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Top things to do in Edinburgh

Palace of Holyroodhouse with turrets and stone facade in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Holyrood Palace
Tour guide leading Edinburgh Ghost Tour in underground vaults.
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Couple toasting whisky glasses at a bar during The Gold Tour - Scotch Whisky Experience.
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Edinburgh Castle atop Castle Rock under a clear blue sky.
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Man in stocks with actor holding tool at Edinburgh Dungeon.
Edinburgh Dungeon
Colorful buildings and tourists on Victoria Street, Edinburgh, associated with Harry Potter.
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Visitors entering The Royal Yacht Britannia tour entrance in Edinburgh.
Royal Yacht Britannia
Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, with lush green grounds.
Alnwick Castle
Steam train crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Isle of Skye, Scotland.
Isle of Skye
Bartender preparing a drink at Plaza Premium Lounge bar in Edinburgh.
Plaza Premium Lounge Edinburgh
Open-top tour bus on a street in Edinburgh with historic buildings in the background.
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Tours
Linne's two-toed sloth hanging on a rope at Edinburgh Zoo exhibit.
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Gin distillery exterior with copper stills visible through glass.
Edinburgh Gin

Glasgow to Loch Ness is a must-do day trip, taking you on a journey from Glasgow to Loch Ness through the Scottish Highlands. This day trip offers a unique chance to witness Scotland's landscapes, discover the mysterious Loch Ness, and explore historic sites, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Overview:

  • Distance from Glasgow: Approximately 170 miles (274 km) to Loch Ness
  • Typical travel time: Approximately 11-12 hours for the full tour
  • On-site visit duration: The tour includes stops at key sites like Glencoe and Loch Ness, with free time at Fort Augustus, a village on the loch.
  • Cost range: From £63.82
  • Best season/time of year: Tours operate year-round, but spring (March-May) and summer (June-August) offer the best weather and longest daylight hours.
  • Meeting/drop-off point: Buchanan Bus Station, 19 Killermont St, Glasgow G2 3NX
  • Key attractions/sites covered: The Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, Loch Ness, and Fort Augustus

What to expect on a Glasgow to Loch Ness day-trip?

Group of passengers posing for a photo beside a coach with mountains in the background during a trip from Edinburgh to Loch Ness.
Highland cow grazing in the Scottish Highlands with hills in the background.
Tourist boat cruising on Loch Ness with scenic hills in the background.
Boat cruising near Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness, Scotland, with green hills in the background.
Private air-conditioned transfer vans parked by a waterfront.
1/5

Morning departure from Glasgow

Your day begins at the central meeting point on Killermont Street. You'll board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for the scenic journey from Glasgow to Loch Ness, venturing into the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

Journey into the Highlands

The tour takes you through beautiful landscapes, including the dramatic scenery of Glencoe, a key highlight of this tour. Your expert driver-guide will share fascinating stories and history as you travel.

Exploring Loch Ness and Fort Augustus

Arriving at Loch Ness, you'll have free time to explore the charming village of Fort Augustus. You can stroll along the banks of the loch and see the Caledonian Canal locks before looking for the famous monster.

About Loch Ness

Loch Ness cruise

An optional add-on that can be purchased on-site is a cruise on the loch. This is the perfect way to get out on the water, soak in the views of Urquhart Castle, and actively participate in the search for "Nessie."

Book your Loch Ness cruise

Return to Glasgow

After a full day of exploration, you will board the coach for a comfortable return journey. The trip brings you back to your starting point in the evening, with unforgettable memories of the Highlands and a full-day trip to Loch Ness from Glasgow.

Things to know before booking your Glasgow to Loch Ness day tour

  • Booking: You should book your tour in advance. Note that this Glasgow to Loch Ness tour is a full-day commitment.
  • Duration & schedule: The tour from Glasgow to Loch Ness has a total duration of 11.5 hours and departs daily. The approximate departure time is 8am, and the return time is 7:30pm on the same day.
  • Meeting/drop-off: The departure point for the tour is at 19 Killermont Street, Glasgow, G2 3NX.
  • Inclusions: The tours are conducted in a small group setting (16-53 people) in an air-conditioned coach. An expert local guide is included, providing live commentary.
  • Exclusions: The tour price does not include food, drinks, or admission to attractions. You will need to pay for these separately.
  • Age restrictions: The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years old.
Unlock the magic of the Highlands with a guided tour

Navigating a day trip from Glasgow to Loch Ness can be a challenge with its long distances and complex routes. Opting for a guided tour takes the stress out of the journey. Plus, expert guides offer invaluable insights, turning a simple trip into an educational and memorable journey.

Highlights of a Glasgow to Loch Ness day tour

Glencoe Scotland mountain landscape with green valleys and cloudy peaks.

The Highlands

The Highlands are a vast, mountainous region in northern Scotland renowned for their natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and rich history, representing the image of Scotland. As your tour coach leaves the city behind, you'll feel the landscape change dramatically. The journey into the Highlands is an experience in itself, with a scenic drive that takes you through some of the country's most beautiful scenery.

Rock formations and green hills in Glencoe, Scotland, with a distant view of a lake and mountains.
Sunrise over rolling hills and lochs in the Scottish Highlands.
Boats docked at a canal in Loch Ness with the scenic Highlands in the background on a tour from Inverness.
Fort William town with snow-covered Ben Nevis in the background during winter.

Popular add-on stops along the way

Loch Ness cruise

A must-do for any trip to the loch, this cruise takes you out onto the water to search for the legendary monster.

  • Sights covered: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle ruins from the water.
  • Time required: Approximately 1 hour.
  • Included?: This is an optional extra and is not included in the standard day tour price.
Book your Loch Ness cruise

Urquhart Castle

Explore the dramatic ruins of this castle on the banks of Loch Ness, which has witnessed many of Scotland's historical conflicts.

  • Sights covered: Castle ruins, Nessie Exhibition, Loch Ness
  • Time required: 1-2 hours
  • Included?: Entry is an optional extra, sold on the site.
About Urquhart Castle

What your day looks like from Glasgow to Loch Ness

  • Depart from Glasgow: Your day begins with a prompt departure from central Glasgow in a comfortable tour coach.
  • Journey into the Highlands: Enjoy a scenic drive north, leaving the city behind and entering the landscapes of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Your driver-guide will provide expert commentary as you journey through the Scottish countryside.
  • Rannoch Moor & Glencoe: Your journey will take you across the vast, wild beauty of Rannoch Moor before arriving at the hauntingly beautiful Glencoe. You'll have time to step off the coach for a photo stop and to soak in the atmosphere of this famous glen.
  • Ben Nevis & Fort Augustus: Continue north past Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain, and along the Caledonian Canal. You will arrive at the picturesque village of Fort Augustus, located at the southern tip of Loch Ness.
  • Free time at Loch Ness: This is your main stop, giving you ample time for lunch and exploration.
  • Choose your trip options: Spend your time exploring Fort Augustus, watching boats navigate the canal locks, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the loch shore. Or opt for a Loch Ness cruise, a fantastic way to get out on the water and search for "Nessie." This is a popular and recommended add-on to enhance your Loch Ness experience.
  • Return journey: Begin your return journey, travelling through the landscapes of the Grampian Mountains and the beautiful woodlands of Perthshire, including the Forest of Atholl. 
  • Arrive back in Glasgow: You'll have a final stop at the Victorian resort town of Pitlochry before heading back. The tour concludes as you return to the original departure point in Glasgow, with plenty of time to rest after a full day of discovery.

Getting to Loch Ness from Glasgow

The best way to experience Loch Ness from Glasgow is by taking a guided tour. A guided Glasgow to Loch Ness tour provides direct transfers, eliminating the stress of public transportation and multiple changes. You'll enjoy comfortable, round-trip travel, along with expert commentary that brings the history and mystique of the area to life.

  • Time: Full-day trip, typically 11-12 hours round-trip.
  • Best for: First-time visitors, stress-free planning, and experiencing multiple sights in one day.
  • Pros: All-in-one package, comfortable travel, expert guide, and a hassle-free way to visit Loch Ness.

Taking a train to Loch Ness from Glasgow involves multiple steps, as there is no direct train to the area. You'll need to travel from Glasgow to Inverness, then take a bus or taxi. The train journey from Glasgow to Inverness is scenic and relatively quick.

  • Time: Approximately 3-4 hours each way (excluding the final transfer).
  • Cost: £15-£70+ one way, depending on how far in advance you book.
  • Best for: Independent travellers who want a faster, more scenic journey and don't mind the extra steps.
  • Pros: Reliable, fast journey with scenic views of the Highlands.
  • Cons: Requires an additional bus or taxi transfer from Inverness to Loch Ness.

Bus travel is a great option for a budget-friendly Glasgow to Loch Ness trip. Direct bus services are available from Glasgow to destinations close to Loch Ness, such as Drumnadrochit. While it is the cheapest option, it is also the longest travel time.

  • Time: 4-5 hours each way.
  • Cost: £8-£30+ one way.
  • Best for: Budget-conscious travellers.
  • Pros: The cheapest way to travel, with direct options available.
  • Cons: Slower travel time and limited schedules compared to other options.

A drive is a flexible way to get to Loch Ness from Glasgow and is a great option for groups or families. There are two main routes from Glasgow to Loch Ness, one through Perth and the other via the A82 road, which goes through the Glencoe Valley.

  • Time: Approximately 3-4 hours each way, depending on traffic and route.
  • Cost: £35-£55+ (fuel and tolls).
  • Best for: Families or groups who want maximum flexibility and to make frequent stops along the way.
  • Pros: Flexible timing and the ability to stop at other scenic spots in the Highlands.
  • Cons: Parking can be limited and expensive near popular tourist spots, and the roads can be narrow.

Helpful tips for your visit

  • Best time to visit: The summer months (June–September) offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, perfect for enjoying the scenery. Spring and autumn are also great, with fewer crowds and vibrant foliage. Winters are cold, with shorter daylight hours, and some services may be limited.
  • Essentials to pack: Scotland's weather is notoriously unpredictable, so dressing in layers is key. Pack a waterproof and windproof jacket, even in summer. Comfortable, sturdy, and waterproof footwear is essential for walking around the various stops. Don't forget a portable phone charger, as you'll be taking plenty of photos on your journey to Loch Ness from Glasgow.
  • Accessibility: Most of the terrain is not wheelchair accessible. It's also important to note that the long, winding roads can cause motion sickness, so prepare with medication if needed.
  • Be prepared for a long day: A tour to Loch Ness from Glasgow is a full-day commitment, typically lasting 11.5 hours or more. Arrive at the departure point at least 15 mins before your scheduled check-in time, as buses often leave promptly, and lateness will result in no refund.
  • Bring cash for optional extras: You can purchase tickets for the Loch Ness cruise from your guide on the day. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for this, as well as for small, local shops or public restrooms that may not accept cards.
  • Pack snacks & water: The tour includes comfort and lunch stops, but the locations are often in rural areas with limited options. Packing a few snacks and a bottle of water is a good way to stay energized throughout the long journey.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glasgow to Loch Ness day trips

How long is the day trip from Glasgow to Loch Ness?

The full-day tour from Glasgow to Loch Ness is approximately 11.5 hours. It's a comprehensive journey that includes travel and time to explore the Loch Ness area and other highlights.

Do I need to book my Glasgow to Loch Ness day trip in advance?

Yes, it is essential to book your day trip to Loch Ness from Glasgow in advance. Booking online ensures you secure a spot and receive all necessary documentation for your journey.

Can I visit other attractions near Loch Ness on this day trip?

Yes, the tour from Glasgow to Loch Ness visits other iconic Scottish sites. You'll also see Glencoe and the Highlands, with free time to explore Fort Augustus at the southern end of the loch.

Are meals included in the tour?

No, meals and drinks are not included in the tour price. However, there will be stops throughout the day where you can purchase food and beverages.

Are guided tours available in different languages?

Yes, in addition to the live English-speaking guide, digital translations are available on board in multiple languages, including French, German, and Spanish, for your Glasgow to Loch Ness trip.

Are there any restrictions or rules on the tour from Glasgow to Loch Ness?

Yes, the tour does not permit hot food or beverages on the coach. Additionally, children under the age of 5 years are not permitted on the day trip from Glasgow to Loch Ness.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Tours from Glasgow to Loch Ness operate in all weather conditions. However, the optional Loch Ness boat cruise is weather-dependent and can be canceled due to high winds.

Are there restrooms available on the tour coach?

No, there are typically no restrooms on the tour coach. However, the Loch Ness from Glasgow itinerary includes frequent comfort breaks at scheduled stops with available facilities.

Is there a luggage limit for the tour?

Yes, you are limited to one piece of carry-on luggage per person (similar to an airline cabin bag). There are no storage facilities for large suitcases on the tour from Glasgow to Loch Ness.

Can I purchase the Loch Ness cruise ticket on the day?

Yes, tickets for the Loch Ness cruise are sold on the day of the tour. It's recommended to bring cash for this optional activity.

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