Glasgow International Airport Car Rental

Glasgow Airport is located just over nine miles out of the city center, so renting a car is the perfect first step on your visit. Once you leave the airport, the M8 highway will lead you to the city where you can exit on either the east or west side, depending on where you’ll be based for your trip.

You can also drive into central Glasgow through the Clyde tunnel, although this does get busy at peak times. If you’re not planning to drive straight to the city, Glasgow Airport is also conveniently placed for visiting other areas of western Scotland.

It’s just a short drive south of the airport via the M8 and A726 to Paisley, one of the biggest towns in the country, famous for textiles but which also boasts a 12^th century abbey, an arts center and museum.

For staggering natural beauty, you could head southwest along the A737 to Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park, a huge expanse of countryside on the banks of the River Clyde. Or, a little further north, a short drive up the A82, is the world famous Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Along the way you could stop off in Dumbarton, an ancient town and former capital of the Kingdom of Strathclyde.

If you’re travelling further afield, it’s just over an hour’s drive across the motorway to Scotland’s capital Edinburgh, a historic city filled with ancient buildings, modern vibrancy and sensational restaurants.

Following the M74 will take you down to the north of England, including Newcastle via the A69, while the M80 leads you north-east to the city of Stirling, boasting a medieval castle and safari park. Whichever way you head, you’re bound to find something truly fascinating.

Almost two decades after it was named European Capital of Culture, Glasgow’s flourishing arts scene is more vibrant than ever. From its lively museum and gallery exhibitions to its stately architecture, Scotland’s largest city has so much on offer that it’s hard to fit it all in over just a few days.

With the Highlands beckoning too, you’ll have a wonderful time in this very special area.

Cramming in culture

If you’re visiting the very center of Glasgow, there are stacks of great attractions to delve into. Some of the highlights include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, a free collection of exhibits ranging from ancient Egypt to the architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, famed son of the city.

The Glasgow School of Art, which has produced an impressive number of Turner Prize nominees, also puts on an end-of-year fashion and degree show in the summer months. Visitors to the city in June or July might have the chance to experience the TRNSMT music festival, which takes place over two weekends in the heart of the city.

Or, if sport is more your thing, it’s just a short drive to championship standard golf courses The Carrick and Royal Troon. 18 holes in sumptuous surroundings could be just the thing to make your vacation truly memorable.

Food and fashion hotspots

Glasgow’s main shopping area, Buchanan Street, is pedestrianized but you can park close by and explore its popular retail chains and independent stores. For quirkier finds, head to the city’s West End where you’ll find a vast array of boutiques and vintage stores.

When it comes to food, Glasgow’s gastronomic scene is a million miles away from the infamous deep fried Mars bar. The West End is particularly favored by foodies, and it’s not hard to see why.

Stroll along the longest street in the city, Great Western Road, and you’ll find a diverse range of eateries offering everything from classic pub food to Mexican tapas and plenty in between. The Gannet on Argyle Street is a standout. A 6 course tasting menu is great value and may include dishes such as cod with mussel emulsion, smoked sea trout and salted caramel fondant for the perfect end to your meal.

On the bonnie banks

Take a 30-mile drive out of Glasgow and you’ll find one of Scotland’s most famous natural treasures. Nestled in the scenic surroundings of the Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond is the largest loch or lake in the UK by surface area, and is a must-see if you’re visiting for gorgeous natural beauty.

While in the area, take a walk with impressive views and explore the park’s glens and rocky peaks.  If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even head out onto the water for canoeing or kayaking activities. The sheltered position of the loch makes it a great location for watersports beginners, or if you’re a bit more experienced you’ll find plenty of challenging activities too.

If you want to discover more of this beautiful country, drive a few hours north of the city and you’ll find Loch Ness, home to the legendary ‘Nessie’ monster as well as a great range of tours, walking trails and plenty of wildlife.

Like many areas of the Highlands it’s easily accessible by car, so renting a vehicle at Glasgow Airport is a perfect way to see all the sights of the city and soak up even more of stunning Scotland.