The Isle of Skye gets much of the attention within the Inner Hebrides, but we think the Isle of Iona is just as worthy a place to visit, if not more so.
While this quiet stunner is smaller than its more famous neighbor, it’s every bit as scenic. And even better, it is easier to explore. So, if you love nothing more than to take in views of coastal turquoise waters, centuries-old abbeys, and quaint villages, this island delivers in spades.
If you’re planning a road trip around the west coast of Scotland, Iona makes a perfect day trip from Oban. Better still, why not do what we like to do and enjoy a few soul-soothing nights on this Scottish gem?
After living in Scotland for over three years and slowly making my way through many of its islands, I can safely say that Iona has become one of those places I love going back to.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the very best things to do on the Isle of Iona, which quite possibly will be a place you’ll never want to leave.
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Scotland Hebrides Islands
The Scottish Hebrides islands are where the country shows off its wild, elemental beauty, and in my mind, the Isle of Iona is one of its main highlights.
Part of the Inner Hebrides, Iona sits just off the coast of Mull. As it is easily reached by ferry, travelers often pair going there with visits to other nearby destinations like Staffa and Lunga. These islands may be small, but they pack in plenty of dramatic landscapes. They also have a rich history dating back centuries, and some of Scotland’s most tremendous wildlife encounters. We are talking about puffins nesting on sea cliffs, seals sunbathing on rocks, and windswept beaches that look more Caribbean than Caledonian.
Exploring Iona is a joy on its own, but if you have a few days, hopping between islands lets you experience the full magic of Scotland’s west coast. Each stop offers something different – from Iona’s spiritual calm to Staffa’s dramatic basalt columns – which is sure to captivate you.
Here are a couple of great tours to look into:
5-Day Iona, Mull, and the Isle of Skye Small Tour from Edinburgh
4-Day Mull, Iona, and Staffa Puffin Experience from Edinburgh
Things to Do on the Isle of Iona
At just about 1.5 miles wide and 3 miles long, Iona might be small. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in beauty and serenity.
This is a place where time slows down. And with no cars for visitors and only a handful of locals, Iona offers a rare kind of stillness that’s perfect for recharging. Whether you’re here for a day trip or a long weekend, there are plenty of things to do on Iona that don’t involve rushing from place to place.
Start your visit with the island’s most famous landmark: Iona Abbey. One of the oldest Christian religious centers in Western Europe, it’s steeped in history and beautifully restored. Start your visit with the island’s most famous landmark: Iona Abbey. One of the oldest Christian religious centers in Western Europe, it’s steeped in history and beautifully restored. Just a short walk from the abbey, you’ll also find the ruins of the Iona Nunnery — one of the best-preserved medieval nunneries in Scotland. Its ivy-covered ruins and quiet garden paths offer a peaceful contrast to the grandeur of the abbey.
From there, you can walk across the island in less than a couple of hours. I love following the grassy trails and winding footpaths that take me to windswept cliffs and quiet coves. Just remember to take a jacket with you as it can get quite nippy around them.
We also recommend you pop into a few of the local shops and art galleries. Many of them showcase handmade crafts and island-inspired pieces. There are also a handful of cozy cafes where you can grab a coffee and a slice of cake while watching the sea. My favourite is Ailidh, who does a magnificent chocolate custard doughnut!
Whilst on Iona, don’t skip the beaches. The north end of Iona is home to stunning stretches of white sand offset with turquoise water. On a sunny day, it feels like another world, and you can sit, swim, or just let your feet sink into the cool sand with pretty much the place to yourself.
There’s nothing quite like spending a night on magical Iona — especially if the skies are clear and you get to do a bit of stargazing under the island’s quiet, unspoiled darkness. With only a handful of places to stay and rooms filling up fast, it’s best to book your accommodation well in advance.
Iona Abbey Scotland
Iona Abbey is the island’s spiritual anchor and one of the most significant religious sites in the country. Founded by St. Columba in AD 563, the abbey played a central role in spreading Christianity throughout Scotland and beyond. Even today, it attracts scores of pilgrims and curious travelers, who all seem drawn by its sense of peace, deep history, and stunning setting.
The abbey’s architecture is simple but powerful, comprising thick stone walls, arched doorways, and a quiet cloister that feels miles away from modern life. The grounds are always beautifully kept, and wandering among the gravestones and ancient crosses gives you a real sense of the history of the place.
Inside, the restored church is humbling in its simplicity. There’s also a small museum that offers an insight into the island’s monastic past and the early Christian artifacts uncovered here.
As it remains a working religious site and a popular tourist destination, you must book a visit to Iona Abbey in advance. We recommend that you do this online. However, there is a small tourist information center near the ferry dock where you can purchase tickets.
Best Beaches on Iona
I am not exaggerating when I say that some of the best beaches on Iona rival anything you’ll find in the Mediterranean. Albeit with not as warm water!
Unfortunately, even in summer, the sea stays on the chilly side. But that doesn’t stop locals and visitors from taking a bracing dip. That said, if you’re not into wild swimming, the beaches are still perfect for long walks, quiet picnics, and just soaking in the views.
North End Beach is probably my favorite to go to. It’s a stretch of white sand and turquoise water that looks completely out of place in the Scottish climate, in the best way possible. The short walk there across grassy dunes is a highlight in itself, and once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a destination that is the definition of Insta-worthy.
Another beautiful spot I like to go to is St. Columba’s Bay, which is on the south end of the island. While it’s more rugged and pebbly, it is full of character. It is also believed to be the place where the saint first landed on Iona.
I should warn you that the hike to get there is quite long. But it’s peaceful and scenic and provides views that make the effort well worth it.
Scotland’s Hidden Gems Near Iona
This wee part of Scotland, around the Isle of Iona, is a destination I can’t recommend enough to anyone looking to make the most of their trip. Just a short boat ride from Iona, you’ll find several other fabulous islands — Staffa, famous for Fingal’s Cave, is one of them. There’s also Lunga, the go-to island for spotting puffins. Mull, being much larger, offers a wide range of experiences and is perfect for a multi-day stay. And don’t miss the charming town of Oban, with its distillery, fantastic food scene, and scenic harbour.
Staffa and Fingal’s Cave: Scotland’s Natural Wonder
If you’re chasing a truly unforgettable island experience, put Staffa and Fingal’s Cave at the top of your list.
This uninhabited island was formed by ancient volcanic activity and is famous for its striking basalt columns, which are towering geometric rock formations that look almost too perfect to be real. At the heart of it all is Fingal’s Cave, a sea cave known for its haunting acoustics and cathedral-like entrance, that have been carved entirely by nature. When you are in there, make sure you sing a song. You’ll be blown away by the sounds you make!
Reaching Staffa requires a boat tour, usually departing from Oban or Mull, and the journey itself is part of the adventure. On the way, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and seals, and, if you visit between April and early August, adorable puffins that nest along the cliffs.
Things to Do on Lunga
Talking of puffing encounters, there is no better place to enjoy one than on Lunga, which is one of the Treshnish Isles. If you’re looking for unforgettable things to do on Lunga, you should be aware that this rugged island is a haven for seabirds, especially puffins during the spring and summer months.
While you can see them elsewhere, what makes Lunga so special is how close you can get to them. The puffins here are surprisingly unbothered by visitors and often waddle within a few feet of your camera lens.
Aside from puffins, the island itself is a dramatic mix of sea cliffs, rolling green hills, and wildflowers. There are no roads, shops, or buildings. So, it’s just raw, unspoiled beauty, and the sound of birds overhead, which takes it from us, is kind of magical.
Things to Do on Mull
Of all the islands you can reach from Oban, Mull is probably the most popular.
The second-largest island of the Inner Hebrides, it is well known for the colorful waterfront at Tobermory, which was the setting for the UK children’s TV show Balamory.
If you’re looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Mull to fill your day. The island features dramatic landscapes, and several castle ruins and is also regarded as a top spot for fresh seafood.
Nature lovers will enjoy Mull’s wild side, as you may spot otters, red deer, and golden eagles as you explore. You can visit Duart Castle, which is perched dramatically on the coast, or head to Calgary Bay to enjoy one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches.
Spending the night on Mull lets you experience the island’s true charm — quiet evenings, friendly locals, and the kind of small-town warmth that day-trippers often miss. With limited accommodation in popular spots like Tobermory, it’s worth booking your stay on Mull ahead to make the most of your stay.
Things to Do in Oban
Oban is a wee harbour town often called the gateway to the islands of the Inner Hebrides, including the Isle of Iona. But it also deserves recognition in its own right, as it makes for a perfect weekend trip from both lovely Edinburgh and cozy Inverness.
Some of the lovely things to do in Oban include exploring its old town and harbour, booking a tour at the historic whisky distillery, climbing McCaig’s Tower for sweeping views of the bay, enjoying delicious seafood at the award-winning restaurant in the Oban Bay Hotel, and walking all the way to Ganavan Sands beach via the coastal path past the Esplanade.
For those with time to spare on their Scottish travel itinerary, Oban can be a great next stop after Edinburgh. Spend a day exploring the town, then take a trip to the islands on a CalMac ferry or with one of the many guided tours available. After Oban and a bit of island hopping, you can continue your journey north toward the Highlands and Inverness.
Where to Stay in Oban
With its charming harbor, historic streets, and easy access to island ferries, Oban offers a surprisingly wide range of accommodations — from cozy B&Bs to boutique hotels and self-catering cottages. Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or a solo adventure, there’s something to suit every style and budget. Below, you’ll find our top picks to help you choose the perfect base for your Highland explorations.
- Muthu Alexandra Hotel: Set slightly above the town, this hotel offers stunning vistas of Oban Bay from many of its rooms. Guests love the on-site swimming pool and sauna, plus its location strikes a nice balance — close enough to walk to the center, yet just removed enough for a peaceful night’s sleep.
- The Royal Hotel: Located right by the harbor and train station, The Royal Hotel blends convenience with character. Expect sea-view rooms, a historic building full of traditional charm, and a warm Highland welcome.
- Oban Bay Hotel: For those after a touch of luxury, this 4-star hotel ticks the boxes. It boasts fantastic waterfront views, a spa, and an award-winning seafood restaurant — perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing.
Getting to the Isle of Iona
No matter where you’re coming from — Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Inverness — the best way to reach Iona is to get to Oban first. This is easily doable by car or train.
Drive to Oban for a Scenic Road Trip
The drive to Oban has plenty of photo-worthy stops along the way. If you want the freedom to explore at your own pace, I recommend renting a car — I used DiscoverCars and had a great experience.
Take the Train for a Hassle-Free Ride
Traveling to Oban by train is easy, affordable, and surprisingly quick from Glasgow or Edinburgh. You’ll enjoy beautiful views without the stress of driving — just book your ticket here and settle in.
From Oban, the journey to Iona involves a ferry to the Isle of Mull, followed by a transfer across Mull to another ferry that takes you directly to Iona.
If you’re traveling by car, you’ll need to reserve a spot for your vehicle on the ferry to Mull. Once on the island, you’ll leave your car in a parking lot near the ferry terminal to Iona, as vehicles aren’t needed — or allowed — on Iona.
For those without a car, after arriving at Craignure on Mull, you can catch bus 96 to Fionnphort, where the ferry to Iona departs. The bus ride across Mull takes about 1.5 hours and doesn’t require booking. Just be sure to check the timetable so all parts of your journey line up smoothly.
The ferry crossing from Fionnphort to Iona is a quick one, taking just 10 minutes — hopefully the start of an adventure that brings you lots of joy. Iona is worth this slightly complicated journey.
Written by Inessa Rezanova
I’m a travel writer, keen to see the world and share its stories. I’m Ukrainian, and I continue to explore my country even in times of full-scale invasion. Not just because I love it, but because I believe in showing the world the beauty, strength, and humanity that exists here, even now.
