Public Transport in Glasgow

Getting around Glasgow is quick and affordable thanks to its excellent public transport network. Whether you’re exploring by bus, train, or the famous Subway, the city’s compact layout makes travelling between attractions simple and stress-free.

public transport in Glasgow

Buses in Glasgow

Glasgow’s bus network is extensive, with frequent services connecting the city centre, suburbs, and nearby towns. First Glasgow operates most routes, while McGill’s Buses cover parts of the west and south of the city.
You can pay by contactless card, mobile app, or exact change. Day tickets are great value if you plan to make several journeys. For live updates and route planning, the First Bus App is the best place to start.
If you’re visiting the city, the City Sightseeing Glasgow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers an easy way to see major landmarks such as George Square, Kelvingrove Art Gallery, and the Riverside Museum. Commentary is available in multiple languages, and tickets can be bought onboard or online..

Trains in Glasgow

There are two trains stations in Glasgow:

  • Glasgow Central Station – for routes to the south and west, including Ayr, Edinburgh (via Motherwell), and London.
  • Glasgow Queen Street Station – for services to the north and east, including Stirling, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Edinburgh (via Falkirk).

Local trains also serve nearby attractions such as Balloch (for Loch Lomond), Paisley, and Partick, making day trips easy. Most trains accept contactless payments and mobile tickets.

Glasgow Subway

Affectionately known as “the Clockwork Orange,” Glasgow’s Subway is the third-oldest underground railway in the world and remains one of the easiest ways to get around the city. The circular network has just 15 stations and connects the city centre with the West End, Kelvinbridge, Hillhead, and Partick.
Trains run every few minutes, and a single Smartcard can be topped up for multiple journeys. It’s especially handy for exploring attractions around Kelvingrove, the University of Glasgow, and Buchanan Street.

Travel Tips

Smartcards & Mobile Tickets: Save time by using a Smartcard or the First Bus App for seamless travel across bus and Subway services.
Accessibility: Most buses and Subway stations are wheelchair accessible.
Night Services: Limited late-night buses operate on key routes at weekends.
Connections: Combined tickets like the Roundabout ticket cover both Subway and ScotRail journeys within certain zones.