5 Day Itinerary To Mull and Iona + Day Trip to Staffa, Scotland

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Need help planning a 5 day itinerary to Mull Iona and Staffa Islands in Scotland?

What a fantastic choice!! Being Scottish, we have explored many islands dotted off our mainland over the years including this stunning trio. Being close to the mainland with endless activities, you can easily create a perfect 5 day itinerary to Mull and Iona!

We have created this perfect Southern Hebrides Itinerary to best share our experiences and tips. Read on and you will have all you need for an amazing getaway trip to these ever popular Scottish islands.

Our jump-off point to many of our 500+ islands that are part of Scotland is the west coast town of Oban, a fabulous destination in itself.

This is where we will start with details of how to get to Mull Iona and Staffa. We are also sharing fun ideas of things to do in Oban that make this town worth an overnight stay. A bonus before you catch your ferry to the isles!

Mull and Iona 5 day Itinerary

Our proposed itinerary for this Scottish Getaway will give you ample time to enjoy the many things to do in each destination.

It’s possible to shorten this of course but why not enjoy some of the activities while you’re on each island?

Day 1: Oban

Oban is the mainland departure port for Mull. We’ve enjoyed numerous here and love its laid back, earthy vibe.  

As well as a main jump off point to many of Scotland’s western islands, it’s a fun place to hang out for a couple of days. So if you can stay a little longer, plan a night in Oban into this itinerary!

There are plenty of B&Bs on the seafront which are good value and easy to walk to from the train station.

Getting to Oban

If you’re coming from Edinburgh it’s an easy connection by train or bus to Glasgow Queens Street Stations. Perhaps you are spending time in our capital city before your island trip. Use our Edinburgh Weekend Guide to plan your time here.

You can book train tickets from Glasgow to Oban with Trainline – make sure you reserve a seat.

 

From Glasgow, the tracks edge parallel to the iconic, industrial River Clyde.  Then onwards past Loch Lomond & into the Trossachs National Park. The route passes through countless hills and glens until finally you head gently downhill into Oban.

The trains themselves are so-so, but this ride is an absolutely ‘must do’ experience! We’ve done this trip numerous times and never tire of it.

Getting To Oban By Car

By Car.  The 3 hour or so  drive is also gorgeous, mostly following the train route. Stop for photos and stretch your legs along the way.  Also if you’re coming from Aberdeen, bus or car are the best options.

Being honest, touring around the islands for more than a few days is best done in a car unless you’re part of a tour.

Public transport on these islands is limited, especially at weekends. Mull is a large island so you may need to limit yourself to Tobermory if you’re on foot!

Cal Mac Ferry Terminal, Oban

Getting Here: Google Maps Link to Cal Mac Ferry Terminal

Transfers from/to Ferry Terminals. The ferry system is a life-line for islanders and the service is excellent in the summer months for us travellers.  In Oban the terminal is adjacent to the train station, the harbor and main hotels.

Quite honestly if you look out of the train window as you arrive in Oban you’ll likely see one of the CalMac Ferries berthed in front of you.

Usually they’re in turnaround with passengers disembarking and boarding as ferries come and go through the day to many islands.

Top Things to do in Oban

Oban is small and easy to navigate by foot for most visitors.  In the summer months there is abundant day light, so plenty of time to explore late into the evening.

The name Oban translates from Gaelic into ‘little bay’ and sums up the friendly seafood capital of Scotland perfectly.

Climb McCaig’s Tower

Getting Here  – Google Maps Link to McCaig’s Tower

Climb up to McCaig’s Tower, a town landmark you will see as you arrive in Oban. It was constructed back in 1897 by a local who wanted to create a monument to his family.

The views from the top are stunning when the sun shines as it did when we visited. And, on top there is a nice walk through a small garden area.  It is a steep climb up so be prepared to sweat a little!

Tour Oban’s Whisky Distillery

Getting Here – Google Maps Link to Oban Distillery

After all that exertion why not visit the Oban Distillery. It claims to be only 200 feet from the waters of the bay and has been producing whisky since 1790s. 

The tour is unique because due to this being a small production facility, the distillery has an intimate feel to it. And visitors can really understand the passion involved in creating the notes of this popular dram.

Taste Oban Chocolate

After your time at the distillery walk north within the town onto the promenade. You will soon reach the ‘not to miss’ Oban Chocolate Company.

This is the place to stock up on some hand-made, creative chocolate before your trip to the islands. They create chocolate on site so you can see the process first hand. If you’ve got time,this a great stop for a hot chocolate or tea/coffee break.

Have Lunch At The Oban Seafood Hut

When it’s time for lunch try the iconic Oban Seafood Hut (aka Green Shack on the photo to the right).  This ‘restaurant’ is literally a stall on the pier next to the ferry terminal.

Come early as they are so popular they can run out of some items. Their seafood is excellent and fresh, caught locally that morning. 

It can be busy here with ferry traffic passengers. So we suggest you make reservations for dinner in restaurants in Oban in the summer months if you want a waterfront spot or a top rated venue.

Day 2 – Sail From Oban To Mull

Today your sailing adventures begin! Make an early start to catch the 6am ferry from Oban to Craignure Terminal in Mull which takes around 40 minutes.  

If you are planning your 5 Day Itinerary to Mull and Iona in the summer months, we recommend pre-booking your ferry tickets! Be aware that ‘passenger’ travelers, ie. without cars, can change tickets without any penalty! Very useful to know in case of any delays in getting to Oban. 

The staff at the check in are always very friendly and helpful with any questions you might have. Boarding is straightforward as these ferries are exceptionally efficient.  They pull up the ramp, un-tie the ropes and maneuver out of the harbour in minutes. 

Inside these boats, there’s ample seating in the larger ferries and a cafe, small shop. Also if you’re bringing your dog, they have their own play space on board!

How to Get from Craignure to Fionnphort, Mull

On arrival at Craignure Terminal on Mull, you can directly transfer to the public buses which meet the mainland ferries. It’s pretty simple schedule!

One bus will head north towards Tobermory, the capital of Mull, the other south towards Fionnphort, where you can cross a small stretch of water to Iona.  We suggest you head south first on our itinerary.

By bus, it is an hour’s drive south, following single track, twisty roads and crossing narrow old stone bridges. The drivers of these double-decker buses magically navigate over tight spaces with literally inches to spare at times.

If you have brought your car, you will follow the same route!

How To Get From Fionnphort to Iona

Reaching Fionnphort, you will have a short wait (typically 20 minutes max) for the ferry that goes back and forth to Iona from this southern point of Mull. (They run every 30 mins in summer). 

The less than one mile crossing to Iona is around 10 minutes.   It is  fascinating to learn about the currents in this part of the western waters of Scotland.

There are very strong and so boats often follow odd patterns when you watch them from the shore. They are literally weaving between wind and current impacts all the time. Don’t worry – These friendly captains know their stuff.

Things To Do On Iona

Iona is 1.5 miles by 3 miles with around 170 inhabitants. This, together with  open access laws in Scotland, makes this an easy hiking paradise.   Ocean views greet you at every turn – look out for seals, dolphins and whales and on land, highland cattle and sheep!

No cars are permitted on Iona (unless you are a full-time resident). If you bring your car to tour around Mull you can pay to park near to the ferry terminal. 

The ‘no visitor car rule’ makes the island even more special as you step off the ferry. For many people Iona is a sacred spot and a ‘bucket list’ pilgrimage to make during their lives. 

Visit the Ancient Abbey of Iona

Although it looks like nothing more than a ruin, we highly suggest you book on organized tour of the world famous Iona Abbey.  In fact for many this is the highlight of any 5 day itinerary to Mull and Iona because of the history here.

A version of what you see today was originally built by St Columba in AD 563.  However, it was destroyed by fire and conflicts over the centuries, so what you see today is the result of efforts to maintain the sacred site. 

Now it is managed by Historic Scotland and it a national treasure of our country. On our visits here, we have had a fantastic overview by local guides who are enthusiastic and knowledgeable.

If you are staying overnight on Iona, come here later in the afternoon as there will be fewer people on the tour.  

Afterwards, don’t overlook the Nunnery ruins on the way down to the quayside. They offer another fascinating insight into life here centuries ago.

Visit Staffa By Boat from Iona

If the weather is decent book a trip on-line to the remote island of Staffa with Staffa Tours. It’s an absolutely thrilling adventure!

Uninhabited, the island is unique with its basalt columns which were the result of volcanic action almost 60 million years ago. In fact, it is the same rock as you will discover on the Giants Causeway in Northern Ireland.

If you’re interesting in learning more about visiting this Irish coastline, use our Northern Ireland 5 Day Road Trip Itinerary.

In addition to its amazing rocks and caves, Staffa is also a birdwatchers paradise! You can spot puffin nesting at certain times of year when they congregate on the steep grassy cliffs and are so entertaining to watch. 

Making Landfall on Staffa

The boat ride in summer is usually fairly flat although it can be choppy at times if there is a bigger Atlantic swell. That said crews are so professional and know these waters like the back of their hand, so if it’s too rough, they don’t sail.

It is a lovely ride out and when waters are in your favour, you can land and disembark for an hour or two. As we say, this stop off is not a guarantee because the currents here are unpredictable – remember you are in western Scotland.

After safely disembarking look up to see grassy, ragged cliffs and you can appreciate where you are! Staffa is remote and somewhere where nothing but wildlife and natural plans live.  It’s best to hike up to the Puffin area after the walk to Fingal’s Cave.

Explore Fingal’s Cave on Staffa

Coming off the boat, head to Fingal’s Cave which is reached by walking along a roped area to the cave’s entrance. This is a highlight of any trip to Mull Iona and Staffa islands in our view, as it’s simply unique!

It’s a short walk (5-10 mins) once you’re off the boat to the cave entrance. However, take your time to absorb your surroundings and marvel at the sheer force that created the rock you’re standing on.

Walking into the cave is fascinating as the basalt structure surrounds you like a foreign object and is like nothing else we have visited in hundreds of trips.

How to See Staffa’s Puffins

After exploring the cave, return to the boat docking point and then climb up a steep staircase to walk along the cliff head. From here you can await the hopeful arrival of some nesting Atlantic Puffins.

Puffins are typically here during May, June and July. In fact, if the boat wasn’t on a tight schedule it would be so easy to just sit and watch them for hours.

Where to Stay on Iona

Many people visit Iona on a day trip from Mull and that’s absolutely fine if your time is limited.

Read our Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Itinerary – 10 Days for ideas on how to include these destinations into a longer stay.

However, to really get a feel for Iona and to have time to make the trip to Staffa, we suggest you plan one night here as a minimum.

We love and recommend St Columba Hotel which is a Scottish treasure. The relaxing lounge has vast windows facing the beach with views that draw you in.

Just take time to sit and enjoy doing nothing before heading to the dining room for a delicious evening meal, made from local fresh ingredients.

The hotel vibe is casual and comfortable.  What stands out is the staff. At check-in, at the restaurant and bar, they are always courteous, fun and always asking how they can help.  Who wouldn’t love working in such a magical place?

Day 3/4 – Explore The Isle of Mull

The final stop on your fun packed 5 Day itinerary of Mull and Iona is Tobermory, the capital of the biggest isle. With 300 miles of pristine coastline, Mull is a mecca for wildlife enthusiasts.  

It is possible to book a variety of tours with guides to seek out the many birds and sea life that call this pristine coast home.

There are also many specialist activities on and off the water, including sailing, hiking, cycling, pony trekking and kayaking.

Of you can pass a few hours simply sitting with a coffee or cocktail and soaking in the absolutely beauty of the bay – there is always some activity!

Things To Do On Mull

After a full day of Iona and Staffa, catch a mid morning/early afternoon ferry back to Fionnphort. Next connect with the island bus back to Craignure, half way to Tobermory.  The capital town of Mull, this is the final destination on our weekend escape to Mull and Iona Itinerary. 

You will change buses again at Craignure and then an hour later arrive at the colourful, semi-circle of traditional buildings that surroundTobermory Harbour.

Explore Tobermory

Tobermory is such a pretty small town.  Its location is perfect for a leisurely day/night as part of a weekend visit or a longer stay exploring Mull. The town was developed back in the 18th century as a fishing port.

Its distinctive look with its harbor hugging row of brightly painted original homes makes you smile as you arrive.

Enjoy wandering around this small town, stop a coffee and soak in these beautiful views over the water. Even if the weather isn’t ‘perfect’ you will find these vistas hard to ignore!

The distillery next to where the bus drops you off is also worth a visit and their tasting is fun.

Movie Film Set – Tobermory

It is worth climbing up from the harbour to have a refreshment in the Western Isles Hotel. Its claim to fame is being a film set for a 1945 film “I know where I’m going”.  

Walk from the town round the very narrow streets, and you will reach the top of the hill. As you enter the hotel you will spot see posters and artifacts from its prime time in the movies.

Views from their lounge and bar areas are spectacular so why not enjoy a sundowner here!

Afterwards we recommend head to Cafe Fish for dinner. Housed in a small white building perched at the end of the harbour, it is next to a smaller ferry terminal.

There is always something to watch in the waters in front of you and the food was delicious.  Again, pre-book for dinner, especially on a Sunday. 

The Legend of Corywreckan

When you spend time here you will discover the mysterious Gulf of Corywreckan. For centuries sailors feared its power and perhaps still do!  

Without giving away our legends of these waters, we will mention that tidal currents and standing waves are incredible here. They form the 3rd biggest whirlpool in the world when tides and sea state are right for it.

There are tours out to the whirlpool area if you sea legs are up for this adventure This is also a tour to take from isle of Islay or Jura, both beautiful Scottish islands to the south.

Read our Colonsay, Islay and Jura Itinerary Things To Do Post for more ideas on visiting these islands.

Day 5 – Return to Oban

Depending on your onward plans, either stay until a late ferry and enjoy another night in beautiful Oban. This is a great option is you are heading further into Scotland’s Highlands and Islands.

Alternatively grab an early ferry to connect to a train back to Glasgow, or to allow time for a leisurely drive if you have come by car.

What to Pack for a Trip To Scotland’s Islands

For your 5 day itinerary to Mull and Iona you really only need a back-pack/rucksack. This makes it much easier to get around if, like us, you want to travel lightly from island to island.

Secondly, bring clothes you can layer to combat ever changing weather conditions.

Wearing a jacket or fleece with a hood is easier than using an umbrella in these parts when the winds blow. Don’t forget good walking/hiking boots and binoculars.

Where to Go in Scotland After Mull and Iona?

Scotland offers a life time of travel opportunities and if you have time to visit other parts of our country after your island trip, consider a road trip around the highlands.

Or if you want a taste of Scottish city life after your islands visit, our Glasgow vs Edinburgh Guide has all you need to decide which is best to visit and what to do there!

If you have more time, then think about stopping off on the way back at Blair Atholl in Perthshire or make your way over to the ever popular Pitlochry.  There is great hiking here or fishing in our clear water rivers.

FAQs

Is Iona in Scotland worth visiting?

Yes, this is such an easy to get to island from Mull and easy to explore by foot.

With its world famous Abbey, it is a pilgrimage destination for many from around the world. But mostly, this is an island of peaceful landscapes, stunning coasts and island life.

Can you Visit Mull and Iona in 1 Day?

You can! If you catch the early ferry to Mull from Oban, you will be on Iona for lunch. Enjoy short walks around the island and then catch a late afternoon ferry back to Mull, to return to your hotel for the evening.

Why is Mull Famous?

Mull is famous for its stunning scenery that is home for an incredible abundance of birds and ocean life including whales, dolphins and sea eagles.

Tobermory has its own whisky distillery and in this same town you can visit where a 1945 move “I know where I’m Going” was filmed.

There are numerous legends around Mull from Corywreckan whirlpools to shipwrecks to absorb! If you enjoy walking you will find endless hikes, walks and Ben More, the only ‘Munro’ (a hill over 3,000 feet or 914 metres).

Wrap Up

If the idea of getting away from busy places and reconnecting with nature appeals, you will love visiting the Scottish islands of Mull, Iona and Staffa.

Our fresh air, clear waters and abundant wildlife is not taken for granted by us Scots and we love visiting these islands as much as our visitors!

We hope our guide inspires you to come visit Scotland and to take a ferry out to least one of our islands and appreciate some of the most beautiful places on our planet.