Visiting Oban, Scotland
Visiting Oban, known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and Scottish adventure. This picturesque seaside town is famous for its scenic harbor, fresh seafood, and breathtaking sunsets over the islands. It is a perfect stop on your Scotland itinerary or perfect for a one day visit. Here are the must do things while you are visiting Oban!
Top things to do in Oban
McCaig’s Tower
McCaig’s Tower is definitely a top thing to do when visiting Oban. This impressive landmark gives stunning views of the town, bay and surrounding areas. To hike head up Argyll Street to Jacob’s Ladder and up Laurel Road. It is well worth it! You can get epic views on the way up as well!
Corran Esplanade
Stroll along the scenic waterfront to take in the sites and see cute shops and cafes. I recommend walking around the waterfront and to the other side of the harbor. You can also stroll down the streets that parallel the water for more shops. If you continue past the harbor you will reach the Diocese of Argyll & The Isles Catholic Church. The Corran Esplanade is a top thing to do in Oban and cannot be missed.
Admire the boats
There are so many boats along the shore and harbor. As you walk the Esplanade you can see a myriad of boats- sailboats, ferries, fishing boats and more with the isles in the backdrop.
Oban Distillery
One of the top tourist things to do in Oban is to visit the Oban Distillery. Oban Distillery was established in 1794 and known for being one of Scotland’s oldest source of single malt scotch whisky. Visitors can do tours and shop here!
Oban War and Peace Museum
This is a small free museum packed with WWI and WWII memorabilia. Donations are encouraged. It is open 7 days a week 10AM-4PM (except Friday until 2PM). It is located next to the Regent Hotel.
Oban Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is a focal point outside of the North Pier ferry terminal and railway station. It has three commemorative plaques on its sides. You can see this as you walking along the Esplanade.
Ferry trips to the Islands
There are many different ferry and boat options to explore some of the beautiful islands such as Mull, Iona and Staffa. Also on the water you can experience some wildlife spotting including seals, whales, sharks and more.
Dunollie Museum and Castle
The Dunollie Museum, Castle and Grounds are open Sunday-Friday between mid March and end of October. It is located about 1 mile north of Oban. The site enjoys views over towards the island of Kerrera and a view of the town, harbor, and isles.
Eating and Drinking in Oban
Eating
Oban is the “Seafood Capital of Scotland” so you will find some of the freshest and best fish here. There are so many options from affordable fish and chips up to Michelin Star restaurants. Some of the top restaurants include The Lorne Bar, The Waterfront Fishouse, EE-usk, Cuan Mor, Coast Restaurant and more!
If cafes are what you crave there are several cute coffee shops. We went to Hinba, which was super cute and had great coffee and baked goods.
Take in the views
Oban is so scenic and definitely the best view is from McCaig Tower but just from the shoreline it is stunning.
Plan your trip to Oban
If you haven’t made it to Scotland yet, consider this your inspiration to go. It is beyond beautiful and you will not be disappointed. Oban was just a part of our epic itinerary but definitely a place to visit. It was great for a one day visit and you can definitely enjoy the shore and some of the top tourist things in a day but it would also be a wonderful place to spend more time in.
