Scotland's national tourism organisation
You are in section:
Travel
Path to this page:Travelling around Scotland
The majority of Scots live in the central belt, which spreads from Glasgow in the west to Edinburgh, virtually on the east coast. Public transport here is efficient and most places are easily accessible by train and bus. To the south and north it can be a different story: off the main routes, public transport services are more scarce, particularly in more remote parts of the Highlands and Islands.
With careful planning, however, practically everywhere is accessible and you'll have no trouble getting to the main tourist destinations. In most parts of Scotland, especially if you take the scenic backroads, the low level of traffic makes driving wonderfully stress-free.
Follow the links below for more information on using the different transport options available.
By Train
Scotland's rail network is at its most dense in the central belt, reducing to a few main lines in the Highlands; these however do link with most of the major ferry ports to the west coast islands. FirstScotRail runs the majority of train services, reaching all the major towns, sometimes on lines rated as among the great scenic routes of the world.
By Coach
All Scotland's major towns and cities are served by long-distance bus services, known across Britain as coaches, the majority of which are run by the national operator, Scottish Citylink. On the whole, coaches are cheaper than the equivalent train journey and, as a result, are very popular. For busy routes and travel at weekends and holidays therefore it's a good idea to buy a 'reserved-journey ticket', which guarantees you a seat.
If your want to see Scotland by coach Find A Coach Holiday lists dozens of coach tour operartors from across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, who operate tours to and around Scotland.
By Car
If you want to cover a lot of the country in a short time, or just want more flexibility, you'll need your own transport. EU citizens with a valid licence can drive any vehicle if the full entitlement for that vehicle is shown on the licence. Non-EU citizens can also drive in Scotland (and throughout the UK) for up to 12 months providing their license is still valid in the country in which it was issued. (Full details of the requirements for driving here on a foreign license can be obtained from the UK Government's official information site.) If you're bringing your own car into the UK you should also carry your vehicle registration or ownership document at all times. Furthermore, you must be adequately insured, so be sure to check your existing policy.
By Ferry
Scotland has over sixty inhabited islands, and nearly fifty of them have scheduled ferry links. Most ferries carry cars and vans, and the vast majority can - and should - be booked as far in advance as possible.
By Plane
Apart from its four main airports of Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick, Edinburgh and Aberdeen, Scotland has numerous minor airports, many of them on the islands, some of which are little more than gravel airstrips while one - on the island of Barra - is a beach!. There are a wide range of interconnecting flights between each of these and the main hubs. Compared to budget carrier prices, those on internal flights can seem pretty expensive on the whole, especially with very few discounted tickets available; however, the time saving compared to other travel methods may make it worthwhile.
Most flights are operated by Flybe. For inter-island flights in Shetland (excluding Fair Isle), you need to book direct through Loganair. Other services between the mainland and Stornoway are provided by Eastern Airways. Also, Loch Lomond Seaplanes operate flights from Glasgow to Oban, and Tobermory on Mull.
Connect with us: