Oban, known as the “The Seafood capital of Scotland” is a beautiful harbour town located on the West coast of Scotland in the Argyll and Bute region. Oban, “the little bay” translated in Scottish Gaelic. This brilliant little town is one of our favourite places in Scotland to visit.
Oban is also known as the “Gateway to the Isles” with services from Oban going regularly to the Inner and Outer Hebrides.
Seafood being a specialty in Oban, with fresh catches available at local restaurants. From its brilliant seafood, the stunning architecture of McCaig’s Tower, magical sunsets across the bay and its lively atmosphere in the local bars and restaurants you will find plenty to do in Oban.
There are so many things to do in Oban, it can be overwhelming. See our guide for the top things to do in and around Oban along with how to get to this beautiful town.
What is the Easiest Way to get to Oban
The scenery on the journey to Oban is incredible, it isn't the quickest journey you will ever make so accept that, sit back and take in the true beauty of Scotland. Oban is about two hours from Stirling, two and a half hours from Glasgow and three hours from Edinburgh.
Travelling by Train: The only train from the Central Belt leaves Glasgow Queen Street Station and heads for Oban with several stops. The train journey take around three and a half hours.
Travelling by Bus: The easiest way to do this is to get the bus from Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow and get the bus for Oban. This journey takes around three hours so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
Travelling by Car: From Glasgow you travel up the A82 alongside Loch Lomond, you have a choice at Tarbet where you can join the A83 and head through the "Rest and be Thankful" for Inverary before turning north for Dalmally to join the A85 towards Oban. At Tarbet if you choose to follow the A82 up the banks of Loch Lomond you will come to Tyndrum, home to the famous "Green Welly Stop" where you join the A85 for Oban.
Travelling from Stirling: follow the A84 all the way to Tyndrum, where you again join the A85 for Oban.
Travelling from Fort William: follow the A82 to Ballachulish before joining the A828 towards Oban.
Xplore Scotland love visiting Oban, if you can work it into your itinerary then Oban is well worth the visit. From trying the local seafood to heading up to McCaig's Tower to enjoy the view, Oban has a lot to offer. I would spend at least one night in Oban to give you time to do everything you want to do or longer if you plan to go and see the Islands.
