Glasgow Vs Edinburgh: Which Metropolis in Scotland Ought to You Go to? + Itinerary!

When individuals consider Scotland they typically give attention to the rugged panorama of the Highlands and the fantastic thing about the islands. And whereas that space is effectively value a go to, there’s one other aspect of Britain bursting with nightlife, nice eating places and distinctive issues to do.

Glasgow and Edinburgh are two of the best cities on the earth. As Scotland’s largest cities persons are typically confronted with the query: which one?! In my view, each are uniquely fantastic, and it is effectively value a go to to every. Nevertheless, I’ll share my information to every together with execs and cons that may assist make your choice simpler!

This publish will share a information to every, share how a lot time to spend in every vacation spot and assist you select the fitting metropolis for you. Which can simply be each!

Glasgow at a Look

Whereas Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, Glasgow is definitely the bigger metropolis. One factor, above all, that you will discover straight away is the individuals. They’re maybe probably the most variety, most real individuals I’ve ever come throughout.

I’ve traveled to 52 international locations and there’s something concerning the Scottish individuals, and significantly the individuals in Glasgow, that set it aside. It truly jogs my memory of southerners within the states! They’re so proud, love good meals and music, and need you to go away having loved time.

Glasgow has a unbelievable mixture of historical past, eating places, pubs, and, after all, music. Having visited as soon as earlier than, it appears to me Glasgow has added numerous enjoyable foodie experiences and explorations that can delight all types of vacationers.

Edinburgh at a Look

Whereas it is perhaps difficult to say Edinburgh, it is actually simple on the eyes. The structure right here is just unmatched. An epic fort on a rock, winding, cobbled alley methods, and historical structure in one among Britain’s oldest cities. However there’s a lot greater than magnificence and historical past.

Edinburgh additionally presents distinctive underground strolling excursions, whisky experiences, and trendy eateries.

Let’s check out what to do in every!

Glasgow Itinerary

Strolling round Glasgow is like going by an artwork museum. With stunning buildings and wonderful murals, it is a sensation for the eyes.

Town’s slogan is “Individuals Make Glasgow” and that could not be extra correct! Whereas we had been in a cab our driver informed us how the ladies he was dropping off booked the mistaken dates for his or her resort. It was late at night time they usually could not discover anything. So he allow them to stick with him and his spouse! The individuals right here really make the expertise.

Day 1

Taking a strolling tour is likely one of the finest methods to see a metropolis. You be taught concerning the historical past and tradition, and discover tips about all the very best locations to eat and drink.

We took a tour with Invisible Cities, a social enterprise that employs as soon as homeless locals to present excursions of their metropolis. Our information informed us some fascinating historical past whereas sharing a few of the most necessary structure and tales of town.

For instance, there’s fairly a wierd story for why we use the time period to “earmark” one thing. Again within the day in Glasgow, there was a market the place individuals would promote items. In the event you obtained caught stealing, you’d have your ear nailed all the way down to the wooden. The general public humiliation of being gawked at and kicked by passersby was typically too nice, and the thieves would actually rip their ear off! Therefore, you’d know if somebody was a thief based mostly on a lacking a part of their ear, aka, “ear marked!”

There have been loads of fascinating tales the information shared about Glasgow throughout our stroll taking within the websites.

One of the crucial iconic statues, as voted by Lonely Planet is the Duke of Wellington. Not solely is it a wonderful statue, it stands out from others as a result of it is at all times sporting an orange visitors cone! Regardless of town’s makes an attempt to take away the cone, it is now develop into an emblem of town for the Duke to be topped in orange.

After you are taking a tour, you’ll be able to buy groceries on Queen avenue, additionally a great spot for lunch.

In the event you aren’t uninterested in strolling, an important choice is to discover the Metropolis Centre Mural Path. This path leads you across the metropolis to a few of the coolest artworks. The murals are completely beautiful and make town come to life.

Subsequent, calm down within the shade at Pollock Home. This hidden gem in Glasgow is a wonderful, working property with magnificent Georgian structure. The home itself has lot of artwork from the Hapsburg dynasty in addition to a restaurant. The grounds are beautiful, and you may even discover Highland cows as you meander!

The right spot for sundown is to go to the College of Glasgow. It isn’t solely Edinburgh that is paying homage to Harry Potter’s Hogwarts! With its uncanny resemblance, you’ll be able to’t assist however gaze on the structure. Began in 1451, the College of Glasgow is the fourth oldest college within the English-speaking world! Stroll the grounds and go to the chapel.

Make your approach to Kelvingrove Artwork Gallery for unbelievable galleries that show all the things from animals to artwork in a wonderful museum.

Day 2

Kick issues off with the musical themed Hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour! Glasgow is the right metropolis for dwell music, in spite of everything, it is a UNESCO Metropolis of Music! From conventional bag pipes to trendy pop, Glasgow presents a vibrant music scene that stretches again centuries. Hydro is likely one of the largest music venues and the second busiest venue on the earth simply after Madison Sq. Backyard.

Since you’ll be able to hop on and off the bus, we stopped on the Riverside Museum of Transportation and noticed the world’s oldest bike! There are all types of locomotives that time to the development of time and the way transportation formed our world. From double-decker buses to excessive velocity trains.

Simply exterior the museum you’ll be able to stretch you legs and stroll the Kelvin Walkway alongside the Clyde River for some scenic views.

For dinner, hit ups the Finnieston space and Hidden Lane for excellent bars, eating places, and pubs. The Finnieston is the right spot for the freshest seafood in Scotland, Porter & Rye for meat, and Hidden Lane Brewery for a sustainable, lady owned brewery. See under for all my high picks for the place to eat in Glasgow.

Day 3

Nothing ignites the senses like bag piping! Begin the day with some classes and historical past on the Nationwide Piping Heart. Once we consider Scotland the picture that first involves thoughts is a person in a kilt taking part in the bag pipe. There is not any higher approach to really perceive its significance than having a go at piping your self! Be ready, it is a exercise and a lot enjoyable!

For lunch, have hen tikka masala at Mom India Cafe, rumor is the dish was invented in Glasgow.

Take a look at Sharmanka Museum, a theatre of kinetic sculpture, the place a whole bunch of carved figures and items of outdated scrap carry out an unbelievable choreography to haunting music and synchronized gentle. The figures inform tales of affection, loss, and hope.

Then, have excessive tea on a 1966 double decker purple bus, as you cruise town in fashion. The bus has been changed into a cellular tea room, and you may experience round and luxuriate in tea and scones as you tour Glasgow!

Finish the day with a go to to Glasgow Cathedral, one of the stunning Gothic cathedrals in Scotland. The cathedral is free to enter! The Gothic construction was accomplished within the early 1500s and is the mom church of the Church of Scotland. It is also the burial place for St. Mungo, Glasgow’s patron saint.

Then head to the cemetery, the Necropolis, for historical grave websites and epic views of town.

You’ll be able to’t go away Glasgow with out listening to some music. Music is an enormous a part of the draw to Glasgow. There is a purpose ABBA sings, “After I referred to as you final night time from Glasgow” referring to taking part in the stage there. Roller’s Relaxation is a superb pub for conventional music. Cap off the night with a scrumptious, refined eating at Ubiquitous Chip.

Whether or not you’re trying to discover Glasgow’s musical historical past or wish to wander by stunning parks, this metropolis has one thing for everybody! See my information to Glasgow right here.

>To get from Glasgow to Edinburgh is very easy! It is an hour lengthy practice experience from every metropolis middle and tickets price round €14.

Edinburgh Itinerary

Edinburgh is likely one of the loveliest cities on the earth. Lovely structure, a fort on a hill and unbelievable historical past. Simply strolling round is a deal with! However there are such a lot of hidden gems, trendy delights, and numerous experiences to have in Edinburgh.

Day 1

Now we have to start out with a Harry Potter tour! Better of all, it is free! There are numerous locations around the globe to see Harry Potter and the inspiration for the film and books. However there is no higher place than the place J.Okay. Rowling wrote the collection. The tour is free and was unbelievable!

You may stroll round and see many highlights from the cemetery the place Rowling was impressed. From the varsity that impressed the Hogwarts’ homes and colours and the cafes she wrote in. I discovered a lot concerning the books and films!

Whilst you’re within the space be certain to take a look at Greyfriars Bobby Statue, a Skye Terrier who guarded the grave of the proprietor for 14 years! The story goes {that a} man named John Grey died and his canine, Bobby, stayed by his grave for 14 years till he too handed away. There’s additionally the Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar close by as effectively!

Subsequent we’ll quench our thirst on the Johnnie Walker Expertise! I’ve by no means favored the style of whisky, so it is a type of drinks I used to be hesitant to seize. Till now! The Johnnie Walker Expertise helps you discover the right drink in your palette. You may be taught the historical past of the model and create a drink that’s suited to your style on this distinctive expertise totally different from any distillery or brewery I’ve ever visited. That is additionally the most effective views in all of Edinburgh!

When you have time, head over to Arthur’s Seat for some recent air and fantastic views. Edinburgh is a small metropolis and it is easy to rapidly get out of city. Arthur’s seat is an historical volcano that offers the right view of the water and metropolis. In accordance with legend, it was named for King Arthur. Some declare that it was the location of legendary Camelot, whereas others argue that it was so named as a result of King Arthur and his knights received a sequence of legendary struggles in Scotland and northern England.

Day 2

There is a hidden world in Edinburgh… and it is underneath your ft! Whether or not you are fascinated about ghosts or historical past, the Blair Road Vaults illuminate the 18th century world of town. One full of physique snatching and underground mischief of occasions passed by. This can be a nice approach to get a glimpse of the historical past in Edinburgh that made it what it’s right this moment. In accordance with the BBC, that is probably the most haunted place in Britain!

On your day right this moment I recommend getting your steps in and strolling across the metropolis. It isn’t a visit to Edinburgh with out seeing the Royal Mile. Peak by totally different “Closes” to seek out distinctive views of town, particularly Advocate’s Shut. Stroll this stunning cobbled avenue and head to Edinburgh Citadel.

Perched atop Citadel Rock the fort has been occupied because the 1200s and is likely one of the oldest fortified locations in Europe. I like to recommend taking a guided tour of the fort to listen to the historical past.

Subsequent, head to the close by Digicam Obscura, a museum of enjoyable illusions! I additionally suggest Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament in your sightseeing tour.

In the event you’re on the lookout for one thing off the overwhelmed observe, try Dean Village, a quiet and quaint spot that makes you are feeling such as you’re removed from the bustle of town. Or Circus Lane for an additional hidden spot.

For sundown, head as much as Calton Hill for an epic view of town. The sundown right here was completely magnificent. Then seize drinks at Cafe Royal, Scotland’s oldest oyster bar.

Dine at The Alchemist for loopy, cool cocktails and creative bites.

The place to remain in Glasgow

The Kimpton Blythswood Sq. is an impressive five-star Georgian townhose with luxurious facilities and a free spa! The spa and breakfast had been really my highlights however the brown and white marble rest room was additionally beautiful. The employees had been pleasant and sort, and the situation was excellent.

The place to remain in Edinburgh

The Kimpton Charlotte Sq. means that you can have Edinburgh at your ft! We might stroll almost all over the place and it is proper on the sting of a wonderful backyard. The stunning, romantic particulars of the resort had been beautiful such because the cafe strewn with crops that felt like a personal oasis. The employees went above and past and our room was cozy and comfy. The considerate particulars all through our keep actually made a distinction.

The place to Eat in Glasgow

The foodie scene in Glasgow is unmatched! There are such a lot of fantastic eating places with a give attention to sustainability.

Bar Brett – Shareable plates with inventive takes and an intensive wine listing. The restaurant is fashionable but laidback and ideal after a busy journey day.

Ubiquitous Chip– This restaurant is in a glass atrium, fairly string lights, and creative fashion vibe. We beloved the Scottish dishes with a contemporary twist. The lamb was cooked to perfection and the haggis was excellent!

Mom India – Scrumptious Indian delicacies with hearty parts. The right place for the legendary hen tikka masala or their nice Scottish-Indian dishes.

Finnieston Space:

1. The Finnieston– Fashionable Scottish delicacies with a give attention to seafood. This place was cozy but trendy and provided award profitable cocktails. Very impressed with their dedication to zero-waste!

2. Porter & Rye– The BEST place for steak in Scotland. This spectacular and classy restaurant is critical about steak. Curated meats and dry-aged beef paired with delectable sides like triple cooked fries and bone marrow mac and cheese.

3. Hidden Lane Brewery – A lady owned brewery with a give attention to sustainable brews. I am not even an enormous beer drinker and I beloved this place!

The place to Eat in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has no scarcity of nice eating places, however these are a few of my favorites.

The Alchemist – We all know Harry Potter is linked to Edinburgh, so get some effervescent, potion-like drinks on the Alchemist! This Instagram worthy restaurant additionally has unbelievable meals!

Bonnie & Wilde – Edinburgh’s first meals corridor boasts a buzzing environment with delicacies from everywhere in the world.

Oink – A very scrumptious pulled pork sandwich, proper on Victoria Road! This was one among Michael’s favourite spots.

Piemaker – an important, informal and cheap spot for some conventional pasties!

Six by Nico – The title says all of it, each 6 weeks, chef Nico creates a brand new 6-course reminiscence based mostly on a theme!

Issues to Know Earlier than Touring Scotland

Getting round may be very simple as each cities are very walkable. Nevertheless, there may be additionally Uber and taxis. I discovered taxis to be a bit cheaper. There may be additionally public transportation in every. Edinburgh is so small you’re doubtless to not should take an excessive amount of transportation however there are buses and trams. In Glasgow the subway presents two round traces so you’ll be able to by no means get misplaced!

Once you stroll round Glasgow, it seems like an outdated buddy. It is industrial in some areas but in addition has numerous allure. With the revitalization of the Service provider Metropolis and the latest inflow of recent eating places and bars, Glasgow is unquestionably having a second. The persons are pleasant and there may be at all times one thing to speak about. Edinburgh is stunningly beautiful and presents no scarcity of historical past and sights.

Backside line: when you’ve got 5 days to every week that is the right period of time to see each Glasgow and Edinburgh, so why not do each!