Can you explore the stunning Scottish Highlands and lively cities without using a car? Of course! I found that Scotland’s strong public transportation system makes traveling without a car not only possible but often better. There are many ways to travel around this beautiful country, including scenic train rides and convenient bus routes.
On my recent 8-day trip to Edinburgh in April, I found it very easy to get around Scotland’s capital and nearby areas using public transport. I was able to easily explore attractions like the Royal Mile and Victoria Street because the city is easy to walk around and has good train and bus services.
A memorable part of my trip was riding the train from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands. The trip was enjoyable, providing wide views of the countryside that I might have overlooked if I had been concentrating on driving. ScotRail is the main train company in Scotland. It runs a wide network that links big cities and remote places.
If you’re thinking about a similar trip, I suggest checking out travel passes such as the Scottish Grand Tour or the Highland Rover Travel Pass. These provide unlimited travel for a specific time, allowing you to easily move between train stations and visit various places without the concern of paying for each ticket.
If you love the historic streets of Edinburgh, the lively culture of Glasgow, or the stunning landscapes of the Highlands, exploring Scotland without a car offers many exciting options.
Getting to Know Scotland’s Public Transport System
Scotland’s public transport system provides various ways to explore the country. Trains, buses, and ferries offer great connections between cities, towns, and even remote places. Let’s explore the details of each type of transport.
Train services and routes
ScotRail runs the primary train services in Scotland. The West Highland Line is a beautiful route that I strongly suggest you try. The route goes from Glasgow to Mallaig, showcasing beautiful scenery along the way. To save money on travel, I recommend booking your tickets in advance. They usually become available for sale about 12 weeks before your departure date.
Bus and Coach Options
Scotland has a wide range of bus services. National Express and Citylink provide long-distance services that link important cities. When exploring the Scottish Highlands, I find local bus services very helpful. The Citylink Explorer Pass is a good choice if you want to make several trips over a few days.
Ferry Connections
Ferries are essential for traveling between islands. Caledonian MacBrayne runs services to the Inner and Outer Hebrides. I’ve seen that ferry services drop a lot in winter, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Foot passenger tickets cost less than car tickets, making them a budget-friendly choice for visiting Scotland’s islands.
Keep in mind that public transport in Scotland can be more expensive than in other European countries. With careful planning and the right travel passes, you can enjoy your journey while keeping it affordable.
Best Time to Visit Scotland by Public Transport
Are you planning a trip to Scotland and don’t have a car? The time you choose to visit can really matter. May is a great time to explore the best places to visit in Scotland without needing a car. The longer days and nicer weather make it a great time for outdoor fun and exploring.
If you love wildlife, spring is the perfect time. In April, ospreys come back, and in May, the countryside is filled with bluebells. In March, Glasgow hosts comedy and film festivals for those looking for cultural experiences.
Summer, especially in July and August, is the busiest time for tourists. The weather is usually nice, but the crowds can be quite large, particularly in Edinburgh. In June, the longer daylight lasting until 11 pm makes it perfect for exploring more during the day.
Autumn is a delight for those who love nature. September and October bring pleasant weather and beautiful leaves. Now is a great time for hiking and enjoying outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
Winter has its own special beauty. Between November and March, you can search for the Northern Lights or enjoy winter sports. January is great for stargazing, and February is perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
- Spring (March-May): Mild weather, wildlife return
- Summer (June-August): Long days, busy tourist season
- Autumn (September-October): Comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds
- Winter (November-February): Northern Lights, winter sports
Keep in mind that the weather in Scotland can change unexpectedly. Always pack layers and waterproof clothing, no matter when you go. By planning carefully, you can experience the best of Scotland in any season, even if you don’t have a car.
Planning Your Journey from Major Airports
When you fly into Scotland, you will probably arrive at an airport in one of the main cities. Planning your next steps is important for a good start to your Scottish adventure. Let’s look at the transportation choices from the main airports to help you start your journey.
Edinburgh Airport Connections
Edinburgh Airport has great connections to the city center. The tram service is great! It runs every 7 minutes and takes you to the center of Edinburgh in just 30 minutes. The Airlink 100 bus is a budget-friendly option that operates around the clock, making it ideal for early morning or late-night flights.
Glasgow Airport Transport Links
I suggest taking the Glasgow Airport Express service from Glasgow Airport. It’s fast, regular, and takes you directly to the city center. The local bus service is a more affordable choice, but it does take a little longer.
Aberdeen and Inverness Airport Access
Aberdeen and Inverness airports have regular bus services that connect them to their city centres. These routes are dependable and easy to use for beginning a day trip or an extended visit to these lovely northern cities. Make sure to look at the schedules ahead of time, particularly if you’re coming during off-peak hours.
Regardless of the airport you arrive at, Scotland’s public transport system allows for easy access to the main cities and more. With some planning, you can soon be exploring the lively streets of Edinburgh or the beautiful Highlands!
Essential Travel Passes and Money-Saving Tips
I found some great ways to save money while traveling around Scotland using public transportation. The Spirit of Scotland pass is a great option, providing unlimited travel on trains, buses, and ferries. It’s ideal for anyone looking to experience a lot while staying within budget.
I suggest the Highland Rover Travel Pass for a flexible choice. You can travel as much as you want for four days within an eight-day period. This pass is perfect for those looking to discover the beautiful Scottish Highlands.
If you enjoy visiting different islands, Rail and Sail tickets are a great option. They mix train and ferry travel, which makes it simple to visit places like the Isle of Arran or check out the whisky distilleries on Islay.
Here are some money-saving tips I’ve picked up:
- Book train journeys in advance for better rates
- Use contactless payments on local buses when possible
- Consider staying near transport hubs to cut down on travel time and costs
Keep in mind that a tram ride in Edinburgh is about £6.50, and a single bus ticket is roughly £5. These passes and tips allow you to travel freely across Scotland’s stunning landscapes without stressing about your budget.
Travelling Scotland Without Car: Main Routes and Itineraries
Creating a Scotland itinerary without a car is simpler than you may expect. I found some great routes that highlight the best of Scotland using public transport. Let’s look at the key paths and plans that make traveling without a car easy.
Edinburgh-Based Routes
Edinburgh is a great place to begin your journey in Scotland. I took a train to Glasgow from here, and it took about 1 hour and 20 minutes. I took a train to Oban for a coastal getaway, and the ticket cost about £55. The trip provides beautiful sights of the Scottish countryside.
Glasgow-Based Adventures
Glasgow offers many options for day trips. The easiest way to explore Scotland without a car is to use Glasgow as your main base. You can easily reach Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park from here. The city’s great bus and train services make it easy to explore the nearby areas.
Highland Connections
I went into the Highlands for an authentic Scottish experience. I traveled from Inverness to see Loch Ness and the lovely Black Isle. The ferry ride to Craignure on the Isle of Mull lasted about an hour and provided stunning views throughout the trip. Make sure to plan your trips according to transport schedules, particularly in rural areas.
Traveling in Scotland without a car is not only possible but also very rewarding, whether you’re visiting islands or discovering historic cities. By planning ahead and keeping these itineraries in mind, you’re ready for an amazing adventure in Scotland.
Exploring the Scottish Highlands by Public Transport
The Scottish Highlands have stunning views and a deep history. I found some great ways to explore this beautiful area without a car.
West Highland Line Experience
The West Highland Line is a wonderful treasure for train lovers. This beautiful trip from Glasgow to Fort William or Mallaig takes you through some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes. The views of lochs, mountains, and moorlands along the way left me in awe.
Accessing Loch Ness and Inverness
Inverness is a great starting point for discovering Loch Ness. I enjoyed a three-hour train ride from Edinburgh to Inverness, and the views were beautiful. I then took a boat tour on Loch Ness, where I learned about its interesting history and legends. Urquhart Castle, located by the loch, is a must-see for anyone interested in history.
Northern Highland Routes
If you want to travel further north, the Far North Line from Inverness to Thurso provides a four-hour trip through beautiful scenery. I liked seeing wildlife and enjoying the views of the coast. The North Coast 500 route is 516 miles long and can be partly explored using public transport, but some parts might need planned tours in advance.
Public transport in the Highlands may be limited, but with some planning, you can have an amazing journey through this beautiful part of Scotland.
Island Hopping Without a Vehicle
Exploring the islands in Scotland is a wonderful way to see the country’s varied scenery and vibrant culture. As a regular visitor to Scotland, I’ve discovered that public transportation is a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the islands.
The Isle of Skye is a well-known place that you can reach easily by bus and ferry. You can take a ferry from Oban to beautiful islands such as Mull and Iona. The trip to Mull takes around an hour, and ferries operate often during the busy season.
Island bus services provide excellent value for travelers on a budget. A 24-hour pass on Mull costs £18 and lets you travel as much as you want. This choice helps you save money and lowers your carbon footprint. A bus trip to Tobermory saves 5904g of CO2 compared to driving!
When island hopping, planning is essential. Ferry schedules change with the seasons, so I always make my reservations early. Foot passengers should arrive 10 minutes before the sailing time. For a special experience, think about boat tours such as Turus Mara, which provides day trips to smaller islands.
Some islands are great for biking or hiking. Barra, Iona, and Lismore are small enough to explore on foot. If you want to try something exciting, you can fly to Barra, where the beach landing is well-known!
With good planning, traveling between islands using public transportation in Scotland is not only possible, but it’s also an amazing experience.
Best Cities and Towns Accessible by Train
The rail network in Scotland is a great way to see its cities and towns. I’ve discovered that taking the train is not just easy, but it also lets me enjoy the beautiful views as I travel.
Edinburgh’s Connected Destinations
From Waverley train station in Edinburgh, I can easily get to many lovely places. Stirling, known for its impressive castle, is less than an hour away, with trains leaving every 30 minutes. North Berwick, a seaside town, is just a 30-minute trip away, making it ideal for a day out. I enjoy going to Rosslyn Chapel, known from The Da Vinci Code, which you can reach with a 45-minute bus ride from Princes Street.
Glasgow’s Reachable Locations
Glasgow is a great starting point for discovering the west coast. I can take a train to Ayr or Largs to enjoy some seaside charm. The city is definitely worth visiting from Edinburgh, with places like the Kelvingrove Art Gallery just a quick train ride away.
Highland Cities Network
The cities in the Highlands have good rail connections. Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, has regular train services from various parts of the UK. This is a wonderful place to begin your journey into the Scottish Highlands, with buses that link to nearby towns and villages. The city center is easy to walk around, and I really appreciate the Traveline Scotland app for getting around on local transport.
Walking along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile or visiting the cities in the Highlands, Scotland’s train system allows me to enjoy the different cities and towns without needing a car.
Excursions and Tours from Big Cities
Scotland’s big cities provide great chances for day trips, letting you discover the country’s rich history and beautiful scenery. Edinburgh, with its old-world charm, is a great place to begin many fun trips.
I enjoy going on day trips from Edinburgh to nearby places of interest. Visiting Edinburgh Castle is essential for anyone who loves history. This famous fortress provides stunning views of the city and a glimpse into Scotland’s royal history. For fans of Harry Potter, visiting Alnwick Castle feels enchanting. It’s the location of some of the film’s most unforgettable scenes.
If you’re keen on venturing further, consider these popular day tours:
- St Andrews: A 1.5-hour journey takes you to this picturesque coastal town, famous for its golf courses and university.
- Loch Ness: Though a bit far (about 4 hours), it’s possible to visit this legendary lake on a long day trip.
- Stirling: Just an hour away, this historic city boasts a magnificent castle and the National Wallace Monument.
- North Berwick: A quick 30-minute train ride brings you to this charming seaside town.
Glasgow, the biggest city in Scotland, provides great choices for day trips. Loch Lomond is a popular spot, accessible in about 2-3 hours using public transport. You can reach the Scottish Highlands in about 3 hours by train or bus from Edinburgh.
Make sure to book your tours ahead of time, particularly during busy seasons. Numerous tour operators provide pick-ups from central city spots, allowing travelers without cars to easily discover the beauty of Scotland.
Accommodation Strategy for Car-Free Travel
When traveling in Scotland without a car, picking the right place to stay is very important. I’ve noticed that being close to public transportation in big cities and along the west coast makes it a lot easier to explore. Here are some clever lodging tips for your car-free trip in Scotland.
City Centre Hotels
I always choose hotels in the city centre when I’m in Edinburgh and Glasgow. They are usually close to train stations and bus stops, making it easy to travel around. In Edinburgh’s Old Town, you can easily walk along the Royal Mile and take buses to other attractions.
Transport Hub Locations
When traveling outside of big cities, I seek places to stay close to transportation options. Staying near the train station in Inverness makes it easy to access the beautiful West Highland Line. In Oban, I pick hotels close to the ferry terminal for easy island hopping to places like Mull or Skye.
Rural Stay Options
For peaceful countryside getaways, I look for rural B&Bs or guesthouses that provide shuttle services. Many places to stay in the Highlands recognize the needs of travelers without cars and offer transportation to nearby attractions or walking paths. Make sure to book these early, especially during busy times, to get the best locations with good public transport options.
FAQ
Q: Is it possible to travel around Scotland without a car?
A: Absolutely! I’ve found that Scotland offers extensive public transport options for car-free travel, including trains, buses, coaches, and ferries. While it requires a bit more planning, especially for remote areas, it’s entirely feasible to explore Scotland using public transportation.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Scotland without a car?
A: In my experience, a combination of trains and buses is the best way to explore Scotland without a car. The train network covers major cities and towns, with some routes offering scenic journeys. Buses serve most places and can get you to more remote areas. For island hopping, ferries are essential.
Q: How reliable is public transport in Scotland?
A: I’ve found Scottish public transport to be generally reliable, especially in cities and larger towns. However, services can be less frequent in rural areas, so it’s crucial to plan ahead. I always recommend checking Traveline Scotland for up-to-date information on all forms of transit.
Q: Can I reach the Scottish Highlands using public transport?
A: Yes, you can! I’ve travelled to the Highlands several times using public transport. The West Highland Line offers a scenic train journey from Glasgow to Fort William or Mallaig. From Inverness, which serves as a hub for the Highlands, you can explore Loch Ness and surrounding areas by bus or tour.
Q: Are there any travel passes for public transport in Scotland?
A: Yes, there are several options. I’ve used the Spirit of Scotland pass, which offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, and ferries. There’s also the Highland Rover Travel Pass for exploring the Highlands. These can offer significant savings if you’re planning extensive travel.
Q: How do I get to the Scottish islands without a car?
A: I’ve found island hopping without a car to be quite manageable. CalMac ferries connect the Inner and Outer Hebrides, and many popular islands like Skye, Mull, and Arran are accessible by public transport. Once on the islands, local bus services or guided tours can help you explore.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Scotland using public transport?
A: In my opinion, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer a great balance of good weather and fewer crowds. Summer months provide longer daylight hours but can be busier. Winter offers unique experiences but may have reduced transport services, especially in rural areas.
Q: How do I get from the airport to the city centre without a car?
A: I’ve found airport connections to be quite straightforward. Edinburgh Airport offers tram and bus connections to the city centre. Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Inverness airports all have frequent bus services to their respective city centres. It’s worth checking schedules in advance, especially for early or late flights.
Q: Can I do day trips from major cities using public transport?
A: Absolutely! I’ve done numerous day trips this way. From Edinburgh, you can easily reach St Andrews, Stirling, or North Berwick by train. Glasgow offers easy access to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Many tour operators also offer day trips to places like Loch Ness or the Highlands from major cities.
Q: Is it expensive to travel Scotland by public transport?
A: While Scotland can be relatively expensive compared to some parts of Europe, I’ve found that using public transport can be cost-effective, especially with travel passes or advance bookings. Buses are generally cheaper than trains, and booking in advance can often secure better rates, particularly for longer train journeys.
Q: How should I plan my accommodation when travelling without a car?
A: I always recommend choosing accommodations near train stations or bus stops for easy access. In cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow, staying in the city centre usually provides good public transport connections. In rural areas, look for places that offer shuttle services or are within walking distance of public transport stops.
Q: Can I visit Loch Ness without a car?
A: Yes, you can! I’ve done this trip myself. You can take a train or bus to Inverness, which serves as a gateway to Loch Ness. From there, local buses or organised tours can take you to the loch. Some tours even offer pick-ups from Inverness city centre, making it very convenient for car-free travellers.
Q: Is it possible to hike in Scotland without a car?
A: Absolutely! I’ve enjoyed many hikes in Scotland using public transport. Many popular hiking areas, like Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, are accessible by bus or train. For more remote hikes, you might need to combine public transport with local taxis or guided tours.