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Edinburgh or Glasgow?

Both are history, culture and architecture destinations in Europe. Edinburgh adds city life. Glasgow adds nightlife and shopping.

EdinburghGlasgow
CountryUnited KingdomUnited Kingdom
Cost of a weekmid-pricedmid-priced
Crowds at peakhighmedium
Best monthsMay, Jun, Jul, Aug, SepMay, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Warmest monthJuly, 19°CJune, 19°C
Coolest monthJanuary, 6°CJanuary, 6°C
Known forCastle on volcanic rock, Royal Mile, whisky tastings, and Arthur's Seat views.Kelvingrove Museum, Necropolis, University of Glasgow, King Tut's, The Barras

Month by month, side by side

MonthEdinburghGlasgow
Jan6°C6°C
Feb8°C8°C
Mar9°C10°C
Apr10°C11°C
May14°C14°C
Jun18°C19°C
Jul19°C19°C
Aug18°C19°C
Sep17°C17°C
Oct13°C13°C
Nov10°C9°C
Dec7°C6°C

So which one?

Pick Edinburgh if…

you want city life. It suits couples and photographers particularly well.

Pick Glasgow if…

you want nightlife and shopping. It suits groups of friends particularly well.

Both are at their best in May, June, July, August, September.

Book whichever wins

Hotels in EdinburghHotels in Glasgow
Edinburgh guideGlasgow guideWhen to visit EdinburghWhen to visit Glasgow

Common questions

Is Edinburgh or Glasgow cheaper?

Edinburgh is mid-priced for a week, Glasgow is mid-priced.

Which is warmer, Edinburgh or Glasgow?

Edinburgh peaks at 19°C in July; Glasgow peaks at 19°C in June.

Can you do both in one trip?

Yes — they are in the same country, so combining them is straightforward.

Temperatures are measured averages (ERA5, Open-Meteo). Hotel links are partner links — your price is unchanged.

Some links on this page are partner links. If you book through them TonyPlan earns a small commission — the price you pay is exactly the same.