A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Glasgow vs. Budapest for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Old Town

Should you visit Glasgow or Budapest?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Budapest, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a high energy, friendly, and cultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Budapest

Budapest is a artistic, historic, and authentic city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.

Glasgow and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Budapest?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Budapest than Glasgow, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Budapest is more popular for its historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Glasgow is known for its food, nightlife, and music. Budapest is more touristy than Glasgow and is known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also home to The Hungarian Parliament Building. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population.

How is Glasgow different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Budapest and Glasgow. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Glasgow or Budapest?

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Budapest and Glasgow.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Glasgow can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Budapest. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Is the Food Better in Glasgow or Budapest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Glasgow is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Glasgow has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's food scene continues to grow and innovate. You'll find plenty of seafood options as well as international cuisine and everything from fine dining to local cafes.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Glasgow is a must-see party destination. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for Music?

Glasgow is terrific for its live music scene. However, Budapest is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Glasgow. Known to some as "the city of music", you'll find a wide range of music venues, live shows, festivals, and even a great underground music scene.

Budapest is not a live music destination.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is great for its historic old town charm. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Many visitors go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to see the historical old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Budapest?

Budapest is great for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Budapest. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Glasgow is a great destination for shopping. The city has independent boutique shops as well as major brands. Head to the "Style Mile" for some of the best shopping. It's a district that offers pedestrian-friendly shopping and includes high end boutiques and independent markets. Also check out The Barras Market, Buchanan Street, and High Street.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for Families?

Glasgow and Budapest are both good destinations for the whole family.

Glasgow offers lots of family activities. The city has some family-friendly museums including the hands on The Burrell Collection, the Glasgow Science Center, and The Riverside Museum. If you have older kids who enjoy the water, there are some water activities in town. Check out Pinkston Watersports, Glasgow Wake Park or Outdoor Pursuits. There are also climbing gyms and skate parks.

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for Couples?

Budapest is great for couples. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Glasgow is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy a museum or one of the parks around town. There are also river cruises and spas. For a more locally specific activity, check out the Bothwell Castle.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Glasgow is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Budapest is a great destination for students. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Students come from all over to stay in Glasgow. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Is Glasgow or Budapest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Budapest has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

Public transit in Glasgow is fairly effecient and thorough. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Is Glasgow or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

Glasgow is very walkable. The city center is generally walkable and can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Glasgow Worth Visiting? and Is Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Budapest?

In either Glasgow or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Glasgow because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glasgow, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

Families should spend more time in Budapest than Glasgow. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Budapest, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Budapest than Glasgow. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Budapest that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Budapest than Glasgow if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Budapest.

One day in Glasgow or Budapest?

The city of Glasgow offers museums and nightlife. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Glasgow or Budapest?

Glasgow is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Glasgow, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Budapest is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Budapest?

Glasgow is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Budapest is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Budapest has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Budapest?

Glasgow is a great place to explore. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Budapest. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Glasgow and Budapest, we can see that Glasgow is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Glasgow would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Glasgow than you might in Budapest.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Glasgow Expensive? and Is Budapest Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Glasgow. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow and Budapest, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Glasgow or Budapest?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Glasgow or Budapest in the Summer?

Both Budapest and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Budapest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Glasgow is generally cooler than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Budapest. Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during summer. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 278 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Budapest. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Glasgow or Budapest in the Autumn?

Both Budapest and Glasgow during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Budapest this time of year.

Glasgow is cooler than Budapest in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 152 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in October than Budapest. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Budapest in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Budapest. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Budapest. It's quite cold in Glasgow in the winter. In the winter, Glasgow is much warmer than Budapest. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Budapest averages at about -1°C (31°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Budapest during winter. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Budapest receives 61 hours of full sun in the winter.

Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Budapest. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Glasgow or Budapest in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Budapest. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Budapest in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Glasgow is generally much colder than Budapest. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 7°C (45°F), and Budapest fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the spring, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Budapest. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Budapest receives 178 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in April than Budapest. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Budapest receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Budapest and Glasgow