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

Should you visit Windsor or Glasgow?

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

Should I visit Windsor or Glasgow? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Windsor

Windsor is a touristy, beautiful, and royal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Glasgow

Glasgow is a historic, high energy, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and museums.

Windsor and Glasgow: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Windsor or Glasgow?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glasgow. Although Windsor and Glasgow are both popular with visitors, Glasgow has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Glasgow is more popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Windsor is known for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Windsor is more touristy than Glasgow and is popular for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world. Glasgow is popular for its rich culture, its beautiful Victorian and art nouveau architecture, and its large student population. It is also home to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

How is Windsor different from Glasgow?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Glasgow and Windsor. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Windsor or Glasgow?

Windsor
Glasgow

Plenty of people visit the very good sights and museums in both Windsor and Glasgow.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.

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.


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

Windsor
Glasgow

Foodies will find both Windsor and Glasgow both to be good destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Windsor. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

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.

Is Windsor or Glasgow Better for Nightlife?

Windsor
Glasgow

Glasgow is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Windsor or Glasgow Better for Music?

Windsor
Glasgow

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

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Glasgow 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.

Windsor is not a live music destination.


Is Windsor or Glasgow Better for its Old Town?

Windsor
Glasgow

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Windsor and Glasgow.

Many people head to Windsor to see the old town. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Glasgow has an old town worth visiting. High Street is one of the oldest and most well known streets in the city.

Is the Shopping Better in Windsor or Glasgow?

Windsor
Glasgow

Glasgow is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Glasgow offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Windsor or Glasgow Better for Families?

Windsor
Glasgow

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Windsor or Glasgow.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Windsor. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.

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.


Is Windsor or Glasgow Better for Couples?

Windsor
Glasgow

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

Windsor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

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 Windsor or Glasgow Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Windsor
Glasgow

Glasgow is a popular place for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Windsor or Glasgow Better for Students?

Windsor
Glasgow

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

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

Windsor is not popular with students.


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

Windsor
Glasgow

Glasgow is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.

Is Windsor or Glasgow a more walkable city?

Windsor
Glasgow

Windsor and Glasgow both are very good when exploring on foot.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Glasgow or Windsor?

How long in Windsor or Glasgow?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Windsor and Glasgow. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Glasgow than in Windsor. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Windsor, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glasgow.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glasgow than Windsor 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 Windsor or Glasgow? Ideal Length of Stay
    Windsor 1-2 
    Glasgow 2-3

One day in Windsor or Glasgow?

Windsor is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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.


A weekend in Windsor or Glasgow?

Windsor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Windsor has to offer.

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.

Five days in Windsor or Glasgow?

Windsor 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.

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.

A week in Windsor or Glasgow?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Windsor. Since Windsor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Glasgow or Windsor?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Windsor is £150, while the average daily cost in Glasgow is £144. 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 Windsor and Glasgow in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Windsor £70
    Glasgow £74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Windsor £140
    Glasgow £148
Compare Hotels in Windsor and Glasgow

Looking for a hotel in Windsor or Glasgow? 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 Windsor


Hotels in Glasgow


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: Windsor Hotel Prices and Glasgow Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Windsor £66
    Glasgow £27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

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 Windsor or Glasgow?

Prices for flights to both Glasgow and Windsor 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
    Windsor £39
    Glasgow £45
Typical Food Prices in Windsor

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


  • Morning Tea
    £2.50

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.
    Windsor £26
    Glasgow £22

Tours and Activities in Windsor

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

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Windsor £7.55
    Glasgow £15

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 comparing the travel costs between Windsor and Glasgow, we can see that Windsor 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 Windsor Expensive? and Is Glasgow Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Windsor or Glasgow?

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

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 Windsor or Glasgow in the Summer?

Both Glasgow and Windsor during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Windsor for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Glasgow in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Windsor is a little warmer than Glasgow. Typically, the summer temperatures in Windsor in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Glasgow averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Glasgow. Windsor gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 159 hours of full sun.

Windsor usually gets less rain in July than Glasgow. Windsor gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Windsor 18°C (64°F) 
    Glasgow 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Glasgow in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Windsor and Glasgow. Many visitors come to Windsor in the autumn for the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Glasgow for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In October, Windsor is generally a little warmer than Glasgow. Daily temperatures in Windsor average around 12°C (53°F), and Glasgow fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Glasgow during autumn. Windsor gets 107 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Glasgow receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Windsor usually receives less rain than Glasgow. Windsor gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Windsor 12°C (53°F) 
    Glasgow 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Windsor or Glasgow in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Windsor as well as Glasgow. Most visitors come to Windsor for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Glasgow because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Glasgow can be very cold. Windsor can be very cold during winter. Windsor is a little warmer than Glasgow in the winter. The daily temperature in Windsor averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Glasgow fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Windsor often gets more sunshine than Glasgow. Windsor gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Glasgow receives 40 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Glasgow. Windsor usually gets less rain in January than Glasgow. Windsor gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Windsor or Glasgow in the Spring?

Both Glasgow and Windsor are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Windsor because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Glasgow this time of year.

In the spring, Windsor is a little warmer than Glasgow. Typically, the spring temperatures in Windsor in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Glasgow averages at about 7°C (45°F).

Windsor usually receives more sunshine than Glasgow during spring. Windsor gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Glasgow receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Windsor usually receives less rain than Glasgow. Windsor gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Glasgow receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Windsor 9°C (48°F) 
    Glasgow 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Glasgow and Windsor

Windsor Glasgow
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)