Transportation in Glasgow
Underground
Glasgow's circular underground service, known as the ‘subway‘, or more colloquially still as the "Clockwork Orange" in a nod to the colour of the carriages, is one of the quickest and easiest ways to get around.
Foot
To get around the city centre, arm yourself with an easy-to-follow map and hit the streets. Main shopping streets, such as Buchanan and parts of Argyle and Sauchiehall, are pedestrianised. In the Merchant City and West End, walking is the best way to explore the cobbled lanes and alleyways.
Coach
Handy to get to areas outside the city centre, such as the South Side for the Science Centre and Burrell Collection, but often busy, especially in rush hours.
Taxi
Catch black cabs at stations and taxi ranks on the street or hail one on the street. Reliable mini-cab and private hire taxis operate in the city.
Rent your car
You can drive right across Glasgow on the M8 motorway, but in the city centre be prepared to navigate your way round its one-way system, particularly around Sauchiehall Street. There’s some on-street metered parking but make sure you have a valid ticket at all times to avoid fines.
Transportation tips
You can buy an All-day Ticket for First Bus services from drivers on the day of travel. A Roundabout Ticket, from train stations, gives unlimited use of the local train and underground network. A Discovery Ticket offers unlimited travel on the underground only. A Daytripper Ticket one-day family travel pass is valid on trains, underground, buses and some ferries in Strathclyde. Driving in the city centre's one-way streets is tricky, but in the outskirts it's easy and parking is not a problem.
