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The buzz and energy of Scotland's second city can be experienced for less thanks to the wealth of low-cost hostels in Glasgow. But these sorts of stay are also much more than just a cheap and cheerful alternative to the traditional hotel. They can also be full of atmosphere, drawing fun-loving travellers from all over the globe to their lively common lounges and communal kitchens. Beds are typically laid out in dormitories, with the lowest rates in the largest rooms. Bathrooms are usually shared, though there's a focus on cleanliness and modern facilities. What's more, some of the very best hostels in Glasgow are stylish, interesting or cutting-edge establishments. They might have airy interiors with views of the Clyde River. Or, they could be classic Lowlander inns with one foot in the loch-peppered backcountry on the outskirts of town.
There are loads of bonuses to booking a cheap hostel in Glasgow over a classic hotel. For starters, you can look forward to a truly quirky range of places, whether that's a hearty inn-style lodging housed in a Gothic Revival building from the 1800s, or a new-build establishment with floor-to-ceiling windows and riverside views. Then comes the general atmosphere of a hostel stay. With shared kitchens and comfy common spaces, not to mention the odd on-site pub with Scottish craft beers and evening quizzes, it could just be the perfect setting for outgoing solo travellers, backpackers and larger groups alike.
Head inside the most characterful hostels in Glasgow and you can discover all sorts of intriguing dorms and sleeping quarters. It's possible to find rooms that channel the age-old clan identity of the nation, with tartan-clad floors, tartan bedspreads and even the odd bagpipe or two adorning the walls. Other places will focus on offering modern comforts. In those, you can settle in large lounges with flat-screen TVs and make use of fully-equipped kitchens to cook in the evening. It's normal to find hostel stays with 24-hour reception desks, which is handy if you want to join a pub crawl down buzzy Sauchiehall Street or simply rent a bicycle to take in the grand Gothic architecture of the City Centre.
Hostels in Glasgow are great at helping to crank up the enjoyments on that city break north of the border. In fact, it's quite normal to find tour and ticket booking services are provided by the establishment itself. That means walking tours around the Glasgow Cathedral and jaunts to see works by the Old Masters in the enthralling Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum should be easy to add to the itinerary. If that sounds like your sort of thing, consider choosing somewhere like the Euro Hostel Glasgow. It's right in the heart of the city, perched on the banks of the River Clyde. Alternatively, there's something of a wilder adventure on the menu for those who head to off-the-beaten-path Rowardennan Youth Hostel. Clinging to the banks of jaw-dropping Loch Lomond, it's a fine base for hiking excursions across high Munro mountains and the stunning Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.