Semi-synthetic glycopeptides that have antibacterial activity are based on modifications of the desmethyl-vancomycin scaffold, in particular, acylation of the amino substituent on the amino-substituted sugar moiety on this scaffold with certain acyl groups; and/or conversion of the acid moiety on the macrocyclic ring of this scaffolds to certain substituted amides. In addition, compounds of the invention include desmethyl-vancomycin scaffolds on which the acid moiety on the macrocyclic ring is converted to certain substituted amides and the amino substituent on the amino-substituted sugar moiety is alkylated with certain alkyl groups. Also provided are methods for synthesis of the compounds, pharmaceutical compositions containing the compounds, and methods of use of the compounds for the treatment and/or prophylaxis of diseases, especially bacterial infections.