Edinburgh Vs. Glasgow: The Tale of 2 Cities

There has long been a debate about the relative merits of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Each city has a proud history and plenty to offer its inhabitants and visitors. So which is better? Both cities have their upsides and downsides, making it difficult to establish the answer to the question.

Size and Population

Glasgow with over a million inhabitants is a much larger city than Edinburgh, which has a more modest population of 500,000. Glasgow has much more of an industrial past than Edinburgh, so the population is more traditionally working class than Edinburgh, which has a very middle-class demographic. Many of Glasgow’s industries have now closed down, although there is still some ship building on the Clyde and the local economy now mainly comprises service industries. Edinburgh’s economy is largely financial, although tourism is also very important. Edinburgh also has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Scotland. Glasgow is a larger city and has a more working-class profile, as well as suffering from more unemployment and this means that there are more deprived areas than in Edinburgh.

Culture and Nightlife

Edinburgh and Glasgow offer a wide range of cultural activities, with both having excellent museums. Glasgow is the home to Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet, while Edinburgh is the host of the renowned annual festival, which attracts visitors from around the world. This means that hotels in Edinburgh city centre can be almost impossible to find during the month of August. Visitors should try to avoid this period if they are not interested in the festival. If they do want to travel to Edinburgh at this time, they should make sure to book well in advance. In terms of nightlife, Glasgow has a reputation of being trendier, with better bars and clubs. There are good restaurants in both cities.

Shopping and Architecture

In terms of shopping, Glasgow wins hands down. It has a far wider range of shops, from designer outlets such as Versace to well-known high-street brands. Many Edinburgh residents will make the journey to Glasgow to do their shopping.

In terms of their architecture, Edinburgh is a very attractive city with lovely old buildings, while Glasgow also has some very impressive old buildings but with much more in-filling with modern structures. Both cities have plenty of green spaces.

Tourism

Edinburgh can sometimes feel as if it is a city entirely populated by tourists, particularly during the summer months. It is the second-most popular tourist destination in the UK after London. However, Glasgow is the third-most popular so it also counts as an attractive tourist destination. As it is a much bigger city, visitors don’t dominate in quite the same way as in Edinburgh.

Infrastructure

Both cities have an airport and good bus and taxi services. Glasgow has the added advantage of having a subway, which can make it easier to get around. Both have good rail and road networks.

In truth, the city you prefer will depend on your interests and preferences. Edinburgh is a more classical city, where life is lived at a slightly sedate pace. Glasgow is a more modern, vibrant city with a younger, urban feel.

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