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

Should you visit Glasgow or Washington?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Glasgow or Washington, 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. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Washington

Washington is a monument-filled, international, and diverse city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and live music.

Glasgow and Washington: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glasgow or Washington?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Washington than Glasgow, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Washington is better known for its museums, theatre productions, food, hiking, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Glasgow is more popular for its nightlife, music, and historical sights. Washington is more touristy than Glasgow and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. Also, Washington is famous for The Washington Monument and the White House. Glasgow is well known for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population.

How is Glasgow different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Washington 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, Washington has many famous sights for visitors. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Washington Better for Theater?

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

Many visitors plan to see a show while visiting Washington. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Glasgow is not a theatre destination.

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

Washington 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, Washington is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

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 Washington Better for Nightlife?

Glasgow is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

Is Glasgow or Washington Better for Music?

Glasgow is a world-class destination for live music. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its live music scene.

Glasgow is known as a music capital 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.

The music scene helps keep Washington active and fun. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Is Glasgow or Washington Better for its Old Town?

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

Glasgow is a good destination for visiting its old town. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Glasgow or Washington Better for Hiking?

Washington is adequate for hiking. However, Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Hiking is a fun activity while in Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Glasgow is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Glasgow or Washington?

Washington 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 Washington. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

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 Washington Better for Christmas?

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Glasgow does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Washington is a top place to visit during Christmas. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Glasgow does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Glasgow or Washington Better for Families?

Washington 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 Washington. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington Better for Couples?

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

Washington is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

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 Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Glasgow is very good for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Glasgow is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a good number of hostels around town as well as a good social scene, making this a decent option for backpackers.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Glasgow or Washington Better for Students?

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

Washington is a great destination for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

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

Washington 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.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington a more walkable city?

Washington 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.

Washington is a very easy city to get around on foot. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Glasgow?

How long in Glasgow or Washington?

Both Glasgow and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Glasgow. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glasgow, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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

One day in Glasgow or Washington?

With live music and food around the friendly city of Glasgow, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Because Washington 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 Washington?

With food and shopping around the destination of Glasgow, there's plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Because Washington 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 Washington?

Glasgow, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

A week in Glasgow or Washington?

Glasgow is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.

When comparing the travel costs between Glasgow and Washington, we can see that Washington 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. Even though Glasgow is in Europe and Washington is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Glasgow or Washington?

Glasgow has a larger population, and is about 10% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Glasgow and Washington, 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 Washington?

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 Washington in the Summer?

Both Washington 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 Washington because of the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Glasgow is much colder than Washington. Typically, the summer temperatures in Glasgow in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Washington averages at about 79°F (26°C).

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

In July, Glasgow usually receives more rain than Washington. Glasgow gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Washington receives 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Glasgow or Washington in the Autumn?

Both Washington 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 hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Washington this time of year.

In October, Glasgow is generally much colder than Washington. Daily temperatures in Glasgow average around 10°C (49°F), and Washington fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

In the autumn, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Washington. Glasgow gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 197 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Glasgow. Glasgow usually gets more rain in October than Washington. Glasgow gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Glasgow or Washington in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Washington. It's quite cold in Glasgow in the winter. Glasgow is much warmer than Washington in the winter. The daily temperature in Glasgow averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Washington fluctuates around 35°F (1°C).

Glasgow usually receives less sunshine than Washington during winter. Glasgow gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Washington receives 139 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 Washington. Glasgow gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Glasgow or Washington in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Glasgow is much colder than Washington. Typically, the spring temperatures in Glasgow in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Washington averages at about 56°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Washington. In the spring, Glasgow often gets less sunshine than Washington. Glasgow gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Washington receives 228 hours of full sun.

Glasgow usually gets more rain in April than Washington. Glasgow gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Washington receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Washington and Glasgow