trip naar glasgow

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Glasgow

Day trips from glasgow.

• Glasgow to Stirling
• Glasgow to Oban
• Glasgow to Inveraray
• Glasgow to Edinburgh
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Oban, Glencoe, Highlands Lochs & Castles Small Group Day Tour from Glasgow

2. Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond and Cruise Day Tour from Glasgow

3. Standing Stones, Inveraray and Kilchurn Castles & Highland Tour starting Glasgow

4. Loch Ness & the Highlands Day Tour from Glasgow Including Cruise

5. Private Tour of Highlands, Oban, Glencoe, Lochs & Castles from Glasgow

6. Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow

7. Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure from Glasgow

8. Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond Walk & Whisky Distillery Tour from Glasgow

9. Oban, Glencoe & West Highland Castles from Glasgow

10. Outlander Adventure Day Tour from Glasgow Including Admissions

11. Private Tour in Oban, Glencoe, Western Highlands, Lochs & Castles

12. St Andrews and the Kingdom of Fife from Glasgow

13. One Day West Highland Way Hiking Tour from Glasgow

14. Kelpies and Falkirk Wheel Private Tour for 1 - 4 people from Greater Glasgow

15. Glasgow in a Day: Private Sightseeing Tour from Edinburgh

16. Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure - Winter Edition from Glasgow

17. Glencoe & Scottish Highlands Guided Tour with Waterfalls Walk starting Glasgow

18. Loch Lomond & Whisky Tour from Glasgow Including Admissions

19. Stirling Castle & Loch Day Tour

20. Loch Lomond, the Trossachs and Stirling Castle from Glasgow

21. Private Tour Loch Lomond Stirling and the Kelpies from Glasgow

22. Scotch Whisky Tour

23. Scottish Whisky Distillery Tour

24. Glasgow Luxury Private Day Tour with Scottish Local

25. Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Whisky Luxury Private Day Tour

26. Culzean Castle & Burns Country Tour from Glasgow Incl Admission

27. Loch Lomond National Park Tour with 2 Walks starting Glasgow

28. Oban and the West Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow

29. Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Tour with Scenic Walk starting Glasgow

30. Glasgow Private City Day Tour in Luxury MPV from Edinburgh

What travelers are saying.

Glasgow Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 5, 2024

Our  Glasgow Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this Scottish city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Glasgow!

Plan your visit to Glasgow

Famous for its architecture, arts scene, culture, sports, shopping, street art, world-class museums, shipbuilding heritage, whisky, Billy Connolly and rich history Glasgow is often overshadowed by the Scottish capital Edinburgh.

However it is a city which has undergone significant regeneration and has emerged as a tourist destination worth including in any Scotland travel itinerary.

In our Glasgow Travel Guide, we cover everything you need to know to plan your visit including what to see, how to get around, best tours and day trips, where to stay plus recommended places to eat and drink.

What you will find in this complete Glasgow Travel Guide

Map of Glasgow

☀️ when is the best time of year to visit glasgow, 📍 what is the best way to explore glasgow, 🚆 by train, 🚗 by car (road trip option), ⭐️ attractions and things to do in glasgow, what to eat & drink, afternoon tea, 🏨 accommodation in glasgow, glasgow travel guide – best tours and day trips, enjoy your visit to glasgow.

Glasgow travel guide – Visiting Glasgow FAQ’s

For warmer days and longer hours of daylight plan to visit Glasgow from June to August. In the winter Scotland is cold and hours of daylight are reduced which can limit the time to sightsee. Spring months from March to May can also be a pleasant time to visit.

Glasgow hosts many sporting, cultural, theatrical and musical events throughout the year (the city is a UNESCO City of Music) Read about events planned in Glasgow for 2022/3.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in our detailed guide.

Whilst the centre of Glasgow is pretty walkable you will need to use either public transport or a cab to get around to all the sights. It really is too far to walk from the centre to attractions such as the Glasgow Botanical Garden, Kelvingrove Museum or Riverside Museum.

There is a good public bus network and an underground train network too but we found the best way to get around was to take the hop-on hop-off bus.

• Tip – We recommend taking the hop-on hop-off city sightseeing bus around the city. This is a great way to see the highlights and attractions of Glasgow and the most efficient way to travel the city as a visitor.
• We took the bus ourselves during our recent visit to Glasgow and enjoyed the live commentary as we toured the city. It is worth noting that while there are plenty of buses they do get busy, especially during the summer months so start out as early in the day as possible to make the most use of your ticket.
• There are some excellent Glasgow walking tours available including street art focussed.

🚂 What is the best way to travel to Glasgow from London?

Glasgow is around 4 hours 30 mins by direct train from London Euston to Glasgow Central. Click to book tickets with Omio.

The Lowlander service of the Caledonian Sleeper also travels between the two cities. Click to book tickets on the Caledonian Sleeper.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel ebook which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

If you are planning a Scottish road trip why not include some time in Glasgow? If you prefer to avoid driving in the city perhaps start your holiday in Glasgow and collect your rental car when you are ready to commence your road trip. We did this recently in Edinburgh and it avoided any issues finding accommodation with parking.

🚗 There are a multitude of car rental companies to choose from in the UK. We recommend comparing prices and deals on Discover Cars  before making your booking.

Popular attractions in Glasgow include:

• The Glasgow Cathedral
• Glasgow Necropolis
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
• George Square
• Central Chambers
• Glasgow Botanical Gardens
• Glasgow street art

⭐️ Read more about these landmarks, sights and attractions in our one-day Glasgow itinerary .

🍛 Where to eat in Glasgow

• Chicken Tikka Masala
• Neeps and tatties
• Scottish breakfast
• Cullen Skink
• Deep-fried Mars Bar
• Willow Tea Rooms – Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired tearooms & giftshop
• House for an Art Lover – Art Nouveau cafe
• Cranachan Cafe – Princes Square
• Red Bus Bistro – Take a vintage Routemaster bus tour and enjoy afternoon tea as you see the sights!

➡️ More accommodation options in Glasgow

More special stays – Accommodation Guide for Scotland

Glasgow is ideally located to use as a base from which to explore Scotland by train, car or bus. Popular day trips from Glasgow include:

• Loch Ness, Glencoe and Highlands Tour – Discover the magnificent beauty of Loch Lomond National Park, Rannoch Moor, Glencoe, the Great Glen, Loch Ness and Pitlochry on a guided tour from Glasgow. Learn about history and folklore.
• Loch Lomond, Trossachs & Stirling Castle Tour – Explore the land and legends of Scottish heroes William Wallace and Rob Roy and experience the natural beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs on this tour from Glasgow.
• Glenfinnan, Mallaig and Glencoe Adventure Tour – Journey through the rugged Highlands towards Glenfinnan, famous for its viaduct (the Harry Potter bridge). Pass through dramatic Glencoe, see the Hogwarts Express, and spend time in scenic Mallaig.
• Culzean Castle, Robert Burns Country & the Ayrshire Coast – Explore the Ayrshire Coast, the birthplace of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, on this full-day tour from Glasgow. Home to Culzean Castle and romantic countryside, you’ll find the region to be as captivating as described in the poems of Robert Burns.

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Glasgow . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Scotland in these travel guides:

• Things to do in Edinburgh
• Fort William Travel Guide
• Isle of Skye Travel Guide
• Inverness Travel Guide
• Highlands Travel Guide
• Scottish Islands Travel Guide

15 Best Day Trips from Glasgow You Need to Do

While the list of  things to do in Glasgow  is extensive, Scotland ’s largest city is also an ideal base for taking some great day trips to explore the breathtaking countryside, bustling towns and peaceful villages of Scotland .

From the serene beauty of Loch Lomond to the crowded streets of  Edinburgh  – there are plenty of exciting places to visit near Glasgow.

With frequent trains leaving from two main train stations and a well-connected network of buses – planning the day trip couldn’t be any easier.

So, when you get knackered after visiting the fascinating museums , exploring all the colourful street arts on  Glasgow Mural Trail  and discovering the  hidden gems , venture out of the city to see a different side of Scotland.

This article brings together some of the best day trips you can take alongside the information on how to get here. So, add a few of them to your  Glasgow itinerary  on your next visit.

Day trips less than one hour from Glasgow

1. loch lomond.

You can’t visit Glasgow and not take a day trip to the stunningly gorgeous Loch Lomond . From scenic boat tours to numerous hiking trails – this area is a nature lovers’ paradise. With easy public transport options, you can easily escape the hubbub of Glasgow and spend a day in nature.

One of the must-visit places in Loch Lomond is Luss . Often regarded as one of the prettiest villages in Scotland , Luss is located on the western bank of Loch Lomond.

Meander along the pretty village streets and the pier. The streets are adorned with quaint cottages with small gardens, which look very photogenic. Also, this village is a popular site for water sports and adventure activities.

Next, take a relaxing boat cruise around the lake to appreciate the beauty of Loch Lomond and the surrounding landscapes. Also, peel your eyes for wildlife. 

Boat trips pass small islands, castles and villages along the shoreline. Balloch, Balmaha and Luss are popular places to catch a boat tour.

For an awe-inspiring view over Loch Lomond, climb the Conic Hill from Balmaha. Expert hikers might be interested in trekking the mighty Ben Lomond, Scotland’s most southerly Munro.

How to Reach: Getting here using public transport is super easy and budget-friendly. Hop on ScotRail train service from Glasgow Queen Street to Balloch, which takes around 48 minutes. Otherwise, take a Scottish Citylink bus from Buchanan Bus Station.

2. Edinburgh

No visit to Scotland is complete without seeing its capital city of Edinburgh . The Old and New Town of Edinburgh were added to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 1995. This city is unarguably one of the unmissable day trip choices from Glasgow.

Start your adventure with the iconic Edinburgh Castle . This 900-year-old castle sits atop an extinct volcanic rock and houses the oldest Crown Jewel in Britain.

Next, meander along the cobbled streets of Royal Mile to explore the historic buildings. Marvel at Scott Monument – a memorial dedicated to renowned Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Climb Arthur’s Seat for the best views of the Edinburgh skyline.

For all Harry Potter fans, a visit to the colourful Victoria Street and Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must. A slight detour to Dean Village and Stockbridge will show you a unique side of the city. End your day with a beautiful sunset over Edinburgh from Calton Hill , before heading back to Glasgow. 

How to Reach: Scottish Citylink and Megabus runs regular bus services from Buchanan Bus Station. At peak hours, the bus leaves every 15 minutes.

Also, you can catch trains from Glasgow Queen Street and Central stations, which take around 45 minutes.

3. Stirling

Steeped in centuries of riveting history, this medieval city is an excellent day trip option for all history lovers visiting Glasgow. There are so many amazing things to do in Stirling .

One of the main attractions in Stirling is the mighty Stirling Castle. Perched over a volcanic rocky hill, Stirling Castle is one of the oldest castles in Scotland . It once served as the home for Scottish kings and queens.

Today, you can explore the Great Hall, the Royal Chapel and the Royal Palace. Also, you will get an amazing view of the surrounding landscapes from here. 

Battle of Stirling Bridge and Battle of Bannockburn – two famous battles of Scottish history were fought near the close vicinity of this castle.

Meander around the Old Town Cemetery and The Church of the Holy Rude adjacent to the castle. Also, you can follow The Back Walk, a dedicated scenic pathway along the old town walls of Stirling.  

Another must-see landmark in Stirling is the National Wallace Monument. The 220-foot tall tower is dedicated to William Wallace, a national hero of Scotland. 

How to Reach: Trains from Glasgow Queens Street Station take about 30 minutes to get to Stirling. Alternatively, you can catch a bus from Buchanan Bus Station.

4. Falkirk & Linlithgow

Falkirk makes a great day out from Glasgow by train. The Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies are two main tourist attractions in Falkirk.

The Falkirk Wheel is the world’s only rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. You can enjoy boat rides and various water-based sports activities. If you want to stretch your legs, walk to the nearby Antonine Wall. Built by the Romans around AD142, the Antonine Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walk is clearly signposted.

The Kelpies are two gigantic horse-head metal sculptures. Created by reputed Scottish sculptor Andy Scott, this iconic structure is located in Helix Park. It’s a reminder of the horse-driven industrial heritage of this area.

Linlithgow is just a 9-minute train ride from Falkirk. The historic ruins of Linlithgow Palace attract tourists to this pretty town. It is the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots, one of the most prominent figures in Scottish history. Also, it served as a royal residence in the 15th and 16th centuries.

How to Reach: Trains run regularly between Glasgow Queens Street and Falkirk High Station. It takes only 20 minutes. There are bus and train connections between Falkirk and Linlithgow.

5. Ayrshire

Ayrshire is a popular destination for day-trippers from Glasgow. It is famous for its stunning coastline, numerous golf courses and its connection with Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland. 

You can visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in the village of Alloway. Inside the museum, you will find several artefacts, manuscripts and artworks. You can also see the small cottage where he was born and raised. Meander around the Alloway Auld Kirk and Brig O’ Doon, immortalised in the poet’s work.

Ayrshire is also home to the famous Culzean Castle, one of the most picturesque castles in Scotland. Designed by Robert Adam in the late 18th century, this castle sits inside a large country park.

Before heading back to Glasgow, ramble around Ayr town centre. This seaside town has a long sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, swimming and building sandcastles.

How to Reach: Trains from Glasgow usually take about 50 minutes to get to Ayr. Also, there is a bus service operated by Stagecoach.

6. New Lanark

This day trip from Glasgow is perfect for all history and heritage enthusiasts. In 1786, David Dale built cotton mills and housing in New Lanark by the River Clyde. Later, under the pioneering Robert Owen, the mills flourished. He implemented many revolutionary ideas that were way ahead of his time. The mills operated until 1968. 

Visitors can explore and learn about the history of these 200-year-old restored mills and houses. In 2001, UNESCO added this historic place to their list of World Heritage Sites. New Lanark is now one of the six UNESCO sites in Scotland.

While here, take a short woodland walk to see the magical Falls of Clyde, stunning cascading waterfalls. Also, watch out for the wildlife.

If you are a keen walker or mountain biker, follow the Clyde Walkway, which goes through this village.

How to Reach: From Glasgow Central Station, catch a train to Lanark, which takes about an hour. Once there, you can hop on a local bus or walk around 1.3 miles to get to the New Lanark Visitor Centre.

Day trips between one to two hours from Glasgow

7. inveraray.

Nestled on the bank of Loch Fyne, Inveraray is one of the most charming small towns in Scotland. Also, it is one of our favourite day trip destinations from Glasgow.

One of the main tourist attractions in Inveraray is the magnificent Inveraray Castle. It is one of the most beautiful castles in Scotland and the ancestral home of the chief of Clan Campbell. The castle is usually open from April to October. Take a tour of this green castle to learn about its colourful past. 

After visiting the castle, climb to the nearby Dun Na Cuaiche Viewpoint. This walking circuit is properly waymarked and takes about two hours to complete. From the top, admire the breathtaking panoramic view over Loch Fyne, the surrounding mountains, and the town.

Next, meander along the shore of Loch Fyne, the longest sea loch in Scotland. Look out for the beautiful Inveraray War Memorial. Sit on one of the benches near the loch and enjoy the tranquillity of nature. 

Also, pop into the quaint white-washed independent shops, cafes and restaurants in the town centre.

How to Reach: Catch CityLink bus service 926 or 976 from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. It typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes to reach Inveraray. By car, it takes about an hour and a half from Glasgow.

With frequent train services from Glasgow Queen Street Station, a day trip to Dundee is super easy. Home to the V&A, Dundee is famous for its ‘jute, jam and journalism’ and industrial past. Opened in 2018, the visually striking building of V&A Dundee displays art and designs from Scotland. Also, it is the first V&A museum to exist outside of London. 

Right next to the museum, stands the RSS Discovery – the historical ship that took Captain Scott to Antarctica. Inside, you will find extensive galleries, video and film shows, and artefacts used by the crew in their voyages. Also, take a leisurely stroll along the gorgeous waterfront of Dundee.

Next, walk towards the city centre. Watch out for the Desperate Dan Statue on the High Street. Visit the McManus, Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum to see a superb collection of fine arts. The stunning Gothic-Revival architecture of the exterior is very photogenic as well.

Climb the Dundee Law for a stunning view over the city skyline and the River Tay.

If you are not too short on time, we recommend a visit to the nearby Broughty Ferry and Glamis Castle.

How to Reach: It takes around one and a half hours from Glasgow by train.

9. Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is an incredibly beautiful island in the Firth of Clyde. Known as “Scotland in Miniature”, this island is an epic day trip choice from Glasgow. It showcases all the best things of Scotland in a nutshell – dramatic mountain peaks, castles, scenic coastlines, waterfalls, distilleries and quaint little villages. 

It might be a small island, but there is so much to keep you busy. Brodick is the main town of Arran. You will find many shops and restaurants there. History lovers will like a tour of Brodick Castle. It was once home to the powerful Dukes of Hamilton. 

There are many hiking trails around the island suitable for all levels. Experienced hikers can climb Goat Fell, the highest mountain on the Isle of Arran. For beginners, we recommend a walk to Machrie Moor stone circles, Glen Sannox and King’s Cave circuit.

One of our favourite places on this island is Lochranza. Located in the northern part of Arran, Lochranza has a ruined castle, a distillery, red deer and stunning views over to the Firth of Clyde.

How to reach: Board a train from Glasgow Central Station to Ardrossan Harbour, which takes about 45 minutes. From Ardrossan, hop on a CalMac ferry to Brodick in Arran. The crossing takes around 25 minutes.

10. St Abbs, Scottish Border

You can add this picturesque fishing village to your road trip itinerary down the North Sea coast of Scotland. While getting to St Abbs using public transport is quite time-consuming, it is a perfect place for a wee day trip from Glasgow by car.

It might be a tiny fishing village on the Berwickshire coast, but there are plenty of amazing things to do in St Abbs . Also, it happens to be one of the prettiest villages in Scotland .

St Abbs was featured in Avengers: Endgame movie and a Harry Styles music video. It is famous for its rugged coastline, abundance of wildlife, eye-catching views and various nature trails.

From the village, follow the waymarked path to see the seabird colony and a scenic lighthouse on St Abbs Head National Nature Reserve. The circular circuit takes around two hours to complete.

You can also take a wildlife boat tour departing from the village harbour.

Before leaving St Abbs, don’t forget to sample some delicious freshly caught seafood at Ebbcarrs Cafe, near the harbour.

How to Reach: From Glasgow, it typically takes about an hour and forty minutes to get to St Abbs by car.

11. Isle of Bute

Regarded as one of the most accessible Scottish islands, the Isle of Bute is a great choice for spending a day out from Glasgow.

Rothesay is the largest town on the island and a charming Victorian seaside resort. The main ferry terminal on the island is also located here. Take a ramble around the marina and admire the waterfront. 

One of the main tourist attractions of the town is the Rothesay Castle. It dates back to the early 13th century. Built by the influential Stewart family, this ruined castle was once a royal residence. 

Next, take a local bus to visit the magnificent Mount Stuart, a neo-gothic mansion. This 19th-century country house was designed by Scottish architect Sir Robert Rowand Anderson. Also, it is the ancestral home of the Marquesses of Bute. Take a tour of the house to explore the grand interior of Mount Stuart. Later, take a walk around the extensive gardens.

Before catching a return ferry, climb the Canada Hill viewpoint at Rothesay for a spectacular view of the town and the bay.

How to Reach: From Glasgow, catch a train to Wemyss Bay. Next, hop on a ferry to Rothesay, which takes only 35 minutes.

12. Largs and Great Cumbrae

Leave behind the hustle and bustle of Glasgow to enjoy a relaxing day trip in nature. Largs is a beautiful seaside town on the west coast of Scotland. Start your adventure with a walk along the lovely promenade. Lined with several restaurants, ice-cream shops and amusement centres, it is a vibrant place.

To learn the Viking heritage of Largs, visit Viking!, an interactive experience. Also, you can participate in the Largs Viking Festival held every year in early September.

Located on the outskirts of Largs, Kelburn Castle is one of the most unusual castles in Scotland. The exterior of this 13th-century castle is painted in bright and bold designs by Brazilian graffiti artists.

The Isle of Cumbrae is just a short ferry ride from Largs. Millport is the main town of the island and boasts stunning coastal views. Watch out for the Crocodile Rock, a beloved Cumbrae landmark. This island has a range of walking, cycling and kayaking opportunities.

How to Reach: Trains from Glasgow Central Station take about an hour to reach Largs. From Largs, the ferry crossing to Cumbrae takes only ten minutes.

13. Falkland & Culross

For all Outlander fans visiting Glasgow, this day trip is a must. You will get to explore two famous Outlander filming locations in Scotland. 

Culross is one of the prettiest historic villages in Scotland . Take a wander along the winding cobbled streets of this beautifully preserved village. Take a tour of the Culross Palace to learn its fascinating history. You will get a breathtaking view of the village and the Forth of Firth from the top of the Culross Palace garden.

Nestled at the foothill of the Lomond Hills in Fife, the pretty village of Falkland has appeared many times in the Outlander TV series. Falkland was shown as the city of Inverness, where Claire and Frank went for their second honeymoon.

One of the main tourist attractions of this village is the historic Falkland Palace & Garden. It served as the royal residence of several Scottish Kings and queens. Also, this royal dwelling was a firm favourite with the Mary, Queen of Scots. Also, you will find the world’s oldest surviving real tennis court inside the palace.

How to Reach: Although there is public transport available for both places, they are quite time-consuming. So, a car is preferable for this particular day trip. From Glasgow, it takes only an hour to drive to Falkland.

Day trips over Two hours from Glasgow

14. glen coe and fort william.

A road trip to Fort William via Glen Coe takes around two and a half hours from Glasgow. So, it’s a tempting day trip option to explore one of the most beautiful corners of Scotland.

Glen Coe is world-famous for its dramatic scenery, wild and rugged landscape, diverse wildlife and tragic past. There are many hiking trails around. You can stop at various viewpoints to take in the breathtaking vistas. Also, this area appeared in several blockbuster movies, like Harry Potter, Braveheart and Skyfall. 

Known as the outdoor capital of Scotland, Fort William is the home of the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis. There are a variety of things to do in Fort William .

Also, Fort William sits on the famous West Highland Line. It is renowned for being one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The train line starts from Glasgow Queen Street station and continues to Mallaig through the Harry Potter famed Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Instead of a day trip, we recommend spending the night in Fort William and extending your trip to the magical Isle of Skye via a ferry from Mallaig, about 40 miles from Fort William.

15. Loch Ness

Home of the notorious Loch Ness monster, Loch Ness is undoubtedly one of the most famous tourist attractions in Scotland.

If you are short on time, a day trip to Loch Ness from Glasgow may not be the craziest idea. Although, we would recommend using a car instead of public transport to maximise your time here.

Located on the bank of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of the most-visited castles in Scotland . Take a tour of the castle to discover the fascinating past of this historic fortress. Also, admire a stunning view over Loch Ness from here.

Take a boat tour to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscapes. Who knows, you might even spot Nessie. That would surely make a very memorable day trip.

Before driving back to Glasgow, stroll around the tiny village of Fort Augustus.

If you have more time, spend the night in Inverness, known as the capital of the Highlands.

Map of the Day Trips from Glasgow

Here is a map of all the amazing places mentioned in this article. Click on the link to save the Google Map on your phone, which you can use later. It also works when you are offline.

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5 Best Day Trips from Glasgow

Fancy a brilliant day trip from Glasgow? This dynamic city is centrally located in Scotland, which means there are plenty of historic attractions, castles, lochs, outdoor activities and remarkable landscapes right on Glasgow's doorstep. Here are some ideas and inspiration for great days out from Glasgow, from exploring national parks to an adventure on the coast.  

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Stirlingshire

Loch Katrine seen from the summit of Ben A'an in The Trossachs

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Time from Glasgow: 50-minute train, 45-minute drive 

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is one of Scotland’s national parks and is the perfect place to unplug from city life and explore some of the country’s most iconic scenery.  

Easily accessible by public transport from the centre of Glasgow, it’s amazing how quickly you can find yourself transported to woodland walks, rugged mountains and the bonnie, bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. The park has over 720 square miles to discover, with 21 Munros, 22 larger lochs and one of the UK’s largest National Nature Reserves – The Great Trossachs Forest. Take a cruise on the famous loch, kayak around some of the smaller islands dotted around the park or relax and unwind on the sandy beaches on the shorefront. 

Largs Ayrshire

Largs seafront and the Pencil Monument

Time from Glasgow: 1-hour train, 45-minute drive 

If you’re looking for an easy day trip from Glasgow to breathe in the fresh sea air, then Largs is for you! 

The town is a traditional seaside holiday escape on the west coast of Scotland, situated on the Firth of Clyde. Make sure you soak up all the classic beach holiday activities to enjoy, from strolling along the Victorian promenade to savouring an ice cream from Nardini’s - an iconic 1930s ice cream parlour with panoramic views. The town also has a rich history with strong Viking links, famous for a battle in 1263 when Alexander III defeated a Viking fleet of longboats. The Isle of Cumbrae is also only a short ferry trip from Largs and is well worth a visit.  

Isle of Arran Ayrshire and Arran

The pools at Glen Rosa with a view of Goat Fell on the Isle of Arran

Time from Glasgow: 45-minute train to Ardrossan, followed by 55-minute ferry   

The Isle of Arran is one of the most accessible islands off the west coast of Scotland. Just a short train or bus journey takes you to Ardrossan station, where you can catch a ferry to the island in under an hour. 

Arran is often described as ‘Scotland in miniature’ with beautiful seascapes, lochs, hills, standing stones and castles to discover. For those looking for adventure, its twisting roads and hilly landscapes lend itself to some excellent cycling routes, or you could climb Goatfell – the highest point on the island. There’s even an Arran Snorkel Trail if you’re ready to dive in! If history and heritage is more your thing, make sure you visit Brodick Castle, Gardens and Country Park, which was once the seat of the Dukes of Hamilton and has some lovely walks and trails in the grounds. At the north end of the island you’ll find Lochranza Distillery, where you can take a tour and sample a wee dram before heading back through to Glasgow.  

Stirling Central Scotland

Stirling Old Bridge

Time from Glasgow: 30-minute train, 45-minute drive 

Stirling is the historic heart of Scotland and an easy 30-minute train journey from Glasgow city centre. It’s the perfect day trip from Glasgow for history lovers and a great access point to explore the rolling hills and abundant fields of the surrounding countryside. 

There are so many iconic spots to visit in Stirling, it’s hard to know where to begin! Wander through the atmospheric medieval streets of the city centre and head up to Stirling Castle, which sits perched atop volcanic rocks and overlooks the whole city. It has a rich history and was the royal residence for many of Scotland’s kings and queens, including Mary Queen of Scots. From Stirling you can also take the short bus trip to the Wallace Monument – a stunning tower dedicated to Scotland’s national hero, William Wallace. It offers spectacular views across Stirlingshire as well as over Bannockburn, where Robert the Bruce defeated the English in 1314.  

New Lanark Lanarkshire

New Lanark Visitor Centre

Lanarkshire spans a wide area around Glasgow and is full of beautiful landscapes to uncover, including the Falls of Clyde and the hills of the Southern Uplands.  

Take the train to Lanark, an historic Royal Burgh with characterful streets, independent shops and green spaces to wander. A short drive or 30-minute walk takes you to New Lanark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site based in a former 18th century cotton spinning mill village, once owned by Robert Owen. Learn more about the people who worked here, and the rich textile heritage of the area. You can visit the Mill Cafe for a bite to eat, or the Mill Shop to take home your own unique gift. All of this is set within a National Nature Reserve, so there are also lots of picturesque surroundings to enjoy whilst you’re out of the city. 

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48 Hours in Glasgow

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The 15 best things to do in Glasgow for fun (no kilt required)

Jan 19, 2022 • 8 min read

Cobblestones, strings of lights and fun bars and restaurants make for a charming night out in Ashton Lane © georgeclerk / Getty Images

Glasgow packs a punch with its first-rate museums, distinguished dining venues, elegant outdoor spaces and other more...off-kilter attractions.

As well as ticking off some of the must-sees, you’ll find plenty of weird, wonderful (and just plain creepy) attractions to add to your itinerary in this bustling town. Want to walk through a fossilized forest? Or how about cycling along a 200-year-old canal? The sky’s the limit in Scotland ’s dynamic second city. Here’s some of the best things to do in Glasgow.

Get lost in the eclectic exhibitions of Kelvingrove Gallery & Museum

Set within Kelvingrove Park , the Kelvingrove Gallery & Museum  is a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in natural history. This mammoth museum features a real patchwork of exhibits, from contemporary art installations and displays of taxidermy wildlife to rooms full of ancient armor and other war relics. With 22 curated galleries in total, you’ll want to set aside a good chunk of time to take everything in. Free tours of the museum run twice a day, too. 

Admire 360-degree views from The Lighthouse 

Charles Rennie Mackintosh  left an indelible mark on his hometown – and no visit to the city is complete without taking in the work of this celebrated Art Nouveau architect and designer. Admiring his magnificent Glasgow School of Art was once one of the top things to do in central Glasgow, but a devastating fire in 2018 means it’s currently under reconstruction. Luckily,  The Lighthouse  offers an evocative taste of this design innovator’s accomplishments. 

Built in 1895 and tucked away on Mitchell Lane, the former headquarters of the Glasgow Herald was Mackintosh’s first-ever commission; today, building currently houses a permanent exhibition on the designer’s life work. A highlight is the stunning helical staircase leading to a viewing platform that boasts epic panoramas across the city.

Stroll through a forest that’s older than the dinosaurs

While you’ve surely hiked through a leafy forest before, how about a forest that’s over 300 million years old? Fossil Grove in Glasgow’s Victoria Park was discovered by accident in 1887 when the tranquil green space was first mapped out on the site of an abandoned quarry. The 11 fossilized tree stumps are thought to date to the Carboniferous period, and are now protected by Glasgow City Council within the Fossil Grove Building. It’s only very occasionally open to visitors, but worth checking out if the opportunity arises. 

Marvel at the marble in Glasgow City Chambers 

George Square is the hectic heart of the city center, and at the heart of the square is  Glasgow City Chambers . Built in the late 1800s, the edifice is now the headquarters of Glasgow City Council, which runs public tours twice daily. 

A trip to City Chambers is one of the top free things to do in Glasgow . Simply pick up your tickets in the reception hall and prepare to be wowed by its ornate interiors, including a magnificent marble staircase that’s been featured on the silver screen several times over the decades.

Tour the oldest dwelling in Glasgow  

A trip to Provand’s Lordship  – a quaint stone house that sits at the top of Castle Street close to Glasgow Cathedral  – is a unique thing to do for history buffs. Constructed in 1471, the medieval structure is decorated with 16th-century furnishings and houses several fine portraits of Scottish royals. If you have time, tour the St Nicholas Garden next door, which inspired by 15th-century medicinal gardens. 

Discover the drying poles at Glasgow Green

Glasgow Green has had many, many functions over the years, from grazing land for cattle to the venue for one of Scotland’s biggest music festivals. One of its more rustic uses was as a drying green for washing. Venture to its northeast border to find the original iron drying poles used by thousands of working-class residents living in nearby tenements from the 1700s to the mid-1900s. According to local law, Glaswegians still have the right to hang their washing out on the Green (though very few do).

Enjoy an evening out on Ashton Lane

Spending an evening on Instagram-worthy Ashton Lane is easily one of the best things to do as a couple in Glasgow. The cobbled street is crisscrossed with strings of pretty lights and packed with an array of restaurants and bars. Check out Belgian-themed Brel for beer and savory waffles. Alternatively, Ubiquitous Chip has been serving up top-notch Scottish produce – including haggis – since 1971. There’s an independent cinema, too, if you’d prefer a more relaxed night out. 

Learn about law-enforcement history at Glasgow Police Museum

Crime and punishment cast a dark shadow over Glasgow’s history. It was the first city in Britain to have a police force, a fact explored in great detail at the Glasgow Police Museum . Tucked away on Bell Street in Merchant City, this site offers  easily one of the coolest things to do in Glasgow. 

Learn compellingly gruesome details about crimes committed around the city over the centuries, and view various uniforms worn by Glasgow’s constabulary. While the museum is small and only open on Sundays and Tuesdays, it’s jam-packed with information and run by former police officers, giving it authority and grit. 

Check out the flesh-eating plants in the Kibble Palace

Glasgow Botanic Gardens  couldn’t be a better location for a breather as you’re exploring Glasgow’s West End. As well as romantic rose gardens, manicured pathways and an enviable vegetable patch, the park has several impressive Victorian greenhouses. 

The largest is the Kibble Palace, which was painstakingly dismantled and transported to Glasgow from its original home on Loch Long (some 50 miles away) in 2003. Wander inside to gaze up at towering tropical vegetation. At the entrance sits a large pond home to colorful koi carp; there’s also a room dedicated solely to carnivorous plants.

Cycle the Forth and Clyde canal

The Forth and Clyde Canal was built in the 1790s to connect Edinburgh with Glasgow, and still provides a direct 50-mile route between the two cities today (a fact more-active travelers might want to take advantage of). 

Rent a cycle from a local outfit like Bike & Go , then join the traffic-free Route 754 alongside the canal. While part of the journey takes you through not-so-attractive industrial landscapes, you’ll also get to soak up stunning Scottish rural scenery and glimpse local landmarks like the Falkirk Wheel , a futuristic boat lift built in the early 2000s to replace a stretch of crumbling canal locks. 

Cycling along the canal is best in spring or summer when the days are longest. If you poop out along the way, you can return via train to Glasgow, as many Scotrail services have dedicated bike storage onboard.

View the elaborate tombstones at Glasgow Necropolis

If you get a kick out of grand Gothic graveyards, head to Glasgow Necropolis . Situated on a hill behind Glasgow Royal Infirmary, this imposing cemetery dates back to Victorian times and is the final resting place of over 50,000 souls. Wind your way upwards along neat pathways and note the beautifully carved tombstones of the city’s elite, who made fortunes during the Industrial Revolution. Just be sure to exit before dark...

Visit a local brewery

While you certainly don’t want to miss out on visiting whisky distillery in the birthplace of single malt, Glasgow’s long list of pubs and breweries makes it one of the best cities for bar crawls . 

Next door to the Necropolis, you’ll find both the Tennent’s (Scotland’s favorite beer) and Drygate breweries, both of which have taprooms and offer tasting tours. Alternatively, on the edge of Glasgow Green , check out WEST Brewery (with tasty German-inspired snacks served alongside the artisan IPAs) or Shilling Brewing Company, lodged inside an imposing former bank on West George Street.

Follow the Kelvin River

The Kelvin River weaves its way through Glasgow’s West End, offering a beautiful spot for some peace and quiet. Head down the path just behind the Kibble Palace and you’ll reach the riverside. In autumn, it’s a riot of color, with massive trees showering the ground and water with a flurry of orange and yellow leaves. Trace the Kelvin Walkway down to the Riverside Museum on the River Clyde, passing little-known historic sites like the recently excavated flint mill near the Botanic Gardens.

Get some interior inspiration at House for an Art Lover 

If you can’t get enough of Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s designs, set aside a few hours for this gem. South of the city center in Bellahouston Park,  House for an Art Lover  was adapted from one of the architect’s final designs before his death in 1928. The handsome manor house functions as an art gallery, studio space and events venue, with many of its stylish interiors inspired by the designs of Mackintosh’s equally gifted wife.

Spark your imagination at Glasgow Science Centre

Searching for fun things to do with children? The Glasgow Science Centre won’t disappoint. Its awesome interactive displays and fun facilities, including a planetarium and IMAX cinema, make it a dream for tech-savvy kids. 

The center also has an immersive experience that lets you discover what it’s like to live in the Arctic, plus gardens designed to teach little ones about different habitats around the world. The Closed until summer 2022, Glasgow Tower offers an observation deck with rotating views across Glasgow and beyond.

You might also like: 10 free things to do in Glasgow The 8 best day trips from Glasgow Two days in Glasgow: 48 hours of fun in Scotland's largest city

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12 of the best Glasgow day trips

Discover the most memorable day trips from glasgow, from whisky distilleries and world-apart islands to canals, castles and cryptid tours.

D espite what you might be told, Glasgow’s secret weapon isn’t its gregarious locals, art, architecture, football teams nor rock’n’roll bands. It’s not its party-hard attitude or spirit-lifting mood no matter the state of the world, either. Whisper it, but it’s Glasgow’s enviable location, from which you can experience seemingly distant shores, discover distilleries and folkloric lochs, and tour history-rich castles, that really stirs the soul. Locals too show their appreciation for the area, especially on holidays and weekends, when those half or full-day tours are as busy with Glaswegians as they are with visitors from anywhere else. Factor in hotels, restaurants and bars that are every bit as good as in Edinburgh and a stay in Glasgow might suit you better. The connoisseur’s alternative to the capital? Perhaps.

Main photo: on the summit of Ben A’an, overlooking Loch Katrine in the Trossachs (Alamy)

1. Blend your own whisky

No surprise: Scots are rather partial to the smoky amber spirit and yet Glasgow’s contribution to the country’s whisky map is often overlooked. One exception is Glengoyne Distillery, which produces the country’s slowest distilled whisky and is 30 minutes north of Glasgow, easily accessible by public transport. The dram’s distinctive taste comes from the water from the Glengoyne Burn, but it’s also local lore that you can taste the winds that blow down the glen. Make of that what you will.

2. Ghost hunt at Culzean Castle

The Ayrshire coast is known as the home of national bard Robert Burns and championship golf courses, but another feather in its cap is this 16th-century stately manor. It’s haunted by seven ghosts — so tour guides say — and it’s not hard to believe when touring the estate’s shadowy woods, secret follies and hidden walled garden. More than anything, this is a place that encourages notions of fantasy and it’s ideal for family trips, with beaches and coves to explore, a deer park, adventure playground, buggy walks and swan pond. Note, it’s two hours each way, making for a long day tour from Glasgow.

3. Time travel to the days of Wallace and Bruce

Guardian of Scotland William Wallace was born outside Glasgow in Elderslie, but his story really comes to life in Stirling, the site of his greatest military success against Edward I, the Hammer of the Scots. Beneath Stirling Castle is the site of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, while atop Abbey Craig is the National Wallace Monument, a museum-cum-memorial that tells the blood-and-guts story of the patriot and martyr. There’s a hint of Mel Gibson bum-wiggling to keep the coach tours happy, but the real star is the view from the top of the open-air gothic spire. Ahead, framed by the Ochil Hills, a swathe of farmland unfolds south towards Bannockburn, the stomping ground of King of Scots, Robert the Bruce.

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4. See a field gun salute at Edinburgh Castle

Of all the trips from Glasgow to the east of Scotland, by far the most popular is the one to Edinburgh Castle in the capital. There is a love-hate relationship between the two cities, but even Glaswegians can’t deny the impulsive need for visitors to step back in time in Edinburgh at Scotland’s greatest castle. The path into its depths heads uphill beyond the Lawnmarket, across a dried-up moat and under a spiked portcullis where you can find all manner of sights; St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in the city, or the Honours of Scotland, the country’s equivalent of the Crown Jewels. Come at one o’clock to see a field gun fired from the battery across the city, a tradition that began in 1861.

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Best things to do in Edinburgh

5. Hunt for the Loch Ness Monster

Loch Ness is many things to many people. A glorious destination for hiking, biking, wild camping and canoeing; a setting for laidback cruises across its silvery sheen; a starting point for the ridiculously popular North Coast 500 drive around northern Scotland. Most people, though, are drawn by tales of Nessie, Scotland’s long-necked green freak, and tongue-in-cheek monster hunts are ten-a-penny from launch sites in and around Drumnadrochit and the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition. It requires effort — a full day from Glasgow to get here is a must. Allow for 3.5 hours each way, without stops.

6. See ‘Scotland in miniature’ in a day

Since pretty much the mid-20th-century, travellers to the Isle of Arran, perhaps a little pie-eyed on booze consumed on the one-hour Firth of Clyde crossing from Ardrossan, have likened the arrival in Brodick to reaching a kind of island paradise. The island is wilder than many expect, and yet crammed with history and things to do — from the Machrie Moor standing stones to best-in-class distilleries and Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park. Factor in any more than this — the thrilling Goatfell hiking circuit, perhaps — and you’ll need to stay overnight.

7. Cruise the Falkirk Whee l

Most travellers bypass Falkirk in the rush from Glasgow to Edinburgh. It’s a pity: the Lowlands town has architecture and art to spare and the focal point is around where the Forth & Clyde and Union Canals couple up. Here you’ll discover the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s only rotating boat lift, and the Kelpies, two world-beating equine sculptures made from steel. Rent a kayak or canoe, bring a bike, explore the wetland boardwalk, or join a tour for a spin around the wheel for a quick sail through the sky.

8. Salute the forever Queen of Scots

In a country where stories of kings and warrior poets are so common, the one about Mary, Queen of Scots stands head (ahem) and shoulders above the rest. Hers is one of romance, betrayal, drama and — ultimately — tragedy; the essence of her story can be felt in any number of places on a day trip from Glasgow. Visit South Lanarkshire’s Craignethan Castle, where Mary spent her last days in May 1568; strike farther afield to Linlithgow Palace (where she was born) and Lochleven Castle (where she was imprisoned); or discover Falkland Palace, the former country playground of the royal Stuarts and adored by Mary.

9. Spot red kites

Scotland is the land of the raptor and at many points on the compass it’s possible to see golden eagles, ospreys, kestrels, marsh harriers, common buzzards and more. Besides this, the Braes of Doune, north of Stirling, is the best place in the UK to see a fragile population of rewilded red kites. You’re here for the bird of prey hides, kite feeding stations and ranger-led tourism, but also for pond dipping sessions, ATV buggy tours and dragonfly walks. To extend the day trip, stop at nearby Doune Castle, then finish with a dram at Deanston Distillery.

10. Take a road trip to the Scottish Highlands

With its bald hills, deep lochs and wild moorlands, the Highlands is arguably Scotland’s most coveted destination. The modern age has added to its appeal, with baronial manor hotels and all manner of outdoor excursions, but it’s still possible to savour many of its highlights on a long day trip from the Central Belt. Start on the scenic A82 on the banks of Loch Lomond; continue through Crianlarich to Glencoe for Hollywood-worthy hills; then loop back via Appin, Oban and Loch Awe. It might feel counterintuitive to see it in such a whirl, but even in a blur it’ll blow your expectations away.

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11. Drive the ‘Rest and Be Thankful ’

Nowadays, there are so many road trip possibilities in Scotland that it’s hard to keep up. There’s the North Coast 500, South West Coastal 300, Snow Roads Scenic Route and Kintyre K66, but despite their arrival the one that’s easiest to tackle from Glasgow remains this time-honoured route through Glen Kinglas and Glen Croe. The aptly named section of the A83 is stacked with ridiculously beautiful mountain and loch views and it rewards on the other side with the sight of Loch Fyne and its terrific oyster bistro and brewery — both places that feel as distant from Glasgow as one can get in 90 minutes.

12. Tour Loch Lomond and the Trossachs

Loch Lomond is very much on the tourist map, but there are places to escape the crowds if you choose your moment wisely. The famous sights can be found at Loch Lomond Shores in Balloch and around Balmaha, and the drive through the Queen Elizabeth Forest Park to Loch Katrine is wild and beautiful — all are invigorating in any season. Far quieter are the walks around the Lake of Menteith, wild swimming spots on Lochs Venachar and Lubnaig and bike routes from Balquhidder. For a day trip treat at a slower pace, stop in at five-star Cameron House for afternoon tea and a potter around the resort’s marina.

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Take me there

Inspired to visit Glasgow but yet to book your trip? Here are the best packages from Easyjet Holidays and Expedia where you can save up to £100 off packages with when you spend £1500 using code 100PKGQ122 or save up to £50 when you spend £650 using code 50PKGQ122 . Book before April 3 for travel dates any time before October 2 2022.

Here’s a selection of some of the best Glasgow tour itineraries from our Times Travel partners.

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12 Brilliant Day Trips From Glasgow For A Dreamy Escape

Walk the fells, chase waterfalls and learn about the history of Scotland — all on a day trip from Glasgow!

Glasgow is a beautiful city but sometimes it’s nice to escape the crowds of people and see the beautiful spots on Glasgow’s doorstep. You don’t have to drive for long to have a nice day out near the city and these day trips prove it.

1. Campsie Fells

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Less than a 40 minutes drive from central Glasgow, you can escape to the beautiful hills of Campsie Fells . Walk for miles amidst this picturesque landscape and see something different at every turn, including the spooky Lennox Castle Hospital , an abandoned mental hospital. Many visitors also choose to stop in at the Glengoyne Distillery and sample some delicious whisky on one of their distillery tours.

The village of Campsie Glen sits nestled between the fells and there you can visit the Shrine of Schoenstatt , which is fabled to be “a connecting point between Heaven and earth” . The village is full of old buildings and there are woodlands surrounding it that are perfect for a peaceful walk.

2. Finnech Glen

You should definitely visit Finnech Glen , also known as Devil’s Pulpit , but exercise caution when descending the slippery stairs, named Jacob’s Ladder or the Devil’s Steps . Once you reach the bottom, you can walk through a stream with an amazing ruby red base. Its colour comes from the red sandstone that has been worn away by the water to form the glen. You’ll find this breathtaking spot just 30 minutes north of Glasgow by car.

3. Isle of Arran

The Isle of Arran is an absolute gem . People go on their holidays here so, if you’re going for the day, there are loads of options for things to do. First things first — there’s a whisky distillery and a cheese producer here, both of which you can visit. Then you can relax on the beautiful Brodick Bay , visit the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum , or spend some time exploring Brodick Castle .

4. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

The impressive Loch Lomond runs through the beautiful Trossochs National Park , which is speckled with beautiful hills and waterfalls to explore. It would be near impossible to explore the whole area in a day but you can take a cruise boat along the loch to get a sense of the place.

There are loads of tiny islands on the loch. Visit Inchcailloch where you can sit in seclusion with the wildlife and the loch surrounding you. Inchacailloch means ‘island of the old or cowled woman’ and it’s supposedly where St. Kentigerna , an Irish missionary, lived and died.

If you’re after more of a walk , you can venture out around Loch Lomond’s shores to find Rob Roy’s Cave , and if you’re in for a bit more of a challenge, you can climb Ben Lomond and back. Ben Lomond takes between four and five hours depending on your fitness level, so it’s the perfect day trip.

5. Loup of Fintry

Loup of Fintry is a stunning waterfall , only a 45 minute drive from Glasgow. You can bring a picnic and sit on the grass, whilst listening to the roar of the water rushing over the rocks. It’s the ideal serene mini getaway we’ve all ben hoping for.

6. Stirling

Stirling Castle might just be one of the most beautiful day trips in Scotland. Perched atop a volcanic hill, just 40 minutes outside of Glasgow, there are plenty of things to see and do within the castle walls. The castle offers an opportunity to learn about the history of Scottish royalty and the military history of Scotland. The onsite Unicorn Cafe also serves refreshments. You don’t have to book in advance but if you’ve travelled from Glasgow then it’s advisable to do so. You can buy tickets in advance online and adult tickets are £16.50 .

If you’re in Falkirk then you simply have to see The Kelpies . These huge steel sculptures of two horse’s heads tower 30 metres above the ground, and they represent the murderous shape-shifting mythical creatures that would appear to humans in the shape of a horse. Once the human rode it, the victims would be then drowned by these beings. As you’re exploring this iconic monument, there’s also a gift shop and some cafes, so you can sit and relax on your day out.

What is more, make your wee day out into a fun cycling adventure to the Falkirk Wheel, which is simply fascinating. It lifts boats that sit on tons of water into the air and transports them, providing a terrific transport route to Glasgow. You can also find our guide to local cycling routes for day trips here .

8. Arrochar, Argyll and Bute

On top of making the UK’s Best Hidden Gems list last year, the quaint village of Arrochar is a place for stunning vistas, challenging walks and memorable day trips. With Ben Lomond gracing the village on the one side, and the rocky summit of The Cobbler within the Arrochar Alps on the other, Arrochar sits at the banks of the lakes making it the perfect place to relax after a long day of adventuring.

If you want to actually brave The Cobbler , the path is around 11km and should take four to six hours . Make a start on the opposite side of the road of the Succoth car park and follow the (barely marked) red way markers. The path could prove more difficult at times to less experienced hikers, and once you reached the summit (unless you’re a rock climber), come back down the same way you came up.

9. The Secret Scottish Pyramid

That’s right, Scotland has a pyramid, and it has nothing to do with Ancient Egypt. Instead, it has a regal history that dates back to Queen Victoria. The Secret Scottish Pyramid , also known as Prince Albert’s Cairn, sits in the cosy woodland of Cairngorms National Park in the North East of Scotland, not too far from the Royal Balmoral Estate . Located around a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Glasgow, the woodland walk on the Balmoral Estate offers one of the more unique day trips , with views of the Balmoral Castle and a stunning view over the national park once you reach Prince Albert’s Cairn. As usual for Scottish terrain, bring your hiking boots as there might be muddy patches along the way.

10. Dunkeld

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Located around an hour and 15 minutes from Glasgow, Dunkeld was also named the best place to live in Scotland by The Sunday Times in 2023, so it’s not just one of the best day trips . Dunkeld is located in Perthshire , around one hour and 15 minutes drive from Glasgow. The village is a favourite for pretty village enthusiasts and boasts refreshing nature walks , calming scenery and a charismatic, friendly aura within the village. There are plenty of local businesses to check out, such as The Great British Bake-Off star Flora Shedden’s Aran Bakery , The Taybank and The Birnam Arts Institute .

11. The Japanese Garden at Cowden

What if we told you you could travel to the Far East by just driving an hour from the city? Well, when it comes to day trips near Glasgow , feeling like you left the country without going far offers a special allure. The Japanese Garden at Cowden is also named “Sha Raku En”, meaning “a place of pleasure and delight”, and is located just 50 minutes from Glasgow. Founded by Ella Christie , the spot aims to merge the two cultures, bringing a welcome union of Japanese and Scottish flairs. While guests have to pay £8.50 to get into the garden, there is also a tearoom to unwind and enjoy the day.

12. North Berwick

North Berwick is a quaint little seaside town on the East Coast two hours from Glasgow, centring around two beaches . Its picturesque location offers plenty of walking opportunities, as well as independent businesses and cute wee pubs worthy of checking out. What is more, North Berwick was named the best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times in 2024, recognising its appeal and quality of life.

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Tourist Advice for Visitors to Glasgow

As the largest city in Scotland, Glasgow is a wonderful destination for tourists. The city has well over a thousand years of history and is home to many of the finest historic buildings in the country, but it’s also an ultra-modern city with many of Scotland’s best restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Discover everything you need to know about visiting this incredible metropolis in this complete Glasgow tourist information guide, which includes details about where to eat, where to stay, transport, the weather, and the best places to go shopping.

How to Get to Glasgow

One of the reasons Glasgow is so popular is that it’s easy to get to thanks to excellent transport links both inside the city and on its outskirts.

If you’re choosing to fly, you’ll find Glasgow Airport (address: Paisley, PA3 2SW) is just a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre using the Glasgow Airport Express service 500. These buses are ultra-efficient and depart every 10 minutes, so you’ll never wait long to catch one, plus they operate 24/7 (except for Christmas Day).

You’ll find them at the airport stance 1 when you arrive and Buchanan Bus Station stance 46 when you depart. They’re reasonably priced at around £20 for a family ticket.

Be aware that Glasgow Airport is enormous (it is, after all, an international travel hub serving more than 30 airlines) and it gets very busy, so the airport buses are more often than not jam-packed. With that in mind, you might prefer to hire a taxi from the dedicated taxi ranks at the airport entrance or take a train into the city centre from Paisley Gilmour Street station, which is around one mile from the terminal.

Note: If you need more information about how to travel around the city, the Glasgow tourist information centre is located inside the International airport. There is a second information centre in George Square in the city centre.

The other major airport you could use is Glasgow Prestwick (address: Prestwick KA9 2PL) which is quite a bit further out at 32 miles from the city centre but has its own railway station that connects to Glasgow Central Station in just 45 minutes.

Glasgow Prestwick airport has shuttle services to outlying car parks if you’d rather drive, and it also has bus services that connect to the city centre. Check out the Stagecoach website for further details.

Another popular travel option is the train and you can reach the city centre from the south of Scotland at Glasgow Central Station or from Edinburgh and the north of Scotland at Queen Street Station .

Both stations are easily accessible from the city centre and make travelling to the rest of the country an absolute breeze, especially if you intend to combine a visit to Glasgow with Edinburgh as the train journey between them only takes one hour.

If you want to find out more about Scotland’s airports and how to travel between them take a look at: The Complete Guide to Scotland’s Airports or for train travel check out: How to Tour Scotland by Train .

How to Travel Around Glasgow

Much like Edinburgh’s 18th-century New Town design, Glasgow is built on a grid system which makes it easy to navigate. There’s an extensive bus network provided by First Bus , and taxis can be hailed from pretty much anywhere in the city centre.

Due to the fact that many of the best tourist attractions are spread across the city I recommend you take advantage of the SPT Subway system which runs in a circle around the most-visited areas. You can then walk to your destination from the nearest station.

The subway – the only one in Scotland – is insanely convenient and takes just 24 minutes to complete a full circuit of its 15 stations. The carriages are clean and modern, and the tickets are reasonably priced at around £4 for an all-day adult smart card.

As a top tip, I recommend heading to the SPT website and downloading a copy of their station map as it will help you visit the city’s attractions and find the most convenient subway stops. Alternatively, head over to Google Maps as they also list all the SPT stations.

Glasgow’s buses, meanwhile, have to contend with jam-packed streets and I’m afraid they’re not a patch on Edinburgh’s beautifully clean Lothian Buses. That being said, First Buses cover the entire city, and you can get an adult day ticket across all city zones for around £5, which makes it a cheap way to go sightseeing.

Your best resource for using buses in Glasgow is the First Bus website which has a handy travel planner, but they also have a dedicated mobile app that offers the same service.

As far as taxis are concerned, they’re by far the easiest option but also the most expensive. Glasgow Taxis are the official licenced service, and they have an amazing website that makes booking an absolute doddle. They have a fleet of over 800 taxis and operate 24/7, 365 days a year, so you’ll always be able to get to your destination no matter what the other types of public transport are doing.

Where to Stay in Glasgow

In my experience, booking hotels in Glasgow is much easier than in Edinburgh. Edinburgh attracts more tourists than Glasgow, and it’s a much smaller city, meaning hotels have to be booked well in advance, especially in the summer.

Glasgow, on the other hand, is almost twice the size of the capital and is more geared towards being a business hub which in turn means there are more hotels and they’re generally cheaper. These reasonable prices make Glasgow an attractive option for tourists, with the added bonus that there’s no need to search for accommodation on the city’s outskirts, as you often have to do when visiting the capital.

Having stayed in Glasgow many times over the years, I have a few recommendations which I’ll list below along with a selection of others that have good online reviews. All of these hotels are located within walking distance of the city centre, and most offer a decent breakfast, free WiFi, free parking, and disabled access.

Budget Hotels

The Z Hotel Glasgow .   Address: 36 North Frederick Street, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G1 2BS. Located just 200 yards from Queen Street Station, this hotel caters to travellers on a budget while offering a high level of accommodation. The hotel serves a continental breakfast each morning and a selection of light meals throughout the day.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, free WiFi, 24-hour front desk, lift, bar.

Point A Hotel Glasgow . Address: 80 Bath Street, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G2 2EN. This budget chain focuses on offering cheap, clean, and modern rooms at a very affordable price. Prices tend to be around the same as Travelodge, but the rooms are nicer, though maybe a little bit smaller. This particular hotel is located close to the Royal Concert Hall.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, parking, facilities for disabled guests, 24-hour front desk, lift.

ibis budget Glasgow . Address: 2A Springfield Quay, South, Glasgow, G5 8NP. Ibis budget hotels are nicer than their name suggests. The rooms are modern, elegant, and undeniably cheap, but a wee bit small. Perhaps most importantly, this hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the city centre.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, WiFi available in all areas, free parking, pets allowed, bar, good breakfast.

Mid-Range Hotels

ibis Styles Glasgow Central . Address: 116 Waterloo Street Douglas House, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G27DN. This hotel is located less than a mile from George Square and the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. The rooms are modern and elegantly styled, though not much larger than a Travelodge room. However, they include lots of features, such as a smart TV and coffee facilities, and there’s a relaxed lounge/restaurant in the foyer.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, family rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, 24-hour front desk, bar, very good breakfast.

Motel One Glasgow . Address: 78-82 Oswald Street , Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G1 4PL. Motel One is a chain that successfully manages to bridge the gap between budget prices and mid-tier quality. This hotel is conveniently located close to George Square and features a great lounge area.

Facilities: non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, free WiFi, pets allowed, 24-hour front desk, bar, good breakfast.

Dakota Glasgow . Address: 179 West Regent Street, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G2 4DP. The Dakota chain leans towards business travellers, which in turn means the rooms are of a very high standard. Dakota is best known for its executive suites, which offer top-tier luxury rooms at mid-range prices. This hotel is located one mile from the Kelvingrove Art Gallery .

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, WiFi available in all areas, parking, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, fabulous breakfast.

Top-Tier Hotels

One Devonshire Gardens a Hotel Du Vin . Address: One Devonshire Gardens, North West, Glasgow, G12 0UX. This 5-star boutique hotel in Glasgow’s fashionable west end features luxurious rooms, a well-stocked wine cellar, and a restaurant that sources its meat from the king’s own supplier.

Facilities: Non-smoking rooms, fitness centre, family rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, superb breakfast.

Kimpton-Blythswood Square Hotel . Address: 11 Blythswood Square, Glasgow City Centre, Glasgow, G2 4AD. The 5-star Kimpton Hotel dates from 1823 and is located in the heart of Glasgow city centre. Each room features a marble bathroom, and hotel guests have access to a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, and a first-class restaurant.

Facilities: Swimming pool, non-smoking rooms, very good fitness centre, facilities for disabled guests, spa and wellness centre, restaurant, room service, bar, very good breakfast.

Sherbrooke Castle Hotel . Address: 11 Sherbrooke Avenue, South, Glasgow, G41 4PG. Sherbrooke Castle Hotel is situated a little outside of the city centre, but it is the best choice for tourists looking for a peaceful location. The hotel sports enormous luxury bedrooms, a well-stocked bar, and an à la carte restaurant.

Facilities: non-smoking rooms, facilities for disabled guests, restaurant, room service, free parking, pets allowed, tea/coffee maker in all rooms, bar, superb breakfast.

If you’re ready to book your Glasgow hotel, I recommend using the  Travel Supermarket website  which lists virtually every hotel in the city at competitive prices you’re unlikely to find elsewhere.

Where to Eat in Glasgow

Glasgow takes the crown as the city with the best restaurants in Scotland and it isn’t far behind London when it comes to quality dining, whether it’s ultra-luxurious French cuisine or fragrant dishes from the Orient.

The majority of the top places to eat are located in the city centre, where you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice at all price ranges, although even ‘budget’ isn’t that cheap in Glasgow, which has seen year-on-year menu price rises. Still, if you’re a foodie looking to try something new, there’s no better place to eat than Glasgow, and the city recently received its first Michelin star at the superb (and expensive) Cail Bruich.

As nice as the finest restaurants are, their prices mean the majority of Glasgow tourists will have their sights set elsewhere, so I’ve included a selection of quality city centre restaurants that have affordable menus in the following list.

Horn, please . Address: 91B, Berkeley Street, G3 7DX.

A contemporary restaurant that serves Indian dishes with a modern twist. The interior is relaxed and inviting, and the menu is mouth-watering, with a highly-rated selection of cocktails to compliment each dish.

Bread Meats Bread . Address: Horn Please, 91B, Berkeley Street, G3 7DX.

This is probably the best place in Glasgow for burgers, all of which are as up-market and as far-removed from fast-food joints as it’s possible to get. The portions are huge too.

The Finnieston . Address: 1125, Argyle Street, G3 8ND.

This restaurant on Argyle Street has a wonderful old-school charm mixed with a trendy atmosphere that makes it one of the best in the city for couples and young families. The menu is predominantly seafood but there are vegetarian options as well.

Chaakoo Bombay Café . Address: 79, St Vincent Street, G2 5TF.

An ultra-chic dining experience based on 19th-century Iranian cafés and styled to match. The food is mostly meat dishes that are served on small plates that guests are encouraged to share between them.

Six by Nico . Address: 1132, Argyle Street, G3 8TD.

The unique menus of Six by Nico change completely every six weeks, so re-visiting later in the year means you’ll get to experience new tastes and food styles. The decor is relaxed and informal, and the food is highly rated among those in the know.

Sugo Pasta . Address: Mitchell Street, G1 3LN.

Sugo Pasta is an Italian restaurant that features the very best dishes from Tuscany, Sicily and Abbruzzo. Obviously, pasta is the name of the game at this restaurant and their freshly-made pasta is widely regarded as the finest in the city.

The Spanish Butcher . Address: 80, Miller Street, G1 1DT.

Merchant City is a famous area of Glasgow that’s home to designer boutiques and gourmet places to eat, including this restaurant which serves dishes inspired by flavours from Spain and the Mediterranean.

Alchemilla . Address: 1126 Argyle St, Glasgow, G3 8TD.

Another Argyle Street favourite, Alchemilla is a feat for the senses with a menu that’s inspired by the Mediterranean. Dishes are presented on small plates that are designed for Tapas-style sharing.

Kimchi Cult . Address: 14 Chancellor Street, G11 5RQ.

This is one of the few Korean-style fast food restaurants in Scotland but it has received acclaim thanks to its reasonably-priced dishes that feature big, bold flavours.

Ox and Finch . Address: 920 Sauchiehall St, Finnieston, Glasgow, G3 7TF.

This is another trendy restaurant, only this time it features a selection of dishes that are predominantly sourced from Scotland. Of particular note is the extensive wine list that offers something to go with any and every meal.

Bilson Eleven . Address: 10 Annfield Place, Dennistoun, Glasgow, G31 2XQ.

A very small, exclusive, and utterly delectable restaurant that prides itself in serving the finest Scottish produce in the city. Reservations are a must and although the prices are high, the quality of food on offer is even higher. This is the place to eat on very special occasions.

The Hanoi Bike Shop . Address: 8 Ruthven Lane, Glasgow, G12 9BG.

Vietnamese restaurant that welcomes visitors to its informal and intimate setting with tables for two, bright plastic stools, and delicious food featuring spicy chicken and seafood dishes served with melt-in-your-mouth noodles.

The Gannet . Address: 1155 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8TB.

The Gannet opened in 2013 to rave reviews thanks to its fine Scottish dining that’s offered at very reasonable prices. The interior is minimalistic and cheery and the food ranges from light seafood dishes to hearty beef platters.

The weather & best time to visit Glasgow

Due to the fact the west coast is close to the Atlantic, you’ll frequently find temperatures are a little bit cooler than the east coast, although because Glasgow is set inland it misses out on many of the downpours that the coastal towns are subjected to.

July and August (according to holidayweather.com ) are regarded as the hottest months with average temperatures sitting around 15 °C, while January tends to be the coldest with average temperatures of 3 °C.

Bear in mind these are average temperatures and day-to-day conditions can vary considerably so don’t be surprised to find yourself in blazing high-20s sunshine in summer and below-freezing blizzards in winter.

That being said, you can pretty much guarantee that outside of the summer months you’ll be subjected to quite a few rainy days and unfortunately Glasgow doesn’t fare too well when it comes to getting a good-old-fashioned British downpour.

December and January suffer the worst of the wet weather, with an average of 25 rainy days per month, and even August gets between 10 and 15 days of rain, so you might want to pack an umbrella if you’re thinking of visiting. But at least Glasgow gets plenty of summer daylight, and you’ll find the sun rising around 5 am and setting at 10 pm, giving you a full 17 hours of light to enjoy.

This is in contrast to winter when the sun rises around 8.30 in the morning and sets around 4 pm, giving you a miserable 7 and a half hours of light which might be worth bearing in mind if you’re thinking of visiting the city in the colder months.

The upside of visiting Glasgow in the winter is that there are far fewer tourists, which means queues for the top attractions are virtually non-existent and hotel prices are much lower—often half of what you’d expect to pay in the summer. So bearing the weather in mind, which are the best months to visit Glasgow?

Well, to be honest, there is no ‘best’ time to visit Glasgow. Sure, in summer it’s warmer and the days are longer, but most visitors will spend the majority of the day indoors either exploring tourist attractions, dining in restaurants, or relaxing in their hotel.

While the weather might be a consideration if you’re planning to walk everywhere, due to Glasgow’s superb public transport options it’s possible to visit every corner of the city by bus, subway and taxi, meaning you hardly ever have to venture outdoors.

The one caveat that might affect your decision on when to visit is the events and festivals held throughout the year – the TRNSMT music festival and the Glasgow Christmas festival being two examples.

My advice for choosing a time to visit depends on how resilient you are to the cold and whether there are any specific festivals you’d like to see. For an updated list of upcoming Glasgow events, visit the eventbrite website.

Places to Go Shopping in Glasgow

Glasgow is well known for its shopping which is – without doubt – the best in Scotland. While Edinburgh has Princes Street and the newly-opened St. James Quarter, Glasgow shoppers can enjoy the entire city centre, which features most of the big-name brands on Buchanan Street, Sauchiehall Street, and Argyle Street.

In addition to the pedestrianised areas, there are a number of markets and shopping malls that feature a collection of boutique shops, and the city has become something of a Mecca for bargain hunters thanks to the market stalls that sell everything from designer cosmetics to vintage clothes. In fact, there are so many places to go shopping in Glasgow that it’s difficult to know where to start, so I’ve included an overview of recommended shopping areas below.

intu Braehead . As is the case with most modern out-of-town shopping centres, this one on King’s Inch Road looks like a square glass box from the outside, but inside shoppers can enjoy over 100 large stores in pleasant air-conditioned surroundings.

One thing that differentiates it from the other shopping centres on this list is the number of entertainment venues in addition to its shops, including a trampoline park, a laser tag arena, an indoor ski centre, and a rock climbing centre, amongst others. It’s definitely one to keep in mind if you’re travelling with children.

Argyll Arcade . If you’re looking for jewellery, there’s only one destination you need to keep in mind while in Glasgow, and that’s Argyll Arcade. This isn’t the largest shopping centre by a long margin, but there are an incredible 32 jewellers on the site that sell everything from top-end luxury watches to wedding rings and costume jewellery.

Of particular note is the Parisian-style decor of the arcade which dates back to 1827 (making it one of Europe’s oldest shopping arcades).

Buchanan Galleries . This shopping centre is located at the top of Buchanan Street and is recognised as one of the premier shopping destinations in the UK. Many of Glasgow’s biggest shops are located in Buchanan Galleries, including John Lewis, but there are also lots of smaller independent shops trading under its roof. In total, 80 businesses are located at Buchanan Galleries, which include a number of fast food outlets and coffee shops.

Royal Exchange Square . There are restaurants, bars, and shops all around this sizable public square in Glasgow. It’s best known for its canopy of twinkling lights that are very pretty and make a perfect backdrop to an evening shopping experience. The Gallery of Modern Art dominates the centre of the square, and George Street is just a couple of minutes away, so it’s likely you’ll end up visiting Royal Exchange Square whether you intend to or not.

Glasgow Fort . Glasgow Fort lies outside the city centre but has been included, as access to it is supremely easy thanks to plentiful car parking and dedicated bus links from the city centre. It has been designed to replicate the feel of a modern High Street and is much less crowded than any of the shopping districts in the city centre, making Glasgow Fort the preferred place to shop for locals.

Buchanan Street . This is the busiest and best-known shopping area of Glasgow, primarily because it’s located in the heart of the city centre so is easily stumbled upon by tourists as they make their way between attractions.

Buchanan Street is a pedestrianized street that features most of the big-name brands shoppers have come to expect, and it’s the go-to destination for weekend shoppers thanks to its diverse collection of bars, cafés, and restaurants nestled between the shops.

Merchant Square . Glasgow is chock-a-block full of attractive Edwardian buildings, and Merchant Square is a prime example of them with its sweeping panes of glass and dramatic multi-tiered arches. You’ll find it just a 5-minute walk from the St. Enoch Centre in Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.

A visit is highly recommended, as it’s the best place to find independent boutiques and homemade arts and crafts that are a world away from the giant stores you’ll find elsewhere. One important point to note is that this is the only retail area in Glasgow that has very late-night shopping, with some stores staying open until 3 am.

St. Enoch Centre . This certainly isn’t the prettiest indoor shopping centre in this list but it is one of the largest, featuring more than 100 individual stores retailing everything from fashion and gadgets to food, toys, and books. The St. Enoch Centre is notable for its enormous glass roof, which is the largest glass-enclosed area in Europe and has earned it the nickname ‘the Glasgow greenhouse’.

Princes Square . Chic Princes Square on Buchanan Street was originally built as a 4-story merchant square in 1841 but was converted into its present use as a stylish shopping mall in 1988 after undergoing a multimillion-pound refurbishment. This is best known as a fashion and jewellery mall, but it also hosts a cinema and a number of quality restaurants and cafés.

The Barras Market . The Barras Market is probably best known by locals, but if you’re a visiting weekend tourist looking to do something a little different outside of the city centre, it’s certainly worth making the 10-minute journey to Gallowgate. Once there, you’ll find a large traditional marketplace full of outdoor stalls that sell everything you can think of, from handmade ornaments to vintage fashion and domestic appliances.

Barras Market has a great atmosphere, and it’s worth visiting just for the delicious, but very unhealthy, food stalls that you won’t find elsewhere in the city centre.

What do I need to know before going to Glasgow?

1. Most of the main attractions in Glasgow are completely free to enter. Highlights include Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , the Tall Ship , the Peoples Palace, and the Riverside Museum , all of which have no entry fee.

2. Glasgow is home to Scotland’s only underground transport system. The SPT railway allows fast travel around the city on a circular route, with day tickets costing less than £5. Just remember that it closes at 6 pm on Sunday.

3. On a sunny day, there are several superb outdoor green spaces that are popular with locals; Glasgow Green , the Botanic Garden and Pollok Country Park are among the best. A hidden gem is the Necropolis .

Is Glasgow good for tourists?

Glasgow is a good city for tourists. The majority of the main attractions are free and getting around them is easy thanks to a subway, lots of buses, and plenty of taxis. Glasgow is also the best city in Scotland for shopping and is one of the best in the UK for nightlife.

What should I know before travelling to Scotland?

1. English is spoken everywhere in Scotland and is the main language in the south of the country. Heading north into the Highlands and into the Western Isles, the primary language changes to Scottish Gaelic.

2. Most Scots only wear kilts at formal events such as weddings, so trying to fit in by wearing a kilt at any other time will likely raise a few eyebrows.

3. Tipping is not mandatory in Scotland, but if you feel the service in a restaurant was good, feel free to leave an extra 5–10%. Many card terminals offer the option to add a tip when it’s time to pay.

How many days in Glasgow is enough?

For the majority of visitors, 2 days will be enough to experience the best that Glasgow has to offer. A 2-day itinerary can be found in this article: A Weekend Break in Glasgow .

Related Posts

The Best Things to Do in Glasgow With Children

The Best Things to Do in Glasgow City Centre

Pollok Country Park Visitor Guide

The Burrell Collection Visitor Guide

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

13 Best Day Trips From Glasgow by Train

Posted on Last updated: March 12, 2024

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Are you visiting Glasgow but might want to add some day trips to your Scotland itinerary? Check out these amazing day trips from Glasgow by train that are totally worth the effort!

This list of day trips from glasgow by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Scotland’s largest city Glasgow is a fantastic place to visit for a day or two thanks to its plethora of museums, parks, and world cuisine. 

But if you’re sticking around for longer than a weekend, there are so many places to visit near Glasgow to make your trip to Scotland even more memorable!

While there are some great day trips from Glasgow by bus, there are few Glasgow day tours as most depart from Edinburgh.

Lucky for you, there are tons of easy and exciting day trips from Glasgow by train!

This guide includes all the best day trips from Glasgow to Highlands, port towns, beach towns, other exciting cities, national parks, and more.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Edinburgh

Let’s face it, you cannot visit Glasgow without visiting Scotland’s capital! Luckily, day trips from Glasgow to Edinburgh are super easy to take by train.

Essential sights to see are Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, and the National Museum of Scotland. Walk through Princes Street Garden if it’s a sunny day and climb Calton Hill for sunset before hopping on the train back to Glasgow!

How To Get From Glasgow to Edinburgh by Train

Distance: 47.3 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, take a direct ScotRail train to Edinburgh Waverley station. These services take around an hour, but there are longer direct services of around 90 minutes from Glasgow Central too.

Trains depart very frequently, often four times an hour. Return tickets cost around £16.

Glasgow to Loch Lomond Day Trip

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs is one of two Scottish national parks and it’s one of the best day trips from Glasgow. 

Climb Conic Hill (or Ben More if you’re a keen hiker!) for epic countryside views and hire kayaks or sail on the Maid of the Loch to see more of Loch Lomond. It’s the largest lake in Scotland by surface area, so it’s well worth setting!

How To Get From Glasgow to Loch Lomond by Train

Distance: 24.9 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, hop on a direct ScotRail train to Balloch station. This train takes less than 60 minutes and departs approximately every 30 minutes. Return tickets cost around £7.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Ayr

Ayr is one of the most underrated day trips from Glasgow by train. It’s quick and easy to navigate with high rewards. 

There’s a small neighborhood called Alloway which is the birthplace of world-renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns. Stroll along the Poet’s Path which connects the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum with the Burns Cottage (where he was born) and the Burns Memorial Gardens.

You can also visit places mentioned in his poems like Alloway Auld Kirk which means ‘old church’ and Brig O’ Doon, which means ‘Bridge over the River Doon’.

How To Get From Glasgow to Ayr by Train

Distance: 37.2 miles

From Glasgow Central station, catch a ScotRail train to Prestwick station which takes about 45 minutes. Then, catch a connecting service to Ayr station which should take no longer than 10 minutes. 

Trains with a connection depart approximately every half an hour and return tickets cost an average of £12.

Glasgow to Oban Day Trip

Taking day trips from Glasgow by train isn’t the quickest way to explore the Highlands, but it’s easy. Plus, you can avoid renting a car and driving along Scotland’s narrow country lanes!

Oban is a scenic port town on Scotland’s west coast. You can visit Oban Distillery, a 19th-century stone tower on top of Battery Hill, and enjoy beautiful views across the water to the Isle of Kerrera.

How To Get From Glasgow to Oban by Train

Distance: 96.5 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, take a direct ScotRail service to Oban station. While these trains can take three hours, they’re direct and you can have incredible views! 

These services depart approximately every 90 minutes and the cost of a single ticket starts from £17.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Stirling

One of the easiest, quickest, and best places to take Glasgow day trips is Stirling.

This city sits at the top of the Firth of Forth. One of the top places to visit is Stirling Castle , an important 12th-century former palace that sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the city.

Another top place to visit in Stirling is the National Wallace Monument. This tower is dedicated to Sir William Wallace, one of the leaders of the First War of Scottish Independence, which also offers stunning views.

How To Get From Glasgow to Stirling by Train

Distance: 27 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, catch a direct ScotRail service to Stirling station. These trains take around 30 – 40 minutes and depart every 10 – 15 minutes. Return tickets cost from £10.

Glasgow to Gretna Green Day Trip

Gretna Green is a town on the English border famous for weddings between runaway English couples in the 18th century. Whereas couples under 21 couldn’t get married without their parents’ consent, they could in Scotland.

Gretna Green’s famous Blacksmith shop which hosted these elopements is now a museum. This romantic town makes for one of the best underrated day trips from Glasgow, Scotland for couples.

How To Get From Glasgow to Gretna Green by Train

Distance: 86.9 miles

From Glasgow Central , take an Avanti West Coast service to Carlisle station which takes around 75 minutes. Then, take a connecting ScotRail train to Gretna Green station which takes around 15 minutes. 

Return tickets start from around £20 and approximately 15 trains travel along this route every day.

Day Trip from Glasgow to the Isle of Bute

Yes, you can even visit an island on your one-day trip from Glasgow by train! Granted, you’ll have to team your train journey with a ferry ride, but it’s totally doable.

Rothesay is a beautiful town on the Isle of Bute. Visit Rothesay Castle, climb up Canada Hill, and visit the eclectic Rothesay Victorian Toilet Museum. You won’t forget a day trip like this in a hurry.

How To Get From Glasgow to the Isle of Bute by Train

Distance: 39.6 miles

From Glasgow Central station, hop on a direct ScotRail service to Wemyss Bay station which takes around 50 minutes. Then, jump on a ferry from Wemyss Bay port right next to the station to Rothesay Ferry Terminal on the Isle of Bute which takes 35 minutes.

Return train tickets start from around £10 and return ferry tickets cost £7.60. Trains and connecting ferries depart approximately once per hour.

Day Trip from Glasgow to the Isle of Arran

The Isle of Bute isn’t the only day trip from Glasgow you can take without a car. The Isle of Arran is the southernmost Scottish isle and many say it’s like visiting the entire country of Scotland in miniature.

Visit the stunning Blue Pools of Glen Rosa, check out Brodick Castle and Garden and, if you have time, climb up Goatfell Hill. It’s the island’s highest peak so it’s not an easy hike. Make sure you descend with plenty of time to catch your return ferry!

How To Get From Glasgow to the Isle of Arran by Train

Distance: 46.9 miles

From Glasgow Central station, catch a direct ScotRail service to Ardrossan Harbour station which takes around 50 minutes. Then, take the ferry to Brodick port on the Isle of Arran which takes around 55 minutes. 

Return train tickets start from around £10 and return ferry tickets cost £8.40. Trains with connecting ferries depart approximately once every two hours, so book in advance!

Glasgow to Dundee Day Trip

While Dundee isn’t the most popular of day trips from Glasgow, there are lots of reasons to visit. Dundee was an industrial city but today there are lots of museums, art galleries, and other cultural attractions. 

Check out the stunning V&A Museum or visit The McManus Art Gallery displaying 19th and 20th century Scottish art. 

Or, head to the waterfront and board the HMS Unicorn or the RSS Discovery. The latter was the ship that sailed on the British Antarctic expedition of 1901 and it’s been fully restored.

How To Get From Glasgow to Dundee by Train

Distance: 81.3 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, take a direct ScotRail service to Dundee station. Trains depart every 30 minutes and take around 90 minutes. Return tickets cost an average of £22. 

Glasgow to St Andrews Day Trip

St Andrews is a famous city on Scotland’s west coast known as the birthplace of golf. But there are lots of other things to do here on a day trip from Glasgow!

Check out the University of St Andrews, the Castle of St Andrews, the harbor, and West Sands Beach. This is the famous beach that appeared in the Oscar-winning movie Chariots of Fire , so don’t forget to pack your running shoes.

How To Get From Glasgow to St Andrews by Train

Distance: 73.4 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, hop on a ScotRail service either to Dundee station or Edinburgh Haymarket station. From either station, take a connecting service to Leuchars station. Hop on the N.99 bus from the station to St Andrews Bus Station . 

This journey should take around two hours in total and trains depart approximately twice an hour. Return train tickets cost around £25 on average and bus tickets cost between £2 – £4 for single journeys which you can buy from the driver.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Linlithgow

Linlithgow might be a small town, but it’s easy to reach from Glasgow and it’s packed with history.

One of the top sites to visit in Linlithgow is its 15th-century palace. Once the main residence of Scottish kings and queens, Linlithgow Palace was the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots. 

More recently, it stood in for Wentworth Prison in the Outlander TV series!

How To Get From Glasgow to Linlithgow by Train

Distance: 34.1 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, catch a direct ScotRail service to Linlithgow station. This journey only takes 30 minutes and trains depart every 30 minutes too. Return tickets cost, on average, £12.50.

Glasgow to Troon Day Trip

Visiting Glasgow in summer? If you travel during a rare heatwave, you might want to enjoy a day at the beach. One of the best beach towns to visit near Glasgow is Troon.

Troon Beach is a 2.8-mile beach popular with kite surfers and windsurfers. If it’s too cold to swim in the sea, wrap up warm and walk along the scenic Troon Beach Walk Trail. 

How To Get From Glasgow to Troon by Train

Distance: 32.7 miles

From Glasgow Central station, take a direct ScotRail service to Troon station. Trains traveling on this service depart every 30 minutes and take approximately 40 minutes. Return tickets cost an average of £10.

Day Trip from Glasgow to Falkirk

While Falkirk city center might not be the best place to spend your precious time in Scotland, it does have two fantastic attractions nearby. They’re well worth getting a bus or taxi from the train station to visit!

The Kelpies are a pair of 100 ft-tall steel horses from Scottish mythology that were built in 2013. They’re cool to see up close and the park setting is also beautiful.

If you appreciate incredible feats of engineering, visit The Falkirk Wheel. It’s the world’s only rotating boat lift and helps transport canal boats from the Forth and Clyde Canal to the Union Canal. 

How To Get From Glasgow to Falkirk by Train

Distance: 24.3 miles

From Glasgow Queen Street station, hop on a direct ScotRail service to Falkirk High station. Trains depart two to three times an hour and the journey takes less than 30 minutes. 

Return tickets start from around £11 and you may need to catch a bus or take a taxi into the city center.

Glasgow Day Trips FAQs

How do i plan a day trip to the scottish highlands from glasgow.

For a trip to the Highlands, consider destinations like Fort William or Oban, which are accessible by train. These journeys offer stunning views and a gateway to the wider Highlands. Check train times and plan for an early start as these can be longer trips.

Can you recommend any castle visits near Glasgow?

Besides Stirling Castle, you can visit Doune Castle, famous for its appearances in film and television, by train and a short bus ride. Bothwell Castle is another option, accessible by train to Uddingston and a short walk or bus ride.

Are there any good coastal day trips from Glasgow by train?

Yes, the coastal town of Ayr is a great option for a day trip, offering beautiful beaches and the birthplace of Robert Burns. Troon and Largs are also excellent choices for coastal scenery and seafront walks.

What’s the easiest way to check train times and prices for day trips from Glasgow?

The ScotRail website or the National Rail Enquiries website are reliable sources for checking train times and prices. The Trainline app is also useful for planning journeys and buying tickets.

How much do train day trips from Glasgow typically cost?

Prices vary depending on the destination and how far in advance you book. Traveling off-peak can reduce costs, and rail passes or group tickets might offer additional savings for frequent travelers or families.

Is it possible to visit the Isle of Arran for a day trip from Glasgow?

Yes, it’s possible. You can take a train to Ardrossan Harbour and then a ferry to the Isle of Arran. While doable in a day, starting early to maximize your time on the island is advisable.

Can I do a day trip to Edinburgh from Glasgow by train?

Absolutely, Edinburgh is only about an hour away by train, making it a perfect day trip. Trains run frequently between the two cities, allowing for flexible planning.

Best Day Trips From Glasgow by Train Wrap-Up

Whether you want to visit the beach or lesser-traveled cities, there are some great day trips from Glasgow by train.

While there are more options for day trips from Glasgow by car, renting a car is much more hassle. Not to mention the stress of learning to drive on the left and driving a stick shift for just one day!

Train travel is a great way to explore Scotland like a local and enjoy a fun and easy Glasgow day trip.

Looking for more Scotland travel resources? Check out 13 Best Day Trips From Edinburgh by Train , Planning a Trip to Scotland: Step-by-Step Guide , and 9 Best Edinburgh Hotels for Families Worth Booking !

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 Glenfinnan Tours 

Glenfinnan viaduct & monument.

On our Glenfinnan tours, we’ll be taking you to one of Scotland’s most iconic and breath-taking spots. It stands at the head of Loch Shiel among dramatic, mountainous scenery.

Curving through the glen are the 21 gigantic arches of the Glenfinnan Viaduct. These carry the Jacobite Steam Train between Fort William and Mallaig. Harry Potter fans will certainly know it as the bridge that takes the boy wizard to Hogwarts school.

On our one day Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig & Glencoe  1 day tour your friendly driver-guide takes the romantic ‘Road to the Isles’ to Mallaig, stopping at the Glenfinnan Monument to remember a classic event in Scottish history. This is where Bonnie Prince Charlie gathered his clansmen in 1745 in a passionate, but ill-fated, drive to secure the throne for the exiled Stuarts once again. The monument, with its lone piper on top, was erected in 1815 to commemorate those fallen Jacobites.

New for 2022, our 1 day Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel Tour from Edinburgh is a Must See West Coast Tour.

You can also visit Glenfinnan on a Private tour . As well as our more leisurely three, four and six day small group tours on route to the Isle of Skye. Our Multi-day tours depart from both Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Tours Visiting Glenfinnan

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel

A stunning day tour from Edinburgh that takes you to locations from movies such as Skyfall, Highlander and Harry Potter. We’ll travel into the Highlands, exploring Glencoe before arriving at Glenfinnan. Here you can walk up to the best viewpoints to capture the Jacobite Steam Train crossing over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

A stunning day tour from Glasgow taking you to the Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Loch Shiel. We’ll travel to Glencoe, Scotland’s most famous glen. Here you’ll gain an insight into how people lived here around the time of the Glencoe massacre.

At Glenfinnan you can climb up to the viewpoint where you’ll capture the Jacobite Steam train (Hogwarts Express) crossing over the world-famous Glenfinnan Viaduct as seen in Harry Potter. *

Isle of Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness

An island of faerie folklore, single track mountain passes, secret glens, craggy rock formations, crystal clear pools and waterfalls. Rich in history with a vast array of wildlife and spectacular scenery, it’s little wonder the Isle of Skye is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland.

An island of faerie folklore, single track mountain passes, secret glens, craggy rock formations, crystal clear pools and waterfalls. Rich in history with a vast array of wildlife and spectacular scenery, it’s little wonder the Isle of Skye is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Scotland.

Sit back and relax as this four day tour weaves through the Highlands to idyllic Skye. Capture photos of the Quiraing, Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr and feel like you’re on the edge of the world at Neist Point lighthouse. Skye always lives up to its reputation as the world’s 4th best island destination.

Sit back and fully absorb the ever-changing colours and textures of the isle of Skye on this four day tour. Get up close to the curious geology of the Trotternish Peninsula and feel the magic at Fairy Glen. You’ll see why romantic Skye was voted the world’s 4th best island destination by National Geographic.

Isles of Mull, Iona & Skye Island Hopping

Explore the islands of Mull, Iona, Ulva, Staffa & Skye. Enjoy the wildlife on the Isle of Mull and the peace and serenity on the tiny sacred island of Iona. Get off the beaten track on the small community island of Ulva and the uninhabited island of Staffa before visiting the spectacular Isle of Skye.

St Andrews and Falkland Palace

Explore St Andrews and the ancient Kingdom of Fife on this beautiful and relaxing day tour. We’ll travel along Fife’s famous ‘Coastal Road’ bringing us through several of the area’s most stunning fishing villages.

Whether you are a golf enthusiast or not, St Andrews is a must see. You’ll have around three hours to explore one of Scotland’s most beautiful medieval towns. The old course is the most famous golf course in the world.

The village of Falkland lies at the foot of the Lomond Hills. Here you can wander around this lovely little village that stood in for Inverness in the Outlander tv series. You’ll have the opportunity to visit Falkland Palace.

Standing Stones and Stone Circles of Kilmartin Glen

Let us take you on a journey through the history of Scotland. Explore one of Scotland’s richest prehistoric landscapes. Kilmartin Glen spans 5000 years with standing stones and stone circles. The 13 standing stones at Temple Wood is the picturesque setting for the best-preserved stone circle in Kilmartin Glen.

Private & Exclusive tours for families & friends

In the current climate of social distancing and bubbles, now more than ever may be the time to consider a private tour of Scotland for your family and friends.

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English countryside road trip: London to Glasgow in 3 days

This post was originally published on A Globe Well Travelled in 2018. The content has been revised and updated with fresh information.

Most international travellers who visit the UK will go to London, but many don’t bother leaving the city.

Having been to London a handful of times, only once had I left the city to visit Hull – a small city in Yorkshire – as part of a press trip with Visit Britain in early 2017. My first trip out of the city to explore another part of England had me hooked; I couldn’t wait to see more.

Then Rob was invited to attend a work meetup in Brighton . It gave me an idea – why not plan a trip up to Scotland at the same time, squeezing in an English countryside road trip along the way? This was my chance to really explore the country in much more detail.

I planned a rough route which started with renting a car in London then driving to  Glasgow over 3 days, with a total driving time of around 11-12 hours. We avoided motorways, and instead took our time on highways and backroads for most of the journey.

Note that this is definitely not the most straightforward route from London to Glasgow. If you want the quickest way (aside from flying, of course), you can take the motorway the whole way or even hop on a train and the journey will only take 7-8 hours.

There’s really no point driving from London to Glasgow unless you plan to stray from the motorway and see the countryside, as we did. And it’s definitely worth it! The English countryside was well worth the trip.

This itinerary passes through adorable farms, historic small towns, beautiful national parks, and cute seaside villages. If you’re not from the UK and will be driving this route, you might want to do some research on the local road rules and permits including your International Drivers Licence before your trip.

Day 1: London to the Midlands

On the first morning of our road trip, we picked up our rental car from St Pancras in London. Getting out of London required a short stint on the motorway, but we soon pulled off towards Ashbourne – a super cute town just south of Peak District National Park.

In Ashbourne, we walked around the pretty market square then stopped for lunch at The Bridge (where I had a very British meal of veggie savoury pie with mash, peas, and gravy – yummm!). After lunch, it was onwards to the Peak District – a hilly area in the Midlands that was declared national park in 1951 (the very first national park to be created in England).

I wasn’t expecting much from the Peak District, but as we drove in through the narrow, windy roads lined with tree tunnels, my jaw dropped. It was so beautiful! As there were already people living in the Peak District when it became national park, it was almost as though it had been frozen in time. The area had rolling hills with historic farms and adorable stone buildings, some of which were over 1000 years old.

We passed through a number of small towns along the way – I think the prettiest was Bakewell, though Hathersage was also lovely. Our day ended with a walk over Ladybower Reservoir and a sunset cider at the local Inn.

Where we stayed:  Our evening was spent at Halifax Hall in nearby Sheffield. While the hotel was in a slightly odd location on the grounds of a university, this historic building provided surprisingly nice accommodation where we had a renovated room overlooking a rose garden. Would definitely recommend!

Day 2: Yorkshire and the seaside

Our itinerary on the second day was almost completely made up as we went along! I’d booked us a night at a B&B in northern England, but we didn’t have any set plan as to which route we would drive.

On the advice of my cousin, Rob and I decided to make York our first stop. This little city had so many historic buildings, including the lovely York Minster, which features gothic architecture from the 7th century. Walking around the fortified city walls was a highlight, as was the cream tea (Yorkshire tea served with scones, jam, and cream) that we indulged in at Little Shambles Tearoom.

Rob was keen to see the coast, so we departed York and took the scenic route through North York Moors National Park to the seaside village of Whitby. What a surprise! This historic town is totally adorable and has maritime heritage – it’s actually the place where Captain Cook learned his seafaring skills. Walking up the stairs leading to Whitby Abbey was my fave activity, as the historic ruins are perched on a hill by the sea with gorgeous views of the coastline.

Our last stop of the day was at Durham to see the cathedral, as I’d discovered the courtyard was used as a filming location for some of the scenes in Harry Potter. Unfortunately it was somewhat of a disappointment, as we arrived just as they were setting up for a private event. There were people running about and tables everywhere, but we just managed to take a quick walk around the courtyard before they closed up.

Where we stayed: In northern England, we stayed in Blenkinsopp Castle Inn  – a B&B housed in some converted stables, connected to the ruins of a historic mansion. How cool is that!? I absolutely loved this place, it was one of the best accommodation experiences of the trip and the Vegetarian English Breakfast was to die for!

Day 3: Northern England

We only had one stop on our way to Glasgow – Hadrian’s Wall. This UNESCO world heritage site in northern England, built in AD 122 by the Romans to protect their territory, once stretched from coast to coast covering around 70 miles. It was also used by author George R.R. Martin as inspiration for ‘The Wall’ in Game of Thrones!

We stopped in at Birdoswald Fort to check out the archaeological site, then drove for a while along the road that follows the crumbled remains of the wall (confusingly, the road is also named ‘Hadrian’s Wall’ ). It was amazing to learn about this stone structure which has literally been standing there for nearly two thousand years.

It was back onto the motorway for the last stretch of our drive, then we arrived in Glasgow around lunch time. If you’d prefer to drive to Edinburgh instead of Glasgow, it’s easy to change the itinerary and make this your final destination, as it’s only an extra half hour of driving from Hadrian’s Wall.

I’m definitely glad that we chose to drive to Glasgow instead of flying or taking a train – we would never have seen so much of England’s beautiful countryside otherwise!

Related posts

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12 essential activities for a weekend in Dublin

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I know what you mean about not leaving London! That’s exactly what happened when I visited the UK last. I’ll have to make sure to travel to Glasgow next time I go! 🙂

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog http://charmainenyw.com

I think everyone has that same experience, Charmaine! It’d definitely worth a trip out of the city if you have the time 🙂

I love reading your blogs, excellently done!

Glasgow is beautiful. I have to make sure I visit it next time I go to London.

I love English countryside: is so magical! I remember one day trip from london to oxford by train and all the time I had my nose almost pressed to the window.

Cate http://www.35mminstyle.com

Ooh I haven’t done the train trip to Oxford but I imagine it would be magical! The scenery outside of London is just so lovely 😀 Thanks for your comment, Cate!

Thanks for sharing this road trip itinerary, it looks awesome!

It was awesome! I couldn’t believe how pretty England was outside of London. Thanks for your comment, Joanne 😀

Thank you so much for sharing your experience through the midlands. My husband and I are doing a six week trip. We’re doing three days in London then driving Al over the south from Dover, Stonehenge, Jurassic Coast through Devon and Cornwall and Wales. Then up to Liverpool and over to Anglesea and the a ferry to Dublin and a tour of Ireland. We fly to Glasgow and finish our Scotland tour in Glasgow. We were originally planning to take a train back to London. Now we’re going to hire a car and drive! I couldn’t decide which route to take. We have three days , two nights. We’re going to finish in Oxford and catch a bus straight to the airport. Thank you again. We’ll be able to see a bit of the east coast and also lots of those charming little villages in between. 😊

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Top Glasgow attractions

• Style Mile: the quarter that helped cement Glasgow’s reputation as having the best shopping outside of London.
• Kelvingrove Art Gallery: houses one of Europe’s largest art collections.
• Architecture: Glasgow Cathedral, University of Glasgow, and Charlie Mackintosh’s Art Nouveau designs.
• Finnieston: called the “hippest place to live in the UK,” this is the city’s food, music, and culture hub.
• Ibrox Stadium and Celtic Park: the homes of football’s most famous rivals.

Check out our Glasgow travel guide for a comprehensive look at the city’s best-kept secrets.

What’s the best way to get around Glasgow?

Sightseeing buses are a great way to get around the attractions, or if you prefer a more hands-on approach then you can always hire a bicycle. Otherwise, the subway is the quickest way to get between the city’s hotspots.

What’s the weather in Glasgow?

Glasgow sees an average of 170 days of rainfall a year, so packing an umbrella and a good coat are a must. July is the warmest month with an average temperature of 15°C (59°F). January is the coldest with an average of 3°C (37°F).

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