Summary
Distances in Scotland are diminutive, yet the landscapes are vast. A journey that appears to require minimal time on paper might actually take several hours due to the presence of glens, lochs, and mountains. Additionally, significant portions of Scotland are situated off the mainland, dispersed across the turbulent waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic.
Given this context, the foremost factor to consider when organizing a trip around this breathtaking country is time. On a brief visit, it is advisable to maintain realistic expectations about the extent of your travels and to schedule train and ferry voyages in advance to avoid being surprised by the limited frequency of services in remote areas.
In terms of expenses, traveling within Scotland can be more costly compared to other parts of Europe. Despite a robust network of train, bus, and ferry routes, utilizing a personal vehicle is often the most convenient choice, especially for those wishing to explore beyond the conventional tourist paths. However, be aware that expenses may accumulate if you intend to park in larger cities or transport your vehicle via ferry.
Traveline Scotland serves as a valuable resource for information and current schedules across all modes of transport, including ferries and flights to the Scottish islands. Through the various travel options presented in this guide, visitors can determine the most suitable means of transportation for their requirements.
The train is an easy option for travel between major towns and cities
Scotland’s expansive train network encompasses all primary cities and towns; however, the railway map reveals extensive, unserved regions in the Highlands and the Southern Uplands where a transition to road transport is required, often necessitating local bus services.
The West Highland line from Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig, along with the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line, ranks among the most picturesque rail journeys globally. Additionally, the ScotRail website provides comprehensive information on the routes, fares, and schedules.
Buses run to most places but not always frequently
Scotland has an extensive bus network that services most of the country. Nevertheless, in remote areas, the bus service is designed primarily to accommodate the needs of local residents, such as travel to schools or shopping in the nearest large town, and may not conveniently align with visitors’ schedules.
Typically, buses operate into towns and cities in the morning and return to peripheral villages in the afternoon, posing challenges for those wishing to embark on day trips. Furthermore, local bus service availability is particularly limited on the islands. The last postbus—an informal rural transport service that involved passengers traveling in a van that also carried mail—was discontinued in 2017.
Several different companies provide bus services throughout Scotland, with long-haul routes to destinations in England available through National Express and Megabus. Within Scotland, Scottish Citylink operates a network of comfortable and reliable buses to primary towns. For routes away from main highways, travelers will need to transition to local buses, which generally operate at a reduced frequency—key local bus operators include First, Stagecoach, and Lothian Buses.
A car or motorcycle provides optimal flexibility
Scotland’s roadways are generally well-kept and considerably less congested than those in England, allowing drivers to focus on the stunning scenery. Nevertheless, law enforcement strictly enforces speeding and drink-driving regulations, with numerous speed traps in place; therefore, it is essential to adhere to speed limits.
An international driving license remains valid in the UK for up to 12 months from the arrival date, and individuals must be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle—note that surcharges and restrictions may apply for drivers under 25. Comparison platforms such as Kayak may help in identifying favorable car rental rates, as rental fees in towns are often lower than those at airports.
For travelers bringing personal vehicles from Europe, it is crucial to ensure adequate insurance, always drive on the left side, and remain aware of local speed restrictions. For those planning a journey that includes both the UK and the Republic of Ireland, car ferries operate from Scotland to Northern Ireland, enabling travel south through the Republic of Ireland before taking another ferry to Wales and England, returning back to Scotland thereafter. Ensure that your insurance accommodates travel through European countries prior to re-entering the UK.
Motorways (designated “M”) are toll-free dual carriageways, primarily concentrated in southern and central Scotland. Their absence becomes apparent when traveling north of Perth. Main roads (“A”) may be dual or single carriageways and can become congested with slower vehicles, including trucks and caravans—the A9 from Perth to Inverness is notably busy.
Traveling the secondary roads (designated “B”) and lesser routes (absent of letters) provides a more relaxed and intriguing road trip experience; however, in the Highlands and islands, care should be taken due to the potential presence of sheep on the road (particularly in spring when lambs are abundant). Winter driving conditions can be challenging; thus, it is prudent to keep sustenance, hydration, and blankets in the vehicle for emergencies involving road closures or mechanical failures.
Fuel prices are generally higher than those in some countries, such as the US or Australia, yet they remain comparable to other regions of Western Europe. Costs tend to escalate as one moves away from major urban centers, with remote locations possibly incurring more than 10% higher prices, as petrol stations are infrequently positioned and might be closed on Sundays—hence, fill up whenever possible.
Tip for vehicle rental: Inter-island vehicle ferries can represent another significant expense. If your travels include the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, or Shetland, it is frequently more cost-effective to rent a vehicle upon your arrival to the islands instead of incurring charges to transport a rental vehicle across via ferry.
Ferries cross lochs and connect the Scottish islands
Ferries operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) serve the western coastline and the numerous islands situated to the north and west of Scotland, with smaller local ferries connecting the islands of the Inner Hebrides to the mainland.
Northlink Ferries provides services from Aberdeen and Scrabster (near Thurso) to Orkney, as well as connections between Orkney and Shetland, and from Aberdeen to Shetland. Visitor-focused waterbus services transport individuals across some of Scotland’s larger lochs, including Loch Lomond.
CalMac no longer offers their Hopscotch tickets but does provide pre-arranged inter-island ticket bundles on their website, which also contains extensive timetable information. It is important to note that ferry services diminish significantly during the winter months.
Fares for foot passengers are considerably lower than those for vehicles; hence, visitors should contemplate renting a car upon reaching the islands instead of transporting a personal vehicle across.
Traveling by ferry tips: For those considering exploring the islands by bicycle, cycles can be transported without cost for foot passengers. This is particularly advantageous when visiting the smaller islands via ferry. Additionally, children under five typically travel free, while those aged five to 15 are charged half the adult fare.
Domestic flights link remote island communities
Most domestic airlines in Scotland cater primarily to business travelers or act as vital links for isolated island communities. Although air travel can be an expensive method of covering relatively short distances in terms of both finances and environmental impact, it may be a viable option for those short on time wishing to visit the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, or Shetland. The flight from Westray to Papa Westray in Orkney is notable as the shortest scheduled flight globally, lasting as little as one minute.
The principal domestic airline operating in Scotland is Loganair, which provides flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Inverness to an array of smaller destinations throughout Scotland and also conducts inter-island flights within Orkney. Furthermore, Hebridean Air Services operate flights from Connel airfield near Oban to the islands of Coll, Tiree, Colonsay, and Islay.
Cycling is ideal for exploring the islands
Scotland is a compact nation, making the option of traveling by bicycle viable if one possesses sufficient time—and stamina! Indeed, touring around the islands on a bike can be economically advantageous compared to driving (given the reduced ferry costs) and aligns better with the islands’ shorter distances and leisurely lifestyle. Nonetheless, one should be prepared for unpredictable winds, weather variations, and the presence of midges at rest stops during spring and summer.
VisitScotland provides useful information regarding bicycle rentals, while Sustrans details the routes forming part of the UK’s National Cycle Network. The Hebridean Way, which spans 200 miles and includes 10 windswept islands from Vatersay to the Butt of Lewis, has established its reputation as a premier cycling route.
Transport Passes for Scotland offer good savings on trains, buses and ferries
Despite the presence of numerous companies offering public transportation options across Scotland, there are several advantageous passes available for unlimited travel on trains, buses, and ferries. Scotrail’s Spirit of Scotland pass allows unlimited travel for foot passengers for either four days across eight consecutive days (£149) or eight days across 15 consecutive days (£189). Additional combined passes for trains and buses as well as for trains and ferries are also offered.
Scotland participates in the UK-wide railcard system, with various options providing discounts of up to one-third off standard rail fares, typically for a nominal annual fee of £30—this can be beneficial for frequent travelers or those on extended journeys.
Though the Scottish government’s generous free transport scheme for young individuals is tailored exclusively for residents, visitors may still receive discounts through the 16-25 and 26-30 railcards, while the Senior Railcard benefits seniors aged 60 and above. For travelers accompanied by children, the Family & Friends railcard presents a wise financial decision. It is important to note that these cards are applicable for train travel throughout the UK, not solely within Scotland.
Additionally, numerous bus companies provide their own transport passes. Stagecoach’s Megarider offers reductions of at least 40% compared to standard daily fare pricing—these passes are valid for seven or 28 days and cover designated areas. Citylink presents the Explorer Pass, which permits unlimited travel on their buses for three days over five consecutive days, five days over ten consecutive days, or eight days over 16 consecutive days.
Accessible transportation in Scotland
Individuals with disabilities will discover that Scotland offers both commendable accessibility and some occasionally frustrating navigational challenges. Larger urban areas tend to be the most accessible environments, with buses and local trains designed for wheelchair access, sidewalks and facilities featuring ramps, and numerous access points equipped with suitable amenities.
Throughout the country, most major tourist attractions accommodate mobility-impaired individuals, although historic sites and ancient monuments might pose greater obstacles for those with reduced mobility. The most significant difficulty may arise from the hilly terrain, which can complicate movement—even within the city of Edinburgh. Nonetheless, endeavors are underway to enhance countryside accessibility, with certain regions featuring wheelchair-friendly nature trails.
In rural regions, newer buses generally support wheelchair access, but it is advisable to confirm in advance. Upgrades are being implemented across older train stations to ensure accessibility. Disabled travelers may request additional assistance, provided they notify the service at least an hour before their journey—the Scotrail website details these arrangements.
The Disabled Persons Railcard affords eligible travelers and companions discounts on rail fares. Moreover, ferries offer boarding assistance at staffed ports for disabled passengers, and larger vessels generally incorporate accessible restroom facilities and cabins.
Tourist destinations typically reserve parking spaces close to entrances for drivers with disabilities. Many establishments, such as ticket offices, feature hearing loops to support individuals with hearing impairments; look for signage indicating this service. For additional insights regarding accessible transport and accommodations, including beach wheelchair rentals, refer to VisitScotland.
GoTravelDaily’s Accessible Travel guide can also be downloaded for free.
This article was initially published on May 19, 2021, and updated on May 27, 2023.
