Getting Around in Glasgow

Thanks to a well-developed public transport system, getting around in Glasgow is relatively easy and stress free.

Glasgow's public transport system is comprehensive, convenient and cost effective, and it's quite possible to get by on public transport alone. Those who aren't keen to face Glasgow's typically chilly, windy and rainy weather may prefer to drive around in the comfort of their own car.

Public transport in Glasgow

Subway

The Glasgow Subway is the world's third-oldest underground train system, built in 1896. It's a quick and easy way to get around the city, though its route is limited to the City Centre and West End areas of Glasgow. 

The subway runs along a circular route with one inner track and one outer track, each in separate tunnels. Both tracks run simultaneously, so passengers can choose the train that reaches their desired destination first. Trains arrive every four minutes during peak times, and every eight minutes off peak.

One drawback of the subway system is that it's quite compact and has only 15 stops. A full circuit takes just 24 minutes to complete.

Trains

Glasgow's network of above-ground trains traverses a much wider network than the subway, with ScotRail covering most local and regional routes. Other providers connect Glasgow with cities further afield in England and Wales.

The local train route covers much of suburban Glasgow and connects it to the inner-city areas. The frequency of trains depends on the route and time of day. Once in the centre of town, it's easy to hop onto the subway if you're looking to reach other parts of the city. 

Trains may suffer from delays, especially in bad weather. Travellers should check ScotRail's website or mobile app before heading to catch a train, to confirm timetables, routes and check if there are currently any delays. 

Buses

Glasgow has an extensive bus system, with the main provider of bus services being First Glasgow. Glasgow has over 80 bus routes, so travellers are well covered. However, some buses offer only limited services, especially at night.

The First Glasgow app is the easiest way to buy tickets, but they can also be bought at ticket kiosks around the city and onboard the bus, using exact change.

Taxis in Glasgow

Taxis in Glasgow are fairly pricey but are useful for getting to places that other public transport doesn't reach. They're also useful for getting home after a late night out, when the trains have already stopped running.

Classic black cabs (also known as hackney carriages) are run by Glasgow Taxis, and can be found throughout the city. To catch one, hail it on the street or make a booking online, over the phone, or on the official Glasgow Taxis app. Prices may be higher during peak hours or in the holiday season.

Ride-hailing applications such as Uber and Lyft are operational in Glasgow, and travellers can easily hail a cab using the relevant application on their phone. This is usually cheaper than catching a standard black cab.

Driving in Glasgow

While owning a car in Glasgow is largely unnecessary, it can come in handy in rainy weather or for travelling longer distances.

It's worth noting that the City Centre is a designated Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Vehicles in this area must meet certain fuel efficiency standards or pay a penalty fee.

Expats from within the EU can drive in Scotland for as long as their licence is valid. Those from outside the EU can drive in Scotland on a valid licence from back home for up to 12 months after their arrival.

Expats used to chaotic and aggressive driving will find Glasgow roads much calmer. Glaswegian drivers are also noticeably more polite and patient than drivers in many other countries – it's uncommon for anyone to honk their horn, even if someone else on the road drives carelessly or inconveniences them.

Cycling in Glasgow

Glasgow has over 186 miles (300 km) of cycle lanes. Sidewalks are also usually safe to cycle on. Although Glasgow is not quite as cycle-friendly as nearby Edinburgh, there's still plenty of support for cyclists in terms of cycling infrastructure. 

If you don't yet have your own set of wheels, try OVO Bikes, the city-wide bike-hiring service.

Walking in Glasgow

If using public transport, walking is an almost inescapable part of travelling in Glasgow. Glasgow is a large city, and despite numerous public transport options, a bit of walking is often necessary to get to where one wants to go. Travellers should always be prepared for a bit of rain, though, so it's advisable to carry around a small umbrella or rain jacket in case of sudden showers.