The Warriors take on the English Premiership side on August 23 at Scotstoun, two weeks before the new PRO12 season kicks off.
Townsend's troops will also face off against London Scottish at Richmond Athletic Ground the following Saturday, August 30, at 3pm.
Townsend's troops will also face off against London Scottish at Richmond Athletic Ground the following Saturday, August 30, at 3pm.
But it is the Quins clash that has got Townsend licking his lips.
He told the Glasgow Evening Times: "We're looking forward to hosting Harlequins at Scotstoun for our first pre-season game.
"Harlequins are a quality team with a number of internationals in their squad and they play an excellent brand of rugby.
"This is a good opportunity for our supporters to see our players go up against one of the leading sides in Europe."
Harlequins hosted the Warriors at Twickenham Stoop last summer and emerged 19-16 winners, and Townsend is expecting another close encounter.
"It was a close match between the sides last summer down in London and we're anticipating another tough game in Glasgow," he added.
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