Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Tour

Glasgow , Scotland

Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands Day Tour

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(794 reviews)

11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a journey from the city to the beautiful Highlands of Scotland. Enjoy a full day exploring the Scottish Highlands, taking in the atmospheric scenery of Glencoe and Rannoch Moor. Take a boat cruise across Loch Ness and end your day in the picturesque highland village of Pitlochry.

Available options

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

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Live commentary on board

Knowledgeable driver-guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your tour heads North, first passing by the 'bonnie bonnie banks' of Loch Lomond. We stop here for refreshments.

Stop 2

Glencoe, one of Scotland's most haunting glens and site of the 1692 massacre of the MacDonald clan. Glencoe was also featured in the James Bond film, Skyfall. We stop here for photos

Stop 3 Pass by

We drive past Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

Stop 4

Loch Ness is most famous for its sightings of its infamous resident, 'Nessie'. Spend an hour at the loch, with the opportunity to take a boat cruise on Loch Ness (own expense).

Our final stop of the day is Pitlochry. Pause here for refreshments and to visit the small village.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Attraction Tickets

Restroom on board

WiFi on board

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

369 reviews

5★

262

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

425 reviews

5★

332

4★

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1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 4 years old.

Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark.

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

Digital translations in English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Russian & Mandarin available on request.

Please arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.

Please note: the Loch Ness cruise will not be operating on the 20th and 24th December 2024. On those dates, we will stop at Fort Augustus for lunch where you will have the opportunity to view and enjoy Loch Ness.

Meeting point

This is located outside the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and opposite Buchanan Bus Station.

Important notes

• Minimum age is 4 years
• Please arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.

Top tip - You could bring a cold packed lunch with you in order to make the most of your time at each stop - this would be particularly time-saving in the busier months!

About Glasgow

Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, is a vibrant urban hub known for its rich architectural heritage, thriving arts scene, and friendly locals. With a mix of grand Victorian and modern buildings, the city offers a dynamic blend of culture, history, and innovation.

Top Attractions

Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

One of Scotland's most popular free attractions, this museum features a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Glasgow Cathedral

A stunning example of Scottish Gothic architecture, this cathedral is one of the few medieval buildings to survive in Glasgow.

Historical 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Riverside Museum

Award-winning museum showcasing Glasgow's rich transport and industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and historic vehicles.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Glasgow School of Art

A masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the Glasgow School of Art is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Architecture 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Buchanan Street

One of Glasgow's premier shopping destinations, Buchanan Street offers a mix of high-street brands, luxury boutiques, and department stores.

Shopping 1-2 hours Varies by store

Must-Try Local Dishes

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, typically served with neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes).

Main Course Contains meat and offal.

Cullen Skink

A creamy smoked haddock soup with potatoes and onions, originating from the town of Cullen in the northeast of Scotland.

Soup Contains fish.

Scotch Pie

A small, double-crust meat pie filled with minced mutton or beef, seasoned with pepper and spices.

Snack Contains meat.

Cranachan

A traditional Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oats.

Dessert Vegetarian, but may contain dairy.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Trossachs Kayaking on Loch Lomond Mountain biking in the Campsie Fells Climbing at the Rucksack Club Spas and wellness centers Afternoon tea at the Willow Tea Rooms Strolling through the Botanic Gardens Relaxing in Kelvingrove Park

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Scottish Gaelic, Scots
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Glasgow is generally safe for travelers, but like any city, it has its share of petty crime and safety concerns. Exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious in crowded areas and at night
• Use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked cabs

Getting there

By air

Glasgow Airport • 10.5 km (6.5 miles) west of the city center
Glasgow Prestwick Airport • 50 km (31 miles) southwest of the city center

By train

Glasgow Central Station, Glasgow Queen Street Station

By bus

Buchanan Bus Station, Glasgow Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The subway is easy to use and affordable, with a circular route connecting key areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

West End City Center East End Southside

Day trips

Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park

30 km (19 miles) northwest of Glasgow • Full day

A stunning national park offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, boating, and wildlife spotting.

Stirling

40 km (25 miles) northeast of Glasgow • Full day

A historic city offering a mix of medieval architecture, museums, and scenic views.

Edinburgh

75 km (47 miles) east of Glasgow • Full day or overnight

Scotland's capital city offers a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Festivals

The Glasgow International Comedy Festival • March The Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art • July The Celtic Connections Festival • January to February

Pro tips

Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
Take advantage of the city's free museums and galleries, such as the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum and the Riverside Museum
Visit the Necropolis for a unique perspective on the city's history and a stunning view of Glasgow
Experience the city's vibrant nightlife, from traditional pubs to trendy bars and live music venues
Try local Scottish dishes, such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, and enjoy a traditional ceilidh (Scottish dance)