Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit?

Oban is a great town to visit all year round, with numerous boat trips and extended restaurant opening hours from May to late September. Cooler Autumn and Spring months are great for walking, cycling and exploring when the town is less busy. Winter is a great season to visit, with many winter-themed events to enjoy and cosy accommodation in and around the town. It's always best to book ahead for both accommodation and restaurants where possible.

The town hosts many excellent events that you might time your visit around. Check out our What's On page for the latest.

Which Islands can I visit from Oban?

Many of our islands are available as a day trip from Oban; Of course, we would also like you to stay on our islands and support the local economy. Some of our islands are less car-friendly, so please research and consider leaving the car behind. We recommend booking ferry tickets in advance of your trip to ensure a smooth travel experience, particularly during the winter months. Find out more CalMac Ferries.

• Isle of Mull (40-45 minute ferry)
• Iona (short passenger ferry from Mull)
• Kerrera (a few minutes by ferry)
• Lismore (about 55 minutes by ferry)
• Colonsay (about 2 hours 20 minutes by ferry)
• Staffa (boat tours, famous for Fingal’s Cave)
• Seil, Luing and Easdale (reachable via nearby ferries)
• Coll & Tiree (longer ferry trip, about 2.5 hours)

Where can I park the car for longer than 24 hours?

Oban has many on-street car parking places, most are pay and display and have pay by mobile facilities.

• Lochavulin Car Park (65 spaces)
• Albany Street (36 spaces)
• Corran Halls (90 spaces)
• Corran Halls (57 spaces)
• Tweedale Street (90 spaces)
• Longsdale Road / Atlantis Leisure (92 spaces)
• North Pier Car Park (70 spaces)

Most of the car parks in Oban are managed by the local authority, and you can find out more information about them here.

For longer-term parking, use the Tesco car park and pay by phone.

Where are the toilets in Oban?

Public toilets in Oban are located at several convenient spots:

• North Pier, Oban: Public toilets here have a 50p entry charge (cash only). They are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm in the summer and from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the winter. The facilities include disabled access.
• Ganavan Sands, Oban: The toilets at Ganavan Sands are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm in the summer and from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the winter, with disabled access available.
• Pulpit Hill: Public toilets are available near Pulpit Hill, a popular walking area in Oban.

Argyll and Bute Council manage these public toilets, and some locations require a small charge for use, payable by cash or card.

Additional toilets can be found in shops, cafes, and public buildings throughout the town for customers.

Where can I try whisky?

Oban is great for whisky lovers, with many bars and restaurants stocking a wide range of whiskies from all over Scotland. Oban also has its very own distillery offering tours and tastings. Visit our sister website Wild About Argyll for inspiration.

What can visitors enjoy in the town?

Oban has a wide variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Explore our See & Do pages for inspiration. During the busy Summer months, plan and book in advance to avoid disappointment.

What about accommodation?

A wide range of accommodations is available in and around Oban, from self-catering options to welcoming hotels and lodges. Consider staying in the surrounding areas as well as in the town, and book directly for the best prices.