Is Glasgow Expensive?

Glasgow Budget Guide: What to Expect and How to Save Money

Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city (not the capital!) is a vibrant hub of arts, culture, nightlife, history and architecture, and serves as the country’s gateway to the rest of the UK. It’s also a top destination for students, with its main university being in the world's top 100 ranking universities. But, how much does it cost to eat, explore, and get around? Let’s take a look at the breakdown of average costs and how you can save money in Glasgow.

A Breakdown of Average Travel Costs in Glasgow

How Much Do Things Cost in Glasgow

Where to Stay in Glasgow on a Budget

As with most cities, there are areas of Glasgow that offer more luxury and upscale hotels such as the Kimpton Blythswood Square Hotel, as some areas offer budget-friendly hotel chains like Point a Hotel Glasgow, Holiday Inn Express and easyHotel Glasgow. Depending on where you decide to stay in the city, you’ll be able to find budget accommodation options to suit a variety of budgets. The cheapest forms of accommodation in Glasgow are:

Budget Hotels: Budget hotels are basic but comfortable accommodations that suit those with a smaller price range. Budget hotels tend to be offered by well-known hotel chains like Ibis Budget, Holiday Inn, and easyHotel, and they tend to feature the same amenities as upper-scale hotels, only some amenities such as pools and spas may be absent. For low-cost accommodation options across Glasgow, book hotels like easyHotel Glasgow or Artto Hotel.

Boutique Hotels: Boutique hotels may be overlooked by people who are unsure of what they offer– but, boutique hotels are more or less the same as regular hotels, only often with quirkier decor and a more intimate setting and service. Some examples of boutique hotels in or near Glasgow include Boutique 50, Riva Boutique Hotel and Malmaison Glasgow Hotel.

Airport Hotels: Airport hotels are often a favourite among passengers and travellers through Glasgow Airport, as they offer convenient and close accommodation. Airport hotels can often work out cheaper than city centre hotels, as they can often include onsite parking, and you don’t need to fork out loads of money for transport to the airport. Check out Holiday Inn Glasgow Airport and Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow Airport for some low-cost airport hotels.

The Best Options for Finding Affordable Accommodation in Glasgow

While Glasgow maintains a reputation for a bustling city centre and a lively nightlife and culture, it’s the inner city and downtown areas that tend to be the most expensive. Glasgow’s West End and city centre will be the most expensive areas, so sticking to the outer suburbs and Glasgow’s East End may save you a few pounds. The exceptional transport links into the city also make outer suburbs very well connected to anywhere you need to go. Budget hotels can be found across the city, so wherever you stay in Glasgow, you’re sure to find cheap accommodation to suit your budget and preferences.

What to Expect from Staying in Glasgow and How to Book a Cheap Room

A compromise on price doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. Most hotels in Glasgow are modern, comfortable and high-quality, and offer exceptional services no matter the type, brand or location. You can expect to find essential and convenient amenities in every hotel you stay in, sometimes with added extras too. Here are some of our recommended tips and tricks on how to have the best stay possible in Glasgow and how to ensure your trip remains affordable.

Book in advance: Glasgow is a tourist hotspot, meaning that it’s likely to be busy all year round. Because of this, it’s important to stay organised and book your hotel months in advance. Hotels in busier areas are likely to sell out faster, and the closer it gets to your holiday or trip dates, the more likely the hotel will raise its room rates.

Stay informed and up to date with deals: Some hotels offer membership schemes or deals, which can sometimes be seasonal. These can save you money on a room. Check out the Enjoy Travel newsletter for regularly updated information, deals and discounts.

Choose the location: Of course, the location of your hotel is very important. While you’ll be able to access most areas of Glasgow thanks to the city’s efficient subway and bus system, it’s a good idea to choose a location close to all the amenities and attractions you most want to see. This way you won’t need to spend extra on transport.

How to Get Around Glasgow Easily and Cheaply

Glasgow is known for being a very walkable city, with the city centre being very compact and most attractions being close by. The city also has a cheap and efficient subway/underground system and a trusted bus service. Here are the best ways to get around the city:

• On foot: Walking around Glasgow is easy, and is a great way to enjoy and take in the sights, especially if you’re a tourist. Glasgow has some of the best architecture in Scotland, so we think you’ll enjoy a scenic walk around the city.
• By bus: Glasgow’s bus system offers regular buses around the city and to the outer suburbs. Buses tend to be a preferred option for people who are trying to get around the city quickly and cheaply. You can also tour the city via tour buses–think London red bus style.
• Glasgow has a fast and efficient underground metro system which, fun fact, is one of the oldest in Europe. This is a preferred travel option for commuters in the city who need to get to their destination in a fast and hassle-free way.

How to Eat Well in Glasgow Without Spending a Fortune

Glasgow is filled with cheap restaurants, bars and street food where you can find tasty dishes for an affordable price. Here are some recommendations on how to find cheap eats in Glasgow.

Try street food: Street food like kebab stalls or restaurants serving different cuisines can work out cheap. While it isn’t recommended to eat unhealthy food every day, you can find some cheap and varied dishes by eating this way that may work out cheaper than restaurant chains.

Choose hotels with complimentary breakfast: Hotels with breakfast included in the price can not only help fuel your day ahead but also give you one less meal to worry about when thinking of where to eat. Hotel breakfasts often include substantial food options, both hot and cold, so take advantage of this.

Stick to budget supermarkets: If you’re staying in an apartment or rented accommodation, you’ll likely have access to a kitchen and be able to cook your own meals. If this is the case, you’ll thankfully find some of the UK’s cheapest supermarkets dotted around Glasgow, from Lidl and Aldi to Morrisons and Tesco. These supermarkets offer the same quality produce as more expensive supermarkets, just at a fraction of the cost.

Our Top Picks for Free and Cheap Activities in Glasgow

Glasgow is filled with free and cheap activities, from museums to parks. Check out a few options here.

Riverside Museum: Glasgow’s transport museum, featuring interactive exhibits and a visually pleasing modern design. This museum is a perfect place to spend a few hours of your day and it’s free to enter.

Glasgow Botanic Gardens: If you’re a nature lover, and want a break from the busy urban life of downtown Glasgow, this place will provide you with the relief you’re looking for. The gardens are free to enter all year round.

The Best Places to Find Live Music, Shows and Events in Glasgow

OVO Hydro Arena: Glasgow’s main arena and one of the largest indoor arenas in the country, you’re sure to find numerous shows, music gigs and live entertainment played regularly at this venue, from both local and international artists. And with a capacity of around 15,000, securing a ticket is likely.

O2 Academy Glasgow: Another favoured live music and event venue, the O2 Academy is a hub of comedy, music, cabaret and live entertainment performances across the city. Here, you can expect to find and see a plethora of acts and live performances held regularly.

More Expensive Cities

Tourist Board Info For Glasgow