Glasgow Travel Guide: Getting to Glasgow

Glasgow is one of the best-connected cities in the UK, making it easy to visit by plane, train, bus, or car. Whether you’re arriving from elsewhere in Scotland, the rest of the UK, or overseas, there are plenty of travel options to get you here quickly and comfortably.

By Air

Glasgow Airport (GLA) is the city’s main international gateway, located just 8 miles west of the centre. It serves destinations across Europe, North America, and the Middle East, with frequent flights from London, Dublin, Amsterdam, and beyond.
Getting into the city is simple — the Glasgow Airport Express (Service 500) runs 24 hours a day and takes around 15 minutes to reach Buchanan Bus Station. Taxis and car hire are also available at the terminal.
Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK), around 30 miles south-west of the city, is another option, mainly used by low-cost carriers. It has its own dedicated train station with direct services to Glasgow Central Station in under 50 minutes.

By Train

Glasgow has two major railway stations:

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

Both stations are located in the heart of the city, within easy walking distance of hotels, theatres, and shopping areas. Regular services link Glasgow to most major UK cities, making rail one of the most popular ways to travel.

By Bus

Long-distance coaches arrive at Buchanan Bus Station, right in the city centre. Operators such as Citylink, Megabus, and National Express offer regular services from across Scotland, England, and Northern Ireland.
The station is well signposted and just a short walk from Buchanan Street and both main train stations, making onward connections simple.

By Car

If you’re driving, Glasgow is well served by major motorways that connect it to the rest of the UK:
M8 – runs right through the city, linking Glasgow to Edinburgh and the west coast.
M77 – heads south towards Ayrshire and Prestwick Airport.
M74 – connects Glasgow to England via Carlisle.
Plenty of car parks are available in and around the city centre, though be aware that the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) covers much of central Glasgow. Always check your vehicle’s compliance before driving into the zone.

Travelling Around Once You Arrive

Once you’ve arrived, Glasgow’s excellent public transport, walking and cycling routes, and taxi services make it easy to get around. Whether you’re heading to a show at the Hydro or a stroll in Kelvingrove Park, travelling within the city is simple and well connected.