A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Glasgow vs. Glencoe for Nightlife, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Glasgow or Glencoe?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Glencoe, 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Glencoe

Glencoe is a picturesque, natural, and serene village. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Glasgow and Glencoe: 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
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Glasgow or Glencoe?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Glasgow. Although Glasgow and Glencoe 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 Glencoe 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. Glencoe is famous for its mountaineering, hiking, and beautiful natural setting.

How is Glasgow different from Glencoe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Glencoe does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Glasgow
Glencoe

Both Glasgow and Glencoe 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.

Glencoe offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Local specialties include seafood and pub food. You'll also find plenty of whisky and local beer. There are a variety of dining options with local pubs alongside fine dining restaurants.

Is Glasgow or Glencoe Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for nightlife.

The nightlife in Glasgow is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Glencoe doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a handful of bars where you can relax with local whisky or beer.

Is Glasgow or Glencoe Better for Music?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe is not a live music destination.


Is Glasgow or Glencoe Better for its Old Town?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe does not have a historic old town.

Is Glasgow or Glencoe Better for Hiking?

Glasgow
Glencoe

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

Many visitors go to Glencoe for the hiking trails. The area has dramatic hikes and stunning landscapes. Some of the best walks through the countryside include Inchree Falls, Grey Mare's Tail & Mamore Lodge, and The Two Lairigs.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Glencoe?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is a city with good options for its shopping areas. However, Glencoe 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.

Glencoe is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Glasgow or Glencoe Better for Families?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glencoe 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 Glencoe. Take a steam train along the Harry Potter Line. You'll feel like you're aboard the Hogwarts Express. You can also visit the Natural History Center, hike around the Glencoe National Nature Center, or visit the Glencoe Folk Museum.

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 Glencoe Better for Couples?

Glasgow
Glencoe

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

Glencoe is a great village if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, hiking, and stunning scenery will enjoy a visit to this beautiful area.

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 Glencoe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is a city with good options for backpackers. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for backpackers and budget 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.

Glencoe is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It can be challenging to reach without a car and the surrounding countryside also requires a vehicle. There is some great camping available in the area.


Is Glasgow or Glencoe Better for Students?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is well known for students. However, Glencoe is not popular with students.

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.

Glencoe is not popular with students.

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

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is well known for its public transit. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Glasgow. 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 Glencoe. There are local buses, but it's much easier to make the most of your visit if you have a vehicle.

Is Glasgow or Glencoe a more walkable city?

Glasgow
Glencoe

Glasgow is well known for its ease of walking around. However, Glencoe is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

Glencoe is generally not a very walkable city. It's easier to fully experience the area if you have your own vehicle.


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

Should I spend more time in Glencoe or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Glencoe?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Glasgow and Glencoe. In our opinion, Glasgow has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Glasgow than Glencoe. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glasgow, and 1-3 days is enough time in Glencoe.

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

Couples should spend more time in Glasgow than Glencoe. 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 Glencoe 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 Glencoe? Ideal Length of Stay
    Glasgow 2-3 
    Glencoe 1-3

One day in Glasgow or Glencoe?

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.

In Glencoe, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Glasgow or Glencoe?

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.

In Glencoe, you'll find 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 Glencoe has to offer.

Five days in Glasgow or Glencoe?

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.

Glencoe 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 Glencoe?

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 Glencoe. Many people enjoy the food when visiting Glencoe. 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, Glencoe 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 Glencoe is £117. 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 Glencoe in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Glasgow £74
    Glencoe £59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Glasgow £148
    Glencoe £118
Compare Hotels in Glasgow and Glencoe

Looking for a hotel in Glasgow or Glencoe? 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 Glencoe


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Glasgow £27
    Glencoe £37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Glasgow

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

  • Airport and Glasgow Centre Private Transfer to Oban: $312
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Business Car: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer Glasgow City to Glasgow GLA Airport by Luxury Car: $139
  • Departure Private Transfers: Glasgow City to Glasgow Airport GLA in Business Car: $98
  • Executive transfer Glasgow/Edinburgh: $275
  • From Private Day Trip to Edinburgh with Transfers: $834
  • From Private One-Way Transfer to Edinburgh: $213
  • Glasgow Airport Transfer: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Van: $145
  • Glasgow Airport Transfers: Glasgow Airport GLA to Glasgow City in Luxury Car: $169
  • Glasgow Airport to Lecht Ski Resort - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $153
  • Glasgow Private Transfer from Glasgow city centre to Glasgow (GLA) Airport: $64
  • Glasgow city to Glasgow Airport -Luxury Transfer Chauffeured : $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Glasgow or Glencoe?

Prices for flights to both Glencoe 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
    Glencoe £33
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

Typical Food Prices in Glencoe

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Glencoe:


  • Lunch for 2
    £46
  • Lunch for 2
    £23

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Glasgow £22
    Glencoe £29
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 Glencoe

Here are a few actual costs in Glencoe for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Evening Cruise in Scotland: $46
  • From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glenoce & The Highlands Day Tour: $61
  • From Edinburgh: Magical Highlands Tour with Hogwarts Express: $219
  • Loch Linnhe Rib Adventures in Aurora: $64
  • Private Walking Tour in Fort William Town Centre : $13
  • Seal Island Cruise Tour: $46

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Glasgow £15
    Glencoe £6.77
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


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

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