The Commonwealth Games 2026 will bring the energy of international sport right to the heart of Glasgow – but for those with a free day in their schedule or looking to escape the bustle between events, there are some unforgettable day trips within easy reach of the city. Whether you’re after natural beauty, charming coastal towns, or historic landmarks, these trips offer the perfect contrast to the city’s buzz – without missing a beat.
Why now? Most of these destinations are just 30–90 minutes from Glasgow by train or car. Summer is the ideal time to visit them – with long daylight hours, seasonal events, and the Scottish countryside at its best.
For extended stays or planning beyond the Games, check out Scotland Beyond Glasgow: Where to Go After the Games.
1. Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
Travel Time: 50 mins by train to Balloch
Why it’s perfect during the Games:
The Games can be intense — crowds, noise, and a packed schedule. Loch Lomond offers the ultimate contrast: peace, space, and fresh air. A quick train from Glasgow Queen Street gets you there, meaning you can squeeze in a hike, boat cruise, or picnic without missing any key events.
What to do:
- Hike part of the West Highland Way
- Take a boat tour from Balloch or Luss
- Visit the Loch Lomond Shores shopping village and Sea Life Aquarium
- Enjoy lunch with a view at The Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha
Tip: Look for half-day GetYourGuide tours if you have only a morning or afternoon free.
2. Edinburgh
Travel Time: 1 hour by train from Glasgow Queen Street
Why it’s perfect during the Games:
Edinburgh offers a cultural counterbalance to the Games. If you’re between matches or waiting for finals, spend a day exploring Scotland’s capital. With the Edinburgh Fringe Festival starting just after the Games end, the city will already be preparing — making it lively, but not yet overwhelmed with tourists.
What to do:
- Visit Edinburgh Castle
- Walk the Royal Mile and explore hidden closes
- Take a relaxed hike up Arthur’s Seat
- Eat at Dishoom, The Devil’s Advocate, or grab local seafood at Ondine
With frequent trains and return fares under £15 when booked in advance, it’s one of the easiest city-to-city day trips in Europe.
3. Stirling
Travel Time: 45 mins by train
Why it’s perfect during the Games:
Stirling is steeped in Scottish history, and it’s far less crowded than Edinburgh. A great half-day or full-day trip, especially for international visitors who want to understand Scotland’s past — while avoiding tourist crushes.
What to do:
- Tour the Wallace Monument
- Explore the dramatic Stirling Castle
- Walk the Battle of Bannockburn site
- Have lunch at The Smithy or Darnley Coffee House
If you’ve got a morning or evening Games session, Stirling can be fit into the gap — it’s compact and close.
4. Ayrshire Coast: Ayr & Culzean Castle
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 mins by train or car
Why it’s perfect during the Games:
Scotland’s west coast beaches shine in July and August. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the crowds, this seaside escape offers space, sea air, and stunning castle views — ideal for relaxing before or after a big day of sport.
What to do:
- Visit Culzean Castle & Country Park
- Walk along Ayr Beach
- Stop by Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
- Grab ice cream at The Cafe at the End of the Universe in Ayr
Consider hiring a car for this one — or use Trip.com or GetYourGuide for group day tours.
5. Falkirk & The Kelpies
Travel Time: 30–40 mins by train
Why it’s perfect during the Games:
Super easy to reach and perfect for a photo-friendly afternoon. If you’re based in Glasgow and want something quick and different — Falkirk’s giant Kelpies sculptures and the rotating Falkirk Wheel are impressive, especially for families.
What to do:
- See The Kelpies at The Helix Park
- Ride the Falkirk Wheel
- Walk the Forth & Clyde Canal Path
- Eat at The Wheelhouse or Tea Jennys
Great for an active rest day without the intensity of competition crowds.
6. Largs & Millport (Isle of Cumbrae)
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 mins to Largs + short ferry
Why it’s perfect during the Games:
Want to say you took a Scottish island trip during the Games? Largs and Millport are as close as it gets — and completely manageable in a single day. Great for families, couples, and solo travellers looking for some seaside chill.
What to do:
- Visit Millport by ferry and cycle around the island
- Have fish and chips by the sea
- Explore Kelburn Castle with its graffiti-covered facade
- Treat yourself at Nardini’s for famous Italian ice cream
Ferries run often, and trains to Largs are direct from Glasgow Central.
7. Oban (for the ambitious)
Travel Time: 3 hours by train – early start needed!
Why it’s perfect during the Games:
If you’ve got an entire free day and want to go big – Oban is the gateway to Scotland’s isles and seafood capital. Ideal for anyone making their trip to the Games a longer Scottish adventure. Trains offer epic views along the way.
What to do:
- Eat local shellfish from Oban Seafood Hut
- Visit McCaig’s Tower for a panoramic view
- Explore the waterfront and distillery
- Hop a short ferry to Kerrera Island for a hike
Oban’s atmosphere is the opposite of the Games – laid back, authentic, and coastal.
Tips for Planning Your Day Trips
- Use the ScotRail app to plan trains and check live schedules.
- Consider off-peak fares to save money if you’re not tied to early events.
- Combine these day trips with Games transport advice.
- If you’re in town for the full schedule, use the Day-by-Day Games Planner to find free days.
- Book activities via GetYourGuide, Trip.com, or Tripadvisor for stress-free logistics.
Before You Go: More Glasgow Games Tips
- Where to Stay in Glasgow for the Games
- Where to Eat, Drink & Relax Near Event Venues
- Ticketing Guide: Pricing, Booking Tips & Key Dates
- Best Areas to Stay Close to Venues
- Ultimate Glasgow Commonwealth Games 2026 Guide
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