Only an hour apart by train, Glasgow and Edinburgh feel far more distinct than the distance between them suggests. With different attitudes, accents, and almost unrecognizable looks, the cities represent two very separate faces of Scotland. Clichés abound about both – and are often perpetuated by the other – but the choice of Edinburgh vs Glasgow may well boil down to a matter of time.
Edinburgh, the cultured capital, is a city ready-made for tourists, with obvious attractions; Glasgow, the one-time industrial behemoth, requires more discovery but arguably offers greater rewards. So which should you visit? Here is how the two cities compare.
Hotels: Edinburgh Blows Glasgow Out of the Water
Despite being the smaller city, Edinburgh attracts three times more visitors each year than its old rival and outshines Glasgow when it comes to places to stay. To cope with this massive demand, brands from across the world have flocked to the Scottish capital, joining an array of domestic options. Properties like the outstanding Kimpton Charlotte Square sit on the edge of the main tourist drag, while long-established grand hotels like The Balmoral have been welcoming guests for over a century.
Glasgow’s accommodation scene is comparatively humble, with its offerings focusing more on capacity and location rather than aesthetics. Many popular hotels are simply those next to large event spaces. However, the city center Dakota has many admirers, as does the Hotel Du Vin. Ultimately, though, the choice is narrower, and the luxurious options are less abundant.
Our pick: Edinburgh
Things to Do: Edinburgh Puts on Quite the Itinerary, but Glasgow is an Exciting Treasure Hunt
As the second-most visited city in Britain after London, Edinburgh offers an expansive itinerary. Home to the nation’s best museums, most important monuments, and one unignorable, famously unconquered castle, you need only step out of Waverley Station to see that you’re going to have a busy day ahead. On top of this, there are some of Scotland’s rare Michelin-starred restaurants and the surprisingly charming seaside neighborhood of Portobello.
In contrast, Glasgow is more like a treasure hunt. The Finnieston neighborhood has established itself as perhaps the most exciting culinary artery in Scotland over the last decade, while gig venues like the iconic Barrowlands provide an atmosphere you simply cannot find in Edinburgh. The Kelvingrove Art Museum’s astonishing collection is free to the public, and its adjoining park is notably charming.
Our pick: Edinburgh
Edinburgh is Known for Being Pretty and Glasgow for Being Fun
It might be a bit reductive, but essentially Edinburgh is famous for its beauty, while Glasgow is known for its vibrant nightlife. The heavily UNESCO-endorsed center of Edinburgh is perhaps the most complete and photogenic anywhere in the UK, providing visitors a sense of time travel back to a more prosperous age. Many shops and restaurants cater primarily to mass tourism, and you’ll notice more tartan and hear more bagpipes here than in Glasgow.
In contrast, Glasgow is famous for its hard-drinking, lively atmosphere. The city, once a major shipbuilding hub, offers a plethora of events every night of the week, making it a city where you can truly connect with locals.
Our pick: Glasgow
Attractions for Families: Edinburgh Has the History, Glasgow the Parks and Kid-Friendly Museums
Kids will need a keen interest in history to fully appreciate Edinburgh, though joining a Harry Potter walking tour can make the stone buildings more engaging. The addition and ongoing extension of the tram service make it easier to navigate, while the scenic Princes Street Gardens offer a lovely place to take breaks.
If the weather turns ugly – and it often does – Glasgow’s Science Centre and Riverside Museum make for excellent family outings. However, with significant green spaces, parks like Queen’s Park, Glasgow Green, and Pollok Country Park are fantastic destinations when the sun is shining.
Our pick: A draw
Is Edinburgh or Glasgow Expensive to Visit? It’s Marginal, but Both are Cheaper than London
Edinburgh is generally slightly more expensive than Glasgow, but both cities are significantly cheaper than London. The range of options in Edinburgh can lead to a higher expenditure due to its posh wine bars and fancy accommodations. Attractions in the city often prompt visitors to reach for their wallets.
Meanwhile, Glasgow is gradually becoming pricier too – it now boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant in Cail Bruich – but food options tend to be less expensive and are more accessible without overwhelming tourist traps.
Our pick: Glasgow
