Transportation in Scotland: A Comprehensive Guide by iBestTravel
Distances in Scotland are small, but the landscapes are enormous. A journey that looks like it should take minutes on the map can take hours once you factor in the glens, lochs, and mountains in the way. Remember too that large parts of Scotland lie off the mainland, scattered across the choppy waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic.
Time Considerations
When planning a trip around this stunning country, time becomes your most important consideration. Therefore, on a fleeting visit, try not to be overly ambitious about how much ground you can cover. Moreover, plan train journeys and ferry trips in advance to avoid being caught off guard by the limited schedules in outlying areas.
Traveling Costs in Scotland
When it comes to costs, getting around in Scotland can be expensive compared to the rest of Europe. Despite an impressive network of train, bus, and ferry routes, traveling with your own car is usually the easiest option, particularly if you want to explore beyond the tourist trail. However, costs can increase significantly if you plan to park in larger cities or take your car on the ferry.
The Train: An Easy Option for Major Towns and Cities
Scotland’s extensive train network covers all major cities and towns. However, the railway map has large, blank areas where you’ll need to switch to road transport—in many cases, traveling by local bus. The West Highland Line from Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig and the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh line are two of the world’s most scenic rail journeys.
Buses: Coverage and Frequency
Scotland is served by an extensive bus network that covers most of the country. However, in remote rural areas, services are often geared to the needs of locals rather than tourists. Consequently, bus services may not be conveniently timed for visitors. Local bus operations can be sparse on the islands.
Driving: Flexibility on the Roads
A car or motorcycle offers the most flexibility when exploring Scotland. The roads are generally well-maintained and less busy, allowing travelers to concentrate on the stunning scenery. However, remember that speeding and drink-driving are taken seriously, and speed traps are common.
Ferries: Linking the Islands
Ferries, particularly those run by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), serve the west coast and the myriad islands to the north and west of the country. Tickets for foot passengers are significantly cheaper, making it worthwhile to consider hiring a car upon arrival on the islands.
Domestic Flights: A Quick Connection
Most domestic air services in Scotland cater to business travelers or serve as lifelines for remote island communities. Flying is a costly way to cover relatively short distances, but it may be considered if time is of the essence, especially to visit the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, or Shetland.
Cycling: Exploring the Islands
Cycling is an ideal way to explore the islands of Scotland, combining affordability with adventure. However, travelers should be prepared for challenging weather conditions. Touring around the islands on a bike is not only cheaper than driving but also more suited to the islands’ leisurely pace of life.
Transport Passes: Saving on Travel
Despite the multitude of companies providing different public transport options in Scotland, there are a few useful passes that allow travel on trains, buses, and ferries. These passes can lead to significant savings for travelers making multiple journeys.
Accessible Transportation
Scotland strives to be accessible, especially in larger cities where public transportation is typically well-adapted for mobility needs. Nonetheless, some historic buildings may be more challenging to navigate. Increasing efforts are being made to enhance accessibility in the countryside.
This article was first published May 19, 2021 and updated May 27, 2023.
