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5 Best Travel Agencies in Glasgow

5 Best Travel Agencies in Glasgow

How We Picked

Travel Bookings

With the help of various testers looking for getaways, we first checked out their efficiency in handling bookings. We also checked out the range of destinations, tours, and experiences they can offer.

Expertise

To gauge their expertise, we assessed each travel agency’s years of experience and the recognitions/accreditations they might have. 

Price

We also reviewed travel agencies that have different price points so that you can choose which ones can accommodate your travel budget.

Value Added Services

We rated the add-on services that each agency offers. These will help turn these travel agencies into one-stop solutions for travellers.

1. TUI Holiday Store

TUI Holiday Store's Homepage

Destinations: Europe, Central America, Africa, Caribbean, North America, Asia 

Travel Services: Cruises, Flights, Visas, Currency Exchange, UK Airport Transfers, Travel Insurance, Airport Parking, Airport Hotels, Early-Check Ins, Airport Lounges

Add-On Services: Free Kids’ Place Finder, Money Transfers, Gift Cards, Golfing with Greenfee365, Car Hire, Excursions

Website: https://www.tui.co.uk/shop-finder/tui-holiday-store-19-21-gordon-street-glasgow

Address: 19, 21 Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3PL, United Kingdom

Google review summary

Contact Details:  +44 141 227 3600

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Wed: 9:30 AM–6 PM
  • Thursday: 9:30 AM–7 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM–6 PM
  • Saturday: 9:30 AM–5:30 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–5 PM
Google reviews score4.6/5
Facebook reviews score4.2/5
Score consistency4.9/5
Total Reviews4.56/5
Travel Bookings4/5
→Efficiency3/5
→Range5/5
Expertise5/5
→Years of Experience5/5
→Recognitions/Accreditations5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)5/5
Value Added Services5/5

Pros

  • Offers global destinations
  • Also offers travel cruises
  • Has a currency exchange service
  • Also offers a Free Kids’ Place Finder service
  • Has seasonal packages, last-minute deals, and online discounts/vouchers

Cons

  • Reports of being unresponsive to customer queries
  • Some complaints on booking mistakes and misinformation

We think TUI Holiday Store is one of the best travel agencies in Glasgow. With over 50 years of experience, the store boasts of being specialists when it comes to the world’s most sought-after places. 

It comes to no surprise that they were awarded the ‘Most Trusted Travel Company’ in 2022’s The Sun Travel Awards. Meaning, they have a strong reputation and are trusted by customers to provide enjoyable travel experiences.

One thing that stood out was their Marella and River Cruise options. Not only are these more eco-friendly, they’re perfect for those who love to socialise aboard ships and boats. 

Another great feature is its currency exchange service. Our tester appreciated their great rates on over 50 different currencies worldwide, with no commission. 

Since our tester was travelling with his kids, he was offered their unique Free Kids’ Place Finder service. Through this service, he was able to take his little ones away without shelling out a quid for the kids’ expenses!

Speaking of money-savers, the store also has seasonal packages, last-minute deals, online discounts, and vouchers. This is especially great for those who are on a strict budget.

However, our tester informed us that they can be a bit unresponsive to queries. This can be frustrating for customers who need assistance with their travel plans.

Also, other customers have reported issues with incorrect bookings, double bookings, and incorrect travel information. Not only were these frustrating and inconvenient, they also cost customers additional fees.

2. Trailfinders

Trailfinders' Homepage

Destinations: Africa, Arctic & Antarctica, Asia, Australia, Canada & Alaska, Europe, Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles, New Zealand and the Pacific, South and Central America, The Caribbean, The Middle East, USA

Travel Services: Adventure Tours, Private Tours, Class Travel, Corporate Travel, Fly Drives, Group Tours, Group Travel, Travel Advice, Travel Consultants, Travel Insurance, Travel Plans, School Trips, Visas, Travel Clinic, Airport VIP Lounges

Add-On Services: Car Hire, Gift Cards, Express Test, Wish Lists

Website: https://www.trailfinders.com/travel-centre/gla

Address: 96 St Vincent St, Glasgow G2 5UB, United Kingdom

Contact Details:  +44 141 353 2224

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Fri: 9 AM–7 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM–6 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM–6 PM
Google reviews score4.5/5
Trustpilot reviews score4.9/5
Score consistency4.9/5
Total Reviews4.76/5
Travel Bookings4.5/5
→Efficiency5/5
→Range4/5
Expertise5/5
→Years of Experience5/5
→Recognitions/Accreditations5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)4/5
Value Added Services4/5

Pros

  • Founded in 1970
  • IATA accredited
  • Has an online app, ViewTrail
  • No-surcharge policy
  • Won several awards
  • Offers unique Wellness Holidays
  • Has their own Travel Clinic

Cons

  • Might lack the personal touch 
  • Can be a bit pricier

Founded in 1970, Trailfinders has grown into a well-established travel agency that has made travel arrangements for over 16 million clients. With these credentials, we think they’ve become experts in their field.

They’re also accredited with the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This will help customers know that they’re dealing with a reputable company.

One unique feature they offer is their online app, ViewTrail. Our tester for this agency found this app to be quite useful for keeping track of her itinerary and travel documents.

We also appreciate their no-surcharge policy, meaning that the price you see is the price you’ll pay. This transparency is very reassuring, and it’s something that not all travel agencies offer.

Also, they’ve won several awards, including the Food and Travel Magazine’s Tour Operator of the Year award in 2022. Winning industry awards show their passion for what they do.

They also offer unique Wellness Holidays, which we think is a fantastic option. You can book a relaxing stay in a luxury resort or embark on a detox programme to refresh your body and mind.

Our tester actually booked a Wellness Holiday in Bali, and the agency sorted her itinerary for her. For 9 smashing days, she enjoyed Bali’s sumptuous grub, serene yoga practices, and traditional Balinese healing ceremonies.

Unlike other agencies, they have their own Travel Clinic, which provides discounted rates. 

One downside is that, being a larger travel agency, they might lack the personal touch that you’d expect from smaller travel agencies. 

Also, compared to some other travel agencies, they can be a bit pricier. However, our tester shared post-trip that the perks and peace of mind that they offered were worth the extra dosh. 

3.  Hays Travel Glasgow

Hays Travel Glasgow's Homepage

Destinations: Spain, Canaries, Turkey, Greece, Balearics, Portugal, Cyprus, Malta, USA, Caribbean, Croatia, Italy, The Middle East, Indian Ocean, Iceland, Lapland, France, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Germany, Africa, Egypt, Barbados, Luxury Mexico

Travel Services: Cruises, Flights, Travel Money Cards, Travel Insurance, Holiday Money, Tours, Personal Travel Consultant

Add-On Services: Pay Monthly Holidays

Website: https://www.haystravel.co.uk/

Address: City Centre, 52 Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3PU, United Kingdom

Contact Details:  +44 141 319 4933

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Fri: 9:15 AM–5:30 PM
  • Saturday: 9:15 AM–5 PM
  • Sunday: 11 AM–4 PM
Google reviews score4.4/5
Trustpilot reviews score2/5
Score consistency4.4/5
Total Reviews3.6/5
Travel Bookings3.25/5
→Efficiency3/5
→Range3.5/5
Expertise5/5
→Years of Experience5/5
→Recognitions/Accreditations5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)3.5/5
Value Added Services4.5/5

Pros

  • Has over 40 years of experience
  • Has ABTA and IATA accreditations
  • Offers full ATOL protection
  • Award-winning company
  • Has a Pay Monthly Holidays service
  • Personal Travel Consultant
  • Low initial deposit

Cons

  • Reports of cancelled reservations
  • Pricier exchange rates
  • More limited range of destinations

Hays Travel has over 40 years of experience and is accredited with the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). These show that they’ve met high standards of service and quality.

They also offer full Air Travel Organisers License (ATOL) protection. This gives customers peace of mind, knowing that their travel arrangements are financially protected in case of unforeseen events. 

We’re impressed by the awards they’ve received, which include ‘Best Travel Retailer for Cruise Holidays’ at the 2021 British Travel Awards. This is because they offer a wide variety of cruise line options, unlike other agencies which only have a couple.

They also offer a Pay Monthly Holidays service, which we appreciate. This allows customers to spread the cost of their break in a way that suits their budget. 

As per our tester, having her own personal travel consultant was a definite plus. She was able to get tailored recommendations based on her specific preferences, which helped improve her booking experience.

Unlike other agencies, their deposits start from just £49 per person. This is great for those looking to secure bookings with a lower initial payment.

On the downside, there have been reports of cancelled reservations upon arrival at the destination. 

Our tester also noticed that their exchange rates were a tad pricier compared to other options. This could be a consideration for those looking to stretch their travel budget. 

Lastly, their range of destinations may be more limited compared to other travel agencies. If you’re planning a trip to Japan, for example, you might need to go to another agency.

4.  Caledonian Travel

Caledonian Travel's Homepage

Destinations: Britain, Ireland, Europe

Travel Services: British Breaks, British Travel, Coach Holidays, Coach Travelling, Group Holidays, Group Travel, Guided Tour, Holiday Insurance, Local Travel, Package Travel, Safari Tour, Touring Holidays, Travel Insurance, Trip Insurance, Walking Tour

Add-On Services: Caledonian Sports Packages, Family Fun Packages, Green Getaways, COVID-19 Travel Insurance

Website: https://www.caledonian.com/

Address: 107 Hope St, Glasgow G2 6LL, United Kingdom

Contact Details:  +44 344 815 3001

Operating Hours: Mon-Sat: 9 AM–5:30 PM

Google reviews score4.1/5
Facebook reviews score4.4/5
Score consistency4.9/5
Total Reviews4.46/5
Travel Bookings3.5/5
→Efficiency4/5
→Range3/5
Expertise5/5
→Years of Experience5/5
→Recognitions/Accreditations5/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)4.5/5
Value Added Services4/5

Pros

  • Has more than 30 years of experience
  • Has received industry awards
  • Can arrange holidays under £100
  • Low deposit of £20
  • Price Match Promise
  • Has unique family and sports travel packages

Cons

  • More limited range of destinations
  • Reports of subpar coaches

Caledonian Travel has more than 30 years of experience providing short holidays by coach. On top of this, they also received Feefo’s Platinum Trusted Service Award, which is a great achievement in customer satisfaction.

They have a wide range of short breaks and holidays throughout Britain, Ireland, and Europe, most of which are under £100. This is a great deal for our tester, who was on a budget.

Another budget-friendly feature is their low deposit of just £20 per person, making it easier for customers to secure their bookings. 

Additionally, their Price Match Promise ensures they offer the best value and quality short breaks and holidays across the UK and Europe.

For sports lovers, they offer Caledonian Sports packages. With their partnerships with top ticket vendors, these packages include tickets for some of the largest sporting events across Britain and Europe.

For those looking to bond with their family, they also have several, all-inclusive Family-Fun Packages. These deals include coach travel with reserved seating, hotel stays, and entry tickets to famous theme parks and attractions. 

Our tester actually tried their Gulliver’s World and Chester Zoo package. From this experience, the theme park was just okay, but the zoo was a massive hit since his kids were mad about animals.

However, we were disappointed to hear about their coach being dirty and their hotel not having Wi-Fi and air conditioning. We thought these are concerning, especially for those travelling with children.

Another downside is that their range of destinations is more limited compared to other travel agencies. They may not be suitable for those looking for an Asian or Caribbean vacation. 

5. Travel Planet Scotland

Travel Planet Scotland's Homepage

Destinations: Personalised

Travel Services: Cruise, Flights, Accommodations, Business Travel, Airport Drop-Off

Add-On Services: Personal Service

Website: https://travelplanetscotland.com/

Address: 1494 Paisley Rd W, Glasgow G52 1SP, United Kingdom

Contact Details:  +44 141 882 4525

Operating Hours:

  • Mon-Fri: 9 AM–5 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM–4 PM
Google reviews score4.7/5
Facebook reviews score5/5
Score consistency4.9/5
Total Reviews4.86/5
Travel Bookings5/5
→Efficiency5/5
→Range5/5
Expertise4/5
→Years of Experience5/5
→Recognitions/Accreditations3/5
Prices (A higher score means better value)3.5/5
Value Added Services3.5/5

Pros

  • Has over 18 years of experience
  • Can work with any budget
  • Offers personalised trips
  • Can also arrange group trips
  • Works directly with other companies

Cons

  • Does not have set deals or packages
  • Slightly pricier
  • Should book them well in advance during peak seasons

Travel Planet Scotland in Glasgow has over 18 years of experience, meaning they have a vast knowledge of how the travel industry works.

They specialise in arranging group travels. Our tester made arrangements for a work trip, and they were happy that they took care of everything – from their transportation to their accommodations.

One of their standout features is that they can work with any budget. For instance, they were able to customise our tester and her group’s itinerary, ensuring they get the most bang for their buck.

Their ability to offer personalised trips is another plus. It shows that the travel agency values the individual needs of their clients and is willing to go the extra mile to provide a bespoke travel itinerary. 

We appreciate the fact that they work directly with other companies to get the best deals for their clients. They have built strong relationships with hotels, airlines, and tour operators, which allows them to offer competitive rates and exclusive deals.

However, one drawback for some is that they don’t have set deals or packages, which our tester was originally looking for. This could be a bit of a faff for travellers who prefer to have a range of ready-made packages to choose from.

They were also said to be slightly pricier than other travel agencies. However, our tester and other customers have stated that the quality of service and the bespoke experience they provided were worth it.  

Since they do not have the manpower that larger agencies have, they may not be able to handle multiple bookings during peak seasons. Do plan your trips accordingly.

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