If there’s one thing we know about at Time Out, it’s city life. From New York to Lisbon, Paris to London, Melbourne to Singapore, it’s our job to keep tabs on all greatest things to see, do and eat in metropolises across the globe. Every year different events, new openings or major anniversaries give different cities a chance to shine. So, we’ve put together a guide on all the best city breaks in Europe to take in 2026, with one UK city set to have its turn in the spotlight.
We named Glasgow one of the best cities in Europe to travel to this year. In our guide to the city, Time Out contributor and Glasgow local Olivia Simpson said: ‘Long seen by outsiders as Edinburgh’s shabby little sibling, the city is enjoying a renaissance, fuelled by home-grown talents cultivated at the city’s world-leading art school and from within the thriving music and arts scene, all whilst grassroots community organisations fight to ensure that development happens as fairly as possible.’
Summer 2026 will be a particularly exciting time to make a trip to the city thanks to two major events. Around 3,000 athletes from 74 nations will land on Scottish soil to compete in the Commonwealth Games from July 23 to August 3. And, if music is more your thing the city will also welcome the very first WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) festival to be held in Scotland.
Taking place on July 3 and 4, WOMAD at Kelvingrove Park promises ‘an eclectic line-up of high-profile and emerging artists performing a vast range of global music including pop, dance, folk, jazz, hip-hop and beyond across three stages’. Beyond performances, you can also expect free musician and dancer-led workshops, as well as a feast of ‘heritage dishes’ cooked by artists.
There’s brilliant stuff to see and do in the city throughout the year though, like seeing a production at Citizens Theatre, discovering all the weird and wonderful exhibits at the Kelvingrove Art Galley and Museum or sampling premium whiskey at Clydeside Distillery.
For places to eat in Glasgow, we’re big fans of Brett, a cool modern European joint; Sebbs, a vibey dining room and cocktail kitchen and Lobo, a beloved neighbourhood spot serving generous Mediterranean small plates. And as for somewhere to stay, we love the luxurious Kimpton on Blythswood Square or the sleek and affordable CitizenM on Hope Street.
Plan your trip to Glasgow with our guides to its best things to do, best restaurants, best pubs and best Airbnbs.
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