
Oban, Argyll
© VisitScotland / Stuart Brunton
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Oban
Nestled on the west coast and surrounded by miles of dramatic shores and beautiful countryside, the seaside town of Oban is a great place for a holiday.
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Travel to and around Oban
Getting to
Train
Oban can also be easily reached by train from Glasgow or by timetabled coaches from Glasgow or Inverness.
Driving
Driving from Glasgow or Edinburgh takes between two and a half hours to three hours. If coming from Glasgow, there are two route options - follow the A82 via the west side of Loch Lomond, or take the A83 over the Rest and be Thankful and via Inveraray.
Flying
Oban Airport lies 5 miles out of the town and serves the islands of Coll, Tiree, Islay and Colonsay. From Aberdeen it is around a 4 hour drive, or you can travel by train via Dundee and Glasgow.
Getting around
Bus and coach
Oban is pretty easy to travel around, and is a very walkable town too. West Coast Motors operate bus service routes around Oban and to the surrounding villages north and south of the town.
Train
Trains to Glasgow also stop at a number of villages along the railway line, including Connel, Taynuilt, Loch Awe and Dalmally.
Ferry
When it comes to transport on the water to the surrounding islands, ferries are operated by CalMac or you can even charter small passenger boats.
Find more information on ferry timetables on CalMac's website
Taxi
Local companies offer car rentals, and you can also take advantage of taxi services.
Places to stay
Find the right accommodation to suit your needs in Oban.
Oban Youth Hostel
© Hostelling Scotland
Accommodation Ideas
Oban offers a great range of accommodation, from cosy B&B's and guesthouses to welcoming hotels, hostels and central self-catering apartments.
A tip from your local expert

VisitScotland Information Centre
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Help and advice
You can also get advice from our accredited iKnow partners, with excellent local expertise, travel advice and insider tips about must-see attractions and great accommodation in the local area.
Find our iKnow Partners in this areaPlaces to eat in Oban
Find ideas on where to try Scottish food & drink in Oban.

A couple dining at Ee-Usk, a seafood restaurant in Oban.
Food & Drink Ideas
There's a great selection of places to eat in Oban.
Map of Oban
Explore Oban
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Coasteering near Oban
© VisitScotland / Wild about Argyll / Kieran J Duncan
Ideas for things to do in Oban
Oban is known as the "Gateway to the Isles" and is known for its range of outdoor pursuits and delicious food and drink. Experience island life in full where you'll find everything from boat tours, cycling, beach combing and diving. Make sure to boost your energy levels with a mouth-watering seafood platter or a nice dram of whisky.

A yacht moored at the north pier pontoons, Oban
© VisitScotland / Wild about Argyll / Kieran J Duncan
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oban at these hidden gem experiences.

The Caledonian MacBrayne Ferry
© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins
Tours, routes and trails
Check out our ideas for short breaks in Oban with things to see & do, places to stay and food & drink suggestions.
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