The Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus is a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the vibrant city. This Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour allows visitors to experience the city at their own pace. Hopping off at various attractions and landmarks and hopping back on when they are ready to move on.
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The Hop On Hop Off Bus offers a comprehensive commentary, providing fascinating insights into Glasgow’s history, culture, and architecture. The route covers all the main attractions, including the Glasgow Cathedral, the Riverside Museum, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the iconic Glasgow University.
With its frequent departures and flexible ticket options, the Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus is the perfect choice for both first-time visitors and those looking to revisit their favorite spots in this dynamic city. Moreover, with this online ticket, you can start your adventure anytime (maximum up to 12 months) from the chosen date at the checkout.
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What is the Advantage of Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour?
Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour allows visitors to explore many more attractions than they would be able to see on their own in the same amount of time. Although, Glasgow is a very walkable city there are over 3 miles (almost 5km) between Glasgow Cathedral and Riverside Museum. Moreover, the entire Hop On Hop Off Bus Route is almost 12 miles long (19km).
Exploring all attractions along this route without using public transport would take an extremely long time. While Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour takes 1 hour 25 minutes and allows for stress-free sightseeing in the city.
The advantage of the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour is among others that you don’t need to worry about finding car parks in the city. You can just hop on the bus at one of the stops and hop off wherever you want. Although we have seen often Hop On Hop Off Buses driving around the biggest cities we were a bit skeptical about them at the beginning.
Therefore, we will explain all things that you need to know about the Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour to make Glasgow sightseeing easier for you. In fact, using these buses is very easy and it is the most efficient way to explore the city. Although we really like exploring places on our own, we decided that every time we visit any city for one day or two we will definitely use Hop On Hop Off Buses.
Which Hop On Hop Off Bus to Choose?
We highly recommend the City Sightseeing open-top bus tour operator that we also used in Edinburgh. You may also see some other bus companies around the world. However, none of them has such a reputation as City Sightseeing.
The red bus is very easy to spot. Therefore, you won’t need to worry about finding Bus Stop No. 1 in Glasgow. When you leave Glasgow Queen Train Station just look around and you will notice the bus next to George Square.
Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus Timetable
The first Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour in Glasgow starts at 9:30 am. During the peak season, which runs from the 28th of April to the 25th of September, the buses run every 15 minutes from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm.
During the off-peak season, which runs from the 26th of September to the 30th of October & from the 1st of April to the 27th of April, the buses run every 30 minutes from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. It’s important to note that the timetable may be subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the schedule before you set out on your Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour.
Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus Route
The Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus route offers a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s many attractions. With multiple stops throughout Glasgow, visitors have the freedom to disembark at any point of interest and rejoin the tour at their leisure.
This allows for a personalized sightseeing experience, where one can spend more time exploring their favorite sites and skipping those that don’t appeal to them as much. The Hop On Hop Off Bus route covers all the major landmarks, providing informative commentary along the way.
Additionally, the Hop On Hop Off Bus service operates at regular intervals, ensuring minimal wait times for passengers. Moreover, you can also track the bus arrival time on the app. Whether it’s exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying its vibrant arts scene, or simply taking in the stunning panoramic views, the Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus route offers an excellent way to discover everything this beautiful city has to offer.
There are many beautiful elements of architecture in Glasgow that you can appreciate only from a certain angle or distance. The upper deck of a Hop On Hop Off Bus allows for admiring the city’s landmarks from a completely other perspective without having to navigate complicated public transportation or walk long distances.
Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus
BUS STOP 1 – George Square
If you are looking for hotels near George Square, consider staying in Millennium Hotel Glasgow. This 4* hotel is only 1 minute walk from Glasgow Queen Train station. That location will allow you to easily catch a train and explore Edinburgh on a day trip.
Located in the heart of the city, George Square is an iconic public space known for its stunning architecture and rich history. It is home to several significant landmarks, including the City Chambers, the statues of prominent figures like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns, and various war memorials for example the Cenotaph.
The Cenotaph is a solemn reminder of the sacrifice that the soldiers made for their country. It serves as a place of reflection and remembrance for the people of Glasgow. Every year on Remembrance Sunday, a wreath-laying ceremony is held at the monument to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers.
George Square Hop On Hop Off Bus stop is only 2-minute walk from Glasgow Queen train station. Therefore, if you traveling by train to Glasgow, hopping on the City Sightseeing Glasgow bus is an excellent way to explore the city. When you leave Glasgow Queen train station, you will find the red tourist bus right ahead of you.
George Square
Another fantastic hotel near George Square is the Carlton George Hotel. Rooftop restaurant allows for admiring beautiful views of Glasgow's skyline.
For those seeking a touch of culture, the square hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year. Visitors can indulge in live music performances, and art exhibitions, or even catch a theatrical show at the nearby Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.
For art enthusiasts, the Gallery of Modern Art is conveniently located nearby, offering a collection of contemporary works. George Square also offers plenty of dining opportunities, with a variety of cafes, and restaurants within walking distance.
The Alchemist is one of the best cocktail bars opposite Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus Stop 1. While the Piper Whisky Bar offers live music and a wide range of whisky selections. Moreover, a fantastic Irish Pub Waxy O’Connor’s is only a few minute’s walk away. Italian restaurant La Vita or American restaurant Hard Rock Cafe are a few other options for dining in Glasgow.
You will also love another Italian restaurant Doppio Malto or Blue Lagoon Fish & Chips takeaway. With so many eateries that surround the square, why not stay in the Millennium Hotel, Ibis Styles, or Carlton George Hotel and enjoy all the attractions that this beautiful city has to offer?
Citation Weddings & Events is a premier wedding and event venue located a few minutes walk from George Square. The venue features stunning architecture with a row of columns that create an ambiance of luxury and sophistication.
University of Strathclyde Murals
George Square is also a short walk from the University of Strathclyde which is home to some of the most impressive murals in Glasgow. The satellite mural is incredibly realistic, with intricate shading that makes it look like it could actually be a functioning piece of equipment.
If you find yourself in Glasgow, be sure to take a moment to appreciate the Strathclyde University Mural. This impressive piece of street art refers to Land-Ship photography dating back to 1913.
Another mural at North Portland Street is a stunning piece of artwork that represents the diverse range of students who attend the university. It serves as a reminder that, regardless of our differences, we are all part of the same global community and can achieve great things when we work together.
The Murales Woman, Child and Robin was created by the acclaimed Australian artist – Smug. It depicts a woman holding a child in her arms while a robin perches on her wrist. The woman’s face is turned towards the child, and her expression is one of love and tenderness. You will find this beautiful piece of street art at the end of George Street, just one minute away from the University of Strathclyde.
Glasgow Hop On Hop Off Bus
BUS STOP 2 – Glasgow Cathedral
If you are looking for hotels near Glasgow Cathedral, consider staying in Moxy Glasgow Merchant City. This modern hotel provides a comfortable stay just a few minutes walk from some of the best attractions in Glasgow.
Glasgow Cathedral is a must-visit historical site in Scotland’s largest city, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich religious history. Located in the heart of Glasgow, it stands tall as a symbol of the city’s heritage. To make it easily accessible for tourists, the Hop On Hop Off Bus Stop 2 is conveniently situated near the cathedral.
This enables visitors to conveniently explore the cathedral, admire its intricate design, and marvel at the breathtaking views from its surroundings. Some of the best views of the city are from Glasgow Necropolis, so make sure to also visit this Victorian cemetery.
Glasgow Cathedral
Glasgow Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Glasgow, St Kentigern’s Cathedral, or St Mungo’s Cathedral, is a magnificent landmark situated in the heart of Glasgow. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century and its awe-inspiring interior showcases intricate stained glass windows, ancient stone carvings, and a grand organ, all creating a captivating atmosphere for visitors.
The cathedral also holds significant historical and cultural importance, as it is the burial site of St Mungo, the patron saint of Glasgow. Whether one seeks a place of spiritual solace or simply wishes to marvel at its architectural grandeur, Glasgow Cathedral is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Scotland’s largest city.
Glasgow Cathedral is also a popular filming location for the hit TV series Outlander. The cathedral has been featured in several episodes of the show, standing in as the fictional L’Hopital des Anges in Paris. Outlander fans can visit the cathedral and see the locations where some of their favorite scenes were filmed. If you’re a fan of Outlander, or just appreciate beautiful architecture and history, Glasgow Cathedral is definitely worth a visit.
The interior of Glasgow Cathedral is a breathtaking sight that captivates visitors with its grandeur and historical significance. Upon entering, one is immediately struck by the high arched ceilings, adorned with intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.
The St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art
The St. Mungo Museum Of Religious Life & Art showcases the diverse religious traditions, beliefs, and practices throughout the world. From ancient Egyptian and Buddhist artifacts to striking contemporary artworks, the exhibits offer a comprehensive perspective on the shared human experience of spirituality.
Glasgow Necropolis
Established in 1832, the Necropolis features elaborate tombstones, sculptures, and mausoleums that represent the Victorian fascination with death and memorialization. It is not only a place for quiet reflection and remembrance, but also a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the city.
The cemetery is designed in a grandiose style, with elaborate monuments and mausoleums. It was designed to be a “garden cemetery” with winding paths and ornate monuments set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The Glasgow Necropolis is considered one of the finest examples of Victorian cemetery design in the world.
Charles Tennant Memorial
The Glasgow Necropolis is a beautiful example of Victorian cemetery architecture and covers an area of 37 acres, making it one of the largest cemeteries in Europe. It also contains over 50,000 burials, including many notable figures of the time including Charles Tennant Memorial.
John Knox Monument
One of the most famous sculptures in Glasgow Necropolis is the John Knox Monument. This monument was erected in honor of John Knox, a Scottish clergyman who played a key role in the Scottish Reformation. The statue of Knox is standing atop a tall column.
William Rae Wilson’s grave
In the Glasgow Necropolis, William Rae Wilson’s grave can be found near the top of the hill, just a short walk from the John Knox monument. The grave is marked by a large, ornate headstone that features intricate carvings and detail work.
John Henry Alexander’s Monument
Another impressive monument was erected in honour of John Henry Alexander, who was a famous actor and theatre owner. The Theatre Royal on Dunlop Street rose to prominence under Alexander’s supervision as Glasgow’s top theatre.
However during a performance in 1849, the structure caught fire, resulting in the deaths of 65 spectators. Alexander reportedly never recovered from his shock and passed away shortly after.
William Miller Monument
Other notable sculptures in Glasgow Necropolis include among others the William Miller or Charles Clark Mackirdy Monument. These sculptures, along with many others, serve as a testament to the rich history and culture of Glasgow and its people.
