Glasgow stag do

Glasgow is a better night out than Edinburgh, and most people who've done both will tell you so. It's bigger, cheaper and louder, the people are some of the friendliest in Britain, and the music scene is one of the best in Europe.

It's less obviously beautiful than Edinburgh, but the West End, the Merchant City and the river all have plenty going on, and Loch Lomond is under an hour away if the group wants to see some scenery.

Glaswegians are famously chatty and welcoming, and you'll find yourself in conversation at the bar within minutes. Stag groups are common and generally well received.

The one thing you must get right is football. The Celtic and Rangers rivalry carries religious and political history that goes back more than a century. Don't wear either club's colours, don't sing football songs, and don't ask strangers which side they support. It's the fastest way to turn a friendly pub hostile.

City centre bars and clubs are used to stag groups, and getting in is usually easier than in Edinburgh. Big groups of men still get turned away at busier clubs, so split into smaller groups before you reach the door.

Most clubs have dress codes on weekend nights. Football shirts are a definite no almost everywhere, for the reason above. Sportswear and caps will get you turned away from the better places.

Fancy dress is fine in the more party-focused bars and won't get you far in the West End or the Merchant City's smarter venues. Keep it to the groom if you want options.

Carry photo ID. Challenge 25 applies, and some clubs won't accept a photo on your phone.

Merchant City

Cocktail bars, restaurants and a mixed crowd. A good place for dinner and the first few drinks.

The West End

Ashton Lane, Byres Road and Finnieston. Lively, studenty and full of good bars and restaurants.

Sauchiehall Street and the city centre

The big clubs and late bars. Where the long nights end.

Finnieston

Some of the best food in Glasgow, plus good bars. A great Saturday evening.

Whisky

The Clydeside Distillery is on the river near the Riverside Museum and runs tours and tastings. There are also excellent whisky bars in the West End.

A gig

Glasgow's live music is outstanding. The Barrowland Ballroom, King Tut's and the many smaller venues are worth checking for the weekend you're there.

Loch Lomond

Under an hour away. Boat trips, walks, or just a pub by the water.

Stadium tours

Hampden, Celtic Park and Ibrox all offer tours. Do the tour, not the arguments.

Karting, paintball and axe throwing

All available around the city, and easy to book as a package.

Friday

Arrive at Glasgow Central or Queen Street, drop the bags, dinner in the Merchant City, then a big night in the city centre.

Saturday

Brunch in the West End, an afternoon at the Clydeside Distillery or out at Loch Lomond. Dinner in Finnieston, then a gig or Ashton Lane.

Sunday

A long breakfast, a walk along the Clyde, and home.

Hotels in the city centre and the Merchant City keep everything within walking distance. Big apartments are available, but short-term let licensing in Scotland has reduced the supply, so book early.

Old Firm weekends, when Celtic play Rangers, are tense across the city. Avoid them.

Prices change, so check before you book.

• Shops in Scotland can only sell alcohol between 10am and 10pm. Buy anything for the flat or the train during those hours.
• Never wear football colours on a night out.
• Watch your belongings on Sauchiehall Street late at night.