As a study abroad student here for the year at the University of St Andrews, I have made it my mission to not only travel around Europe exploring multiple countries but also to visit various locations around Scotland, one of those being Glasgow. So, given that it is already second semester and thus my time here in the beautiful land of the Scots is dwindling, I decided to go to Glasgow this past week. It turned out to be a wonderful way to spend a day and a great reminder that while the continent of Europe holds many amazing places, Scotland has a cluster of hidden gems as well. Here are my recommendations for the top things to do while in Glasgow:
Attractions:
#1. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
This museum houses an impressive collection of both art, mostly paintings but sculptures as well, and historical artifacts such as ancient Scottish dress, a restored WWII airplane, and dinosaur eggs. Even better, the museum is FREE to the public!
#2. University of Glasgow
While students at the University of St Andrews will maintain that their school is by far the best university in Scotland, the University of Glasgow is a very cool school in its own right. It is the forth-oldest university in the English-speaking world, so most of the buildings showcase beautiful, Gothic revival style architecture. The highlights of the campus are The Cloisters, which look like they are out of a Harry Potter movie set and The Memorial Chapel, which is quiet and calming place perfect for reflection and stained glass window gazing.
#3. Buchanan Street
This street plays host to tons of restaurants and shops, and although there are chain restaurants and American-brand stores present, there are also lots of unique, local boutiques and eateries. I do have to say that if you are a burger lover, you will be in heaven on this street. Within a one-block radius, there were probably four different burger bars, and all of them were different local brands catering to different groups of consumers. So, if you’re a meat aficionado, Buchanan Street is a definite must.
Food:
#1. Coffee, Chocolate, and Tea
This fabulous establishment located on Argyle Street serves the best coffee and homemade, gluten-free, walnut brownies EVER! They also have an extensive tea selection if coffee is not your thing. The atmosphere is very calming and would be a great place to get some work done while surrounded by heavenly aromas and relaxing music.
#2. Little Italy
This restaurant is on Byers Road, which is right off the campus of the University of Glasgow and houses tons of yummy restaurants, coffee shops, and delis. Little Italy is not only affordable but also delicious, offering homemade filled-focaccias, pizza that is served either by the slice or a whole pie, pastas, and pastries. I enjoyed a personal, gluten-free pizza with pesto, caramelized onions, goat cheese, and mushrooms, and if I’m being honest, it was out-of-this-world yummy!
#3. The University Café
This café is right down the street from Little Italy and has been a mainstay in Glasgow for as long as the city can remember. Although they offer lunch, their homemade Italian ice cream is what really hits the spot. You can choose to have it in a cone, in a dish, or sandwiched between two chocolate-dipped waffle crackers- no matter what you’ll feel as if you hit the jackpot.