The Glasgow to Aberdeen train route connects Scotland’s largest city with its northern coastal hub. Fast, direct and frequent services make this route ideal for business trips, university travel, and exploring the northeast coastline.
1. Journey Overview
- Fastest journey: ~2 hours 29 minutes
- Typical journey time: 2h 30m – 2h 50m
- Distance: ~145 miles (233 km)
- Direct trains: Yes
- Frequency: Usually every hour
- Main operator: ScotRail
Services run daily from early morning until late evening.
2. Major Stations
Glasgow Queen Street
Located beside George Square, close to shops, subway and bus links. Full station facilities available.
Aberdeen Station
Connected to Union Square shopping centre, with direct access to buses, taxis and ferry services.
3. Route Highlights
Most journeys run via:
- Stirling
- Dunblane
- Perth
- Dundee
- Stonehaven
Expect scenic sections through Perthshire and coastal views approaching Aberdeen. It is a pleasant route for leisure travellers.
4. Onboard Experience
Typical onboard features include:
- Comfortable seating
- Wi-Fi on many services
- Power sockets on selected trains
- Luggage racks & overhead space
- Toilets onboard
- First Class available on some services
Seating is usually open, with no reservation required.
5. Best Time to Travel
- Peak: Weekday mornings and late afternoons
- Off-peak: Better prices and more seating availability
- Weekends & holidays: Can be busy with coastal travellers — plan ahead
6. Ticket Tips
- Advance tickets may offer savings on longer-distance ScotRail services
- Railcards save around 33% on most fares
- Off-Peak Return tickets ideal for same-day return travel
- Check for engineering works during weekends
- Flexible tickets recommended for business travellers
7. Why Choose the Train?
- Faster than most road options
- Direct city-centre to city-centre journey
- No parking hassle
- Very comfortable and scenic route
- Eco-friendly compared to driving
This route is well-suited for business visits, shopping trips, students heading to Aberdeen’s universities, and travel to the northeast coast.