Glasgow - it’s not difficult to see why we attract tourists, and we’re more than happy to have them, but sometimes they can have a difficult time adjusting to the culture.
There’s plenty going on in Glasgow for tourists - from visiting Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum to tucking into a deep-fried Mars bar - but it’s important that tourists understand how we operate in the city.
We’re called the frendliest city in Scotland for good reason - the people of Glasgow are some of the most welcoming in Britain, but it’s easy to unwittingly put your foot in your mouth by saying or doing the wrong thing.
Worried about mispronouncing place names? Check out our article on the most mis-pronounced place names in Glasgow so you don’t get caught out.
Wondering what makes Glaswegians so different? Check out our article on the things that make Glaswegians the way they are.
Want to know what one American tourist thought of the city after a month travelling here? Make sure to read our interview with American TikTok tourist Eric Bloomberg.
Have a look at our list below showing tourists how to be ‘sound’ and make the most out of their trip to Glasgow.

13. Not shopping like a local
Buchanan Street, St Enoch Centre, and Buchanan Galleries all offer loads of high-end brand shopping - but you’ve never experienced Glasgow until you’ve spent a Sunday morning at the Barras. Listen to the patter of the many merry merchants as you browse the endless stalls of homecrafts and bargain deals. | Google Maps

14. Tipping too much
Every service worker loves a good tip - but you don’t need to tip absolutely everybody - trying to tip a Scotrail conductor or Tesco worker will definitely get you some odd looks. A lot of places will include a service charge that supplements tipping, but a pound or two to the bar worker or waiter will always be appreciated and respected. | Adobe Stock

15. Believing all Whisky tastes the same
Worse yet, travelling all the way to Scotland and ordering a bourbon. Any good whisky pub like The Pot Still have literally hundreds of malt whiskies. They’ll even explain the tastes, history, and distilling process if you’re friendly enough. Photo: Supplied

16. Seeing a sunny weather forecast and presuming it will be a sunny day
It’s a lesson hard learned and one us Glaswegians still fail to prepare for regularly. Carry a jacket wherever you go - no matter how sunny it may appear to be, that can change in an instant. (Pic: John Devlin) | jpimedia


