, Jazz Festival, Pride Glasgow, and a queer arts festival called Glasgay.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a prime place to be if you enjoy a good summer festival. There are lots of big festivities here, including the Edinburg Fringe Festival and the Edinburgh International Festival. The Fringe Festival is in August and a truly creative event that brings in performers from around the world.
Outdoor Recreation
Glasgow
Walkers and bikers enjoy Cathkin Braes in this area because of the lovely terrain and views. You can also head out to the nearby West Highland Way to trek along this epic hiking route. However, most people visit Glasgow for the city atmosphere rather than to get outdoors in a remote and peaceful place.
Edinburgh
In Edinburgh, you’ll definitely want to spend time at Holyrood Park near Arthur’s Seat. It’s also fun to check out the Royal Botanic Gardens for an easy adventure with plenty of photo opportunities. The scenery around Edinburgh is truly breathtaking, so come here if you’re looking for natural beauty and inspiration.
Shopping
Glasgow is a great shopping destination for a traveler on any kind of budget. There is the Style Mile here that’s packed with shops. There are also many vintage shops to check out in Glasgow if you’re looking for something unique to take back home.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is less known as a trendy shopping destination; however, it is definitely a good place to buy souvenirs and antiques. But with that said, you can definitely get your shopping in on Princes Street, George Street, and Multrees Walk for luxury shops.
Spas
Glasgow
As a larger city than Edinburgh, Glasgow has many spas to offer you a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. Some spa destinations to check out are the Blythswood Square Hotel, Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort, and Spa Twentysix.
Edinburgh
However, you can also find some great spas in Edinburgh, so this category is a toss-up between the two cities. The Stobo Castle, Fletcher’s Cottage Spa, and the Rocco Forte Spa at The Balmoral are all wonderful options in Edinburgh.
Popular Tours
Glasgow
Glasgow is a less-touristy destination, which means that tours aren’t as big of a deal here as in Edinburgh. But if you want to take a tour, there are certainly options, such as a Loch Ness tour, bus tour, or walking tour.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a prime place to take a tour because there are so many options available. Here you can take bike tours, spooky tours, castle tours, and much more. These are great ways to get an overview of the city in an efficient way if you’re pressed for time.
Accommodations
Glasgow
If you’re looking to splurge, consider staying at the famous Grand Central hotel near the Gallery of Modern Art in Glasgow. For a more intimate vibe, you can stay at one of the local boutique hotels instead and also get more affordable prices. There’s the Glasgow Youth Hostel for cheap rates and citizenM Glasgow for a trendy option.
Edinburgh
The Balmoral Hotel is a fabulous place to stay in Edinburgh if you’re looking for a great location with all the amenities, fine dining, and spa experiences your heart desires. The Castle Rock Hostel is a favorite spot for budget travelers, while Cityroomz Edinburgh is a mid-range hotel with a great location.
Neighborhoods
Glasgow
Glasgow is less touristy than Edinburgh, which appeals to certain travelers looking for an authentic experience. Stay in City Center for easy access to shopping, the West End for a hip vibe, or Merchant City to be near art and great restaurants.
Edinburgh
To be in the middle of the tourist area and be close to historical attractions, many Edinburgh visitors stay in Old Town. New Town is the place to be for shopping and sightseeing, the West End has cool bars with a local vibe, and the Stockbridge neighborhood is known for its artsy Bohemian attitude. To get away from crowds, consider Leith, or book a room in Morningside for a family-friendly area. Overall, Edinburgh has a little bit of everything for neighborhoods, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from if you visit this city.
