Things to do in Glasgow, Scotland: The Best Walking Tours

June 5, 2021 Nobuko Falco

As Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow is famed for its culture, shopping and people. Spend your day exploring a wide range of fascinating free museums and galleries, enjoying the UK’s best shopping outside of London, and taking advantage of tips from friendly local people on the city’s hidden gems — then choose from 130+ weekly musical events for a special night out. Glasgow is also the perfect base for exploring more of Scotland, with great connections to the Highlands and the islands.
Restaurants in Glasgow

1. Glasgow Like a Local: Customized Private Tour

Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow, 16 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AG, UK Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow, 16 Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow G1 3AG, UK
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

Get to know the city through the eyes of a passionate local. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it up to the local for an insightful introduction to the city. Make travel about the people you meet not just the places you see. With our walking tours, you’ll skip the mundane historical tours and discover the city through a local’s eyes. Experience a tour that will transform the way you travel to make it as much about the people you meet, as it is the places you see. Our local guides (Lokafyers) are passionate about their city and eager to share their knowledge and perspective. Since Lokafyers are not professional guides and tour occasionally, they provide an experience that’s authentic and personal, like a friend showing you around their city. By the end of the tour, you'll feel comfortable navigating the city and confident that you have all the information you need to make the most of your stay.

Inclusions: Local guide ("Lokafyer", Customized private walking tour

Exclusions: Personal expenses, Tips and gratuities (optional), Optional activity costs, Food and drinks, Transportation to/from attractions (It’s a walking tour, car transportation isn’t included)

2. Discover Scotland Off the Beaten Track

19 Killermont St, Glasgow G2 3NX, UK DreamChaser Adventurers
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

We will go to the place called Loup of Fintry, which is one of the most spectacular waterfalls of the lowlands of Scotland. It is a place not very well known to public, it is not a tourist visited place, some locals might know it, but is definitely a hidden gem of Scotland. The route to this place takes you through some amazing countryside scenery that is really showing the true Scottish feeling of untouched nature in its raw beauty. Once we find the path to the waterfall, we'll go on a short hike on the meadows (might even be greeted by some friendly horses), until we start hearing the roaring sound of the water gushing down the cliffs. It is a spectacular sight even from far. upon arrival to the place, we'll go on an adventure, climbing down and discovering some of the hidden areas of the waterfall, so we can take a closer look and snap some story telling photos that we can show later on to our friends and family.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Please bring something to drink in case you get thirsty.

Reviewed By A968UOhannahw

My friend surprised me with this adventure and I must admit this was once in a lifetime experience. I never ever was curious before visiting a forest at night time in the dark, but now I understand what I missed out on. We drove through some dark narrow country roads which had already an eerie feeling to it, but then we arrived to the forest and went on foot. The guide gave us some pretty powerful head torches which made things easier to navigate between the trees. The exciting part started when we had to descend into a gorge in the dark. It gave me a fright first when I saw the downward route but our guide was super experienced in terms of showing us every single and I mean Every single step. Like he knew the place with closed eyes or something. It was just so cool. Once we arrived to the gorge, you could hear the water gushing down between the rocks and just the sheer silence that went with it. We walked through the water barefooted and we spotted some really interesting looking fish, almost looked like a group of tiny eels. The biggest surprise of all was hearing some squeaky sounds and then some really cute otters appeared out of nowhere. I couldn’t believe my eyes! I would have never of thought seeing so many wildlife in the middle of the night. So so worth it ! I can highly recommend it as it is such a unique experience. Thank you and I hope to come back in the future.

3. Light Experience

Glasgow Queen Street, N Hanover St, Glasgow G1 2AF, UK Glasgow Photo Tours
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5.0 based on 2 reviews

This is the only photo tour of Glasgow delivered by native photographers. We do not only know and love this city better than anyone else, we have photographed it for years. We will only take you to the best locations for photography and will assist you as and when needed if required. This tour is open for all levels be that those wanting camera shots from their phones to those using the latest Hasselblad's, all are welcome.

Inclusions: Gratuities

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4. A Silent Disco Adventure in Glasgow

Absurd Bird, 3 Nelson Mandela Pl, Glasgow G2 1QY, UK Silent Adventures
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Join the Silent Adventures Team as we take you on a journey of song and dance through the famous streets of Glasgow. This musically instructed adventure aims to have your funky moves on display and your pop star voices serenading the people of the city! Hi-tech headsets will fill your body with beats, theme songs and your favourite hits across the decades. As your inhibitions evaporate and laughter takes over, you will be part of the best all dance, all singing walking tour in town! It's a Flash Mob, it's a Silent Disco, it’s a roaming, rhythmic riot through Glasgow!

Inclusions: Advanced radio headsets, Adventure Host

Exclusions: Please be aware that we have no place to store valuables

Reviewed By lologeorge69

A group of 5 friends were in town celebrating my 50th birthday. Our group was the 430 pm group and James was our leader. Admittedly, most of the 40 of us were women and most were pleasantly buzzed, but buzzed or not, this was the most fun activity I have been a part of in a very long time. It is a dance party through the royal.mile. Everyone is dancing and singing . Spectators were getting out their phones and taking pictures the whole time. We were encouraged by our fearless leader to interact with people we ran into during our tour. It was SO MUCH FUN. If silent adventures comes to your town, DO IT. You will not regret it. I would do this all over again. My husband and some friends chose not to go and they most definitely regret it. A total party. Thank you thank you thank you James.

5. Charles Rennie Mackintosh Walking Tour

Saint Enoch Square, St Enoch Square, Glasgow G1, UK Walking Tours In Glasgow
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Explore the life, works and tales of Glasgow's most famous designer, architect and artist. Join us as we wander the streets of Mackintosh's home city to experience and witness his lasting legacy. We'll take a deeper look at his life, marriage, influences and incredible expertise; visiting some of his most famous works that still stand to this day, his first married home, and some lesser known treasures along the way. The tour will last 2 hours, including a stop at the world famous, Mackintosh designed Lighthouse museum, the former Daily Record building, Mackintosh's first married home and more! You'll finish up at Mackintosh at the Willow tearooms, with tickets including entry into the incredible exhibition.

Inclusions: Exhibition Entry - Mackintosh at the Willow, Expert local guide, Entry to the Lighthouse

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Reviewed By Exploration728923

Realy enjoyed my tour , even though it was a damp dreich summers day in Glasgow , Our tour guide karen , brightened up our day with her knowledge ,and her bubbly personality , The 2 hrs flew in , and I can’t praise the experience enough . The wall art we saw was amazing

6. Merchant City Music Walking Tour of Glasgow

THE CLUTHA, Glasgow G1 4SP, UK Glasgow Music City Tours
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5.0 based on 39 reviews

Explore Glasgow's music scene with this two hour guided walking tour of iconic venues in the Merchant City and East End. Entertaining and informative, this tour has all the stories about the legendary performers who have stayed, played and made music in Glasgow. The city has an unrivalled reputation for producing brilliant bands, making memorable music and putting on unforgettable shows. This tour will show you how and why. Our guides are enthusiastic music fans and writers who are immersed in Glasgow’s cultural life. The tour finishes at the hip and happening Mono Café Bar where customers can enjoy a 20% discount on food. You don't need to be a music expert to enjoy the tour and even if you are, you may still learn new things. Jam-packed with anecdotes, the tour is designed to show a different side of Glasgow to both visitors and locals.

Inclusions: Includes voucher for 20% discount on food at Mono Cafe Bar.

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By pamela212021

Excellent tour with Fiona as our very informative, knowledgeable guide. We have already recommended to family and friends.

7. 3-Hour Private Glasgow Essentials Tour

George Square, Glasgow, UK Glasgow Private Tours
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5.0 based on 21 reviews

A shortened version of our most popular walking tour, perfect for those with a busy schedule who want to see the beauty of Glasgow. You'll see and learn about the city's most famous landmarks, hear stories about its history and development, and find out lots of interesting and fun facts.

Inclusions: Professional guide, Hotel Meet & Greet (City Centre - within a walk to George Sq only), Private walking tour, All taxes, fees and handling charge

Exclusions: Gratuities, Meet / Dropoff from locations outside of City Centre

Reviewed By Jeffrey S

Had a brilliant walking tour with Elsa! She was very pleasant and informative. It was a great way to learn a lot about Glasgow in only a half day! Highly recommended!

8. Private Glasgow Ghost Tour: City Center Exploration Game

Glasgow Central Station, Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3SL, UK Questo Glasgow | City Games & Tours
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4.9 based on 19 reviews

Embark on a quest around Glasgow by solving clues that will take you to the most haunted places in the city, all with the help of your smartphone. Unlock new stories as you discover on your own Merchant City, George Square, the Lighthouse, and more. + Discover the most haunted streets, villas, and squares in the city + Find out the horror stories of the people who used to live there + Solve clues on your phone while you visit the haunted Glasgow You are invited to discover the captive souls, the spirits and the mysterious skeletons of Glasgow with an interactive city exploration app. Each clue will lead you from one place to another, giving you exact directions, so you won’t need a map, a GPS or a guide. When you solve it and guess the answer, the secret story of that place is unlocked. Start and stop whenever you want. Along the way, you’ll find horror stories that will give you the chills. Dare you go on this tour?

Inclusions: Full flexibility: start at any hour, take a break at any time and resume later, This tour is always available to book. We are open 24/7, every day of the week., This is the safest tour you can book: it is private, no human contact, you will avoid crowds., Play offline: you DON'T NEED an internet connection to play this city game

Exclusions: A physical tour guide

9. Half-Day Private Glasgow Must-Sees Tour

George Square, Glasgow, UK Glasgow Private Tours
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4.9 based on 71 reviews

Enjoy our best-selling walking tour with a private guide. Discover the world famous Glasgow sights in one day and get a real feeling of the city! You'll see learn about about the city's most famous landmarks, hear stories about its history and development, and find out lots of interesting and fun facts. We'll go at your pace, and you'll have chance to have a drink and a snack along the way.

Inclusions: Complimentary Tea or Coffee during scheduled break, Professional guide, Hotel Meet & Greet (City Centre - within a walk to George Sq only), Private walking tour, All taxes, fees and handling charges

Exclusions: Gratuities, Meet / drop-off from locations outside of City Centre (within a walk from George Sq)

Reviewed By tsadler510

We were only in Glasgow for a day and half and our 5 hour tour with Elsa really covered it all! Elsa is so knowledgeable and has all of her history down pat- it’s really impressive. The tour was a good pace, taking the time to look at things and learn a lot about Glasgow and Scottish history. Highlights included George Square, Glasgow Cathedral, the necropolis, a lovely little cafe by the cathedral and a tour of the “smug” murals across the city center.

10. Glasgow's Music Mile Walking Tour

The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 2 Sauchiehall St, Glasgow G2 3NY, UK Glasgow Music City Tours
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4.9 based on 27 reviews

Explore Glasgow's famous music scene with a two hour guided walk around the city's music mile. From the Royal Concert Hall to the famous King Tut’s, via Glasgow's Conservatoire, this is a whistle-stop guide around the city centre, an area teeming with music venues past and present. Glasgow has an unrivalled reputation for producing brilliant bands, making memorable music and putting on unforgettable shows. Walk with us and we will show you why. The guides are enthusiastic music fans, performers and writers who are immersed in Glasgow’s cultural life. A little over a mile in length, the Music Mile tour covers diverse genres and eras from dancehall and traditional jazz to punk, pop, and today's guitar heroes. It has plenty of detail for the dedicated music fans but, like all our tours, it is packed with great stories that will entertain the casual fan who wants a different way to see the city.

Inclusions: Tour Guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks

Reviewed By H2835IDangelab

I'm a Glaswegian and been listening to Scottish bands all my life and I still learned plenty on this excellent walking tour. Fiona is a fantastic host, able to answer questions knowledgeably and accept comments with good humour. The route is comprehensive but not too challenging so anyone with mobility issues could cope easily. Once covid restrictions lift finish the tour with a drink and maybe browse for music from the bands you've heard about in Monorail.

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