A day trip to Glasgow from Edinburgh is an easy and enjoyable experience. The two cities are only about 75 kilometers apart, and the train from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street takes around 50 minutes. Trains run very often, so it is simple to plan your journey.
When you arrive in Glasgow, you will immediately notice the difference between the two cities. While Edinburgh feels old and royal, Glasgow has a lively and modern atmosphere. You can start your day by walking around George Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by impressive 19th-century buildings. Nearby, the Gallery of Modern Art offers interesting exhibitions and free entry.
Later, you might visit the famous Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, which opened in 1901 and contains art by Rembrandt, Monet, and Salvador Dalí. It’s located in the West End, a beautiful area full of cafes and small shops.
For lunch, try traditional Scottish food such as haggis, neeps, and tatties in one of Glasgow’s friendly pubs. In the afternoon, you can take a walk along the River Clyde and learn about the city’s shipbuilding history.
By evening, you can return to Edinburgh, tired but happy after a full day exploring Scotland’s largest and most energetic city.
09:00 Meet at Scott Monument
09:30 Train to Glasgow Queen Street
10:18 Walk to Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
10:55 Rules, times and meeting point agreed
11:00 Free time to explore the museum gallery and exhibition rooms
12:00 Lunch together in Kelvingrove park
12:45 Walk through park to Glasgow University
13:45 Return to city centre via famous Glasgow subway
14:05 Free time with optional visit to Glasgow Cathedral and Necropolis
15:30 Short walking tour of Merchant City and River Clyde
16:30 Train to Edinburgh Waverly Train Station
17:15 Return to Edinburgh and release to host families