Inverness, often regarded as the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, is a charming city packed with history, natural beauty, and local culture. Whether you’re visiting to seek out the mystery of Loch Ness, explore ancient castles, or soak in the Highland landscapes, knowing how to navigate Inverness efficiently is essential. From getting to the city, exploring its public transport options, to venturing into the surrounding areas, this guide provides all the detailed tips you need for seamless travel.
Getting to Inverness
1. By Air – Inverness Airport (INV)
Inverness Airport, located approximately 13 km (8 miles) northeast of the city center, is the primary gateway for those arriving by air. It connects to major cities like London, Manchester, Dublin, Amsterdam, and other European hubs.
Getting from Inverness Airport to the City Center:
- Bus: The Stagecoach Jet Bus Service (11/11A) runs every 30 minutes and takes around 25 minutes to reach Inverness Bus Station. Tickets cost approximately £5.
- Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal. A one-way trip costs about £20-25. It’s ideal for those with heavy luggage or arriving late at night.
- Car Rental: Rental services like Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise are located at the airport. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the Highlands.
Insider Tip: Book your airport taxi or car rental in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (May–September).
2. By Train – Inverness Railway Station
Inverness Railway Station, conveniently located in the city center, is well-connected to Scotland’s major cities and beyond. Direct trains operate from:
- Edinburgh: Approx. 3.5 hours via ScotRail.
- Glasgow: Approx. 3.5 hours.
- London: Overnight service via the Caledonian Sleeper, a unique travel experience offering private berths and dining.
The station itself is modern, with amenities like a café, restrooms, and luggage storage.
Insider Tip: Book train tickets in advance on websites like Trainline or ScotRail for discounted fares. Traveling off-peak will also save you money.
3. By Bus – Inverness Bus Station
Located next to the train station, Inverness Bus Station is serviced by long-distance and regional bus operators like:
- Megabus: Affordable long-distance options to Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen.
- Citylink: Reliable service with connections throughout Scotland.
- Stagecoach: Serves the Highlands and smaller towns surrounding Inverness.
Cost & Time:
- Edinburgh to Inverness: Approx. 4 hours (£20-£30).
- Glasgow to Inverness: Approx. 4 hours (£18-£28).
The bus station has a small waiting area, ticket counters, and shops.
4. By Car – Road Trip to Inverness
Driving to Inverness offers incredible scenic views of Scotland’s landscapes. The city is accessible via major routes like:
- A9: From Edinburgh/Perth, this is the main road leading north to Inverness.
- A82: Connects Glasgow to Inverness via Loch Lomond and Fort William.
Parking in Inverness:
Inverness has both paid and free parking options. Look for multi-story car parks like the Eastgate Shopping Centre or riverside parking near Ness Bridge.
Insider Tip: Be cautious when driving through the Highlands during winter months, as some rural roads may be icy or closed.
Public Transport Within Inverness
Once in Inverness, getting around the compact city center is relatively simple. Public transport includes buses, taxis, and walking routes that allow easy access to attractions.
1. Local Buses
Stagecoach operates the majority of the local buses in Inverness and surrounding suburbs.
Key Routes:
- Route 2: Covers Inverness city center to Loch Ness and Dores Beach.
- Route 5/5A: Connects the airport to the city center.
- Route 28/28A: Ideal for visiting nearby villages and scenic areas.
Bus Fares:
- A single ride within the city typically costs £2-3, while a day pass for unlimited travel is around £5.
- Tickets can be purchased on the bus (cash/card) or through the Stagecoach app.
Insider Tip: Download the Stagecoach Bus app for real-time updates, timetables, and ticket purchases.
2. Taxis & Ride-Sharing
Taxis are widely available in Inverness, and they can be hailed on the street or booked in advance through local taxi services like:
- Highland Taxis
- Inverness Taxis
Average Costs:
- Short trips within the city: Around £5-10.
- A journey to Loch Ness: Approx. £20-25 (one way).
While ride-sharing apps like Uber are not yet widely available in Inverness, local taxi apps are reliable alternatives.
3. Walking Around the City
Inverness is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. Exploring the city on foot is the best way to experience its charming streets, local shops, and riverside walks.
Walking Highlights:
- Stroll along the River Ness for stunning views and photo opportunities.
- Visit the Victorian Market and Inverness Castle within minutes of each other.
Insider Tip: Pack comfortable walking shoes, as the cobblestone streets and hilly areas can be tough on the feet.
Exploring Beyond Inverness
1. Visiting Loch Ness
No trip to Inverness is complete without visiting the world-famous Loch Ness, home to the legendary Nessie.
How to Get There:
- Bus: Route 2 from the city center takes you to Dores Beach on Loch Ness in about 30 minutes.
- Boat Tours: Companies like Jacobite Cruises offer boat tours departing from Inverness.
- Car: A drive via the A82 takes around 20-25 minutes.
Insider Tip: Opt for an early morning visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene views.
2. Highlands Day Trips
The surrounding Highlands are perfect for day trips. Some options include:
- Culloden Battlefield: A historic site just 15 minutes by bus from Inverness.
- Glen Affric: Ideal for hiking enthusiasts, about 45 minutes by car.
- Fort Augustus: A picturesque village at the southern tip of Loch Ness, around 1 hour by car.
Transport Options: Car rentals are the most flexible, but guided tours also operate frequently.
3. Cycling Routes
Cycling is another fantastic way to explore Inverness and the Highlands.
- Rent bikes from shops like Ticket to Ride or Inverness Bike Hire.
- Ride along the Caledonian Canal for breathtaking views of Loch Ness and the countryside.
Insider Tip: Carry water, snacks, and a map as some rural cycling routes lack facilities.
Final Tips for Navigating Inverness
- Purchase a Day Pass: If using buses frequently, a day pass will save you money.
- Book Ahead: Reserve taxis, buses, and car rentals ahead of time, especially in summer.
- Weather Caution: Always check the weather forecast. Inverness weather can change suddenly, so pack layers and waterproof gear.
- Keep Cash Handy: While most places accept cards, small shops and buses may prefer cash.
Inverness offers a seamless and well-connected transport network, making it easy to explore both the city and its stunning surroundings. Whether you choose to travel by bus, car, or on foot, every journey through Inverness is bound to be an unforgettable experience.
