Language

English

 

Visa requirements

For information on visa requirements, visit the UK Border Control website.

 

Time zone

Glasgow's time zone in March is Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

 

Climate

The climate of Glasgow is oceanic, with cold, rainy winters and cool, cloudy summers, with the wind often blowing. Temperatures slowly begin to rise from March.

 

Electricity and conversions

The standard voltage in Scotland is 240V AC, 50Hz. North American appliances need a transformer and an adapter; Australasian appliances need only an adapter. Plugs have 3 square pins and adapters are widely available.

 

Money

Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available. There are also several Bureaux de Changes in the city.

 

Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops. Some smaller shops and guesthouse accommodation may only accept cash.

 

Tipping

Tipping is down to customer discretion on the given service, with a 10-15% tip standard when customers are pleased with service in restaurants, cafes and bars. For taxi fares, it’s usual to round up to the nearest pound (£).

 

Smoking

Smoking is banned in all public places including all enclosed or partially enclosed public areas.

 

Shopping

City centre shops are generally open every day until at least 6pm. Late night shopping is on Thursdays, with many stores open until 8pm. For more information on shops in Glasgow, visit our shopping page.

 

Value added tax (VAT)

All purchases, except food, books and children's clothing, are subject to value added tax (VAT), which is currently 20%. This is already included in the price shown in shops.

Visitors from non-EU countries can claim a refund of value added tax (VAT) from selected shops on goods to be taken out of the country under the Retail Export Scheme. To find out information on how to reclaim sales tax, visit the UK government website.

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VisitScotland iCentre

VisitScotland Glasgow iCentre is located at 156/8 Buchanan Street, beside the south entrance of Buchanan Street Subway Station (G1 2LL). The team of friendly, knowledgeable advisors will provide information to help visitors make the most of their visit to both the local Glasgow city area and the rest of Scotland. The iCentre team can advise visitors to the city on a wide range of ticketing options for local tours, activities and attractions during their visit.

 

For more information check out the VisitScotland website.