If you’re planning a trip — or just want to rediscover the city from a new perspective — this Glasgow city guide is your shortcut to making the most of 24 hours here.
We spoke to someone who knows Glasgow’s scene inside-out. Meet Mae MacInnes, general manager of Mharsanta in the Merchant City. At just 29, Mae has already racked up 16 years in hospitality — starting out on the Isle of Skye at just 13, before moving to Glasgow where she’s since been recognised in parliament and named Rising Star at the West of Scotland Regional Thistle Awards. If anyone knows how to spend the perfect day here, it’s her.
Whether you’re squeezing Glasgow into one whirlwind day or you’ve lived here for years and want fresh inspiration, here’s Mae’s hour-by-hour guide to eating, drinking, shopping and staying out late in the city.
7AM: Take in the early morning in Glasgow’s West End
“Start your day bright and early in Glasgow’s leafy West End. Get up, get out, and soak in the atmosphere. You’ll meet cheery dog walkers, bleary-eyed commuters, and see the city slowly reset for the day.
“If you’re staying overnight to make the most of your visit, you’ll be surprised how affordable BnBs and private hostel rooms can be in the West End, especially given its proximity to exclusive spots like One Devonshire Gardens.
“For something more luxurious, I’d recommend the Alamo Guest House by Kelvingrove Art Gallery. The service is incredible and the rooms are spacious, stately, comfortable — and still reasonably priced.”
8AM: Check out the University of Glasgow
“If you’re a tourist, you need to stop by the University of Glasgow and marvel at the Victorian architecture. It’s the closest thing to Hogwarts you’ll find, and if you arrive early, you can take it all in before thousands of students flood the grounds.”
9AM: Grab a coffee from Papercup
“For me, Papercup is the best coffee shop and roastery in the city. It’s been around for over a decade and was one of Glasgow’s first speciality roasteries.
“They serve a range of coffee profiles at their Great Western Road café. But if you’re a real coffee fan and you’re here on a weekday, don’t miss their railway arch roastery on Eastvale Place by SWG3. The aroma of beans roasting, the rumble of trains overhead, and a freshly brewed cup in hand — it’s one of the best coffee experiences you’ll find anywhere in Britain.”
10AM: Go shopping in Glasgow’s trendiest neighbourhood
“We’re heading to Finnieston, once a hub of Clydeside industry and now one of the city’s hippest neighbourhoods.
“Independent shops here are some of the best in Glasgow. Make time for the Hidden Lane, and don’t miss Gallus Alice, Velvet Moon, Bluebelle Vintage, Strip Joint, Finnieston Clothing — and The Real Deal, a treasure trove of antiques and oddities.”
11AM: Brunch at Gael & Grain
“Gael & Grain is the best brunch spot in the West End. It’s hearty, creative, and celebrates Scottish produce in new ways.
“I’d recommend the Eggs Benedict on Freedom Bakery sourdough with honey-baked ham and hollandaise sauce — it’s incredible. They also have a comedy lounge, so if you’re back in the area later, it’s worth checking out.”
1PM: Vintage finds off Byres Road
“One spot I rarely hear people talk about is Ruthven Mews, just off Byres Road.
“Start at Starry Starry Night for authentic vintage fashion you won’t find anywhere else in the city — incredibly chic. Then head further in for a mix of records, comics, retro homeware and curiosities. It’s got a car-boot feel and is great fun for a rummage.”
2PM: Ride the Subway
“No visit to Glasgow is complete without a spin on the Subway. The new carriages almost give it a London feel — just on a much smaller scale.”
3PM: Explore Glasgow’s underground world
“Not enough people know about the tours beneath Glasgow Central Station. The Victorian tunnels are fascinating, and the guides are full of stories. You’ll see disused train platforms and hear about the village that was demolished more than 100 years ago to make way for the station.”
4PM: Time for a cocktail
“After sightseeing and shopping, it’s cocktail hour. My pick in the city centre is Daddy Marmalades.
“You can keep Tabac and The Last Bookstore — Marmalades feels more authentic and Glaswegian, and the cocktails are brilliant.”
5PM: Head to the Barras
“Even if the market is closed, there’s still plenty to do in the Barras. Grab street food at Ho Lee Fook or head into The Gate.
“They serve whiskies from all over the world (Scottish is still my favourite), and their cocktails are just as good. The staff are some of the friendliest in Glasgow, so expect good chat too.”
6PM: Rowdy at Van Winkle
“Van Winkle is one of the only American-style spots in Glasgow. Expect Kentucky-style BBQ in huge portions and the biggest bourbon list in the city.
“Even if whisky isn’t your thing, bourbon’s sweetness might surprise you.”
7PM: Seafood at Kelp
“Head back towards Cowcaddens for some of the best seafood in the city. People forget how amazing Scottish seafood is — it’s so much more than haggis, venison and whisky.
“Order a mix of small plates with oysters on the side. My favourite? Isle of Skye langoustines with confit garlic butter and grilled lemon.”
9PM: Cocktails with a view
“Walk down Argyle Street and head to the Social Hub rooftop bar, SiSi. It’s one of the newest openings in the Merchant City, with panoramic views and the perfect place to set the tone for the night ahead.”
11PM: A low-key favourite
“Bar 91 is a personal favourite. It’s understated, relaxed, and ideal for a couple of drinks before hitting Glasgow’s nightlife properly.”
Midnight – 6AM: Clubhopping
“Glasgow’s club scene is too good to pick just one. My advice? Go clubhopping. You’ll find more free entry spots than you expect.
“Start at AXM or Polo for the heart of queer nightlife, then move on to Haus and Hide n Seek near Buchanan Street. Sauchiehall Street is Glasgow’s nightlife centre — head to Nice N Sleazy, 1990 or Box for live music. Garage and The Savoy are institutions, though a bit tired for me.
“The place to be? Berkeley Suite. On weekends it often stays open until 6am, with brilliant DJs and an unbeatable atmosphere.”
Bedtime
“Whenever you finally call it a night, you’ve got two solid choices.
“For luxury, book Blythswood Hotel — Glasgow’s best, with a spa and plenty of celebrity sightings.
“For something more affordable, try Moxy. It’s cool, comfy, and doesn’t break the bank — exactly what you need after a big day (and night) out.”
Find out more at mharsanta.co.uk.
