The Isle of Mull, one of Scotland’s most stunning and accessible Hebridean islands, attracts visitors with its dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and historic villages. From rolling hills and rugged coastlines to charming towns like Tobermory, Mull offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Easily reachable by ferry from Oban, Lochaline, or Kilchoan, the island is ideal for travellers looking to explore the Scottish Hebrides without the hassle of long, complicated journeys.
This guide provides all the information you need to get to Mull from major cities and airports across Scotland. Whether you’re travelling by car, bus, or train, we cover the most convenient routes, approximate journey times, and ferry connections, ensuring your trip is smooth from start to finish. With this practical advice, you’ll be ready to enjoy everything the Isle of Mull has to offer, from scenic drives and wildlife spotting to historic landmarks and local culture.
From Glasgow
By Car
Drive via the M8 westbound, then follow the A82 along Loch Lomond. At Crianlarich, join the A85 west to Oban. Journey time is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes. Car hire at Glasgow Airport
By Bus
Citylink operates direct coaches from Buchanan Bus Station to Oban. Journey time is approximately 2 hours 56 minutes. Citylink bus timetables
By Train
ScotRail runs direct trains from Glasgow Queen Street to Oban, taking approximately 3 hours 7 minutes. ScotRail Glasgow to Oban route
From Edinburgh
By Car
Drive via the M9 to Stirling, then follow the A84 and A85 west to Oban. Journey time is around 3 hours. Car hire at Edinburgh Airport
By Bus
Citylink operates through-coaches from Princes Street to Oban via Glasgow. Journey time is approximately 4 hours 7 minutes. Citylink bus timetables
By Train
Take the train from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street, then transfer to the Oban line. Total journey time is approximately 5 hours. ScotRail Edinburgh to Oban route
From Aberdeen
By Car
Drive via the A90 south to Dundee, then west via Perth and the A85 to Oban. Journey time is approximately 4 hours. Car hire at Aberdeen Airport
By Bus
Citylink operates services from Union Square Bus Station to Oban via Glasgow. Journey time is approximately 7 hours 30 minutes. Citylink bus timetables
By Train
Take the train from Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street, then transfer to the Oban line. Total journey time is approximately 7 hours 30 minutes. ScotRail Aberdeen to Oban route
From Inverness
By Car
Drive south via the A82 along Loch Ness, then west via Fort William and the A828 to Oban. Journey time is approximately 2 hours 45 minutes. Car hire at Inverness Airport
By Bus
Citylink operates services from Inverness Bus Station to Oban via Fort William. Journey time is approximately 4 hours 30 minutes. Citylink bus timetables
By Train
Travel from Inverness to Stirling, then Glasgow Queen Street, and onward to Oban. Total journey time is approximately 8 hours. ScotRail Inverness to Oban route
From Prestwick
By Car
Drive via the A77 north to Glasgow, then follow the A82 and A85 to Oban. Journey time is approximately 3 hours 15 minutes. Car hire at Prestwick Airport
By Bus
Take the Stagecoach X77 bus from Prestwick to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. From there, transfer to the Citylink 976 service to Oban. Total journey time is approximately 5 hours 10 minutes. Citylink bus timetables
By Train
Travel from Prestwick Town Station to Glasgow Central, transfer to Glasgow Queen Street, then take the train to Oban. Journey time is approximately 4 hours 45 minutes. ScotRail journey planner
Ferry Connections to Mull
All ferry services are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac). Booking is essential for the Oban route. Lochaline and Kilchoan operate on a turn-up-and-go basis.
Oban to Craignure
This is the main ferry route to Mull, with frequent sailings throughout the day. The crossing takes approximately 45 minutes. Booking is recommended.
Lochaline to Fishnish
Ideal for travellers coming from Fort William or the north. The crossing takes around 20 minutes. No advance booking is available. Arrive and queue.
Kilchoan to Tobermory
Best suited for those travelling from Ardnamurchan or the west coast. The crossing takes approximately 35 minutes. No booking required.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Isle of Mull
- Best Time to Visit: Summer (May–September) offers longer daylight, calmer seas, and more frequent ferry sailings. Winter months are quieter but can have rough seas and limited services.
- Booking Ferries: For the Oban to Craignure route, advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season. Lochaline–Fishnish and Kilchoan–Tobermory operate on a turn-up-and-go basis.
- Parking: Oban and Craignure ferry terminals have parking facilities. Arrive early during busy periods to secure a spot, especially if travelling by car.
- Public Transport on Mull: Local buses connect major villages, but services are limited. Many visitors find hiring a car or bike gives more flexibility to explore the island.
- Accessibility: Ferries, trains, and buses are generally accessible, but check specific operator guidance if you have mobility requirements.
- Wildlife Spotting: Mull is home to eagles, otters, seals, and deer. Binoculars and a camera are recommended for nature enthusiasts.
- Travel Apps and Timetables: Use the Citylink and CalMac websites for up-to-date bus and ferry times.
