Things to do in Oban, Scotland: The Best Bus Tours

April 18, 2022 Chanda Heide

A jumping-off point for ferries to the Hebridean Islands, the port town of Oban offers a picturesque bayside setting. It's worth catching a later boat to take in the town's stately Victorian architecture, bounty of seafood restaurants, and good pubs.
Restaurants in Oban

1. 4-Day Magical Mull, Iona & West Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh EH1 3DQ, UK Rabbie's
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5.0 based on 21 reviews

Spend four amazing days exploring the natural beauty and historic treasures of the island of Mull and surrounding areas. You’ll visit Calgary Bay, the islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa (optional) and see Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and the National Park of Loch Lomond. With stops at historic sites such as Stirling Castle, Inveraray Castle and the Abbey in Iona, you'll have plenty of ways to take in the rich history and culture of these ancient isles on this 3-night tour from Edinburgh.

Inclusions: Driver/guide, Transport by 16 seat top of the range mini-coach, Ferry transfers to the Isle of Mull and Isle of Iona, 3 nights en-suite accommodation in a B&B or 3-star Hotel (breakfast included)

Exclusions: Meals and refreshments, Gratuities, Admission fees (e.g optional Staffa boat trip weather permitting)

Reviewed By 464kathyi

Just returned from a lovely trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, can't wait to go back ???? During my stay I booked two 1 day tours with Rabbis. Firstly a huge thank you for running the tours with just the 2 of us, our stay had been planned around these days out so very grateful they went ahead. The Outlander tour with Lizzie was amazing as was Lizzie, she went out of her way to ensure we had a great day even though the weather was a bit liquidy! She was extremely knowledgeable about the Outlander series/locations and Scottish history in general, many thanks Lizzie. Our second tour was to St Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife with David who was fab, he was extremely helpful, flexible, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The villages were beautiful and St Andrews was stunning, we were also fortunate enough to have lovely sunny weather. I would highly recommend both tours and guides! Kathy ☀️☔????

2. Historical Tour and Seafood Experience

VisitScotland Oban iCentre, Columba Buildings, 3 North Pier, Oban PA34 5QD, UK Charles Henry
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

This tour goes to places off the beaten tourist track and our knowledge guide provides a unique insight to local history the area and culture. The tour ends with a seafood experience where fresh seafood is served in an al fresco location. A brief talk will be given on the types of seafood local to the area how they are caught and how they are cooked.

Inclusions: At the end of the tour a seafood meal will be served and a description of local seafood how it’s caught and cooked, Air-conditioned vehicle

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3. Speyside Whisky Experience by Whisky Trails: Three Speyside Distilleries

Edinburgh, UK Whisky Trails
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Whether you are a whisky aficionado or a complete novice, this Whisky Trail has something for everyone. You will be picked up from where you are staying and transported in comfort, safety, and style to Speyside. This is a private tour and only your group will participate. If you book between April and October you will visit the big three Speyside distilleries, namely The Macallan, Glenlivet, and Glenfiddich. The agenda is flexible so depending on whether you have chosen to book a tour at one of the distilleries, we will agree the timing for your day before setting off together. At the end of the Whisky Trail, we will head back to your starting point or another location by prior arrangement. Travel time from central Scotland is 3.5 hours in each direction, whereas Inverness lies around 1.5 hours drive away from the Speyside area. PLEASE NOTE: due to COVID19 restrictions, Distilleries may open and close at short notice, and may also only offer limited tour and tasting options.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Private transportation, Snacks, Bottled water

Exclusions: Gratuities, Distillery Tour and Tasting fees, Lunch

Reviewed By Amy K

My cousin booked a private tour for three of us and it was fantastic! The vehicle was clean & comfortable, Brett provided a lot of information during the drive between each distillery and he was very knowledgeable when it came to the scotch whiskey. Brett is familiar with the employees at each distillery so you receive prompt service. I would book a tour with Brett when/if I’m back in Scotland.

4. 4 Day Islay Whisky Tour from Edinburgh

1 Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, UK Scottish Routes
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5.0 based on 47 reviews

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION This tour takes you to a Scottish island paradise, with stunning scenery, ancient history, traditional culture and 8 of Scotland’s finest whisky distilleries. WHAT’S INCLUDED? • Minibus transport (max 16 guests) • Return Ferries to/from Islay • Services of a professional tour guide • Tour and tasting at Oban Distillery • Lagavulin Warehouse Experience • Tour and tastings at Ardbeg • Tour and exclusive tasting at Laphroaig • Tour and tasting Bruichladdich • Tour and exclusive tasting at Kilchoman • Cask Tasting at Bunnahabhain • 3 nights B&B accommodation at The Bowmore House or Freewinds

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation at Bowmore House or Freewinds, Islay, Breakfast x 3, Driver/guide, Live commentary on board, Small-group tour (max 16 people), Transport by air-conditioned mini bus, Alcoholic Beverages

Exclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Gratuities

Reviewed By BluePete

I am a return customer to Scottish routes, I last visited Islay in June 2016 I enjoyed that tour and I have just returned from a 5 day break which I really enjoyed. Mark the tour guide was great he made sure everyone had a good time. There were only 5 people on this trip. What can you say about Islay, peaceful quiet and stunningly beautiful. The weather gods looked down on us favourably. The whisky was great , the Bowmore guest house is terrific all covid 19 precautions were adhered to , the breakfast was as usual excellent and the room very comfortable. Everyone on the trip had a great time, here's to the next time.

5. 4-Day Islay and the Whisky Coast Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh EH1 3DQ, UK Rabbie's
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4.9 based on 48 reviews

Visit the Isle of Islay in the Scottish Hebrides on a 4-day tour from Edinburgh, and discover its famously friendly people, stunning landscapes, and most importantly – its whisky! Having produced Scotland's finest smoky malt whiskies for more than 200 years, Islay provides the perfect base for whisky lovers and novices alike. Enjoy three nights of accommodation in the 4-star Bowmore Distillery Cottages (not available on Wednesday departures)** and discover up to six different distilleries, including big-name sites like Laphroaig and Ardbeg, with a guide. Numbers are limited to 16 on this small-group tour, ensuring you’ll see the best of Islay with personalized attention with your guide. ** (Monday and Friday departures: only B&B available; Wednesday departures only 3-star Hotel available)

Inclusions: 3 nights en-suite accommodation, Driver Guide, Transport by top of the range Mercedes mini-coach, Ferry crossings

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop off, Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified, Entrance fees to the distilleries and Kimartin House Museum

Reviewed By 464kathyi

Just returned from a lovely trip to the beautiful city of Edinburgh, can't wait to go back ???? During my stay I booked two 1 day tours with Rabbis. Firstly a huge thank you for running the tours with just the 2 of us, our stay had been planned around these days out so very grateful they went ahead. The Outlander tour with Lizzie was amazing as was Lizzie, she went out of her way to ensure we had a great day even though the weather was a bit liquidy! She was extremely knowledgeable about the Outlander series/locations and Scottish history in general, many thanks Lizzie. Our second tour was to St Andrews and the fishing villages of Fife with David who was fab, he was extremely helpful, flexible, knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. The villages were beautiful and St Andrews was stunning, we were also fortunate enough to have lovely sunny weather. I would highly recommend both tours and guides! Kathy ☀️☔????

6. 3-day Iona and Mull Islands tour from Edinburgh

1 Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RF, UK Highland Experience Tours
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4.9 based on 14 reviews

Experience a 3-day Small Group tour from Edinburgh to the Isles of Mull and Iona. Discover the wilderness and scenery as you spend two nights in Tobermory. Visit Iona Abbey and walk around the tiny island. At Oban, try a dram at Oban Distillery or walk up to McCaig's Tower. Learn about the brutal history of Glen Coe. All ferry trips and transportation are included on this tour with your driver/guide.

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, Breakfast, Breakfast, Driver/guide, Breakfast (Day 2 and 3), Bottled water

Exclusions: Entrance fees (approx. cost of recommended excursions is £17 per person), Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By C1893GXsallyj

Amazing day tour to Loch Ness with Michael - he looked after us all well and told great stories & took us to stunning view points! I loved it and am keen to book another tour soon.

7. Speyside Delight - Scottish Whisky Tour - Private Full Day

Edinburgh, UK Whiskywheels Tours
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4.8 based on 6 reviews

****** Private Tour ***** Visit three unique three Speyside distilleries in one day. Bespoke pickup! The best and most extensive Speyside day trip available! A unique experience that gives you best Scotland has to offer , all in one day, allowing you time to enjoy other activities on other days. Bookings subject to availability. Please book early to secure your place. Please contact for bookings between November 1st and January 10th. We may have to substitute in other distilleries based on opening hours.

Inclusions: Expert led whisky tasting session at each distillery, Bottled water

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Reviewed By 21pagon

This tour has 3 different and unique distilleries. Macallan was a must see for us and when you add Glenfiddich and Glenlivet it was a win. Each one was different enough to make the day interesting, fun and educational. I would not miss Glenlivet or Macallan. Ewan was a fantastic host, kept us on time, knowledgeable on the distilleries, shared his Scotland with us and pointed out “sight-seeing” opportunities as we drove through the Highlands. Prepare for a long day, but worth the investment if learning and experiencing the Scotch making process and history is important to you. The Highlands scenery was a bonus-beautiful country!

8. Whisky Distillery Trifecta - Macallan - Glenfiddich - Glenlivet - Private Tour

Edinburgh, UK Whiskywheels Tours
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4.8 based on 5 reviews

The first tour to take you to three top distilleries in one day! +Bespoke pickup+ Whiskywheels tours specialise in the wonderful whisky that Scotland has to offer. This Whisky Trifecta tour - Macallan, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet. Macallan The jewel in the crown of Speyside. Not to be missed. Macallan is the most sought-after whisky for whisky collectors, here you'll find a huge range of Macallan Scotch whisky to buy and also take part in the fantastic three pillars tour. Glenfiddich Visit the family owned distillery to see what a truly world class family run business can achieve. Glenfiddich is the world's best-selling single-malt whisky and also the most awarded at the International Spirits Challenge. Glenlivet The tour and tasting at Glenlivet takes you back in time to how whisky was first made in Speyside. Covid precautions and government guidance adhered to.

Inclusions: Alcoholic Beverages, Bottled water

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Reviewed By Catmandoo2014

I had found this company when browsing for tours to Auchentoshan and Glengoyne for a day, however none showed up anywhere on google. This company however, had the option for custom tours and so I gave it a go. Euan had quoted me a price for the day trip to Auchentoshan then Glengoyne and back to Edinburgh in a day. The price was honestly very worth it, a bit more than you would have spent if going alone. However, due to the date which was Sunday and buses don't run as often, the taxi's were not an option either due to the time constraint and rush. I decided to go along with the tour with Euan. No regrets. He drove me to the distilleries in his van which can take up to 7 persons. Along the route we had a good time talking and sharing with each other our experiences of Scotland and of course scotch. I would definitely go back for his custom tour services, he will plan everything accordingly and inform you of any changes if needed or any no go's.

9. Oban and the West Highlands Day Trip from Glasgow

266 George St, Glasgow G1 1QX, UK Highland Experience Glasgow - Day Tours
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4.6 based on 63 reviews

Escape the city bustle of Glasgow, and head west on the Oban and West Highlands Day Trip! This breathtaking area of Scotland contains coastlines, moorlands and mountains which encompass the dramatic beauty of the West Highlands. Explore the cosy, wee villages of Oban, Luss and Inveraray and take in the scenery with friendly Highland hospitality from your guide!

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Children under 3 years not accepted

Reviewed By V8152LWsued

Wow, what an amazing full day trip. Awesome value all round. Small group, nothing was to much trouble for Graham our tour guide or Will our driver. Graham provided running commentary all day long and went well above to ensure everyone had a great day. Wish we could have done more tours with this provider, we only had the day, but this was definitely a highlight of a 3 week trip in the Uk and Scotland. Thank you to the team!

10. Oban and the West Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh

Highland Experience Tours, Royal Mile, 1 Parliament Square, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, UK Highland Experience Tours
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4.1 based on 63 reviews

Escape the city bustle of Edinburgh, and head west on the small group Oban and West Highlands Day Trip! This breathtaking area of Scotland contains coastlines, moorlands and mountains which encompass the dramatic beauty of the West Highlands. Explore the cosy, wee villages of Oban, Luss and Inveraray and take in the scenery with friendly Highland hospitality from your guide!

Inclusions: Transport by air-conditioned minivan, Professional guide

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Children under 3 years not accepted

Reviewed By C1893GXsallyj

Amazing day tour to Loch Ness with Michael - he looked after us all well and told great stories & took us to stunning view points! I loved it and am keen to book another tour soon.

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