Loch Ness: Day Trips and Tours from Glasgow

Famed as the home of a terrifying monster, Loch Ness is firmly on the tourist radar as a must-visit spot in Scotland, and for good reason. One of the largest bodies of water in the country, the loch is surrounded by a myriad of creatures, lofty hills and vibrant wildflowers.

Day trips to Loch Ness from Glasgow are the perfect addition to any itinerary, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff or photography expert.

Here's all you need to know about Loch Ness, one of the most exciting day trips from Glasgow.

How to get to Loch Ness from Glasgow?

Loch Ness is located deep within the Scottish Highlands, southwest of the beloved town, Inverness. It is approximately 290 kilometers north of Glasgow.

From Glasgow to Loch Ness by car

The journey to Loch Ness takes just over 3 hours by car and begins by following the M80 north out of Glasgow. You’ll continue along the road as it merges into the M9 and eventually onto the A9, which you’ll follow as far as Inverness. From there, you’ll travel along the A8082 and the B862 on the lakefront, stopping wherever takes your fancy.

Guided tour to Loch Ness from Glasgow

As there are no direct public transport links between the two destinations, those without access to a car can make the jaunt to Loch Ness via an organized tour. These excursions range in duration from 1 to 3 days and usually meet at a central spot in the city, such as the Buchanan Bus Station, around 9 AM. Once the adventure is over, you’ll be returned to the same point to continue your sightseeing in Glasgow.

What is the typical itinerary?

All Loch Ness day trips feature their own unique itinerary, however, they share some similarities. Once you’ve met your friendly guide at an easy-to-reach spot in Glasgow, you’ll board your vehicle and set off on your journey up the country, passing by several landmarks, including the magnificent Glen Coe Valley. Upon reaching Loch Ness, you’ll often have free time to amble along the water’s edge, participate in one of the many cruises on offer or simply soak up the scenery with a cup of tea.

From there, you may travel back in the direction of Glasgow, passing through the Cairngorms National Park where you might be lucky enough to spot some of the region’s resident wildlife. However, if you opt for a multi-day tour, you’ll continue on to other sights, such as Glennfinnan and the Isle of Skye. Throughout your Loch Ness day tour, you’ll be transported to esteemed restaurants and/or pubs to indulge in local fare, such as haggis, and bubble and squeak, at your own expense.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Loch Ness?

There are a variety of Loch Ness day trips available to choose from, depending on how much time you have to spare in Scotland.

Guided tours to Loch Ness from Glasgow

On a day trip to Loch Ness, you’ll travel through much of Scotland’s scenic highlands, including the Glen Coe Valley, which is known for its spectacular mountainscape. Once you arrive at the loch, you’ll step aboard a boat and cruise leisurely along the water, keeping your eyes peeled for the infamous monster who is believed to lurk within.

Admire your enchanting surroundings, from fairytale castles to craggy hills, before moving on to the largest national park in the UK — Cairngorms — which is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered red squirrel, as well as pine martens and golden eagles.

2-Day tour to Loch Ness from Glasgow

On a multi-day trip to Loch Ness, you’ll be able to spend more time discovering this picturesque corner of Scotland. You’ll enjoy a stroll in the lakeside village of Luss, dotted with quaint cottages, and see Glenfinnan — a viaduct made famous by its feature in the acclaimed “Harry Potter” movies. Watch the “Hogwarts Express” zoom past, chuffing out smoke across the tranquil landscape before enjoying a well-deserved rest in a comfortable hotel.

The following day, you’ll have the opportunity to sail gently through Loch Ness, learn about the bloodshed of the Jacobite Rising at Culloden Battlefield and drive through the wilderness of Cairngorms National Park before returning to Glasgow where your multi-day tour to Loch Ness ends.

3-Day trip to Loch Ness from Glasgow

Those who are looking to experience as much of the Scottish Highlands as possible should consider opting for a longer adventure. Alongside Loch Ness, you’ll also discover the Isle of Skye, which has been inhabited since prehistoric times and features some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes.

While on the island, you’ll explore an array of landmarks, including the Old Man of Storr, Lealt Falls and the 13th-century Duvengan Castle. During your 3-day trip, you’ll also have the chance to delve deeper into the region surrounding Loch Ness, with visits to Eilean Donan Castle and Fort Augustus.

How much does a day trip to Loch Ness from Glasgow cost?

Loch Ness excursions vary in price, according to their duration. Day trips cost approximately £100 per adult and operate in small groups limited to 16 participants. Children from 5 to 15 can join in for a reduced fee of between £80 and £90 each, and you can expect all transportation to be included in the price, as well as a cruise on the loch.

Those that choose a 2-day tour to Loch Ness can expect to pay between £240 per adult, while children between the ages of 3 and 15, seniors over 65 and students all benefit from a small reduction of £5 each. This includes accommodation, as well as breakfast, and you can choose between a twin or double room. On this type of tour, you’ll be part of a group of up to 32 guests.

Tours that last 3 days begin at £250 for a solo traveler without accommodation, while seniors over 60 and children between 4, and 16 qualify for a discount of around £5 each. You can upgrade your trip to include accommodation for an additional charge and this excursion also has a capacity limit of 32 travelers.

What will you see and do?

Loch Ness covers a surface area of more than 50 square kilometers and is the second-largest body of water in Great Britain, in this regard. However, it is considered the largest lake by volume, containing over 7 million cubic meters of water.

While Loch Ness is spectacular to behold, its fame comes from the legendary monster who is supposedly seen from time to time by a passing local or surprised tourist. This creature has been nicknamed “Nessie” and, based on sightings, is thought to have a long neck, and several humps. The earliest report of the Loch Ness Monster was during the 6th century and since that time, there have been almost 20 more supposed sightings.

Rigorous investigations have been carried out to determine whether there is a creature lurking under the surface of the loch, however, no traces of such a beast have ever been found.

Not the ideal place for a dip, the lake maintains a year-round frosty temperature of 6 degrees Celsius, and its waters are black from the peat in the surrounding soil — the perfect place for elusive monsters to hide from tourists on a Loch Ness day trip!

Points of interest surrounding Loch Ness include Urquhart Castle, which was founded in the 13th century on top of an older fortification and attracts over 500,000 visitors per year because of its prime location overlooking the water.

When is the best time to visit Loch Ness?

April and May are the driest months in Scotland, making spring the perfect time to visit Loch Ness. However, it tends to be chilly during this season, so, if you prefer a warmer experience, consider planning your visit between June and September.

Are there any tours to Loch Ness from other cities in Scotland?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in Scotland:

• Day Trips to Loch Ness from Inverness
• Day Trips to Loch Ness from London
• Day Trips to Loch Ness from Edinburgh

Travel tips

• Be prepared for cool and unpredictable weather by bringing warm waterproof clothing and umbrellas.
• Don't forget to pack a selfie stick to capture memorable moments with the Highland cows.
• Make sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes of the area.
• Wear sturdy hiking boots with a good grip for comfortable walks in nature.