George Square
Glasgow's grand civic square where imperial architecture, historic monuments, and vibrant public life converge.
George Square is Glasgow's principal civic space, a grand public square named after King George III and laid out in 1781. Surrounded by architecturally significant buildings including the palatial City Chambers and the Merchants' House, the square showcases an impressive collection of statues and monuments dedicated to famous Scots such as Robert Burns, James Watt, Sir Robert Peel, and Sir Walter Scott. Originally developed as an elegant residential square, it has evolved into the heart of Glasgow's civic identity and a focal point for cultural events and celebrations throughout the year.
A brief summary to George Square
- Glasgow, G2 1DH, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to photograph the square with softer light and fewer crowds, particularly if you want clear shots of the architectural details on the City Chambers and the monuments.
- Explore the statues and monuments systematically—each tells a story of Scottish achievement and Glasgow's history. The Scott Monument's 80-foot column is particularly striking and serves as a natural focal point.
- Check the events calendar before visiting, as George Square hosts major festivals and celebrations throughout the year including Piping Live! and Glasgow Loves Christmas, which transform the space with special programming.
- The City Chambers offers guided tours that provide deeper context on the building's architecture, design symbolism, and Glasgow's imperial history—book in advance as tours fill quickly.
- Sit on the benches and observe the square's role as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike; the square's open design makes it ideal for people-watching and absorbing the atmosphere of Glasgow's civic centre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Public Transport (Subway)
The Buchanan Street subway station is approximately 200 metres south of George Square, accessible via Buchanan Street or Queen Street. Journey time from Glasgow Central Station is about 2–3 minutes. Single fares cost approximately £1.75–£2.00. The subway runs frequently throughout the day, with reduced service on Sundays and evenings.
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Train
Glasgow Central Station is approximately 400 metres south of George Square, a 5–7 minute walk via Argyle Street or Union Street. Regional trains from Edinburgh Waverley take approximately 45 minutes (fares from £8–£15 return). Local trains from surrounding areas arrive regularly. The station has clear signage directing to the city centre and George Square.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the city centre near George Square, with stops on Queen Street, Buchanan Street, and surrounding streets. Journey times vary by origin (typically 15–40 minutes from outer areas). Single fares cost approximately £1.75–£2.00. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with reduced evening and Sunday services.
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Walking
George Square is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from Glasgow Central Station (5–7 minutes via Argyle Street), Buchanan Street shopping district (3–5 minutes), and the Merchant City area (8–10 minutes). The square is flat and pedestrian-friendly with clear street signage. Most of Glasgow's city centre is within 15 minutes' walk.
George Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Cold Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about George Square
From Swampland to Civic Heart
George Square's transformation from humble origins to Glasgow's most prestigious public space is a remarkable story of urban development and civic ambition. In the early 1770s, the site was nothing more than swampy ground belonging to Ramshorn Croft, filled with stagnant green water and used as a place to slaughter horses. Around 1772, Glasgow Corporation purchased this unpromising land with a vision to create something grand. After nearly a decade of preparation work, the square was formally laid out in 1781 and named after King George III, though the original plan to erect a statue of the monarch in the centre was quietly abandoned following American independence and the loss of Glasgow's lucrative tobacco trade. The square opened to the public in 1787, initially as a private residential enclave with elegant townhouses surrounding a central garden. By 1804, the buildings—particularly those on the north side—were being described as exceptionally elegant, surpassing any other structures in the city or indeed in Scotland. The development was driven by influential figures like Dugald Bannatyne, a stocking weaver who, along with partners Robert Smith Jr. and John Thomson, formed the Glasgow Building Company and attracted English capital to fund their ambitious venture.Imperial Grandeur and Architectural Distinction
The architectural character of George Square reflects Glasgow's rise as the Second City of the British Empire. The east side is dominated by the palatial City Chambers, a five-storey masterpiece designed by architect William Young. Its foundation stone was laid on 6 October 1883 in a grand ceremony that drew 600,000 people to the square, and the building was completed in 1889. The structure's pediment originally was designed to depict Glasgow with the Clyde at her feet, but this was changed to commemorate Queen Victoria's jubilee, instead showing the monarch with representations of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, alongside figures representing India, Africa, and other colonial territories. The building remains the headquarters of Glasgow City Council and stands as a monument to the city's imperial prosperity. On the west side stands the Merchants' House, a building with deep roots in Glasgow's commercial heritage. Originally constructed in 1775 as the city home of William Cunninghame, one of the famous Tobacco Lords, it was redesigned by architect John Burnet and opened in its current form in 1874. Two additional storeys topped by a distinctive domed tower were added by J.J. Burnet in 1907. The tower is crowned with an emblem of a ship on a globe, a powerful symbol of the sea trade that built Glasgow's wealth. The building also houses the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1783.Monuments, Memorials, and Civic Memory
George Square functions as a repository of Glasgow's historical memory, anchored by an extraordinary collection of statues and monuments. The first statue, erected in 1819, commemorated Sir John Moore of Corunna, a military officer. The most iconic monument is the 80-foot-tall column in the centre of the square, completed by 1837, which honours the celebrated author Sir Walter Scott. This striking structure acts as a giant sundial and serves as a focal point for the square's classical composition. The square contains ten statues of notable Scottish figures, including Robert Burns, James Watt, and Sir Robert Peel, alongside equestrian statues of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The Glasgow Cenotaph, designed by Sir John James Burnet and unveiled in 1924 by Field Marshal Earl Haig, stands directly in front of the City Chambers. This solemn memorial commemorates the approximately 20,000 Glaswegians killed during the First World War, out of some 200,000 who enlisted. The Cenotaph marks the historic spot where soldiers were recruited and marched off to war, and where returning soldiers took the salute. Each year, the square hosts an Annual Remembrance Ceremony where veterans, civic leaders, and clergy lay wreaths at the Stone of Remembrance.Evolution into a Public Gathering Space
The transformation of George Square from private residential enclave to public civic space accelerated in the 19th century. In 1825, the city undertook significant improvements, adding winding paths, trees, shrubs, and an iron fence that made the square a pleasant destination for walks and even flower shows. In 1862, Glasgow Corporation assumed management of the square. When the Post Office foundation stone was laid by the Prince of Wales in 1878, the square's iron railings were removed, transverse walks were formed, and flower beds were introduced, opening the space more fully to public use. By 1876, the private gardens had been opened to the public, democratising access to this once-exclusive space. The square's role as Glasgow's hotel centre began in 1842 when the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway Company opened a rail link between Queen Street and Haymarket in Edinburgh, spurring the construction of numerous hotels around the square. This development cemented George Square's position as a major destination for visitors and commerce.Contemporary Significance and Cultural Events
Today, George Square remains the vibrant heart of Glasgow's civic identity and a focal point for major cultural events throughout the year. The square hosts celebrations including Piping Live!, Glasgow Loves Christmas, and numerous other festivals and gatherings that draw thousands of residents and visitors. Its iconic architecture and open space have made it a popular location for film and television productions, including memorable scenes from period dramas. The square continues to serve as a backdrop for commercial events and promotional activities, reinforcing its status as Glasgow's most recognisable public space and a symbol of the city's enduring heritage and dynamic present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Walter Scott Monument
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A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Historic Walking Tours of Glasgow
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Explore Glasgow's rich history with guided walking tours that reveal the city's hidden gems and captivating stories.
St George's Tron Church of Scotland
0.3 km
Historic Presbyterian church with iconic Baroque tower, rooted in Glasgow’s evangelical heritage and vibrant city centre life.
glasgow south side
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Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Mural Trail #.09 Billy Connolly
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Explore the vibrant Mural Trail #.09 in Glasgow, celebrating Billy Connolly's legacy through stunning public art. A cultural gem awaits your discovery.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
0.5 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
Tolbooth Steeple
0.6 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
0.7 km
Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
La Pasionaria
0.7 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
Barrowland Park
0.8 km
Experience the charm of Barrowland Park, Glasgow's vibrant oasis featuring art, play areas, and a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
St Andrew's in the Square - Glasgow
0.8 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Glasgow at St Andrew's in the Square, a historic venue for art, community events, and weddings.
Provand's Lordship
0.8 km
Explore Provand's Lordship, Glasgow's oldest house, a captivating museum showcasing the city’s rich history and architectural heritage.
McLennan Arch
0.9 km
A neoclassical sandstone archway marking Glasgow Green’s historic entrance, embodying the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
McLellan Galleries
0.9 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Unmissable attractions to see
James Watt Statue
0.1 km
Discover the iconic James Watt Statue in Glasgow’s George Square, honoring the engineer who powered the Industrial Revolution with his steam engine innovation.
City Sightseeing Glasgow
0.1 km
Discover Glasgow’s iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods with flexible hop-on hop-off bus tours featuring live guides and multilingual audio commentary.
Glasgow City Chambers
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Explore the historic Glasgow City Chambers, a stunning architectural masterpiece in the heart of Glasgow's vibrant George Square.
Merchants House of Glasgow
0.1 km
A historic Victorian venue in Glasgow’s city centre offering elegant event spaces and a charitable mission in the heart of George Square.
Equestrian statue of the Duke of Wellington, Glasgow
0.2 km
A historic Glasgow landmark where imperial legacy meets playful rebellion, crowned by its famous traffic cone hat.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Glasgow's nightlife at Katie's Bar – a vibrant cocktail bar and live music venue welcoming everyone to enjoy great drinks and entertainment.
Gallery of Modern Art
0.2 km
Scotland’s premier modern art gallery in a grand neoclassical building, offering free entry to diverse contemporary artworks and vibrant cultural programs.
Royal Exchange Square
0.2 km
A grand neoclassical square in Glasgow blending historic commerce, iconic art, and vibrant city life at the heart of the city centre.
Buchanan St
0.2 km
Glasgow’s vibrant pedestrian shopping street blending historic charm, diverse retail, lively entertainment, and cultural landmarks.
Bronze 3D Map of City Centre
0.2 km
Explore Glasgow’s city centre through a unique, tactile bronze 3D map blending art, accessibility, and urban history at Buchanan Street.
The Social
0.2 km
Discover The Social, Glasgow's lively bar and grill, offering delicious food, live music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in Royal Exchange Square.
Nelson Mandela Pl
0.3 km
A vibrant Glasgow square honoring Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the city’s historic stand against apartheid.
Tobacco Merchant's House
0.3 km
Glasgow’s last 18th-century tobacco merchant villa, a preserved Georgian gem and vivid reminder of the city’s mercantile and colonial past.
Merchant City
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow’s Merchant City: where historic elegance meets vibrant arts, dining, and shopping in the city’s cultural heart.
Old Police Post
0.3 km
Explore the historic Old Police Post in Glasgow, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Browns Glasgow
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Historic charm meets contemporary British cuisine in the heart of Glasgow’s George Square at Browns Brasserie & Bar.
La Vita
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Authentic stone-baked Italian pizzas and classic dishes served in Glasgow’s vibrant city centre, open daily from early morning to late night.
The Anchor Line
0.1 km
Historic grill and cocktail bar in a 1906 Edwardian shipping company headquarters with nautical charm.
The Citizen Glasgow
0.2 km
Historic charm meets modern Scottish cuisine in a stylish city-center restaurant with a warm, lively atmosphere.
Ralph & Finns
0.2 km
Elegant modern Scottish dining and creative cocktails in a historic Glasgow Merchant City setting.
Windows Restaurant
0.2 km
Glasgow’s only rooftop restaurant offering modern European cuisine with panoramic city views atop the Carlton George Hotel.
The Spanish Butcher Glasgow
0.2 km
Savor premium Galician beef and Spanish flavors in a chic, industrial-style steakhouse at Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Glaschu Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Elegant modern Scottish dining in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Royal Exchange Square with a stylish atmosphere and locally inspired cuisine.
Mediterraneo Italian Restaurant & Champagne Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors and elegant champagne moments in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
Saints of Ingram
0.2 km
Historic Hutchesons’ Hall hosts Saints of Ingram, a stylish Glasgow venue blending classic brunch, cocktails, and live weekend entertainment.
The Ivy Buchanan Street, Glasgow
0.2 km
Glamorous Glasgow brasserie with art deco charm, reliable British cooking, and cocktails in a converted bank.
Chaophraya
0.3 km
Elegant Thai dining in a grand Glasgow townhouse, known for its cocktails and dramatic interior.
Amarone
0.3 km
Stylish Italian dining with open kitchens, vibrant flavors, and a lively atmosphere in Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos
0.3 km
Discover vibrant Mediterranean tapas and inventive cocktails in Glasgow’s charming Merchant City hotspot, Brutti Compadres Platos Pequenos.
Las Iguanas - Glasgow
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in the heart of Glasgow with bold dishes and irresistible cocktails.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Shop Network
0.2 km
A diverse urban retail destination in Glasgow’s city centre offering gifts, accessories, clothing, and tech essentials all under one roof.
Fat Buddha Store
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Glasgow's ultimate streetwear haven: premium menswear, spray paints, vinyl toys, and urban essentials across three vibrant floors since 2006.
Wee scottish shop
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Discover authentic Scottish gifts and handmade treats in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street.
Geek-aboo
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Dive into Glasgow's ultimate geek haven: official merch, epic collectibles, and gaming events from your favorite franchises await at Geek-aboo.
Tartan House of Scotland
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Authentic Scottish tartans and souvenirs in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Buchanan Street shopping district.
Eurasia Crafts
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted wonders from Eurasia in a cozy Glasgow gem—unique gifts, artisan stories, and cultural treasures await on elegant Queen Street.
Osiris - Alternative Fashion Store
0.3 km
A compact, characterful alternative-fashion and curios shop on Queen Street specialising in goth, emo and eclectic accessories.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover colorful, affordable Scandinavian fun and creative essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
Primark
0.3 km
Vast budget fashion haven on Glasgow's Argyle Street: trendy clothes, beauty, home goods, and more in a wheelchair-accessible city-center mega-store.
Tartan Tastic Gift & Souvenirs
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish tartan treasures and traditional gifts in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Queen Street.
Ilahui&Ximi Vogue Life Uk
0.3 km
Discover bold, stylish gifts and fashion-forward lifestyle treasures in the heart of Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries.
House Of Cashmere Glasgow
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish cashmere craftsmanship and timeless luxury in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant city centre.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
MAIA GIFTS
0.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s award-winning independent gift shop with unique, quirky, and handpicked treasures for every special occasion.
Glasgow Gifts
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and unique gifts at Glasgow Gifts, nestled in the vibrant heart of Sauchiehall Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Glasgow
0.1 km
Experience Glasgow’s most theatrical cocktails and innovative dining in the heart of George Square’s mystical setting.
The Piper Whisky Bar
0.1 km
Glasgow's premier whisky haven with 200+ Scotches, live music nightly, and pub grub overlooking George Square – pure Scottish spirit in every sip.
Speakeasy
0.2 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Waxy O'Connor's Glasgow
0.2 km
Explore Glasgow’s largest Irish pub maze with live music, hearty food, and spirited sports in the heart of Merchant City.
Bacchus Bar
0.2 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
The Spiritualist Glasgow
0.2 km
Moody, theatrical cocktail bar and small-plate restaurant in central Glasgow — inventive drinks, shareable dishes and a lively evening atmosphere.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
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Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Steps Bar
0.3 km
Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
Wunderbar
0.3 km
Lively Glasgow cocktail bar blending pizza, pub vibes, and live music in a vibrant city center setting.
TABAC
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Retro Parisian cocktail bar on hidden Mitchell Lane, blending masterful mixes, street food bites, and lively vibes in Glasgow's heart.
Cairns Bar
0.3 km
Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
Ross's Original Bar
0.4 km
Classic Glasgow pub with hearty food, lively karaoke nights, and a welcoming old-school atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Bar 91
0.4 km
Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
Horseshoe Bar Glasgow
0.4 km
Historic Victorian pub with Britain’s longest horseshoe-shaped bar, lively karaoke, live sports, and warm Glaswegian hospitality in the city centre.
Drum & Monkey Glasgow
0.4 km
Traditional Glasgow gastropub in a historic bank building, famed for its ales, hearty pies, and welcoming city centre vibe.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
AXM Glasgow
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Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Delmonicas
0.2 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
Club X
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Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
La Cheetah Club
0.2 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Riding Room
0.2 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Polo Lounge
0.3 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
0.4 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Popworld Glasgow
0.4 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.4 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Kokomo Glasgow
0.5 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
0.5 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
18 Candleriggs
0.5 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Cathouse Rock Club
0.5 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
142B Lounge
0.5 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant Afrobeat and Amapiano hotspot with stylish vibes, great music, and authentic African flavors.
Classic Grand
0.6 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
