What is the cheapest way to get around Scotland?

There are many factors which can affect the price of travelling around Scotland, from the time of year to how far in advance you book tickets. However, two of the cheapest ways to explore more than one part of the country are by train and by small group tour.



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Travel in & Around Scotland Public transport provides trains and bus services to Scottish towns and cities as well as many villages and ferry ports. Access to very remote areas and islands is straightforward by car, ferry and aeroplane.

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It's possible to see a lot of Scotland by train and bus (I spent 26 days there without a car last year), but you will be limited in where you can go and how much ground you can cover if you also want to avoid tours.

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Driving is the best way to get around the Highlands and explore at your own pace. Don't worry if you don't have a car or aren't keen on driving, as the main sights are also well-serviced by public transport.

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Traveling by coach is probably the cheapest option. The most popular bus companies are Stagecoach and Scottish Citylink. Stagecoach services more remote destinations, while Scottish Citylink services the main tourist hubs including Fort William, Inverness, Skye and Oban.

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General safety In many parts of Scotland, especially the rural communities, it is rare for people to even lock their door. The Scottish people pride themselves on their famous hospitality and will often go out of their way to ensure visitors are well-treated.

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While it is not as quaint as other Highland towns, Fort William was definitely the most workable in terms of being in the Highlands without a car. The Jacobite Steam Train goes directly out of the station twice daily. Fort William is also big enough that we were also able to get a private day tour to the Isle of Skye.

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To have the most sunlight and best weather, many people head to the Scottish Highlands in the summer, between May and September. Starting in October, the weather can be unpredictable — freezing temperatures, gale-force winds, and snowfall are all possible.

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