With its grand architecture and vibrant culture, Glasgow offers a memorable group visit, from cathedrals and world-class museums to buzzing neighbourhoods and legendary music venues.
Whether you’re drawn by the art and architecture of greats like Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow’s status as the UK’s first UNESCO City of Music, or simply its famous hospitality, this day itinerary offers something for everyone.
Coach drop-off and parking is available at Buchanan Bus Station, Cathedral Precinct, Riverside Museum, and Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum.
Here’s what you could squeeze in to one day in the city.
9.00am: Begin your journey at Glasgow Cathedral & the Necropolis
Start your day at Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning medieval building that marks the city’s origins. It’s free to enter and has coach access. This area is also the starting point for Walking Tours in Glasgow, with themed guided tours available for groups. It’s a great place to hop on the City Sightseeing Glasgow bus too. After visiting the Cathedral, take a walk through the nearby Necropolis, a Victorian garden cemetery known for its sculptures, stories, and city views.
Optional add-on:
For those interested in Scotland’s brewing heritage, Tennent’s Wellpark Brewery sits just a short walk away. The brewery tour offers a fascinating look at the history of the city’s iconic beer brand, including heritage exhibits and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the brewing process.
10.15am: Transfer west to Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
Depending on the size of your group, you could take a trip on the Glasgow Subway, affectionately known as the Clockwork Orange due to its previously bright orange carriages. Opened in 1896, it’s the third oldest subway in the world and a quick, easy way to get around the city. Travel west to the vibrant West End.
Step into the grand Edwardian baroque building that houses one of Europe’s great civic art collections at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum. Don’t miss Salvador Dalí’s Christ of Saint John of the Cross or the daily organ recital in the central hall. The museum’s accessibility and diverse galleries make it ideal for groups of all interests.
While here, stroll through Kelvingrove Park, a leafy Victorian park set on the banks of the River Kelvin. From here, enjoy views of the University of Glasgow, with its Gothic towers and cloisters said to have inspired settings in the Harry Potter films. The university’s architecture is among the most iconic in the city and well worth admiring from the park.
12.15pm: Riverside Museum & The Tall Ship
Continue your journey to the Riverside Museum, Glasgow’s award-winning transport museum designed by Zaha Hadid. Discover everything from steam engines to Stormtroopers, then step aboard The Tall Ship Glenlee - a fully restored Clyde-built sailing vessel moored just outside. Coach bays are available on-site.
1.30pm: Lunch in the leafy West End
Wander into Glasgow’s atmospheric west end for lunch. The Bothy offers Scottish classics in a cosy setting, while Oran Mór, a converted church, serves modern menus and occasional entertainment.
Joia and Gael & Grain also provide stylish, dining options or alternatively, Ashton Lane is a charming cobbled street twinkling with fairy lights and full of cafés, bars, and restaurants ideal for a relaxing midday break.
3.00pm: Head back to the city centre, there are plenty of options
Whether by the Glasgow Subway or coach, return east toward the city centre where you can stay as a group or perhaps give people time to do their own thing. Your group members could visit Mackintosh at the Willow, a beautifully restored tearoom designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh himself. Here you can explore the interactive exhibition and enjoy a moment of afternoon indulgence. It’s the only original Mackintosh-designed tearoom still open to the public and a highlight of Glasgow’s design legacy.
You could take a stroll through Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest public park and a peaceful spot to unwind. While you’re there, consider stopping at WEST Brewery, set inside the striking Templeton Building. The brewery blends German-inspired brewing methods with fresh Scottish ingredients, making it a memorable place for a pint.
Or how about some shopping? Merchant City is a colourful district full of shops, street art, and independent cafés.
6.00pm: Evening meal in the city
There are lots of great options for a group dinner. Mharsanta in the Merchant City serves Scottish comfort food. Barolo offers Italian hospitality and private dining.
For something more historic, try The Anchor Line. Set in the beautifully restored Grade A1 listed former booking office for voyages from Glasgow to New York, it’s a unique place to end your day.
8.00pm: Glasgow nightlife and live music
Cap off your evening by experiencing why Glasgow is the UK’s first UNESCO City of Music. Catch a show at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, where legends like Oasis got their start. For traditional Scottish music and a warm welcome, head to The Islay Inn or the timeless charm of The Clutha or nearby Scotia Bar.
If indie and contemporary acts are more your group’s style, The Glad Café in the Southside delivers an eclectic mix. For something iconic, the Barrowland Ballroom remains one of the UK’s most famous live venues, brimming with character and history. You could also enjoy a relaxed evening stroll along Ashton Lane or Byres Road, or explore the lively bars and pubs of Finnieston.
Extend your visit…
Glasgow has a great selection of central hotels for groups. Consider voco® Grand Central, Radisson Blu, or The Address Glasgow, all close to key attractions.
If you’re staying further west, Crowne Plaza and Radisson RED are near the SEC and Riverside area.
For further information on group travel to Glasgow, or to see any other of the top attractions, hotels or events, head to www.visitglasgow.org.uk.
