A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Glasgow vs. Dover for Nightlife, Attractions, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Glasgow or Dover?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Dover, 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 friendly, cultural, and historic 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.

Dover

Dover is a iconic, rustic, and stunning town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Glasgow and Dover: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Glasgow or Dover?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glasgow. Although Glasgow and Dover are popular destinations, Glasgow has more sights and attractions for tourists. Glasgow is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Dover attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Glasgow is famous for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also well known for Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Dover is famous for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Glasgow different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Glasgow specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is rich in culture and offers many fascinating sights including the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Necropolis.

Dover is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.


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

Glasgow
Dover

Both Glasgow and Dover offer a number of nice restaurants to choose from.

Glasgow is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Dover offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Glasgow or Dover Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

People head to Glasgow just to party. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Glasgow or Dover Better for Music?

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is a world-class destination for its music scene. However, Dover is not a live music destination.

In Glasgow you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. 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.

Dover is not a live music destination.


Is Glasgow or Dover Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Dover 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.

Dover does not have a historic old town.

Is Glasgow or Dover Better for Hiking?

Glasgow
Dover

Dover is great for hiking. However, Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Dover for the hiking trails. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Dover?

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is very good for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Glasgow to go 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Glasgow or Dover Better for Families?

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow and Dover are both nice 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.

Dover is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Is Glasgow or Dover Better for Couples?

Glasgow
Dover

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

Dover is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

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 Dover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Glasgow
Dover

For backpackers, both Glasgow and Dover 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.

Dover is a good city to visit for backpackers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.


Is Glasgow or Dover Better for Students?

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is a well-known place for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

Glasgow is very popular with students. The city has the second largest student population in the UK, so you'll find plenty of students to hang out with.

Dover is not popular with students.

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

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Glasgow can get you to most places easily. The subway is convenient in the city center, west end, and southside. There are also buses throughout the city.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Glasgow or Dover a more walkable city?

Glasgow
Dover

Glasgow is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.


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

Should I spend more time in Dover or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either Glasgow or Dover. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dover due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glasgow, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dover.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glasgow than Dover 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 Glasgow.


  • How many days in Glasgow or Dover? Ideal Length of Stay
    Glasgow 2-3 
    Dover 2-4

One day in Glasgow or Dover?

In Glasgow, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cultural destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Dover, you'll find food and museums. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town 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 Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glasgow. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Dover, you'll find museums and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dover has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Dover?

Glasgow is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Glasgow. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Dover is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.


A week in Glasgow or Dover?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Glasgow. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Dover. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Dover or Glasgow?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Glasgow is £144, while the average daily cost in Dover is £124. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Glasgow and Dover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Glasgow £74
    Dover £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Glasgow £148
    Dover £124
Compare Hotels in Glasgow and Dover

Looking for a hotel in Glasgow or Dover? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Glasgow


Hotels in Dover


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Glasgow Hotel Prices and Dover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Glasgow £27
    Dover £39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Glasgow

Also for Glasgow, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Easy Bus Transfer Between Airport and City Center: $12
  • Glasgow hotels to Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Arrivals Airport Transfer to City Accommodations: $55
  • Glasgow Private Transfer from Glasgow city centre to Glasgow (GLA) Airport: $64
  • Private Transfer: Glasgow to Glasgow International Airport (GLA): $68
  • Private Round Trip Transfer from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow : $82
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Business Car: $93
  • Departure Private Transfers: Glasgow City to Glasgow Airport GLA in Business Car: $98
  • Glasgow city to Glasgow Airport -Luxury Transfer Chauffeured : $108
  • Glasgow to Aberdeen Int Airport (ABZ)-Departure Private Transfer: $120
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Luxury Car: $139
  • Glasgow Airport Transfer: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Van: $145

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $252
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55

Is it cheaper to fly into Glasgow or Dover?

Prices for flights to both Dover and Glasgow change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Glasgow £45
    Dover £38
Typical Food Prices in Glasgow

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Glasgow:


  • Dessert at Farmer's Market
    £1.80

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Glasgow Walking Food Tour with EatWalk Tours: $146

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Glasgow £22
    Dover £20
Typical Entertainment Prices in Glasgow

For Glasgow, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2)
    £12
  • Two Bike Rental
    £34

Tours and Activities in Glasgow

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Glasgow.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $4.28
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $4.28
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Glasgow Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.55
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Glasgow Private Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Private Historical Walking Tour: $15
  • City Center Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Glasgow City Centre Daily Walking Tour: 10:30am, 2pm & 5pm: $15
  • Street Art Guided Walking Tour: $17
  • Scottish Football Museum and Hampden Park Stadium Tour: $19

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Canterbury Landmarks Private Walking Tour: $218
  • Canterbury Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $276
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Canterbury's World Heritage Sites Guided Walking Tour: $229
  • Christmas Tales in Canterbury – Private Walking Tour: $217
  • Dover & White Cliffs Tour; Canterbury, Coastal Towns & Castles: $210
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • From London: Dover Castle and White Cliffs Tour by Car: $1,083
  • Literary & Cultural Heritage: Canterbury Private Walking Tour: $218

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Glasgow £15
    Dover £7.71
Typical Alcohol Prices in Glasgow

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Glasgow:


  • Bottle of Wine
    £12
  • Ciders at Kilted Skirlie
    £3.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Glasgow

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Glasgow:

  • Clydeside Distillery Tour and Whisky Tasting: $23
  • Tennent’s Brewery Guided Tour and Free Pint: $24
  • Glengoyne Distillery Tour with Whisky & Chocolate: $37
  • Glasgow Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $44
  • Sample Fine & Rare Whiskies at Glengoyne Distillery: $62
  • Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow : $70
  • The Malt Master Experience at Glengoyne Distillery: $112
  • Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour: $186
  • Guided Electric Bike Tour with a Distillery Visit: $187
  • Pints & Past: Glasgow Pub Tour: $456

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $176


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Glasgow and Dover, we can see that Glasgow is more expensive. And not only is Dover much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dover would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dover 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 Dover.

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


Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Dover?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow and Dover, 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 Dover?

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 Dover in the Summer?

Both Dover and Glasgow during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Glasgow is cooler than Dover in the summer. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Dover fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Dover, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Dover. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in July than Dover. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Dover receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Glasgow 15°C (59°F) 
    Dover 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Dover in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Dover. The autumn months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

In the autumn, Glasgow is cooler than Dover. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Glasgow in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Dover averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Dover during autumn. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 119 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Glasgow gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Dover. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Glasgow 10°C (49°F) 
    Dover 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Dover in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Dover. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Dover for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Dover. It's quite cold in Glasgow in the winter. In January, Glasgow is generally cooler than Dover. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 3°C (38°F), and Dover fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

In the winter, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Dover. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 57 hours of full sun.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the winter. Glasgow usually gets more rain in January than Dover. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Glasgow 3°C (38°F) 
    Dover 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Glasgow or Dover in the Spring?

Both Dover and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Dover in the spring for the natural beauty.

Glasgow is cooler than Dover in the spring. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Dover fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Dover during spring. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Dover. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Glasgow 7°C (45°F) 
    Dover 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dover and Glasgow

Glasgow Dover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)