Our Oban Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this Scottish town. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Oban!
Oban Travel Guide
Welcome to Oban, a picturesque town on Scotland’s Atlantic west coast renowned for its stunning views, maritime heritage, and vibrant local culture.
Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban is the perfect base for exploring the beautiful Hebrides.
We have included everything you need in our Oban Travel Guide to help you plan your visit.
Map of Oban
Coming soon!
Plan your visit to Oban – FAQs
When is the best time of year to visit Oban?
Spring (March to May)
Milder temperatures and warming weather mark spring in Oban. Daytime temperatures typically range from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F), and while you can expect occasional rain showers, the weather is generally more stable and pleasant than in the winter months.
Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, to stay comfortable during your visit.
Summer (June to August)
Oban’s summer weather is generally mild (not necessarily warm), with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F). Longer daylight hours extending into the late evening make it a perfect time to visit.
The summer months offer the best weather for outdoor activities, though expect rain at times! Pack light, breathable clothing, but be prepared with a waterproof layer for unpredictable weather.
Autumn (September to November)
Cooler temperatures and a beautiful array of Autumn colours characterise autumn in Oban. Daytime temperatures typically range from 7°C to 13°C (45°F to 55°F).
The weather can be variable, with crisp, clear days and occasional rain showers.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Oban is generally cool and damp, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Snowfall is rare but possible, and the weather can be quite variable, with frequent rain and shorter daylight hours.
What is the best way to explore Oban?
Exploring Oban can be done on foot, as many attractions are within easy walking distance. Do note that away from the seafront it is quite hilly so be prepared!
For a broader reach, consider renting a bike to explore nearby areas or using a car to visit surrounding sites and take advantage of ferry services to nearby islands.
In parts of Oban, a one-way system is in operation – it is important to be aware of if you are driving. Also some of the lanes are pretty narrow.
Public transport, including local buses and trains, offers convenient travel within and beyond the town. At the same time, boat tours provide a unique perspective of the coastline and islands.
Guided tours can also enhance your experience with detailed insights into the town’s history and nearby attractions.
How to travel to Oban from Edinburgh
By train
Route: Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street (approx 1 hour). From there, take a direct train to Oban. Queens Street to Oban takes around 3 hours 10 minutes. There are only a few daily trains, so check schedules.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours in total.
Schedule: Trains run several times a day, but it’s best to check the current timetable on the ScotRail website.
By car
Route: 196km. Drive via the M9 and A85 or A84.
Duration: Around 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Tips: This option allows you to stop and explore places along the way, such as Stirling or the Trossachs National Park.
Attractions and things to do in Oban
Things to do in Oban include visiting McCaig’s Tower and Battery which sits on a hill overlooking the town and the 18th century Oban Distillery, which is home to one of Scotland’s oldest Single Malt whiskeys. Take a journey to the heart of Oban, Scotland, where Ooshka Bar awaits as your gateway to unforgettable whisky, gin, and cocktail-tasting experiences. Savour drams while being regaled with tales of the distilleries.
A walking tour is also a great way to discover more about this Scottish town.
On a rainy day in Oban, visit the War and Peace Museum, the Ocean Explorers Centre or treat yourself at the Oban Chocolate Company.
There are also lots of attractions in the immediate area. You could also take a trip to nearby Castle Stalker, the 13th-century ruins of Dunstaffnage Castle, the unusual Fingal’s Dogstone, Loch Etive and the ruins of Dunollie Castle, seat of the MacDougall clan. Some of these sites can be visited on foot from Oban or by a short drive or bus ride from the town centre.
Furthermore, Oban is a fantastic base from which to visit the Hebridean Islands of Staffa, Mull and Iona. The ferry terminal for the islands is situated in the town centre (adjacent to the rail station) so it is an easy day trip from Oban to the islands.
Alternatively catch a ferry near Oban to go hiking, biking or birdwatching on the Isle of Lismore or on the Isle of Kerrera.
At the end of a long day of sightseeing, make sure you indulge in freshly cooked fish at one of the town’s seafood restaurants as Oban is known as ‘the seafood capital of Scotland.’
Day trips from Oban [Where to go + tours/driving routes]
Experience the beauty of Oban and the Firth of Lorn with a historical and wildlife boat cruise. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, spot diverse wildlife, and explore the surrounding islands on this memorable tour.
As mentioned Oban is the gateway to the islands of Mull, Iona, and Staffa with several tour options departing from Oban.
Check out tours on offer by West Coast Tours or Staffa Tours (I took their 3 islands tour)
Isle of Mull
- Getting There: Take the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry from Oban to Craignure on Mull (approximately 45 minutes).
- Highlights: Visit Tobermory with its colourful waterfront, explore Duart Castle, and enjoy scenic drives and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Isle of Iona
- Getting There: Take the ferry from Oban to Craignure, drive or take a bus across Mull to Fionnphort, then take a short ferry ride to Iona.
- Highlights: Visit the historic Iona Abbey, walk around the peaceful island, and enjoy the stunning beaches.
Isle of Staffa and Fingal’s Cave
- Getting There: Take a tour which includes Staffa such as the 3 islands tour by Staffa Tours.
- Highlights: Explore the unique basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave and see puffins (seasonal) on the island. Note – there is NO toilet on the island so use the bathroom in the boat before you get off!!!!
Glencoe and Fort William
- Driving Route: Couple of options. Drive north from Oban on the A828 to Ballachulish, then follow the A82 into Glencoe and onward to Fort William (approximately 1.5 hours).
- Highlights: Hike or simply admire Glencoe’s dramatic scenery, visit the Glencoe Visitor Centre, and explore Fort William, including the nearby Ben Nevis.
Loch Awe and Kilchurn Castle
- Driving Route: Drive east from Oban on the A85 to Loch Awe (about 30 minutes).
- Highlights: Visit the ruins of Kilchurn Castle on the banks of Loch Awe, explore the village of Lochawe, and take in the beautiful scenery.
Inveraray
- Driving Route: Drive east from Oban on the A85, then take the A819 to Inveraray (about 1 hour).
- Highlights: Visit Inveraray Castle, home to the Duke of Argyll, explore the Inveraray Jail museum, and stroll around the charming village.
Ardnamurchan Peninsula
- Driving Route: Drive north from Oban on the A828, then take the Corran Ferry and follow the A861 and B8007 (approximately 2.5 hours).
- Highlights: Explore the rugged and remote landscapes of the peninsula, visit Ardnamurchan Point Lighthouse, and enjoy the unspoiled beaches.
Oban to Kilmartin Glen
- Driving Route: Drive south from Oban on the A816 (about 40 minutes).
- Highlights: Discover ancient standing stones, cairns, and rock carvings in Kilmartin Glen, and visit the Kilmartin Museum for historical insights.
Where to eat and drink in Oban
Restaurants
- Ee-Usk
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Highlights: Fresh, locally caught seafood with stunning views over Oban Bay. Popular dishes include scallops, langoustines, and lobster.
- The Waterfront Fishouse Restaurant
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Highlights: This restaurant overlooks the harbour and offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes. Try the seafood platter or the Cullen skink.
- Coast Restaurant
- Cuisine: Modern Scottish
- Highlights: A contemporary restaurant offering dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Notable options include venison and Scottish salmon.
- The Olive Garden
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Highlights: Mix of Italian and Greek dishes. The seafood pasta and lamb dishes are particularly popular.
- Cuan Mor
- Cuisine: Scottish
- Highlights: A relaxed, family-friendly restaurant with a focus on local produce. Enjoy dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, or a hearty steak.
- Oban Seafood Hut (Green Shack)
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Highlights: This is a must-visit for seafood lovers. It offers fresh oysters, crabs, and more at affordable prices, perfect for a quick, delicious bite.
Cafes and Bistros
- Oban Chocolate Company
- Highlights: Homemade chocolates, cakes, and speciality hot chocolates. An excellent spot for a sweet treat or light lunch.
- Julie’s Coffee House
- Highlights: Sandwiches, pastries, and excellent coffee – perfect for a coffee break!
- Piazza
- Cuisine: Italian
- Highlights: Enjoy pizzas, pasta, and other Italian favourites with beautiful harbour views.
Pubs and Bars
- The Lorne Bar
- Highlights: A traditional Scottish pub offering a wide selection of beers, whiskies, and pub food. Live music is often featured.
- The Oban Inn
- Highlights: One of the oldest pubs in Oban, known for its warm atmosphere, good food, and a great selection of whiskies.
- Cuan Mor
- Highlights: Besides being a restaurant, Cuan Mor has a great bar area with local ales and an extensive whisky selection.
- The Cellar Bar
- Highlights: This is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. It offers a range of beers, ciders, and spirits in a cosy, welcoming environment.
- Markie Dans
- Highlights: A lively pub with frequent live music, good pub grub, and a fantastic selection of drinks, perfect for a fun night out.
Accommodation in Oban
Various options are available, from B&Bs, guesthouses, and hotels to private apartment rentals. Read our detailed article on where to stay in Oban, which offers 12 options for various budgets and travel styles.
More special stays – Accommodation Guide for Scotland
Enjoy your visit to Oban – Read next 📖
In addition to this Oban Travel Guide we have a number of travel guides for destinations across Scotland to help you plan your trip including: