Best weekend breaks from Glasgow and Edinburgh

11 destinations picked for this guide.

Glasgow and Edinburgh are close to some of the best scenery in Scotland. Loch Lomond is less than an hour from Glasgow, Glencoe, Fort William and the West Highland Way are in easy reach, and the Isle of Mull and Skye are an adventurous weekend away. Edinburgh and Glasgow also make great city breaks for each other. These are the best weekend breaks for people in central Scotland.

Berwick-upon-TweedNorthumberland · Budget-friendly

England's northernmost town, with Elizabethan walls and three famous bridges

 AlnwickNorthumberland · Mid-range

A castle town with a famous garden, a giant bookshop and the sea nearby

 CairngormsHighland · Mid-range

The UK's largest national park, with arctic mountains and ancient pine forests

 GlasgowScotland · Mid-range

Scotland's biggest city, known for art, music and architecture

 GlencoeHighland · Mid-range

Scotland's most dramatic glen, with towering mountains and a haunting history

 Loch LomondStirling · Mid-range

Britain's largest loch by area, within an hour of Glasgow

 NorthumberlandNorthumberland · Mid-range

Castles, empty beaches, dark skies and Hadrian's Wall

 Fort WilliamHighland · Higher-priced

The outdoor capital of the Highlands, at the foot of Ben Nevis

 Isle of MullArgyll and Bute · Higher-priced

A colourful harbour, sea eagles and boat trips to Iona and Staffa

 Isle of SkyeHighland · Higher-priced

Jagged mountains, fairy pools and wild Atlantic coast

 EdinburghScotland · Premium

A dramatic castle city of cobbled lanes, festivals and whisky

Frequently asked questions

What is the best weekend away from Glasgow?

Loch Lomond is the easiest, while Glencoe and Fort William give the Highlands in about 2 to 3 hours.

Is Skye possible for a weekend?

It is a long drive, so three nights is better, but a weekend works if you leave early on Friday.

Looking for somewhere not listed here?

Search stays across the UK. This is an affiliate link.

Plan this weekend with our finder

More guides

Best weekend breaks from Manchester and the North WestBest weekend breaks from LondonBest weekend breaks from Birmingham and the MidlandsBest weekend breaks in Yorkshire and the North EastBest weekend breaks in ScotlandBest weekend breaks in Wales

Last reviewed October 2026. Prices and journey times are estimates, so check before you book. Report an error or share a tip.