Glasgow Airport Parking

Glasgow International Airport Guide

What to expect at Glasgow Airport

Some specific positives about Glasgow Airport are that it is small, easy to get through, and doesn't get congested like other bigger airports. Since the airport isn’t too congested, the subtle environment helps patrons feel more relaxed and less rushed after getting off a flight. 

You also won't have to worry if you arrive to Glasgow with a dead battery in your phone or tablet. There are plenty of free outlets around the gates to help you power up. 

Glasgow’s Gloomy Side

The airport loses some points for its poor customer service. This problem is more prominent once you get to the airside of the terminal where airport staff is unfriendly and unhelpful. It can be difficult to get directions or facility info once you pass through security. Luckily, the airport has a good amount of signage to help you find your way. 

Another problem is that the immigration lines tend to be unnecessarily long due to the lack of staff working. The few immigration officials that are present seem to take their time with their work; further adding to the backlog. Sadly, even adding more agents to this area would not help much because there are a limited number of counters for processing. 

Irish travellers might find it disappointing that the arrival area for Irish nationals is likely the most unkempt area of the airport. It looks like it hasn't been painted for decades, and the floors seem to stay in a constant state of dirtiness. The downtrodden nature of this area makes it pretty depressing to pass through. 

Another downside is that Glasgow is a little stingy with Wi-Fi access. You are limited to 30 minutes online, which isn't much time to get anything done aside from checking a few emails. 
 

Good things to know

If you walk out to the landside area, there is a Tesco store, which is like a convenience store right in the airport. It's a great shop to buy packaged food or convenience items, and to pick up small gifts or souvenirs. Tesco is open 24 hours a day if you need something to eat or drink in the middle of the night.

Parents traveling with little ones should know there is a play area near Gate 27. There are also some interactive screens (kind of like iPads) located around Gates 2, 9, 9 and 11. A layover trip to either or both of these locations should help your kids stay busy and give parents a time to decompress. 
 

Finding a Decent Restaurant at Glasgow Airport

Although Glasgow doesn't shine when it comes to eating options, you might give Frankie and Benny's a try. This restaurant is themed like a NYC Italian restaurant from the 1950's. They serve some decent Italian favorites like pizza and calzones, and a number of different pasta dishes. There is also a kid's menu and a special menu for people on the go who need to eat within 15 minutes. This is probably the best option when you are airside; they open early at 6am and close at the last flight. 

Another good spot to eat here is ironically called "Eat." Some travellers might already know about this eatery from other airports; it serves fresh, healthy foods such as soups, sandwiches and salads. Eat is a great break from the typical fast food encountered in airports; however, it is more like a cafe than a full-fledged restaurant. Food service is done in the cafeteria style, where you pick out food, pay at the counter, then seat yourself to enjoy your meal. It's a good place to go if you are pressed for time and don't want to wait around for a waiter to serve you.