Glasgow or Edinburgh: Which City to Visit?

Visiting Glasgow or Edinburgh? Do Both!

If you’re planning to visit Scotland, you’ll want to take in the sights of some our fantastic cities. If you can’t decide between Glasgow or Edinburgh, visit them both! At Parliament House, you can enjoy a central stay in historic Edinburgh, whilst being within easy reach of vibrant Glasgow.

A Central Stay in Edinburgh, Close to Waverley Train Station

Here at Parliament House Hotel in Edinburgh, we’re at the foot of Calton Hill, just a short stroll from an array of restaurants, theatres and attractions. Our central hotel is just a five-minute walk from Waverley Station, where you can reach Glasgow by train in under an hour. Trains from Edinburgh to Glasgow run every ten minutes, so you can visit the city for the whole day or a night out. Then return to Parliament House for a restful stay in one of our comfortable guest rooms.

What to See and Do in Edinburgh

Ross Fountain in front of Edinburgh Castle

There’s so much to do and see in our spectacular capital. Whilst walking through the city, visit monuments including the Greyfriars Bobby statue. This famous Skye Terrier is said to have guarded the grave of his owner, John Gray for 14 years. Or, head to Old Town and explore the city’s labyrinth of 17th century underground streets and tunnels at The Real Mary King’s Close and Edinburgh Vaults.

If you’re looking for retail therapy, Princes Street is lined with high street shops, while the Grassmarket has charming independent stores. No visit to Edinburgh is complete without visiting the spectacular Edinburgh Castle which sits atop a volcanic rock overlooking the city. And if you’re looking for art or history, also head to the National Gallery of Scotland or National Museum of Scotland.

Exploring the Sights in Glasgow

Glasgow at night time with Clyde Arc Bridge, Finnieston Crane and SEC Armadillo

After a short train ride to Glasgow from Waverley Station, you’ll find yourself in the heart of this bustling city. Some of the top things to do in Glasgow won’t even cost you a penny. Whilst walking around the city, you’ll see famous monuments including the Duke of Wellington Statue donning that famous traffic cone on its head. Or visit the Botanic Gardens for free and wander along the trails and walkways. With 3,000 species of colourful flowers and plants to see.

There are plenty of parks in Glasgow where you can relax with picnics or games. Linn Park is huge and has play areas, a golf course, waterfalls and quaint bridges over streams. There’s also James Hamilton Heritage Park with a large loch for swimming, kayaking and windsurfing. Stay on the water and take a scenic cruise on the Waverley Steamer from Glasgow to the seaside resort of Dunoon. Or, for a more exhilarating ride, take a trip along the River Clyde on a fast Powerboat Ride.

Glasgow’s West End is home to gastronomic delights. And you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants along Ashton Lane and Byres Road. For concerts and exhibitions, the SSE Hydro arena hosts world-class shows all year round.

At Parliament House Hotel, our convenient location means you can enjoy the best of both of these fascinating Scottish cities. Take a look at our guide to Edinburgh and Glasgow sayings before you visit, see our special offers and book your stay today.