Gateway to Scotland

Engage business contacts with culinary and cultural adventures in Glasgow.

- SUSAN B. BARNES

Glasgow, or Glaschu in Gaelic, meaning “Green Glen,” traces its development back to A.D. 550 when Saint Kentigern arrived to establish a religious community. Fast-forward about 600 years to 1189, when it was granted the right to hold an annual fair; 800 years to 1350, when it built the first stone bridge over River Clyde; and 900 years when Glasgow founded its first university in 1451. Needless to say, Scotland’s largest city has been welcoming visitors for centuries.

Today’s international travelers to Glasgow likely arrive at Glasgow Airport, just 15 minutes from the city center via Glasgow Airport Express bus; one-way fares are £8.50 (about $11.50). Taxis (about £45, or $60) and private cars (about £60, or $81) are also available, making the transit from the airport to your first meeting of the day seamless. Alternatively, fly into Edinburgh Airport and take an hour’s shuttle ride west. If you are already in the United Kingdom, consider the 4.5-hour train ride from London.

Once within the walkable city center, the subway offers the easiest way to get around, and First Bus Glasgow operates more than 80 routes across the city. Want to take in the fresh air? Hop onto one of OVO Bikes’ or Nextbike’s bike-share rides and get a different perspective of the city. If your business takes you to other areas of Scotland, ScotRail proves a terrific option to get you where you need to go.