Why Glasgow is the Best Base for Your Scottish Adventure
The Best Place to Stay in Scotland? Choose Glasgow Over Edinburgh
Scotland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and world-class cultural experiences. When planning your visit, one of the biggest questions is: Should you base yourself in Glasgow or Edinburgh? While Edinburgh’s charm is undeniable, Glasgow offers better value, easier access to Scotland’s top destinations, and a more authentic experience. Here’s why Glasgow is the perfect base for your Scottish adventure—and why Anderson Scottish Tours is the best way to explore it.
More Affordable Accommodation in Glasgow
If you want to get the most out of your travel budget, Glasgow is the clear winner. Glasgow’s hotels are around 29% cheaper than Edinburgh’s on average. In peak season, such as during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe or Hogmanay, Edinburgh hotel prices can triple, making last-minute bookings nearly impossible. In Glasgow, hotel prices remain relatively stable year-round, meaning you’ll get a high-quality stay without breaking the bank. Instead of overspending on accommodation, stay in Glasgow and take a short train ride (just 50 minutes!) to visit Edinburgh when you choose.
Glasgow is Closer to the Scottish Highlands
If your dream trip to Scotland includes exploring the Highlands, Glasgow is the best starting point. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is just 40 minutes from Glasgow, compared to over an hour from Edinburgh. The stunning landscapes of Glencoe, Fort William, and Oban are all easier to reach from Glasgow. The city is also the perfect gateway to the West Coast islands, such as the Isle of Mull and Islay. With Anderson Scottish Tours, you’ll experience Scotland’s most breathtaking locations, guided by a local Glasgow native who knows the best routes, stops, and hidden gems.
Free World-Class Museums in Glasgow
Unlike Edinburgh, where many attractions charge entry fees, Glasgow is home to some of Scotland’s best museums and galleries—and most of them are free. Top highlights include:
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum – Scotland’s most-visited museum, featuring masterpieces like Salvador Dalí’s Christ of St John of the Cross.
The Burrell Collection – A world-class collection of art and antiquities, recently named Museum of the Year.
The Riverside Museum – An interactive transport museum designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid.
The Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA) – A must-visit for contemporary art lovers.
These cultural attractions make Glasgow a paradise for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and families alike. When you're ready to explore further, Anderson Scottish Tours provides private and small-group excursions tailored to your interests.
Experience the Real Scotland in Glasgow
While Edinburgh is undeniably beautiful, it can often feel overrun by tourists, especially in the peak summer months. Glasgow, on the other hand, feels like a city where people actually live. Edinburgh’s Old Town is packed with souvenir shops and high prices, while Glasgow’s vibrant neighborhoods—like the West End and Merchant City—offer a more genuine local experience. The city’s pubs, restaurants, and markets are full of locals, not just visitors, making it a great place to experience authentic Scottish culture. Anderson Scottish Tours, founded by a proud Glaswegian, ensures you experience Scotland’s culture from a true insider’s perspective.
Glasgow is Scotland’s Music Capital
Edinburgh has a fantastic festival scene, but Glasgow is Scotland’s true music capital and a UNESCO City of Music. Legendary venues include:
King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut – Where Oasis was discovered.
The Barrowlands – One of the UK’s most iconic music venues.
SWG3, O2 Academy, and The Hydro – Hosting world-famous artists year-round.
Traditional pubs with live folk music, such as The Ben Nevis and The Park Bar.
If you love music, Glasgow’s scene is unbeatable. And with Anderson Scottish Tours, you can explore the city’s music history with a local expert who knows the best venues and hidden gems.
Glasgow’s Food Scene is More Diverse and Affordable
Glasgow’s food and drink scene is thriving, offering better value and more variety than Edinburgh. Finnieston is Glasgow’s foodie district, home to top-rated restaurants and trendy bars. Glasgow was also named the UK’s best city for vegans, but it also excels in seafood, Scottish fare, and international cuisine. Street food markets like Platform and Dockyard Social offer incredible food at a fraction of the price of high-end Edinburgh restaurants.
Visit Edinburgh from Glasgow with Ease
One of Glasgow’s biggest advantages? It’s incredibly easy to visit Edinburgh for the day, but Glasgow offers so much more when it comes to wider Scotland travel. The train from Glasgow to Edinburgh takes just 50 minutes, running every 15 minutes during peak times. Glasgow is also better connected to the Highlands and Islands, making it the superior base for exploring Scotland beyond the cities. With Anderson Scottish Tours, you can explore Scotland your way—with tailored itineraries, local expertise, and unforgettable experiences.
Why Base Yourself in Glasgow? The Final Verdict
More affordable accommodation – Glasgow offers high-quality stays at a lower cost than Edinburgh, allowing you to spend more on experiences rather than lodging.
Easy access to the Highlands – Glasgow is the ideal gateway to Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and the West Coast, reducing travel time to Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes.
A thriving cultural scene – With free world-class museums, legendary live music venues, and a dynamic food scene, Glasgow offers an authentic and enriching Scottish experience.
Beyond these key advantages, Glasgow’s vibrant atmosphere is free from overwhelming tourist crowds, making it a more relaxed and immersive place to stay. The city's excellent transport links make visiting Edinburgh easy while offering a superior base for wider Scotland travel. And with Anderson Scottish Tours, you can explore Scotland with expert guidance, ensuring a journey filled with history, adventure, and hidden gems. The city is home to free world-class museums, offering a rich cultural experience without extra costs. As Scotland’s music capital, it boasts an incredible live music and nightlife scene. The city’s food and drink scene is diverse, high-quality, and more affordable than in Edinburgh. With excellent transport links, Glasgow makes it easy to explore Edinburgh while offering a superior base for wider Scotland travel. And with Anderson Scottish Tours, you can experience Scotland with expert guidance, ensuring a truly unforgettable journey.
Book Your Adventure with Anderson Scottish Tours
Choosing Glasgow as your base is just the beginning. With Anderson Scottish Tours, your Scottish adventure becomes a truly immersive experience. From bespoke itineraries that capture your interests to discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, every moment is designed to leave you with unforgettable memories.
