Are you planning a trip to the delightful wee seaside town of Oban? This charming, bustling west coast port is famed as the ‘Seafood Capital of Scotland’ and the prelude to island adventures.
Oban is not just a ‘Gateway to the Isles’ or a place to simply pass through, however; it is a destination and experience in itself.
These are all my favourite things to do in Oban: attractions and accommodation, walks and beaches; where to eat, drink, dance and wander.
This post contains affiliate links which I might make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
You could blindfold and teleport me to this popular port town, location undisclosed, and I’d still very quickly know where I was.
My senses would pick up the squawk of brazen seagulls, the promenade’s palpable bustle, and the fragrant fusion of salty air, seaweed and fresh catch.
The real giveaway, however, is the signature jingle of the CalMac Ferries on-board announcement, as the ferries come into port; Oban’s answer to an airport tannoy system.
HOW TO GET TO OBAN
Oban has been an important transport hub and hive of activity throughout history, from the arrival of paddle steamers and the West Highland Line, to the fishing boats and ferries in the busy port.
The town’s ease of access by public transport, and the onward connections to the islands, are just some of the reasons I recommend it to so many of my itinerary planning clients. This is how to get to Oban.
OBAN BY TRAIN
Oban is connected to the city of Glasgow by the famous West Highland Line.
The scenic train journey from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban takes a max. of 3 hours 15 minutes.
The best priced train fares go on sale 12 weeks in advance; purchase via ScotRail or TheTrainLine.
OBAN BY BUS
The bus service from Glasgow to Oban is operated by Citylink and the journey is approx. 3 hours.
There are two routes; one via Inveraray and the other via Tyndrum. Both are absolutely beautiful journeys!
Tickets usually go on sale around 8 weeks before travel; book more than 48 hours in advance to take advantage of advanced fares.
From Oban, West Coast Motors operate buses north to Fort William or south towards Lochgilphead.
Read my blog on Day trips from Oban without a car for more inspiration.
FERRIES FROM OBAN
CalMac Ferries operate numerous routes from Oban to the Inner Hebrides: Mull, Lismore, Kerrera, Coll and Tiree. You can even travel as far as Barra and Uist in the Outer Hebrides.
Use the interactive map to view the route network and check sailing times on the current timetables.
MY FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO IN OBAN
I’ve been to Oban countless times over the years, either on my way to the islands or just to enjoy the town and seaside itself. There are a surprising number of things to do in Oban; enough to fill 1 or 2 whole days. Add on extra days if you are planning to use Oban as a base to visit the islands or explore some of the Argyll region.
1) WALK UP TO McCAIG’S TOWER
Described as ‘Oban’s answer to the Colosseum’, McCaig’s Tower is an iconic feature on the Oban townscape; unmissable too, thanks to its elevated position on Battery Hill.
The monument was commissioned in 1895 by a local banker, John McCaig, who wished to provide employment for Stonemasons in the area by building a rather large and expensive memorial to the McCaig family. Sadly, McCaig passed away before it was finished and his family did not see the project through to completion.
Nonetheless, it is a striking sight to this day with peaceful gardens contained inside the circular wall structure and a platform outside for views across the town’s rooftops, Oban Bay and the islands beyond. The steep uphill march is worth it.
2) BOOK A TOUR AT OBAN DISTILLERY
There’s nothing quite like sampling Single Malt straight from the source. Established in 1794, just a hop, skip and jump from the seafront, Oban Distillery is one of the oldest and smallest whisky producers in Scotland; to this day, they operate with just two pot stills.
Book a tour to learn about the distillery’s traditional production methods, and finish with a wee warming dram of the ‘water of life’ to toast the experience.
Choose from the classic 1-hour tour & tasting or a ‘tutored tasting’ including 4 drams of whisky.
Visit the Oban Distillery website for bookings and more info.
3) EXPLORE DUNOLLIE MUSEUM, CASTLE & GROUNDS
Dunollie Castle is the ancestral home of Clan MacDougall, a powerful and notable family who were involved in more than their fair share of drama over the centuries, from major ‘scuffles’ with Robert The Bruce in the 1300s, to being exiled for loyalty to the Jacobite cause after the failed 1715 rebellion.
This must-visit attraction features the original, recently restored, medieval castle ruin, a museum in the 1745 Laird’s house, tranquil trails through ancient woodland, a super-cute café and a lovely gift shop. Not to mention the glorious views of Oban Bay.
The castle is open Sunday – Friday, from mid-March to late-October.
Allow at least 2 hours to explore the site and grab a bite to eat from Kettle Garden Café.
Join a 1-hour guided tour for the best local insight into the castle’s history. The tour is included in your ticket price and can be booked in advance on the Dunollie Castle website.
4) VISIT OBAN WAR & PEACE MUSEUM
Oban has a vibrant and varied history from the arrival of Mesolithic cave dwellers to the opening of Oban Distillery, and the town’s role as a transport hub, RAF base during World War II, and Northern Lighthouse Board base to this very day.
These stories from the past and present are captured in an eclectic range of displays. I loved looking at old photographs of Oban, with and without the iconic sights: McCaig’s Tower, Railway Pier, and the original railway station.
Entry to the museum is free but donations are encouraged and appreciated.
Visit the museum website here
5) HIT THE BEACH AT GANAVAN SANDS
Escape the bustle of the port and promenade with a trip to Oban’s local beach, just 2.5 miles out of the town centre. Sandy and sheltered with views across to Mull, Morvern and Lismore, this is the perfect spot to relax, catch a sunset or go for a chilly dip.
There are picnic tables, public toilets and a food van, Dougie Dan’s Catering, at the beach.
Make a day of it and follow this route along the coast from Ganavan Sands to the striking stronghold that is Dunstaffnage Castle; another impressive remnant of MacDougall history with a separate 13th century chapel.
Take the West Coast Motors service 417 to the beach (journey time, 10 minutes) or stretch your legs and walk instead (approx. 1 hour each way).
6) DISCOVER THE LOCAL NIGHTLIFE
Oban has a lively pub scene with weekly live music nights to keep you entertained over a few drams.
The Oban Inn, dating from the 18th century, is full of character and regularly hosts local musicians. Check their Facebook page for updates.
Markie Dans is favourite with locals of all ages; there are pool tables, pub quiz nights and live music.
For traditional Scottish music and dancing, look no further than the notoriously fun and high-energy Ceilidh nights at The View: an absolute must for first-time visitors!
7) HOP ACROSS TO THE ISLANDS
Of course, one of the top things to do in Oban, ‘Gateway to the Isles’, is to visit the nearby islands. Whether it’s just for a day trip, or for a longer stay, the islands are so teasingly close and easy to reach, it would be simply rude not to.
These are my top islands to visit from Oban and how to get there by public transport; you can follow the same itinerary in a car if you’re driving.
> ISLE OF KERrera
The Tea Garden, medieval castle & a good stretch of the legs
Drive, get a taxi, or walk carefully along the road to Gallanach, just outside Oban town centre. View it on the map here. Catch the 5-minute ferry from Gallanach to Kerrera. Here is the ferry timetable (no pre-booking required, just turn up).
Follow the signs and trail of novelty teapots on the quickest route towards Kerrera Tea Garden and Gylen Castle or walk the full loop of the south as described here. I prefer walking this route anti-clockwise so that the longest walk is out of the way before lunch and castle.
Check the Kerrera Tea Garden website and Facebook page for opening days and times.
> ISLE OF LISMORE
Off the tourist trail, local heritage, a delicious lunch & home-baking
Catch the ferry from Oban to Lismore (55 minutes). Book your tickets online in advance.
Book a Landrover tour of the island with Explore Lismore, plus the option to add on a ‘Shepherding Experience’ with island shepherd Arthur, his expertly trained dogs – Tam, Misty and Fly – and a flock of no less than 200 sheep.
Lismore Bike Hire is also available and they can bring your wheels right to the ferry port or another point on the island.
Whether you explore by tour or bike, be sure to check out Lismore Gaelic Heritage Centre, the wee gift shop and the adjoining Isle of Lismore Café for an amazing local lunch by Sarah & Dan.
Finally, you can’t leave the island without stopping by one of the red phone boxes at the ferry ports (there are two) to pick up some delicious continental bakes from Iris at The Dutch Bakery (Iris and her husband Robert are the owners of Explore Lismore).
> TOBERMORY, ISLE OF MULL
Seafood, seaside vibes and the colourful harbour
Catch the ferry from Oban to Craignure on Mull (50 minutes). Book your tickets online in advance.
Take the West Coast Motors bus from Craignure to Tobermory (1 hour); check that the bus times match up with the arrival of the ferry.
Spend the day wandering around the iconic, vibrant harbourfront with its lovely independent shops: Tobermory Chocolate, Island Blue Tobermory, Island Crafts, Isle of Mull Soap etc.
Book in advance for a fantastic lunch at Café Fish or The Galleon Bistro.
Stretch your legs with a walk along the coast to Rubha nan Gall Lighthouse or on the other side of the harbour, the lovely, leafy Aros Park.
> ISLE OF IONA
White sand beaches, serenity and the famous abbey
Catch the ferry from Oban to Craignure on Mull (50 minutes). Book your tickets online in advance. Take the West Coast Motors bus from Craignure to Fionnphort (1 hour, 15 minutes); check that the bus times match up with the arrival of the ferry.
Finally, hop on the short ferry crossing (10 minutes) from Fionnphort to Iona; this ferry can’t be pre-booked, just turn-up and pay onboard.
Iona is my favourite place in the world, and while this trip can be done in a day, I think it’s a great idea to stay for at least a night or two, if you can.
Accommodation on the island is quite limited and should be booked well in advance. I recommend:
Hotels on Iona: Argyll Hotel and St Columba Hotel.
Self-catering on Iona: The Green Shed and Iona Pods.
When you’re not simply soaking up the serenity, visit Iona Abbey, climb to the highest (not high at all) point on the island, Dun I, and discover the dreamy beaches to the north. Purchase unique gifts and souvenirs from Iona Craft Shop and the various artists and makers at Oran Creative Crafts.
For lunch on the island, check out AILIDH for Hebridean street food and The Rookery at Iona Heritage Centre. For dinner, book a table at St Columba Hotel or Argyll Hotel (the latter is my absolute favourite).
ISLAND TOURS FROM OBAN
If you’d prefer not to self-drive or figure out public transport to visit Mull, Iona and Staffa, West Coast Tours offer full day tours from Oban to save you the hassle.
> Three Isles Tour includes the ferry from Oban to Mull, a guided bus tour to Fionnphort, the boat trip to Staffa and free time on the Isle of Iona.
> Tobermory, Treshnish & Staffa includes the ferry from Oban to Mull, a guided bus tour to Tobermory, then the boat trip to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles, where you will have time on-shore the islands of Lunga and Staffa.
The best time to see puffins on these islands is late May – early June. These tours are very popular during the summer months for that reason, so be sure to book in advance.
WHERE TO EAT IN OBAN
Oban does seafood, cafes and casual dining really well. These are my favourite places to eat & drink. Lunch cafes are fine to just turn-up, but always make dinner reservations in advance.
> Oban Seafood Hut – the legendary green hut on Railway Pier serving fresh seafood and cooked mussels on paper plates and for very reasonable prices.
> Coast – high quality cuisine from both land and sea, served in a relaxed setting with warm, unfussy service. One of the town’s best restaurants, in my opinion.
> Food from Argyll at the Pier – you’ll find this friendly cafe at the ferry port; perfect for a filled roll or cosy lunch before or after the ferry with produce from the Argyll region.
> Cafe Shore – this is my go-to local spot for coffee and a comforting bowl of porridge before the bus or train to my next destination.
> Piazza – if you fancy a break from seafood and Scottish cuisine, this casual waterfront Italian restaurant is a safe bet for pizza and pasta (half and half too, if that’s how you roll).
> George Street Fish & Chips – my favourite spot for takeaway fish & chips to enjoy at the nearby picnic tables and benches by the sea. Beware of hungry seagulls!
> The Barn Bar at Cologin Farm – this cosy spot is popular with locals and is worth the 10-minute journey south of the town for hearty meals in the countryside. Taxi costs approx. £10-£15 each way.
> Hinba Coffee Roasters – go here for speciality coffee roasted on the Isle of Seil (30 mins south of Oban), savoury empanadas and sweet pastries.
> Porcini Restaurant, No 17 The Promenade – one of the town’s more high-end options, this boutique hotel now has an on-site Italian restaurant, which I’m yet to try, but I did enjoy an excellent dinner there before the change in cuisine.
WHERE TO STAY IN OBAN
Oban has an abundance of places to stay, from budget-friendly hostels and B&Bs to high-end boutique and country house hotels. Despite the number of options, accommodation gets booked up quickly for peak season, so plan ahead for the best prices and options. These are the places I can personally vouch for.
> Oban Youth Hostel – dorms, private room and family rooms in a Victorian seafront villa with a modern extension and laundry, drying room and self-catering facilities.
> Barriemore – further along the Corran Esplanade, I loved my stay here; beautiful decor and homely comforts, wonderful hosts and sea views.
> Killorn Guest House – one of Oban’s newer additions; close to the transport links, reasonably priced, lovely rooms and simple self check-in.
> Dungallan Country House – a stunningly refurbished historic property with luxurious rooms, a library, whisky bar, delicious cooked breakfast and a garden with views across to the Isle of Kerrera.
> No 17 The Promenade – a luxurious boutique hotel with vibrant and eccentric interiors with the benefit of a bar, restaurant and outside seating on the promenade.
> Cologin Farm Lodges & Chalets – self-catering lodges & chalets, tucked away in the countryside less than 4-miles from Oban, with an onsite bar/restaurant and access to a peaceful forest walk.
I hope you enjoyed reading about my favourite things to in Oban.
I’m Kay, by the way; you can read more about me here.
Keep up with my Scottish adventures on Facebook and Instagram
Subscribe to my newsletter for regular updates and travel inspiration.