Navigating Scotland, from the highlands to the islands

While distances in Scotland may seem short, the breathtaking landscapes are vast. A journey that appears quick on a map can take hours when you account for the glens, lochs, and mountains along the way. Keep in mind that many parts of Scotland are located off the mainland, spread across the rough waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic.

Given this, the key factor in planning your trip around this beautiful country is time. During a brief visit, avoid being overly ambitious about the distance you can cover. Make sure to schedule train rides and ferry trips ahead of time to avoid being caught off guard by the limited schedules in remote areas.

Traveling around Scotland can be pricier compared to other parts of Europe. Although there is a well-established network of trains, buses, and ferries, having your own car is typically the most convenient option, especially if you wish to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. However, costs can add up if you plan to park in larger cities or take your vehicle on the ferry.

For reliable information and up-to-date schedules on various transportation methods, including ferries and flights to the Scottish islands, Traveline Scotland is an excellent resource. Our guide to different travel options will help you choose what best suits your needs.

Traveling by train is a convenient way to move between major towns and cities

Scotland boasts a comprehensive train network connecting all major cities and towns, but the railway map reveals significant blank areas in the Highlands and the Southern Uplands, where you'll need to switch to road transport—often relying on local buses.

The West Highland line from Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig, along with the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line, rank among the most picturesque train journeys in the world. For route, fare, and timetable information, the ScotRail website is an excellent resource.

Buses travel to most locations, but their frequency can be limited

Scotland has a broad bus network that services most areas of the country. However, in remote rural regions, schedules are often tailored to local needs, such as school runs or trips to the nearest larger town, which may not align well with visitor schedules.

Typically, buses head into towns and cities in the morning and return to outlying villages in the afternoon, making it challenging for those planning day trips. Local bus services are especially limited on the islands. The last postbus service—a rural transport operation where passengers shared a van with mail—ended in 2017.

Multiple bus companies operate throughout Scotland, with long-distance routes to England available via National Express and Megabus. Within Scotland, Scottish Citylink offers a network of comfortable, dependable buses to key towns. For destinations off the main roads, you'll need to rely on local buses, which tend to be less frequent—major operators include First, Stagecoach, and Lothian Buses.

Having a car or motorcycle offers the greatest flexibility

Scotland's roads are typically well-kept and significantly less congested than those in England, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning scenery. However, be mindful that speeding and drinking and driving are taken very seriously, with speed traps frequently set up—so adhere to the limits.

A non-UK driving license is valid in Britain for up to 12 months from your arrival date, and you must be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle. Additional charges and restrictions may apply for drivers under 25. Use comparison websites like Kayak to find the best car rental deals; renting in town is generally more economical than at the airport.

If you're bringing your own vehicle from Europe, ensure you have adequate insurance, always drive on the left side of the road, and stay aware of local speed limits. If your road trip includes both the UK and the Republic of Ireland, car ferries operate from Scotland to Northern Ireland, allowing you to travel south through the Republic of Ireland before taking another ferry to Wales and England and then returning to Scotland. Make sure your insurance covers your travels through a European country before re-entering the UK.

Motorways (marked with an 'M') are toll-free dual carriageways primarily found in southern and central Scotland. You’ll quickly notice their absence once you head north of Perth. Main roads (designated 'A') can be either dual or single carriageways and may be congested with slow-moving trucks and caravans—the A9 route from Perth to Inverness is particularly well-known for its heavy traffic.

Traveling on secondary roads (designated 'B') and minor roads (which have no letter) offers a more relaxed and scenic experience, although in the Highlands and islands, you might encounter sheep on the road (be especially cautious of lambs during spring). Winter driving can be tricky; it's wise to keep food, water, and blankets in your car in case of road blockages or breakdowns.

Fuel prices in Scotland are higher than in countries like the US or Australia, but they are generally comparable to the rest of Western Europe. Prices tend to increase the further you travel from major hubs and can be over 10% higher in remote areas, where petrol stations are sparse and sometimes closed on Sundays—so be sure to fill up whenever possible.

Tip for renting a car: Inter-island car ferries can add significantly to your expenses. If you plan to explore the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, or Shetland, it often makes more financial sense to rent a car upon arrival on the islands rather than paying to transport a hire car across on the ferry.

Ferries traverse lochs and connect the various Scottish islands.

Ferries operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) serve the west coast and numerous islands located to the north and west of the country, with smaller local ferries connecting the Inner Hebrides to the mainland.

Northlink Ferries operate routes from Aberdeen and Scrabster (near Thurso) to Orkney, between Orkney and Shetland, and from Aberdeen to Shetland. Tourist-friendly waterbus services transport passengers across some of Scotland’s larger lochs, such as Loch Lomond.

CalMac has discontinued its Hopscotch tickets, but the company now provides some pre-packaged inter-island tickets on their website, which also features detailed timetable information. Be aware that ferry services are considerably reduced during the winter months.

Ferry tickets for foot passengers are much cheaper than those for vehicles, so consider renting a car once you arrive on the islands instead of taking yours across.

Ferry travel tips: If you're adventurous and want to explore the islands by bike, foot passengers can bring bicycles aboard for free. This is especially handy for discovering smaller islands. Most ferry routes also allow children under five to travel for free, while kids aged five to 15 pay half the adult fare.

Domestic flights connect remote island communities.

Many domestic flights in Scotland cater to business travelers or serve as vital links for remote island residents. Although flying can be expensive for short distances and isn't the most environmentally friendly option, it's a practical choice if you're short on time and wish to visit the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, or Shetland. Notably, the flight from Westray to Papa Westray in Orkney holds the record for the shortest scheduled flight in the world, taking just one minute.

The primary domestic airline in Scotland is Loganair, offering flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Inverness to numerous smaller locations throughout Scotland. It also provides inter-island flights in Orkney. Additionally, Hebridean Air Services operates flights from Connel airfield near Oban to the islands of Coll, Tiree, Colonsay, and Islay.

Cycling is perfect for discovering the islands.

Scotland's compact size makes biking a viable option for travel if you're willing to put in the effort! Touring the islands on two wheels is not only more affordable than driving (thanks to lower ferry costs), but it also complements the islands' short distances and relaxed pace. Just be prepared for challenging winds and weather, as well as the relentless midges during spring and summer breaks.

For bike rental information, check out VisitScotland, while Sustrans offers details on routes that are part of the UK-wide National Cycle Network. The Hebridean Way, stretching 200 miles across 10 windswept islands from Vatersay to the Butt of Lewis, is a true cycling classic.

Transport passes in Scotland provide excellent savings on trains, buses, and ferries.

Although many companies operate various public transport options in Scotland, several convenient passes are available for travel on trains, buses, ferries, and more. The Spirit of Scotland pass from Scotrail offers unlimited travel for foot passengers across trains, buses, and ferries, available for either four days within eight consecutive days (£149) or eight days within 15 consecutive days (£189). Scotrail also provides other passes tailored for specific regions or combined train and bus or ferry travel.

Scotland participates in the same railcard system as the rest of the UK, with various options offering up to a third off standard train fares for a one-time annual fee of £30—an excellent choice for frequent travelers or longer trips.

While the Scottish government’s generous free transport scheme for youth is limited to Scottish residents, visitors can take advantage of discounts with the 16-25 and 26-30 railcards, as well as the Senior Railcard for those over 60. For families traveling with children, the Family & Friends railcard is a wise investment. Remember, these cards are valid for train travel throughout the UK, not just in Scotland.

Various bus companies offer their own transport passes. Stagecoach provides the Megarider, which offers savings of at least 40% compared to purchasing daily tickets—passes are available for seven or 28 days and cover specific regions. Citylink offers the Explorer Pass, which permits unlimited travel on their buses for three days within five consecutive days, five days within ten consecutive days, or eight days within 16 consecutive days.

Transportation options for accessibility in Scotland

Traveling with disabilities in Scotland can be both remarkably accommodating and occasionally challenging. Larger cities are generally the most accessible, featuring wheelchair-friendly buses and local trains, ramps on pavements, and well-prepared access points.

Most significant tourist attractions throughout the country are designed to be accessible for those with mobility challenges, although exploring historic sites can prove difficult. The steep hills, particularly in cities like Edinburgh, can make navigation a hassle. Nonetheless, efforts are increasing to improve accessibility in rural areas, with wheelchair-friendly nature trails being developed in some regions.

Outside urban areas, most newer buses are wheelchair accessible, but it's advisable to confirm this before you head out. Many older train stations are undergoing renovations to enhance accessibility, and disabled travelers can request additional assistance by notifying staff at least an hour before their journey—details are available on the Scotrail website.

The Disabled Persons Railcard provides discounts on rail fares for eligible individuals and a traveling companion. Ferries typically offer boarding assistance at staffed ports for disabled passengers, and larger vessels usually feature accessible toilets and cabins.

Tourist sites generally allocate parking spaces close to the entrance for drivers with disabilities. Many locations, including ticket offices, are equipped with hearing loops to aid the hearing-impaired; look for the symbol of a large ear. VisitScotland offers resources on accessible transport and accommodations, as well as information on renting beach wheelchairs.

You can also download Dinogo Planet's Accessible Travel guide for free.