In the heart of the city centre, Taiwanese cafe Bao does what it says on the tin – soft, pillowy, no-frills steamed buns with a variety of fillings. Think braised pork, chicken teriyaki and salmon katsu. But it does much more besides, with a menu of rice dishes, tempura, donburi, ramen and street food. With its bright red shopfront and neon sign inside, it gives you a feeling of being in a city cafe in Taiwan.
2:00PM: AFTERNOON IN THE WEST END
From Bao, take a short walk to St Enoch station and board the subway to Hillhead in the West End of Glasgow. With its ‘cool neighbourhood vibes’, this leafy area of the city is thego-to spot for cute, cobbled lanes, riverside walkways and top-rated attractions.
Wander down Ashton Lane, underneath the canopy of fairy lights, to Kelvingrove Park. This huge green oasis gives you precious time away from the crowds. You could pop into the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum while you’re here to see some of its amazing artefacts.
Another impressive free attraction in the West End is the Riverside Museum, both outside and in. This striking Zaha Hadid-designed structure, which stands on the banks of the Clyde, houses transport through the ages. Everything from trams, buses and steam locomotives to police cars, ambulances and a recreated street scene is here.
4:30PM: REST BEFORE DINNER
All cultured out? Schedule in a quick pitstop back at your Best Western base to freshen up for the evening. We have two hotels in central Glasgow for you to choose from. Glasgow Argyle Hotel, BW Signature Collection is well placed for most of the major attractions and nightlife, while Best Western Glasgow Hotel is at the western end of the famous Sauchiehall Street.
6:00PM: EARLY DINNER AT THE RED ONION
For traditional Scottish cuisine with a modern twist, look no further than the Red Onion. It’s owned by top chef John Quigley, who made a name for himself in London’s West End and as the private chef to the stars. The lemon chicken and smoked haddock fishcakes aren’t too filling if you’re rushing off to a concert.
Diners with special dietary needs are carefully considered too. The vegan menu has a tasty root vegetable korma and plant-based burger, while there are superb gluten-free and dairy-free options.
7:30PM: LIVE GIG OR CONCERT
Glasgow is one of only three UNESCO Cities of Music in the UK, so it would almost be rude not to catch a live performance here.
Want to see the next big thing in the same place as Oasis were signed? With only 300 people capacity, King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut is an intimate venue for nurturing undiscovered talent. Another great option is Barrowland Ballroom, an iconic acoustic venue that has hosted the likes of Simple Minds, David Bowie and Snoop Dogg in its time. Still going strong since opening its doors in 1934, its flashing neon sign gives it a gloriously retro feel.
For a different style of music, the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland puts on a varied programme of concerts by talented students and guest artists.
10:00PM: NIGHTCAP AT THE POT STILL
You're never far away from a dram in Glasgow. We recommend The Pot Still for a nightcap. It stocks more than 1,000 whiskies from all over the world, not just Scotland. Thankfully, the knowledgeable bar staff will help you find the perfect one, otherwise you could be there all night deciding.
11:00PM: TIME FOR BED
When you’re ready to turn in for the night, head back to your Best Western base in Glasgow for a well-deserved night’s rest.
09:00AM: BREAKFAST BEFORE HEADING OFF
Your 24 hours in Glasgow is almost at an end – but not before you’ve filled up on breakfast in your hotel. We serve a traditional Scottish fry-up, but we also have a continental option if you prefer a lighter bite ahead of travelling home.
Explore all Best Western hotels in and around Glasgow to find your perfect stay.
And remember, Best Western Rewards members get free breakfast* in 2025 when booking the ‘Free Breakfast’ rate! Perfect for fuelling you up for a day filled with exploring and adventure.
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