Best places to exchange currency in Glasgow

Adam Rozsa

If you're planning a trip to Glasgow, it's important to know how to get the currency of the country you’re visiting. Also, you might want to know the current exchange rate and the best places to withdraw cash.

So, in this article, we’ll show you the best places to visit to exchange currency in Glasgow, and we’ll show you an alternative, Wise – which may be cheaper and help you save the effort of going to a physical location – but more on this later.

avoid-inflated-rates-with-wise


The United Kingdom: currency overview

First off, in case you’re wondering something along the lines of “does The United Kingdom use pound sterling?”, the answer is yes. The currency in Glasgow — and the rest of The United Kingdom — is pound sterling.

You can also find it written as GBP in currency exchange shops.

Check out today’s rate below:

What you should know about exchanging money in Glasgow

Before exchanging money in Glasgow or any foreign city, it's important to be informed to avoid excessive charges and get the best deals. Consider opening a bank account in The United Kingdom for long-term stays or substantial investments like buying property or cars.

Beware of 'zero fee' services

Services claiming 'no commission' often offer poor exchange rates, not reflecting the mid-market rate, leading to hidden profits for them.

Check the exchange rate beforehand

Familiarize yourself with the base rate to identify a bad deal from exchange services.

Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels

Convenience comes at a price, as airports and hotels usually offer poor rates and high transaction fees.

Use ATMs strategically

Check if your home bank has partnerships with Scottish banks to avoid extra ATM fees, and inform your bank before traveling.

Opt for local currency

When using an ATM abroad, choose to be charged in pound sterling for a fairer rate and avoid undisclosed exchange rates and additional fees.

Exchange money in just a few clicks with Wise

Say goodbye to overcomplicated currency exchange.

Wise can help you get a better deal on currency conversion in over 40 currencies, with the mid-market exchange rate and low fees.

Open a personal Wise account online or in the Wise app, and order a linked debit card for a one-time fee to spend and withdraw money in 150+ countries.

There’s no fee to spend any currency you hold, and no foreign transaction fee to worry about.

Use your account when you travel or shop online in foreign currencies, send payments in 70+ currencies, and get your own local bank details in 9 currencies.

Get a Wise Account
in minutes!

Please see the Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise fees & pricing for the most up-to-date information on pricing and fees.

Where can you exchange currency in Glasgow?

Well, we’ve already been through some of the options you have and aspects to watch out for. So if you’re still into the idea of carrying cash around and exchanging it, here are some popular foreign currency exchange locations in Glasgow.

One last reminder, though: there’s no such thing as fee-free or 0% commission foreign exchange transactions. So, always check the mid-market exchange rate in advance, so you know how much your money’s worth.

International Currency Exchange (ICE)

Locations

They have a ‘Click and Collect’ service here. Order currency online and then call in to pick it up. There are limits to the amount of currency you can change and proof of ID is required for collection, so check the details in advance.

LocationPhone Number
66 Gordon Street, Glasgow G1 3RS(Located opposite Glasgow Station)0203 437 0744

Opening Hours

Mon-Sat 8:00-19:00, Sundays 10:00-18:00.

No.1 Currency

Locations

LocationPhone Number
55 St. Enoch Square, Glasgow G1 4BW(St. Enoch Shopping Centre)0141 248 4608

Opening Hours

Mon-Fri 9:00-19:00, Sat 9:00-18:00, Sun 10:00-18:00.

Ramsdens

Locations

LocationsPhone Number
216 Argyle Street, Glasgow G2 8HA0141 2211037
235 Springburn Way, Glasgow G21 1DX0141 558 8277
491 Victoria Road, Glasgow G42 8RL0141 423 0379
Unit 17b The Forge Shopping Centre, Glasgow G31 4EB0141 5502397

Opening Hours

  • Argyle Street - M-F 9-17.30, Sat 9-17, Sun 11-16
  • Springburn - M-F 9:30-16:30, Sat 9:30-16, Sun closed
  • Victoria Road - M-F 9-17, Sat 9-16
  • The Forge - M-Sat 9-17:30, Sun 11-16:00

Bottom line

As you can see, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to exchanging money in Glasgow. Don't forget to do your research on the exchange rate before converting your money, and check Wise out if you want a fuss-free alternative to exchanging cash.

Learn more about Wise


*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.

We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.

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