Getting to and around Scotland is straightforward, whether you arrive by plane, train or ferry and whether you explore by car or on public transport. This guide covers your options for reaching Scotland and travelling within it, so you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time enjoying the scenery.
Getting to Scotland
- By air: Scotland’s main international airports are Edinburgh and Glasgow, with Aberdeen, Inverness and Glasgow Prestwick also well served. Inverness is the handiest gateway for the Highlands and the North Coast 500.
- By train: fast services link London and other English cities with Edinburgh and Glasgow in around 4.5 hours, and the overnight Caledonian Sleeper runs from London to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness and Fort William.
- By ferry: ferries connect Scotland with Northern Ireland (to Cairnryan), and long-distance routes link mainland Europe to the wider UK.
Getting around Scotland
By car
A car gives the most freedom, especially for the Highlands and islands where public transport can be sparse. Roads are generally good, though many Highland routes are scenic and slow, with single-track sections — read our guide to driving in Scotland before you go.
By train
ScotRail’s network links the main towns and cities, and includes some of the world’s most scenic railways — the West Highland Line to Mallaig and the line to the Kyle of Lochalsh among them. Trains are a relaxing, car-free way to reach the Highlands.
By coach and bus
Scottish Citylink and Megabus run affordable long-distance coaches to places the train does not reach, including the Isle of Skye and much of the Highlands, while local buses serve towns, villages and islands.
By ferry
CalMac ferries connect the mainland with the islands — Skye, Mull, Iona, Arran, Lewis, Harris and many more — with inexpensive foot-passenger fares. They are essential for island-hopping and a scenic experience in themselves.
Travelling without a car
You do not need a car to see the best of Scotland. Trains, coaches and ferries — plus guided day tours from the cities — reach far more than most visitors expect. See our dedicated guide to Scotland without a car for a full public-transport itinerary.
Plan your trip
Ready to start planning? See our guides to the best time to visit Scotland, our ready-made Scotland itineraries, and our complete guide to planning a trip to Scotland.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to travel around Scotland?
A car offers the most flexibility, especially for the Highlands and islands, but trains, coaches and ferries make it easy to explore Scotland without one.
Which airport should I fly into for Scotland?
Edinburgh and Glasgow are the main international airports; Inverness is best for the Highlands and the North Coast 500, and Aberdeen serves the north-east.
Can you get around Scotland by train?
Yes — ScotRail links the main towns and cities and includes spectacular scenic lines such as the West Highland Line to Mallaig.
How do you get to the Scottish islands?
Mainly by CalMac ferry from ports such as Oban, Mallaig, Ardrossan and Ullapool; some islands also have short flights from Glasgow.
