How to get to Oban - By Train, Bus, Car, Ferry or Plane

Getting to Oban is part of the adventure. This harbour town on Scotland’s west coast is well connected by road, rail and coach, making it easy to plan a short break, longer holiday or island-hopping adventure.

Travel directly from Glasgow by train or coach, or take one of several scenic driving routes through Argyll and the Highlands. Oban’s railway station, bus connections and main ferry terminal are conveniently located in the town centre, making it an ideal destination to explore without a car.

Driving to Oban? From Glasgow, one main route follows the A82 alongside Loch Lomond to Tyndrum, then the A85 through Dalmally and Taynuilt to Oban. Alternatively, take the A83 through Inveraray, join the A819 towards Dalmally, then the A85 to Oban. A longer scenic option takes you through Lochgilphead and Kilmartin Glen.

Check current road conditions before setting off, especially during adverse weather.

Visiting by motorhome or campervan?

Oban and Lorn offer opportunities for touring by motorhome or campervan. Plan overnight stays using designated campsites or authorised facilities, and check parking restrictions before arriving. Don't assume daytime parking also allows overnight stays.

Travel to Oban by train - Enjoy one of Scotland’s most scenic railway journeys on the West Highland Line. ScotRail operates direct services between Glasgow Queen Street and Oban, travelling through spectacular Highland landscapes.

Oban railway station is in the town centre, close to the harbour, accommodation, shops and ferry terminal. It’s a convenient option for visitors planning a car-free holiday or connecting with island ferries.

Check train times, fares and journey information at ScotRail.

Travel to Oban by Bus or Coach - Oban connects to Glasgow and other parts of Scotland by coach, making it easy to visit without driving.

Scottish Citylink and Ember offer services connecting Glasgow and Oban. Ember operates electric coaches, with selected services also connecting to Glasgow Airport. Check individual operators for current stops, timetables and booking arrangements.

For travel around Oban, Lorn and the surrounding villages, West Coast Motors operates local bus services.

Ferries from Oban - Oban is known as the Gateway to the Isles, with CalMac ferry services connecting the town to Mull, Lismore, Colonsay, Coll, Tiree and Barra.

Some islands require an onward journey. To reach Iona, take the ferry to Craignure on Mull, travel across the island to Fionnphort and catch the passenger ferry to Iona. Ferries to Kerrera depart from Gallanach, a short distance south of Oban town centre, rather than from Oban Ferry Terminal.

Ferry routes, timetables and booking requirements vary. Plan connections carefully, allow sufficient time between services and check sailing updates before travelling.

Explore timetables, fares and booking information at Calmac.

Fly to Oban and the Isles - There are no scheduled direct flights from Glasgow or Edinburgh airports to Oban. Visitors arriving at either airport can continue their journey to Oban by road or public transport.

Oban Airport, located at North Connel, operates scheduled flights to and from Coll, Colonsay and Tiree with Hebridean Air Services. Scenic flights and private charter options may also be available.

Find out more at Hebridean Air Services.