A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Glasgow vs. Chicago for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

Should you visit Glasgow or Chicago?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Chicago, 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 historic, high energy, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant, multicultural, and edgey city. Visitors will also find so much to do here because it's a large city with many sights and attractions. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the beaches, shopping, and museums.

Glasgow and Chicago: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Chicago?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Chicago than Glasgow. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Chicago is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, beaches, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Glasgow attracts visitors for its historical sights. Chicago is more touristy than Glasgow and is popular for its thriving sports scene, its iconic local cuisine, and its world class shopping at the Magnificent Mile. It is also well known for The Willis Tower (previously the Sears Tower). Glasgow is famous for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population.

How is Glasgow different from Chicago?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chicago 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 Chicago?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its historical sights. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Chicago has many famous sights for visitors. There are countless landmarks, museums, and iconic sights in the area. Some of the most famous are the Art Institute of Chicago, Adler Planetarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Notable landmarks include the famous Willis Tower - formerly the Sears Tower, Buckingham Fountain, and the iconic Cloud Gate (the bean).

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Glasgow. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Theater?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its shows and theatre. However, Glasgow is not a theatre destination.

Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Chicago. Theater is big here with many of the major Broadway productions visiting the city. There is also an endless list of smaller, local theaters to choose from.

Glasgow is not a theatre destination.

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

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chicago is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. With everything from award-winning luxury restaurants to local dives, this city has something for everyone. It also has very distinct local flavors and dishes that create an identity and bring great pride to the locals. While you're in town you have to try the famous deep dish pizza, Chicago style hot dogs, and Italian beef.

Glasgow offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is terrific in both Glasgow and Chicago.

Glasgow is a world class 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.

Chicago is a must-see party destination. It has a wide range of activities at night, with everything from theater and comedy clubs to dance venues, sporting events, and local bars. It's easy to fill many evenings with whatever activity appeals to you. Popular bars and clubs include the Smart Bar, Beauty Bar, and Le Nocturne.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Music?

Glasgow and Chicago are both destinations where visitors can find terrific live music.

Glasgow has become a mecca for musicians from around the world. 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.

Chicago is a world class music destination. The city is the birthplace of such interesting styles as modern gospel and the Chicago style blues.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Beaches?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Glasgow is not a beach destination.

Chicago has a beach worth visiting. While you don't immediately think of beaches when you think of Chicago, there are some nice beaches by the lake. If the weather is nice, it's a great area to spend some time.

Glasgow is not a beach destination.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Glasgow offers a nice historic old town area. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Chicago does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Chicago?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many people travel to Chicago specifically to go shopping. There are countless neighborhoods that are filled with boutiques, local vendors, and art galleries. The city has some of the country's best shopping opportunities, and the most notable area is the famous Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile.

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 Chicago Better for Christmas?

Chicago is great for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Glasgow does not offer Christmas activities.

Chicago is a very popular destination during Christmas. There's a number of seasonal celebrations, ice skating, and excellent shopping.

Glasgow does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Christmas Markets?

Chicago is a nice place to visit for visiting Christmas markets. However, Glasgow does not offer Christmas markets.

Chicago has Christmas markets worth visiting. Shopping is a highlight of a trip to the city, and the Christkindlmarkt is not to be missed.

Glasgow does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Families?

Chicago is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Chicago is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. The city has a large number of activities for kids, including zoos, Shedd Aquarium, impressive children's museums, and large and elaborate playgrounds in Millennium Park. It's easy to keep kids entertained in this very kid-focused city.

Glasgow is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Couples?

Glasgow and Chicago are both nice to visit as a couple.

Glasgow is a good city for couples to visit. 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.

Chicago is a nice destination for couples. Couples will enjoy exploring the city's vibrant theater scene and diverse neighborhoods. There are many varied restaurants and entertainment options that make for a great date night. There are also sporting events, parks, and gardens where couples can explore.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Glasgow and Chicago are nice places to visit.

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

Chicago is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city doesn't have a huge backpacker vibe, but it does have a number of hostels that help keep costs in check.

Is Glasgow or Chicago Better for Students?

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

Chicago is a great destination for students. The city has a large number of universities that bring in students from around the country and around the globe. It's a huge international city with economic ties and many opportunities connected to the universities.

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 Chicago Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chicago 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.

Chicago has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. There's a subway (the "L"), a commuter well, as well as buses and countless taxis available.

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 Chicago a more walkable city?

Glasgow and Chicago are excellent when it comes to walkability.

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

Chicago is very walkable. The city has many restaurants, sights, and hotels that are easily accessible on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Chicago or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Chicago?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chicago 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 Chicago.

One day in Glasgow or Chicago?

In Glasgow, you'll find shopping and museums. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Because Chicago is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Chicago?

In Glasgow, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Glasgow has to offer.

Because Chicago 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Glasgow or Chicago?

Glasgow is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Chicago is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Chicago has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Chicago?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glasgow. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Glasgow. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chicago. Many people enjoy the theater and nightlife when visiting Chicago. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Glasgow and Chicago, we can see that Chicago is more expensive. And not only is Glasgow much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Glasgow is in Europe and Chicago is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Glasgow would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glasgow 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 Chicago would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chicago than you might in Glasgow.

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

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Chicago?

Chicago has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Glasgow. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow and Chicago, 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 Chicago?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Glasgow or Chicago in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Chicago. 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 Chicago because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Glasgow is much colder than Chicago in the summer. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Chicago fluctuates around 77°F (25°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chicago. In the summer, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 326 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Chicago. Glasgow usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Chicago. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 3.9 inches (100 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Chicago in the Autumn?

Both Chicago and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Chicago this time of year.

In the autumn, Glasgow is cooler than Chicago. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Glasgow in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Chicago averages at about 56°F (14°C).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Glasgow. In October, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Chicago. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 2.2 inches (56 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Glasgow or Chicago in the Winter?

Both Chicago and Glasgow during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Chicago for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Chicago. It's quite cold in Glasgow in the winter. In January, Glasgow is generally much warmer than Chicago. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 3°C (38°F), and Chicago fluctuates around 25°F (-4°C).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Chicago. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Chicago receives 134 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in January than Chicago. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 1.9 inches (47 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Chicago in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Chicago. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the activities around the city. Furthermore, many visitors come to Chicago in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

Glasgow is cooler than Chicago in the spring. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Chicago fluctuates around 52°F (11°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chicago this time of the year. Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Chicago during spring. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Chicago receives 218 hours of full sun in the spring.

Chicago receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Glasgow usually receives less rain than Chicago. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Chicago receives 4.3 inches (108 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Chicago and Glasgow