Glasgow is a fantastic base for exploring Scotland’s Highlands and iconic landmarks. Its central location, good transport links, and vibrant city atmosphere make it an ideal starting point for longer excursions. The tours we love stand out because they combine historic sites, filming locations, and stunning scenery, often with comfortable transport and engaging guides. For example, the Glasgow: 2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour offers a classic Highland experience with visits to Ben Nevis, Loch Ness, and Glencoe, all packed into just two days.
If you’re curious about the landscape and lore of Scotland, these tours provide a well-rounded taste, from mysterious lochs to historic battlefields, with options catering to different interests and budgets. Whether you want a comprehensive journey or a specialized visit to filming locations from Outlander, this list will help you find the perfect 2-day adventure from Glasgow.
1. Glasgow: 2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour
This tour is an excellent introduction for travelers wanting a thorough Highland experience without the hassle of planning. Over two days, you’ll visit Ben Nevis, Britain’s tallest mountain, and Loch Ness, where the elusive Nessie may make an appearance. The itinerary also includes stops at Glencoe Valley, known for its dramatic landscapes, and Culloden Battlefield, a site of Scottish history. A highlight is walking along the benign banks of Loch Lomond.
The tour departs from Glasgow’s Killermont Street and is rated 4.7 out of 5 from 42 reviews, with many praising the friendly guides and extra stops tailored to the group’s interests. Visitors often comment on how the guide, like Gillian or Andrew T., makes the trip both informative and entertaining, with anecdotes and local insights. The price is $167 per person for two days, which includes visits to Dalwhinnie Distillery and the Clava Cairns.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a comprehensive Highland experience with knowledgeable guides and flexible stops. It’s especially suited for history buffs and scenery lovers who enjoy a relaxed pace.
2. Glasgow: Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan – 2 Day Tour
This highly-rated, small-group 2-day guided tour takes you to some of Scotland’s most iconic film and TV locations, including Glenfinnan Viaduct (famous from Harry Potter) and Eilean Donan Castle. Starting in Glasgow, you’ll travel in a comfortable private van, with train options back to the city. The tour emphasizes historic castles, beautiful lochs, and filming locations seen in Monty Python, Skyfall, and Harry Potter.
The unique feature here is the chance to visit inside Eilean Donan Castle with optional upgrades and spending a night in Fort William. This tour is rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 17 reviews, with travelers praising the expert guides like Mark and Shug, and the well-planned itinerary. The cost is just over $153, offering good value for the detailed itinerary that includes Loch Lomond, Inveraray, and Glencoe.
Bottom line: Ideal for film fans or those looking for a more immersive experience with stays in charming Highland towns. It combines scenery, castles, and famous landmarks, making it a memorable two-day adventure.
3. Glasgow: 2-Day Eilean Donan, Loch Ness & Glenfinnan Tour
This tour offers a detailed exploration of the North West Highlands, including Eilean Donan Castle and the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 39 reviews, it is a great option for travelers wanting a scenic and historic trip with an overnight in Fort William.
Beginning with a pickup from Glasgow, the itinerary includes stops at Loch Lomond, Inveraray Castle, and Glencoe. Its focus on natural beauty and filming locations appeals to those who enjoyed the Harry Potter train bridge and want stunning photos. The tour highlights rich scenery and the chance to explore Fort William‘s lively town.
Guests appreciate the comfortable transport and friendly guides who share stories along the way. If you’re after a balanced mix of history, scenery, and film locations, this tour offers a compelling, well-rated option for around $167.
Bottom line: Best suited for fans of Harry Potter or anyone wanting a classic Highland experience with a focus on scenic landscapes and filming sites.
4. Glasgow: Loch Ness, Inverness & The Highlands – 2 Day Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive 2-day journey through the Scottish Highlands, with a focus on Loch Ness, Inverness, and Ben Nevis. It’s rated 4.5 out of 5 from 16 reviews and emphasizes scenic drives and flexible sightseeing.
Starting from Glasgow, the trip covers Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and Fort William, with optional stops at Inveraray and the Commando Memorial. The highlight is the chance to hunt for Nessie and explore the rolling landscapes of the Highlands. The guide provides on-board commentary, making it easy to relax and learn about each site.
Guests appreciate the value for money at $152.99, especially given the well-paced itinerary and comfortable vehicle. Some mention the limited time at each stop but enjoy the overall richness of the experience.
Bottom line: A flexible choice for those who want a balanced overview of the Highlands, with enough highlights to satisfy first-timers and scenery connoisseurs alike.
5. Outlander Season 2 Day Tour from Glasgow and Edinburgh
This niche tour is for fans of the series or those interested in Scottish film and TV locations. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from a single review, it visits Hopetoun House, Linlithgow Palace, Callendar House, and Drummond Castle Gardens—all used as filming sites in Outlander.
Starting in Glasgow or Edinburgh, the tour offers an immersive experience into scenes where Claire and Jamie’s adventures unfold. It includes a lunch stop at Hopetoun House, with additional time to explore the beautiful grounds. The tour provides a good mix of history and scenery, with an emphasis on film locations.
Guests love the storytelling and beautiful estates, making this a good choice for series fans or those seeking a more relaxed pace. It runs about 8 to 10 hours and costs $137.79.
Bottom line: Best for Outlander fans or travelers wanting a light, scenic day trip with a focus on Scottish estates and TV history.
$137.79 per person
How to Choose Your 2-Day Tour from Glasgow
When selecting a tour, consider your interest level—are you more into natural scenery, castles, or filming locations? For a classic Highland experience, the Glasgow: 2-Day Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands Tour offers a broad overview with historical stops. If you’re into film and TV, the Glenfinnan and Eilean Donan Tour should be your pick.
Budget-wise, tours range from about $152.99 to $167, often including overnight stays and optional upgrades. Think about your fitness level—most tours involve some walking, especially at castles and battlefields. Book early, especially for the Outlander Tour, which is quite popular.
Timing is key—spring and early fall offer the best weather, while summer provides longer daylight hours. All tours provide a comfortable, guided experience, easing your worries about navigation and allowing you to enjoy Scotland’s stunning scenery and stories.
Final Thoughts
Glasgow’s strategic location means you can choose from a variety of two-day excursions that suit different tastes and interests. From the classic Highlands and Loch Ness to film locations from Harry Potter and Outlander, there’s something for every traveler. For those looking for a comprehensive, no-fuss experience, the Loch Ness and Inverness tour is a solid choice. Meanwhile, film fans will love the Glenfinnan and Eilean Donan tour, which combines scenery with iconic filming sites.
If your goal is a more relaxed, scenic journey with a mix of history and natural beauty, the Loch Ness, Inverness & Highlands tour hits the mark. And for dedicated Outlander fans or TV series enthusiasts, the dedicated Outlander Tour provides a fun, picturesque deep dive.
Booking early is always wise, especially in peak season. Whichever tour you choose, Scotland’s landscapes and stories will leave you with plenty to talk about long after you’ve returned home.