A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Glasgow vs. Edinburgh for Attractions, Nightlife, Music, and Old Town

Should you visit Glasgow or Edinburgh?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Edinburgh, 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 cultural, historic, and high energy city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the nightlife, live music, and food.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a gothic, ancient, and charming city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Glasgow and Edinburgh: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Edinburgh?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Edinburgh than Glasgow. While Glasgow is larger than Edinburgh, Edinburgh has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Edinburgh is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Glasgow is known for its food and nightlife. Edinburgh is more touristy than Glasgow and is known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. It is also home to The Edinburgh Castle. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population.

How is Glasgow different from Edinburgh?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Edinburgh 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, Edinburgh has many famous sights for visitors. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.

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 Edinburgh Better for Theater?

Edinburgh is great for its shows and theatre. However, Glasgow is not a theatre destination.

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Edinburgh. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.

Glasgow is not a theatre destination.

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

Glasgow is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Edinburgh is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

Edinburgh may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.

Is Glasgow or Edinburgh Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Edinburgh is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

Is Glasgow or Edinburgh Better for Music?

Glasgow and Edinburgh are both destinations where visitors can find first-rate 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.

Edinburgh is a world class music destination. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.

Is Glasgow or Edinburgh Better for its Old Town?

Edinburgh is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

The rich history of Edinburgh can be explored in its historical center. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.

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 Edinburgh?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.

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 Edinburgh Better for Families?

Edinburgh is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Glasgow is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Edinburgh. Kids will enjoy wandering down Victoria Street and popping in the Harry Potter shops. There are also a number of fascinating Harry Potter tours that take you through notable landmarks where J.K. Rowling was inspired to write these popular stories. You'll even visit Tom Riddle's gravesite. Other highlights that families will enjoy include Edinburgh Castle and the Edinburgh Dungeon, which is best for older kids or kids that enjoy a good scare. Younger kids will enjoy a trip the illusions museum, Camera Obscura, which also offers one of the best views of the 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 Edinburgh Better for Couples?

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

Edinburgh is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With its castle and the Royal Mile, there are many romantic places to explore as a couple. There are also good restaurants and some nice hotels. Whether you're interested in history, food, or fun, this city makes for a great couples trip.

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 Edinburgh Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has some good hostels and an active nightlife, so it's not hard to find other travelers to hang out with. It's a well visited city with many areas that attracted younger travelers or students.

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 Edinburgh Better for Students?

For students, both Glasgow and Edinburgh are high quality places to visit.

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

Students come from all over to stay in Edinburgh. This multicultural city is popular with international students because of its excellent research and academic centers as well as its unique history.

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

Glasgow is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Edinburgh is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Edinburgh, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car.

Is Glasgow or Edinburgh a more walkable city?

Edinburgh 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.

Edinburgh is a very easy city to get around on foot. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around

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 Edinburgh Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Edinburgh or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Edinburgh?

In either Glasgow or Edinburgh, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh.

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

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

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

One day in Glasgow or Edinburgh?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Glasgow. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Edinburgh, you'll find museums and theater. 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 Edinburgh?

You'll find live music and food around the historic destination of Glasgow. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Edinburgh, you'll find theater and nightlife. 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 Edinburgh has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Edinburgh?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the cultural city of Glasgow. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Glasgow or Edinburgh?

Glasgow is a popular choice for travelers. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Edinburgh. Many people enjoy the live music and shopping when visiting Edinburgh. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom.

When comparing the travel costs between Glasgow and Edinburgh, we can see that Glasgow is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Edinburgh?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Edinburgh. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow and Edinburgh, 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 Edinburgh?

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 Edinburgh in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Glasgow and Edinburgh. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Edinburgh for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Glasgow is generally around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 15°C (59°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Glasgow usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Edinburgh during summer. Glasgow gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 163 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Glasgow or Edinburgh in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Glasgow as well as Edinburgh. Many travelers come to Glasgow for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Additionally, many visitors come to Edinburgh in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Glasgow is around the same temperature as Edinburgh in the autumn. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Edinburgh fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

In the autumn, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Edinburgh. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 90 hours of full sun.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Glasgow usually gets more rain in October than Edinburgh. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Edinburgh in the Winter?

Both Edinburgh and Glasgow are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Glasgow in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Edinburgh for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Edinburgh can be very cold during winter. Glasgow can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Glasgow is around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Typically, the winter temperatures in Glasgow in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Edinburgh averages at about 3°C (38°F).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Edinburgh during winter. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Edinburgh receives 48 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Glasgow. In January, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Edinburgh. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Glasgow or Edinburgh in the Spring?

Both Edinburgh and Glasgow during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Glasgow for the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Edinburgh because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Glasgow is generally around the same temperature as Edinburgh. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 7°C (45°F), and Edinburgh fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the spring, Glasgow often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Edinburgh. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Edinburgh receives 132 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in April than Edinburgh. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Edinburgh receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Edinburgh and Glasgow