According to forum posts, many travelers recommend visiting the nearby islands as ideal day trips from Oban. The classic tour to Mull, Iona, and Staffa is highly suggested, which can be done via an organized tour with West Coast Tours or by taking your car to Mull and booking with Staffa Tours for the latter part of the journey.

Some travelers said that Lismore provides a pleasant day trip, known for its walkability and cycling options. Another recommended destination is Kerrera, accessible by a short boat trip, offering a great day out with its scenic walks and historic sites. Additionally, the Corryvreckan Whirlpool and Loch Etive are noted for their stunning natural beauty and are accessible via boat trips from Oban.

For those interested in historical sites, forum users suggest visiting Dunstaffnage Castle, which offers insights into the region's rich history and is accessible via a short drive or public transport from Oban. This castle, along with others like Dunollie, provides a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past.

Travelers have called out the option of hiring bikes to explore the islands and taking short ferry trips to less visited places like Luing and Easdale, enhancing the experience with the fascinating remnants of the slate industry and picturesque landscapes.

According to forum posts, some travelers recommended the Premier Inn for its central location next to the train, bus, and ferry terminals, and its comfortable, quiet rooms. The Premier Inn also offers a restaurant with a substantial Scottish breakfast. The Royal Hotel, Perle Oban Hotel, and Muthu Alexandra were also mentioned as potential options to consider.

For those interested in a more unique or quaint experience, the Whisky Vaults and Heatherfield House were highlighted by travelers as nice B&B options in Oban. These establishments offer a more personalized stay, with the Whisky Vaults noted for its small reception area and narrow winding staircase leading to the rooms.

Many users pointed out that Oban is a compact town where most amenities, including pubs and hotels, are within a short walking distance of each other. This makes it convenient for visitors to explore the area on foot without the need for extensive transportation.

Some travelers mentioned that the most convenient way to visit Mull and Iona from Oban involves taking a ferry to Craignure on Mull, followed by a bus or car drive to Fionnphort, from where a foot ferry to Iona is available. The ferry and bus services are generally well-coordinated to facilitate smooth transitions between the islands.

According to forum posts, West Coast Tours offers organized trips that include transportation covering all three islands - Mull, Iona, and Staffa. These tours are praised for their convenience and include bus and ferry services, although personal exploration time may be limited.

For those preferring flexibility, driving is a viable option. You can take your car on the ferry to Mull and drive across the island to Fionnphort. This allows for a more personalized schedule and the opportunity to explore more of Mull’s scenic landscapes before heading to Iona.

According to forum posts, Oban hosts seasonal events such as the Hogmanay celebrations during New Year, including ceilidhs in hotels and live music in pubs like Markie Dans. Previously, there were organized street parties, though these have been discontinued in recent years.

Travelers have noted that boat trips to nearby islands like Mull, Iona, and Staffa are popular but tend to wind down by October due to the weather, which can turn windy and cold, affecting the smaller boat services. However, the ferry services to these islands continue to operate year-round.

Some forum users highlighted October as a great time to visit Oban for its autumn colors, with mixed forestry providing picturesque scenery. Despite some tourist services winding down, there remains a good amount of activities, including exploring Argyll's countryside and potentially still running boat trips if the weather permits.