Getting around Scotland: Transportation Tips

Most Scots live in the central belt, with Glasgow in the west and Edinburgh in the east. Public transport here is efficient, and you can easily get around by train and bus. In the south and north, it’s different: public transport is rare, especially in the remote Highlands and Islands. But with careful planning, you can reach almost anywhere, and the beautiful Scottish scenery makes long journeys worthwhile.

By train

Scotland has a small rail network, busiest in the central belt, sparse in the Highlands, and absent in the Islands. ScotRail runs most train services, reaching all major towns, often on lines known for their stunning views.

You can buy train tickets at most stations. If the ticket office is closed or the machine isn’t working, you can buy a ticket on the train from the inspector using cash or a credit card. If you have a national rail pass, you can get discounted tickets, saving up to a third on most fares. These include the 16–25 Railcard for full-time students and those aged 16 to 25, and the Senior Railcard for people over 60. A Family & Friends Railcard offers discounts for up to four adults and four children.

ScotRail also offers regional passes. The Spirit of Scotland Travelpass allows unlimited train travel in Scotland. It’s also valid on all CalMac ferries, Glasgow Underground, and some buses in remote areas. The Highland Rover offers unlimited train travel in the Highlands. The Central Scotland Rover gives unlimited train travel between Glasgow and Edinburgh.

BritRail passes are for visitors not living in the UK and must be bought before leaving your home country. They come in many types. If you’ve lived in a European country other than the UK for at least six months, an InterRail pass might be useful if Scotland is part of a longer Europe trip planner. Note that Eurail passes don’t work in the UK.

On most ScotRail routes, bicycles are carried for free, but there are only two to six bike spaces, so it’s smart to reserve ahead, especially for longer trips.

By coach and bus

All major towns and cities in Scotland have long-distance bus services, known as coaches. Scotland’s national operator is Scottish Citylink. Coaches are usually cheaper than trains and popular, so it’s a good idea to book ahead for longer trips.

There are various discounts for those with children, those under 26 or over 60, and full-time students (contact Scottish Citylink for more details). An Explorer Pass offers unlimited travel across Scotland. Overseas passport holders can buy a Brit Xplorer pass (in 7-, 14-, or 28-day versions) in the UK, from National Express, or at major ports and airports.

Local bus services are run by many companies, which often change routes and timetables. Local tourist offices can provide free timetables, or you can contact Traveline Scotland for reliable service online and by phone. Some areas in the Highlands and Islands were only served by a postbus, which carried mail and a few passengers. They started early in the morning, around 8am, and were very slow. However, as of 2023, the postbus service has been discontinued, so travelers should check for other local transport options in the Highlands and Islands.

Getting around Scotland by car

To drive in Scotland, you need a full driving licence. If you're bringing your own vehicle, always carry your vehicle registration, ownership, and insurance documents.

In Scotland, like the rest of the UK, you drive on the left. Speed limits are 20–40mph in towns, 70mph on motorways and dual carriageways, and 60mph on most other roads. If there are street lights, the limit is usually 30mph.

In the Highlands and Islands, there are many single-track roads with passing places. Let oncoming traffic pass and allow cars behind you to overtake. In remote places in Scotland, watch out for sheep on the roads. If you hit one, you must inform the local farmer.

The AA, RAC, and Green Flag offer 24-hour emergency breakdown services. You might get free help through a deal with a motoring organization from your home country. If not, you can join at the roadside, but it will cost extra. In remote areas, help might take a while to arrive.

Car rental in Scotland is expensive. Major chains are mostly in big cities, so local agencies might be cheaper. Fuel is costly – over £1.20 per litre. Automatics are rare and should be booked in advance. Camper vans are an option, starting at £400 a week in high season, saving on accommodation. Few companies rent to drivers with less than a year’s experience, and most rent only to those over 21 or 25 and under 70 or 75.

Getting around Scotland by ferry

Scotland has over sixty inhabited islands, and nearly fifty have scheduled ferry links. Most ferries carry cars and vans, and it's best to book in advance.

CalMac mainly operates on the River Clyde and to the Hebrides, serving 22 islands and 4 peninsulas. They aren't fast or cheap, but offer two types of reduced-fare passes. For multiple ferries, ask for discounted Island Hopscotch tickets. For lots of ferry travel, an Island Rover offers eight or fifteen days of unlimited travel, but you still need to book ahead.

Car ferries to Orkney and Shetland are run by Northlink Ferries. Pentland Ferries also go to Orkney, and John O’Groats Ferries offer a summer-only passenger service. 

Orkney islands are linked by Orkney Ferries; Shetland’s inter-island ferries are mostly council-run, so check with the local tourist board. Many small operators around the coast offer fast RIB taxi services, day trips, and some scheduled services.

Getting around Scotland by plane

Besides the major airports in Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Aberdeen, Scotland has many minor airports in the Highlands and Islands, some with gravel airstrips. Airfares vary a lot based on demand. Book early to fly from Glasgow to Islay for £50 one-way, but last-minute bookings can cost more than double. 

Most flights within Scotland are by Loganair. For inter-island flights in Shetland, book through Directflight. Eastern Airways currently offers flights from Aberdeen to Stornoway and Wick.