Day Trips from Glasgow: 7 Amazing Places to Visit

Adventure Tours

Planning some fun day trips from Glasgow? Let us help you with that. Glasgow is full of music, art, and great food. But what people really love is how easy it is to leave the city for a few hours and enjoy the beautiful places around it.

You can visit quiet lochs, old castles, pretty towns by the sea, or even go for a peaceful hike with amazing views. All of these can be done in one day. In this guide, we’ll show you where to go, what to see, how long it takes, and how to make your trip simple and enjoyable. 

Keep reading, you’ll find something perfect for your next day out.

Day Trips from Glasgow You Shouldn’t Miss 

If you’re thinking of getting out of the city for a day or just want a half-day trip from Glasgow, here are some easy and amazing places you can visit from Glasgow. 

Each one offers something special, and the journey is part of the fun too.

1. Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

It takes about 75 minutes by luxury bus from Buchanan Bus Station to Balloch, and you’ll even enjoy some lovely views along the way. This place is perfect if you want a peaceful escape with loch views, gentle hikes, boat rides, and small villages that feel like something out of a postcard. 

One of the best things to do here is hiking up Conic Hill. It’s a 2 to 3-hour round-trip and a bit steep in parts, but once you see the views, it’s totally worth it. You can also visit Luss village, which has cute huts and a pebble beach that’s great for a relaxed stroll. 

Or take a boat cruise from Balloch and see hidden caves and little islands on the loch. In summer, try to arrive early as it gets busy. Some people even say it’s a nice idea to take a train and cycle, but if you want a more relaxing trip for your group, book our luxury coach. 

It’s comfy and comes with scenic views and modern perks.

2. Edinburgh

The bus ride to Edinburgh usually takes between 65 and 77 minutes. This day trip is great if you want to see historic places and grand old buildings without spending too much. 

Once you’re there, visit the famous Edinburgh Castle with amazing views and centuries of stories. Walk along the Royal Mile for shopping and local snacks, and make your way up Calton Hill for the best photo spots, especially early in the morning or at sunset. 

You can even grab a dram of whisky at a cosy pub or try something local to eat. 

If you’re thinking of spending the day in Edinburgh, check out our full guide on the 12 best day trips from Edinburgh for more ideas once you’re there.

3. Stirling

It takes about 40 to 43 minutes by bus to get to Stirling from Glasgow. Stirling is perfect if you enjoy Scottish history and want to see some really special sites in one small area. 

You’ve got Stirling Castle sitting high up with beautiful views and rich history inside. Nearby is the Wallace Monument, which honours the Scottish hero and gives you more amazing views. 

If you’re not into castles or monuments, just explore the Old Town. It has narrow lanes, lovely shops, and hidden little cafes. 

Best tip here: wear comfy shoes or ask your driver to stop closer to the castle, since the area can be quite hilly.

4. Loch Katrine and Steamship Sir Walter Scott

This place is super quiet and full of nature, and it’s famous thanks to the poem by Sir Walter Scott. The top thing to do here is to take a calm cruise on the Steamship Sir Walter Scott. It’s peaceful, the views are lovely, and the boat has history. 

You can also go for a walk or ride a bike along the flat trails around the loch. Once you’ve had a look around, stop at the Pier Café or one of the small spots nearby for a warm drink and something to eat. 

Just remember to book your cruise tickets ahead of time if you’re going in the summer. Combine it with a luxury coach ride to Balloch to make it a full and comfy day out.

5. Culzean Castle and Country Park

A trip to Culzean Castle takes around 1 hour from Glasgow by luxury coach along the coast. It’s a great place for couples, families, or anyone who loves a bit of history mixed with sea views and gardens. 

The castle sits on top of cliffs overlooking the sea, and it looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale. Inside, you’ll find beautiful rooms filled with stories and charm. Step outside and enjoy the gardens and the coastal walk, where every corner is great for photos. 

The woodlands nearby are quiet and calm, with paths that lead you right toward the sea. Take your time here. It’s the kind of place that’s best enjoyed slowly. 

Our friendly bus driver can even suggest the best place to stop so your walk is easier.

6. Isle of Arran

Getting to the Isle of Arran means a luxury bus ride to Ardrossan, which takes around 1 hour, followed by a ferry that takes just under an hour. Arran is often called Scotland in miniature, and once you get there, you’ll see why. 

It’s packed with highland-style mountains, lovely beaches, and even castles. All in one small island. You can hike up Goat Fell, which is the tallest point on the island, or visit Brodick Castle with its forest and sea views. 

And of course, you’ve got to try the local food. Stop by the Arran Cheese Shop or the Arran Distillery for a real taste of the island. It’s a peaceful place to spend the day, but many people like to stay overnight to get more time. 

Either way, catch the earliest ferry you can to enjoy it all.

7. Oban and the West Coast

It takes about 3 hours to get to Oban by bus. Oban is a stunning town by the sea and is perfect if you’re looking to relax with a view and some of the best seafood you’ll ever eat. 

There’s not much to rush here. Just enjoy the fresh air and calm vibe. You can also visit McCaig’s Tower, a hilltop building that looks like a mini version of the Roman Colosseum. 

If you’ve got a bit more time, hop on a ferry and visit nearby islands like Mull or Iona. If you want to do that, it’s a good idea to book in advance and catch a bus in the morning so you can fit everything in.

Want to go beyond Glasgow? Here are the 10 Best Coach Trips in Scotland for 2025 for more inspiration.

Stress-Free Day Trips from Glasgow with Hire Society

Thinking about taking a day trip from Glasgow with your group? Maybe heading to Loch Lomond, Stirling, or even Edinburgh? These trips can be amazing, but trying to move around together can quickly turn into a headache, like different cars, parking troubles, getting lost, or someone always running late.

That’s where Hire Society makes everything easy. With our private luxury coach, your whole group can relax and enjoy the journey together. No need to worry about directions or timing. 

We pick you up right from your door and take you straight to your destination in comfort. Our vehicles are modern and super comfy, and our friendly drivers make sure everything runs smoothly.

Now, you can easily go for a hike, a castle visit, or a food-filled day out; we help you enjoy the trip without any stress. 

Let us handle the road while you focus on the fun.