inverness scotland tourist attractions

Inverness in Scotland is known as the “Capital of the Highlands” and is one of the most popular destinations to visit while in the gorgeous country of Scotland. Featuring many attractions within the city centre and in the area that surrounds it, you’ll find that there are many things to do in Inverness.

Inverness has been steeped in history since its Pictish origins. It is filled with fascinating places to see and things to do and is one of the largest cities in Scotland. Thousands of tourists travel to Inverness every single year, drawn to this beautiful city upon the Firth of Moray and Beauty, all connected to the staggeringly large Loch Ness.

If you’re new to our beautiful country and are interested in getting to know the Highland Region, then there’s no better place to start than Inverness.

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Things to do in Inverness

Inverness is one of the best places to visit in Scotland and has many things to do that will make a holiday here well worth the trip! So if you’re travelling via Inverness Airport or just starting your road trip to explore the Nort Coast 500, we bet that there will be something in Inverness that will pique your interest.

Inverness is stocked full of beautiful and unique attractions. Whether you’re interested in discovering the highland region’s history at Clava Cairns, want to try Scottish dishes at an award-winning restaurant, or just aim to enjoy a calm day amidst might castles and botanic gardens, Inverness is the place for you!

There are so many activities and events are going on in Inverness that it’s difficult to discern what should be at the top of your to-do list while you’re here! See our guide for the top things to do in Inverness!

Inverness Castle

The mighty Inverness Castle sits next to the River Ness and is an outstanding sight to see while you’re visiting Inverness.

One highlight you’ll notice immediately is the beautiful red sandstone bricks that the Castle is made from, a unique feature that makes Inverness Castle one of the most spectacular castles in Scotland.

Built in the 1800s, the Castle boasts a fantastic view of the River Ness and Inverness city centre and a bountiful garden to explore when you visit its grounds. History buffs will be treated to the very Castle that William Shakespeare cites as where Duncan is murdered in ‘Macbeth’!

Inverness Castle is currently not open to the public but make sure to check out their website for updates.

Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

Inverness is jam-packed with exciting history and culture, and nowhere else can you fully realise this fact than at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery.

Here you can learn about and explore a vast range of artefacts and exhibits covering every inch of the Highland’s heritage and way of living. You can also immerse yourself in the ever-rotating galleries that feature excellent pieces made by local favourite artists and craftspeople.

The Inverness Museum & Art Gallery is the best way to garner an unparalleled understanding of the city and the surrounding area – we highly recommend you attend!

St Andrew’s Inverness Cathedral

Inverness Cathedral, sometimes known as St Andrew’s Cathedral, is a stunning church building on the edge of the River Ness and is at the centre of Inverness’ religious sites.

St Andrew’s Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the most fantastic venues to visit. The interior is just as jaw-dropping as the staggering exterior, with your attention being automatically drawn to the stained glass windows and the Cathedral’s towers which almost reach the sky!

Even if you’re not interested in attending one of the weekly masses, this Cathedral is still one of the most popular attractions in Inverness.

Ness Islands

The Ness Islands are a slice of nature amidst the bustling city of Inverness, the perfect getaway if you want a bit of peace for an afternoon.

You can access the Ness Islands through a series of picturesque Victorian footbridges in multiples place from Inverness’ river banks. On Ness Islands, you can look forward to seeing towering pines, a host of small critter wildlife, quaint benches, and many more sights!

Keep a lookout for the fallen tree Nessie sculpture, a great reminder that this city sits ominously close to the mysterious Loch Ness.

Inverness Botanical Gardens

Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from many of the incredible attractions in Inverness are the Inverness Botanic Gardens, home to thousands of fantastic flora and one of the most popular destinations to visit while you’re in the royal burgh of Inverness.

Whatever season you’re visiting, the Botanic Gardens is always open and free to enter! Exploring the greenhouses and gardens is a delight to the senses, even more so when you cap off your visit by sampling the excellent lunch options available at the cafe – there’s even a cactus house!

Budding florists and plant parents will be sorely tempted to take home one of the darling buds from the nursery to take home with them!

The Victorian Market

Located in the heart of Inverness city centre, the Victorian Market is a covered market home to a plethora of shops, cafes, and services, with an incredible range of products and services available here. It’s one of the best places to try traditional Scottish dishes too!

A staple marketplace since the late 19th-century and now holds a fantastic amount of things to do here, including arcade gaming, shopping for souvenirs, or even grabbing a haircut! The market is open year-round, so whenever you plan to visit Inverness, the Victorian Market is sure to be available to you!

Stopping by the Victorian Market after a day of travelling through the city or the surrounding area is a must. There’s no better place to refresh and wind down!

Dolphin Spirit Inverness

As you approach the Moray Firth from the city centre of Inverness, hop aboard the Dolphin Spirit if you’re feeling adventurous!

This wildlife boat trip takes you aboard and then to the Moray Firth to see Inverness’s extraordinary sea life. You could see dolphins, whales, seals, and bird species, but the dolphins would are undoubtedly the stars of the show!

If you’re feeling lucky and want to see the best sea life that Inverness has to offer, then climb aboard the zooming Dolphin Spirit Inverness!

If you want a more relaxed destination and an option for your family or children to enjoy, then look no further than Whin Park in Inverness.

Whin Park has four separate adventure parks, including zip lines, climbing structures, slides, a boating pond, and many more brilliant attractions to ensure your children are entertained through and through!

Cap off the day with some ice cream, and your children will be begging you to come back here!

Craig Phadrig

Climb up Craig Phadrig, and you’ll find one of the best views of the city centre. Craig Phadrig is also one of the best ways to enjoy the impressive history of Inverness just south of the city.

Today, you can still make out the fortress once home to the mighty Pictish King in Scottish history. The oval-shaped mound is a dead giveaway, and it may be difficult to take your eyes off this fantastic site to check out the beautiful view of Inverness below.

Craig Phadrig is the perfect journey for an early morning walk before tackling the Highlands!

Urquhart Castle

The mighty Urquhart Castle is situated on the Great Glen a few miles south of Inverness. This attraction is located along the Loch Ness coast and has hidden secrets covering over 1000-years of Scotland’s most significant historical moments.

Urquhart Castle contains many unique attractions; the staggering Grant Tower, artefacts left behind like Urquhart Ewer, and a trebuchet! Accompanied by some of the best views of the Loch Ness in Scotland – what else could you ask for?

You can explore Urquhart Castle at your own pace or use the audio-guided tour that comes with the ticket. All you need is access to the internet!

Clava Cairns

As you head out to explore the eastward side of Inverness, make sure not to miss the Clava Cairns, a 4000-year old burial site!

The Clava Cairns are the only ancient sites around Inverness, so they should be on the top of your bucket list. You can explore what remains of Clava Cairns and its standing stones and envision what rituals and society built this prehistoric structure so many years ago.

The Cairns are also home to many other Bronze Age artefacts and sites for you to explore, from graves, cairns, and standing stones!

The Clava Cairns is set against the River Nairn, and the flowing water and mysterious atmosphere make for a beautiful picnic spot when the weather’s nice.

Cawdor Castle & Gardens

The magnificent Cawdor Castle & Gardens were built as a private fortress by the Thanes of Cawdor in the late 14th-century and is one of the most popular attractions to visit while in Inverness.

At the Castle’s very centre sits a legendary holly tree, said to have been a part of the estate since 1372 AD! The Castle also holds an excellent cafe and shop that is the perfect place to grab lunch as you explore the immersive history of Cawdor.

After lunch at the cafe, it’s worth your while to explore the stunning Castle Gardens, home to unique flora and wildlife, especially the birdlife that makes its home at Cawdor Castle & Gardens.

St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church

Your first look at St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church is jaw-dropping and is undoubtedly one of the most eye-catching churches of the historic buildings that line the River Ness.

The Church welcomes visitors from all over the world to its wonderfully decorated interior. The Church is built in the Victorian Gothic Revival style of architecture, which boasts a stunning resemblance to some of the grandest Medevil buildings.

The spectacular design and atmosphere of this Church will undoubtedly draw you in and is well worth a visit.

Inverness Ice Centre

Keen to pick up a new skill while on holiday at Inverness? The Inverness Ice Centre is the best place to learn how to ice skate or the basics of sports like curling and ice hockey!

If you’re already a recreational skater, the Ice Centre will be happy to let you strut your stuff and let loose on its immaculate ice rink arena! It’s a great place to take the family and children too, and you can spend a whole afternoon messing around on the ice as you explore new skills.

Best of all? The first lesson is free at the Inverness Ice Centre, so you have no reason not to try something new!

Inverness Highland Games

If you find yourself lucky enough to be visiting Inverness during the summer month of July, then the Inverness Highland Games should be at the top of your list of things to do!

These traditional games started in 1822 and have some classic Scottish games to look forward to. You can look forward to piping competitions, Highland dancing, live music, stonemason’s stone, and many more! Finding out who is the strongest man and woman is a particularly thrilling event that you can’t miss.

The Highland Games are a Scottish spectacle that has been a part of the Scottish Highlands region for centuries. It’s worth it to plan your trip around accommodating this exciting tradition.

Inverness Library

Inverness Library has a vibrant and fascinating history, and we’re not just talking about the expansive collection of books and archives the Library holds!

This Library was initially built as a school in 1841 before transitioning to a courthouse, police station, and then a theatre before finally becoming the Library in 1980! This tumultuous history is core to the building’s style and design, making it one of the unique attractions you can visit while in the city.

An extensive collection of books within its stunning architecture makes for an excellent afternoon of reading and relaxation if you want some quiet.

Chanonry Point

Chanonry Point is about a half-hour drive away from Inverness that treats you to stunning visuals of the Firths Moray and Beauty along the way! The Point overlooks the Firth and is well-known for the dolphins that can frequently be seen from its high vantage point.

The Point also features a beautiful beach, a romantic evening hotspot for those who want a bit of personal time with loved ones away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Explore the Moray Firth

The Moray Firth is a sea loch that you can find just north of Inverness and is host to numerous amounts of things to do!

The most prominent feature of this Firth is the regular occurrence of pods of bottlenose dolphins that make their home here! This, coupled with seals and the occasional Minke Whale, makes any boat trips you have along this Firth one of the most spectacular voyages you can have while visiting Inverness.

The Firth also holds many fascinating attractions along its shores, like the gorgeous Culbin Forest, Chanonry Point, and Fort George. We haven’t even spoken about the romantic walks you can take along its beaches!

Visit Loch Ness

Your mind will eventually wander to the Loch Ness and Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, when you think of Scotland. While in Inverness, you have the chance to take a trip down to this infamous tourist attraction and see if the legends hold up for you!

Loch Ness is the largest freshwater loch in Scotland and has significant sights for you to see as you tour around its edge. Braver visitors may even be tempted to hop aboard a ship and explore the waters of the loch, excited for a chance to see the ever-elusive Loch Ness Monster.

Loch Ness is also revered for the beautiful vistas, rolling hills, and the fact that there are stunning castles and historical sites dotted all around it. So even if Nessie eludes you when you visit, we’re sure you won’t leave disappointed.

Inverness Kart Raceway

Experience the Highland’s #1 Indoor Racing Kart Centre while you’re in Inverness, and you’ll never want to race go-karts anywhere else!

Fulfil your need for speed at this excellent kart racing venue, perfect for the family and birthday parties and corporate events and stag and hen dos too! Inject some thrill into your holiday while in Inverness and see if you can grab one of the top places on Kart Raceway’s leader boards.

Inverness Kart Raceway is undoubtedly one of the most fun and exciting activities you can get up to as you wander through Inverness, so adding it to your to-do list is a must!

Flora MacDonald Statue

Standing in front of the Inverness Castle is one of the most detailed and intricate statues in Scotland depicting the famous Flora MacDonald.

Forever encased in bronze, this famous historical figure who helped Charles Edward Stuart escape is a marvel to look upon. Located conveniently near the Inverness Castle, you can take a several minutes’ walk and stumble upon her overlooking the city of Inverness.

Visit the statue at night, and the twinkling lights of the city centre are one of the most pretty ways to enjoy Inverness, with the Great Glen and Inverness Cathedral visible on clear days.

Explore Inverness City Centre

The city of Inverness is known as the Capital of the Highlands, and as you explore the winding cobbled streets and alleys, it’s easy to see why. From the high street to the city’s parks, you won’t be lacking in things to do in Inverness while you’re here.

Wander through the town, and you’ll find an excellent selection of cafes, shops, and restaurants to shop ’til you drop by and bring home a couple of souvenirs while you’re at it! You can use the affordable bus station terminals for accessible public transport between hotspots as you navigate the city.

As the sun sets, the city comes alive with nightlife and walking through the high street. It’s not uncommon to hear live music and an amicable atmosphere that begs you to mingle with the locals.

Merkinch Local Nature Reserve

One of the many hidden gems of Inverness is the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve, home to many incredible wildlife species like roe deer, weasels, and a wide range of bird species!

The Nature Reserve can take anywhere from an hour to two hours, depending on how quick you go through it but to fully enjoy the reserve, make sure to stop and sit for a bit. The friendly bird species may even take a liking to you and come closer – perfect for pictures!

This Nature Reserve is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and grants you a look at the wildlife of Scotland without having to leave the city!

Kessock Bridge

As you explore Inverness, one attraction will undoubtedly catch your eye again and again – The Kessock Bridge, an example of one of Scotland’s most beautiful suspension bridges.

The Kessock Bridge extends over the Firths of Beauty and Moray and is the best way to travel into the north Scottish Highlands from the town centre. The Bridge itself is a spectacular feat of architecture and design and grants stunning views of the two Firths and the city of Inverness.

You’ll likely cross over the Kessock Bridge as you explore the many attractions around Inverness, but make sure to give some appreciation to this magnificent structure.

Enjoy Bught  Park

Bught Park in the town of Inverness has stunning views of the River Ness as it flows through to the Firth of Moray.

Home to excellent pitches regularly filled with Inverness locals playing football or rugby, the Bught Park in Inverness is the go-to Park when you wind down your busy day exploring Inverness.

And if you’re looking to bring your pup along with you during your holiday, this Park will undoubtedly be their favourite attraction!

Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre

As you head westwards from the town centre of Inverness, make sure to stop by the Culloden Battlefield – the site of the last and most harrowing pitch battle in Scotland.

This fascinating historical site is maintained by the National Trust for Scotland and has an incredibly informative visitor centre that aims to recount the details of this Jacobite rebellion. Compete with interactive exhibits, an immersive sound experience, and even preserved artefacts from the battle!

Just nearby, you can also find the Clava Cairns, a collection of Bronze Age historical sites. Having both of these attractions is necessary for a full day of activities.

Taking an afternoon to visit the pinnacle attraction of Culloden Battlefield is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Inverness, so make sure to add it to your bucket list next time you visit.

Fort George

One of the most awe-inspiring fortresses in Scotland is Fort George, sitting overlooking the waters for over 250 years!

Today, you can take a trip straight into the Fort’s centre and explore this extraordinary compound used by King George’s army. Some of its top hotspots are the Highlander Museum, the Dog Graveyard, and the Grand Magazine.

Peruse combat memorabilia and learn about soldiers’ lives over 200 years ago. We’re sure that you won’t have an experience quite like this while visiting Scotland anywhere else.

Leakey’s Bookshop

Leakey’s Second-Hand Bookshop is one attraction you don’t want to miss out on while exploring Church Street in Inverness.

Its interior is eccentric and extraordinary, filled with a mishmash of purples, blues, and greens – and of course, lots of books! Leakey’s is Scotland’s second largest second-hand bookshop and contains over 100,000 volumes to browse through. The bookshop has a warm and comforting atmosphere, partly given by the roaring fireplace that keeps Leakey’s nice and toasty!

Why not pick up or leave a copy of your favourite book at Leakey’s? We bet that it will be one of the highlights of your holiday.

Eden Court Theatre & Cinema

Do yourself a favour and grab a ticket to a show at the Eden Court Theatre & Cinema; it’s one of the most entertaining things you can do while in Inverness.

From Opera to comedy, this Court Theatre is adept at providing you with shows that will be the highlight of your evening! We especially recommend the Theatre’s live performances, as the atmosphere and immersion you receive from being within the stunning Theatre is unparalleled.

And if you’re looking for light snacks, the Court Theatre’s cafe and restaurant serve up a bounty of great food and drinks to enjoy an interlude between shows.

Tomatin Distillery Visitor Centre

Tomatin Highland Single Malt Whisky is one experience you should certainly treat yourself to while visiting Inverness. Although it’s a little out of your way, taking just over 25-minutes to reach, it’s one of the best whisky distilleries in the Scottish Highlands.

You can receive one of the guided tours from one of the knowledgable and passionate distillery workers about the intricate and detailed process that creates their blend of excellent single malt whisky. Afterwards, you can sample one of the many tasting sessions that Tomatin Distillery offers and get a worldwide perception of whiskies.

We bet you’ll want to pick up one or two single malt whisky blends at the Tomatin whisky shop!

Caledonian Canal

The Caledonian Canal takes you along the 60-miles of the Loch Ness and the River Ness. You won’t receive more of a thorough look at the beauty of Scotland’s largest loch than a trip aboard one of the many boat trips.

Whether you’re looking to purchase a ticket and be gifted with a fantastic tour of the Loch Ness or take your boat aboard its waters, the long stretch of this loch in Scotland is one attraction that you won’t want to miss out on.

Highland House of Fraser

The Highland House of Fraser is one of the most well-known shops in Inverness, famous for its custom and high-quality traditional Scottish kilts.

This family business has been in operation for 50-years and is steeped in the tradition of creating the Highland Dress. We encourage you to come and visit and peruse the wide variety of beautiful Scottish kilts available here – It’ll be tough to pick just one to take home with you!

Other Things To Do in Highlands

• Things to do in Arisaig
• Things to do in Aviemore
• Things to do in Beauly
• Things to do in Brora
• Things to do in Caithness
• Things to do in Carrbridge
• Things to do in Drumnadrochit
• Things to do in Fort Augustus
• Things to do in Fort William
• Things to do in Gairloch
• Things to do in Invergordon
• Things to do in Kingussie
• Things to do in Kyle of Lochalsh
• Things to do in Lochinver
• Things to do in Loch Ness
• Things to do in Nairn
• Things to do in Newtonmore
• Things to do in Strathpeffer
• Things to do in Thurso
• Things to do in Ullapool
• Things to do in Wick

Graham Grieve

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51 Fun Things To Do in Inverness, Scotland and the Highlands

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Inverness, Scotland – capital of the Highlands – sits in the midst of the region’s most astounding landscapes. Absolutely charming, steeped in history and boasting incredible nature, Inverness has wide appeal and attracts visitors from all corners of the world. The best things to do in Inverness, Scotland cover a broad range of activities – and we are highlighting them for you!

For many, Inverness is just a quick stop while visiting the Scottish Highlands, but we decided to make it our base for an extended stay. Our lengthy visit allowed us plenty of time to discover the top Inverness attractions – as well as a few hidden gems!

From walking trails to interesting architecture to the cozy pubs serving up wee drams of Scottish whisky, we are sharing our personal tips for what to do in Inverness, Scotland so that fellow travelers can easily plan their trip.

Top Things To Do in Inverness FAQs

Before we get to our list of things to do in Inverness, Scottish Highlands, we want to answer a few of the frequently asked questions about visiting Inverness. 

Where is Inverness, Scotland?

Before setting off for Inverness, it is wise to know where it is! Located in northern Scotland among the dramatic landscapes of the Highlands, Inverness sits on the banks of the River Ness.

Nearly an oasis amongst the barren landscapes, many visitors are surprised to learn that Inverness is well connected to big cities in Scotland (like Edinburgh and Glasgow), as well as regional destinations (like London and Bristol). The ease of getting to and from Inverness makes it an excellent location for exploring the Highlands.

To help visitors get acquainted with the layout of the city, we include an Inverness attractions map later in the article. Additionally, we provide tips regarding how to get to Inverness.

Are there Inverness Things To Do for Free?

Definitely! While Scotland is not known as a budget destination, Inverness can be quite affordable with the added benefit of several cheap and free activities. In fact, some of the free things to do in Inverness, Scotland are the very best things to do in the city. 

Are there Things To Do for Kids in Inverness?

Absolutely! There are many things to do in Inverness for kids. While our list is not specific to family travel, we do include several kid-friendly attractions.

What about Outdoor Activities in Inverness?

Inverness is a haven for nature enthusiasts! The ample outdoor attractions in Inverness are one of the things that most appealed to us. In our list of things to do, we share heaps of nature activities, including the top green spaces and best walks in Inverness.

Are there Things To Do in Inverness in the Rain?

While outdoor activities are abundant, there are plenty of things to do indoors in Inverness, too. During our trip to Inverness, it was unseasonably soggy, so we spent time seeking out quite a few indoor things to do in Inverness – and we’ve included many of them below.

Are there Things To Do in Inverness without a Car?

Yes! Many visitors think that a car is necessary to visit Inverness and the Highlands – and it’s simply not true. We did not have a car for our trip – and we can happily report that there are an incredible number of things to do and see in Inverness without driving a car.

We share advice for getting around without a car in the Inverness Travel Tips section at the end of the article.

How Many Days in Inverness, Scotland?

Many may wonder how many days to spend in Inverness. Is one day in Inverness enough? Is staying in Inverness for three days too much? We understand the conundrum…but unfortunately, there is no definitive answer.

How long to stay in Inverness will depend on your interests, budget and overall trip plans. That said, we thoroughly enjoyed our time in Inverness and highly recommend spending at least a few days here. Later in the article, we outline an Inverness Itinerary – including tips for breezing through in just a few hours (perhaps on an organized tour) and a trip itinerary of what to see in Inverness in 3 days.

How To Plan a Trip to Inverness, Scotland

Planning an Inverness Trip is inclusive of a bit more than just figuring out what to see and do. Travelers who plan on visiting Inverness, Scotland also need to figure out how to get there, how to get around, where to stay and what to eat.

Don’t fret! We share advice that covers all the necessary details. We include top tips on everything from the best restaurants in Inverness to what to pack for your trip to Scotland.

Visitors planning a complete Scotland Itinerary can use these detailed guides to the best destinations around the country.

• How To Spend 3 Days in Edinburgh
• The Best Scottish Food
• Top Things Do To in Skye
• Things To Do in Portree
• A Day Trip to Dunbar from Edinburgh
• Advice For Walking The West Highland Way
• Tips For Visiting Plockton
• What To Do in Glasgow in One Day
• Travelers visiting from abroad will also find it helpful to read our Top Tips for Planning a European Trip .

Organize Sightseeing in Inverness

As you begin to make plans, staying organized is essential! We recommend using a trip planner – like our Printable Travel Planner – to keep track of all the details of your vacation to Scotland.

51 BEST THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS

Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to get to our list of the Best Things To Do Inverness, Scotland.

We have segmented our list of Inverness, Scotland Things To Do into two categories: Places To Visit in Inverness City Center and Regional Inverness, Scotland Attractions . Stay tuned until the end, where we share our top Inverness restaurant and bar recommendations, too!

City of Inverness Things To Do

We were pleasantly surprised by the ample number of things to do in Inverness City Centre. Actually quite attractive, the city boasts an abundance of fun and interesting sights – and we are highlighting the ones that can’t be missed!

#1 Stroll along the River Ness

Taking a stroll along the Ness River tops our list of Things To Do Inverness, UK. The river pleasantly curves past landmark sights and historic buildings. Fisherman in waders often stand in the middle of the stream, casting their lines in hopes of catching salmon. Paths line both banks of the river and several bridges span the waterway.

The Ness Bridge is the main bridge in Inverness; it only dates to the 1960s, but a bridge has crossed the river at the same point since the 17th century. The two pedestrian bridges (Greig Street Bridge to the north and Infirmary Bridge to the south) are beautiful suspension bridges that date to the late 1800s.

Travel Tip: Friars Bridge is the best bridge to cross for a picture-perfect Inverness skyline view.

#2 Navigate the Ness Islands

One of the best things to see in Inverness, Scotland is the Ness Islands. The cluster of islands sit in the middle of River Ness on the south end of the historic city center. The forested isles feature walking paths, uniquely carved benches and soaring pine trees.

The characteristic islands are a nature retreat for visitors and locals alike. The Ness Islands can be accessed by the Victorian Generals Well Footbridge from the west bank or a smaller footbridge on the east bank (both of which are also part of the Great Glen Way).

Travel Tip: Near the islands, on the west side of the river, is the Pier Ness Viewpoint and Gathering Place. A bit odd (and loathed by many locals), the pier provides an interesting vantage point over the river. Be sure to give the carved sculpture of the Golden Labrador a pat on the head as you pass by; he is named Breac, which is Gaelic for fish.

#3 Admire the Architecture at The Victorian Market

Visiting The Victorian Market is definitely one of the Top Things To Do in Inverness. The old-fashioned market hosts an array of family-run shops – many of which have been around for decades. The top shops to see are the butcher and fishmonger, the jewelry stores and souvenir stands.

The market itself first opened its doors in 1870, but was destroyed by a fire in 1889. The only part of the market to survive was the original Academy Street entrance. The market was rebuilt in 1891, complete with high, cast-iron arches and glass windows to let in natural light.

Travel Tip: After a recent renovation, the market hall has been enhanced with a fabulous food court that features local Inverness eats and entertainment on select nights.

#4 Step inside the Inverness Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew

Dating to 1869, the Inverness Cathedral ranks as one of the top attractions in Inverness, Scotland.

Sitting on the west bank of the River Ness, the Episcopal church features a bold red stone exterior and two soaring bell towers. The 10 bells that hang in the towers chime out beautifully on Sunday mornings.

Travel Tip: While visiting the cathedral is technically one of the things to do in Inverness for free, they do request donations of £2 per person.

#5 Learn Scottish History at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

The Inverness Museum and Art Gallery – located in the center of Downtown Inverness – is a wonderful place to learn about the history of the Highlands

Starting at the very beginning – with an explanation of how the landmass formed hundreds of millions of years ago – right up to modern times, the museum exhibits are clear, engaging and some are interactive. (You can even try on a kilt!)

There is no ticket required; visiting the museum is one of the top free things to do in Inverness.

Travel Tip: When you exit the museum, pause for a moment to take in the beauty of the Inverness Town House that is right next door. An architectural gem, the Gothic-style town hall was built in the late 1800s.

#6 Browse the Bookshelves at Leakey’s Bookshop

With creaking floorboards, a roaring fire in the wood stove and the smell of old books hanging heavy in the air, Leakey’s Bookshop is an intriguing place to visit in Inverness. Housed in an old Gaelic Church, the family-run, second-hand bookstore is a warm and inviting space – and browsing the shelves is one of the fun things to do in Inverness.

Visitors can find dusty volumes of classic Shakespeare, poetry by Scotland’s famed writer Sir Walter Scott, 100-year-old maps and modern-day mysteries.

Travel Tip: Like many attractions in Inverness, Leakey’s is closed in the evenings and on Sundays – so plan accordingly.

#7 Get a Glimpse of the Oldest House in Inverness

The Abertarff House on Church Street was built in the year 1593 – making it the oldest house in the city. The architecturally rich home was built for the prominent Frasers of Lovat.

The residence was completely renovated in the 1960s – and today it houses a small, one-room exhibition on the history of the dwelling. The Abertarff House is another one of the free Inverness attractions!

Travel Tip: The 18th century Balnain House is another historic residence that is worth getting a glimpse of while touring Inverness. Built by a wealthy merchant in 1726, Balnain House was used as a hospital for wounded Hanoverian soldiers after the Battle of Culloden. The house is located on Huntly Street near the west end of Greig Street Bridge.

#8 Visit the Old High Church and Cemetery

The Old High St. Stephen’s Church is an Inverness must-see sight! Standing on a small hill that overlooks the River Ness, the grounds have been used as a place of worship since St. Columba introduced Christianity to the city in the year 565 AD. 

The oldest church in Inverness, it was built in the 18th century – but the base of the tower can be traced back to the 14th century (which makes it the oldest structure in Inverness).

The church yard, which is dotted with dilapidated tombstones, has a significant history, too. It served as an execution site for Jacobite soldiers who were captured during the Battle of Culloden. Pockmarks made from the bullets can still be seen on the tower base.

Travel Tip: Outlander fans might recognize the Old High Church – as it is mentioned several times throughout the series! 

#9 Stand in Awe of the Inverness Castle

One of the best things to see in Inverness (and one that you can hardly miss!) is the magnificent Inverness Castle. Sitting on a grassy bluff above the River Ness, the castle was built in 1836, featuring a Victorian, castellated design.

It is not the first castle in Inverness; several castles have stood on the hilltop – dating back to the year 1057. The ancient Inverness Castle even makes an appearance in Shakespeare’s Macbeth .

Today, the landmark castle serves as the local Sheriff’s Court. A tower is open to the public as the Inverness Castle Viewpoint, but it was closed during our visit due to renovation.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Flora MacDonald statue that sits on the castle grounds. A strong character in Scotland’s history, she is credited with facilitating the escape of Bonnie Prince Charlie after his loss at the Battle of Culloden.

#10 Peruse the Wool-Woven Plaids

Plaid apparel is a Scottish Highland specialty…and it’s fun to pick out something for yourself as a souvenir.

Kilts – which are knee-length, wrap-around skirts for men – are the most distinct clothing of the Highlands. Men of the Scottish Highlands have been wearing tartan plaid kilts since the 16th century and they are still worn today as formal dress and by bagpipers. The plaid design itself is significant, as each tartan represents a specific family clan.

Many stores in Inverness carry an array of tartan goods – not only kilts, but scarves, neckties, vests, purses and even material-covered flasks.

Travel Tip: At the Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Center guests can watch the kiltmakers at work sewing custom tailored kilts. There is a small fee to enter the workspace, but it’s one of the fun and cheap things to do in Inverness!

#11 Join a Sightseeing Tour of Inverness City Center

For a personal introduction visitors should join a local guide for a tour of Inverness. The professional guides lead the way to the top landmarks, while sharing interesting information about the city’s past.

Taking a tour is one of the top activities in Inverness for travelers who are short on time. To get the best tour of Inverness city, make sure to book ahead ! 

Travel Tip: Want to see more? Join a guided bike tour to see the top sights beyond the center!

#12 Enjoy an Eden Court Inverness Production

A modern venue that hosts programs both indoors and out, Eden Court is the best performing arts center in Inverness.

Featuring on-stage theatrical performances, music on the lawn ‘under the canvas’ and two cinemas that show current films, there is almost always something going on at Eden Court!

Travel Tip: The theater promotes a variety of shows that appeal to guests of all ages. Attending an event can be a nice date night or one of the fun things to do in Inverness with kids.

#13 Stop to Smell the Flowers at the Botanic Garden Inverness

Stopping by the Botanic Garden is a must; it’s one of the Best Outdoor Activities Inverness! With meticulously planned gardens, bright flowers and a greenhouse, the garden is an absolute delight during the summertime.

In addition to wandering the grounds (follow the trails to the best gardens), visitors can see the fish in the koi pond (inside the conservatory) and enjoy tea at the on-site café.

Travel Tip: There is no fee to visit the Inverness Botanic Garden. It’s one of the top Free Things To Do Inverness, Scotland!

#14 Paddle a Boat at Whin Park

Whin Park is an enchanting little slice of man-made nature – and a top pick for things for kids to do in Inverness, Scotland.

The best feature of the riverside park is the boats that you can rent for a leisurely paddle around the ponds. Additionally, there are kids’ play areas, walking paths and the miniature Ness Islands Railway that kids can ride as it chugs through the trees.

Travel Tip: At the far west end of the park is another point of interest, the Hydro Ness station. The riverside attraction is a contemporary sustainability project that creates renewable energy from the flowing Ness River water.

#15 Trek Up to Tomnahurich Cemetery Hill 

Visiting a cemetery is, perhaps, one of the unusual things to do in Inverness, Scotland. However, the Tomnahurich Cemetery is not just an average graveyard….it also happens to be an excellent viewpoint.

For centuries, people have climbed the hill to appreciate the panoramic views of Ness Valley and Moray Firth. It wasn’t until 1864 that the hill became a burial ground. Trails leads through the lower cemetery up the hill, past eroding and moss-covered tombstones to lookouts offering grand vistas.

Travel Tip: Some of the grave markers are works of art. Keep an eye out for the elaborate stone statues and memorials throughout the grounds.

#16 Stretch Your Legs on the Caledonian Canal Walk

Without a doubt, one of the Fun Things To Do Inverness is to set off on a long walk along the Caledonian Canal. Old towpaths line both sides of the canal that stretches 3.5 miles from Inverness to Dochgarroch (and then beyond Dochgarroch all the way to Fort William). The multi-use paths (which are used by walkers, joggers and cyclists) are flat and easy to tread along – and the entire route is highlighted by astounding natural beauty.

Another reason to head out to the canal is to watch the boats as that glide up and down the waterway. It’s fascinating to witness the boats maneuver through the locks and past swing bridges. The Clachnaharry Railway Swing Bridge at the north end of the path is particularly interesting!

Travel Tip: There are amenities in Dochgarroch – including a café, an ice cream shop and toilets – plus it is the departure point for some of the Loch Ness cruises. Visitors can also catch a bus back to the city from Dochgarroch.

#17 Hike Up Craig Phadraig

Hiking is one of the best activities to do in Inverness – and Craig Phadraig is one of the best places to do it! Both beautiful and historic, trails weave through the dense woodland to the site of an ancient fort.

It is believed that the summit of Criag Phadraig was the site of a fortress as far back as 300 BC – and that a Pictish king used it as his headquarters during the early Middle Ages. Although nothing remains of the actual fort today, the space where it once stood offers nice views through the surrounding trees.

Travel Tip: Craig Phadraig is on the outskirts of Inverness. While we walked to the trailhead, there is a parking lot and local buses stop near the hill, as well.

#18 Look for Inverness Dolphins at Carnarc Point

Dolphins, seals and otters play and feed in the Beauly Firth – and Carnarc Point offers an exceptional vantage point for viewing the sea creatures. An activity that is truly suitable for anyone, looking for marine animals from the point is one of the fun things to do in Inverness for families, couples, friends and solo travelers.

Just a short walk from the city center, Carnarc Point is marked by a short lighthouse and offers a grand view of the cable-stayed Kessock Bridge. There are a couple of tables at the point, too, making it a great picnicking spot.  

The best time to see dolphins in Inverness is during the rising tide. As the tides come in, the dolphins chase fish into the firth from the open sea.

Wildlife is also often spotted from the nearby Merkinch Local Nature Reserve.

Travel Tip: For a better chance of spotting wildlife, the Dolphin Spirit Inverness boat company runs dolphin-spotting tours from Inverness. 

#19 Pay Respects at the Inverness War Memorial

One of the Inverness points of interest, the War Memorial is marked by a high Celtic cross, plaques and sculptures. Dedicated to Inverness soldiers who never returned from war, the poignant memorial sits in an open green space – called Cavell Gardens – on the east bank of the River Ness along the walkway.

Travel Tip: The War Memorial Gardens are named in honor of Nurse Edith Cavell, who is a celebrated figure from World War One. She courageously treated victims on both sides of the conflict and is attributed for helping more than a hundred Allied prisoners of war escape.

#20 Rent a Bicycle and Pedal around Inverness

Riding a bike is one of the fun outdoor activities in Inverness, Scotland – as the city is extremely cycle-friendly! In addition to the paths along the river and canal, cyclists have dedicated lanes on streets throughout the city center.

Travel Tip: There are numerous bikes shops in Inverness, Scotland where visitors can rent a bike for a couple of hours, an entire day or for multiday adventures. The Ticket To Ride bike rental company at Bellfield Park gets rave reviews.

#21 Sip Local at Uilebheist Distillery and Brewery

For whisky and craft beer enthusiasts, Uilebheist is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Inverness. Established in 2023, it is shockingly the first Inverness distillery to open since 1892!

Dedicated to creating sustainable craft beer and artisan whiskies, the distillery-slash-brewery is located right along the River Ness in the heart of Inverness. The property features a fabulous beer garden for enjoying beverages outdoors on sunny summer days.

Travel Tip: Uilebheist offers guided tours of the facilities as well as tastings of other Scottish Whiskies (until their first offering is ready in 2026).

#22 Eat Inverness Street Food

The Highland Food and Drink Trail is an Inverness street food experience. Local food trucks line the Ness Walk on the west bank of the river, just outside the Cathedral, providing tasty fare for lunch and dinner. The offer includes everything from fish-and-chips to pork pies to wood-fired pizzas.

Travel Tip: Guests can eat at the picnic tables in the church side yard – or find a bench along the river and dine with a view!

#23 Listen to Live Scottish Music

Listening to traditional Scottish music is one of the top things to do in Inverness at night (and sometimes during the day) – and there are several Inverness bars that host live performances.

Scottish folk music has been part of the culture in the Highlands for thousands of years. Performances range from a solo singer on stage with a guitar to a band playing fiddles to an entire group jamming during a Sunday session. While bagpipes are not necessarily common in the Inverness bars, occasionally one will hop up on stage to entertain the crowds.

Travel Tip: There are several places in Inverness that boast a regular lineup of musicians – and we feature the best venues for live music later in our Inverness Bars section.

#24 Savor Afternoon Tea in Inverness, Scotland

The age-old tradition of afternoon tea is a must when visiting the United Kingdom – and it’s one of the best things to do in Inverness, Scotland.

The mid-afternoon meal of finger sandwiches, scones and cakes is offered at a few select restaurants in the city. The elegant Torrish Restaurant at the Ness Walk Hotel serves a Heavenly Afternoon Tea, which is ideal for couples looking for romantic things to do in Inverness.

The afternoon tea at The Waterside Restaurant on the east bank of the River Ness is a classic affair, complete with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Travel Tip: The 5-star Ness Walk Hotel is also a fabulous place to stay in Inverness! We share tips for finding accommodations for your stay later in the article.

#25 Cheer on Competitors at the Inverness Highland Games

The Highland Games celebrate the uniqueness of the Scottish Highlands with competitions and challenges of strength and endurance. Experiencing the games as a spectator is one of the cool things to do in Inverness.

Although the games only take place one day a year (usually a Saturday in July), it’s absolutely filled to the brim with fun and excitement. In addition to classic contests – like the Hammer Throw, Caber Toss, Stone Put and Weight Over Bar challenges – the festivities also includes bagpipes, track events, local eats, whisky tastings along with music and dancing in the beer tent.

Travel Tip: Communities across the Highlands host Highland Games competitions throughout the spring and summer. Check online for events that are happening during your Highlands trip!

#26 Spend Time Shopping in Inverness

Shopping is one of the fun things to do in Inverness, Scotland – especially when it is wet and rainy. The best shops in Inverness City Centre are the ones that sell local products.

Our personal favorites are the family run Highland Whisky Shop (where they also do tastings), the Isle of Skye Candle Company (with signature scents, like Bog Myrtle with Fresh Mint) and The Merchant (one of the best antique shops in Inverness, Scotland).

Travel Tip: Inverness is also a great place to go shopping for outdoor apparel – as several shops carry specialized gear for hiking and biking in the Highlands.

#27 Dive in for a Swim at the Inverness Leisure Center

After checking off your list of Inverness things to see, spend some time kicking back and relaxing at the Inverness Leisure Center. Complete with a wave pool and spa, the Inverness Leisure Center is a great place to stretch out or soak after a long day of active adventures.

Travel Tip: Spending time at the Leisure Center is one of the top things to do for families visiting Inverness but check the schedule to make sure the water activities are open.

#28 Trace Your Scottish Roots at the Highland Archive Center

Raise your hand if you have Scottish roots! Travelers interested in tracing their Scottish ancestry can find a trove of information at the Highland Archive Center in Inverness.

The center houses historic records detailing births, marriages and deaths going back more than 300 years.

Travel Tip: It is best to contact the center in advance so ensure they will have the type of documents you are searching for. Visitors can also book a timeslot in the Family History Room in advance online .

Things To Do Inverness Region

We have outlined what to see in Inverness City Center, but there are heaps of things to do near Inverness, Scotland, too! Travelers staying in Inverness for a few days can explore on their own or join one of the Inverness, Scotland tours to the region’s best sights.

#29 Search for Hairy Highland Coos

The hairy Highland cows – or coos – are a symbol of Scotland. The Highland cattle breed has a double coat; long hair to keep the wind and rain at bay and a shorter undercoat to help keep them warm.

The massive beasts are truly a sight – and seeking them out is one of the fun things to do in Inverness, Scotland.

The best place close to Inverness to find hairy cows is at the paddock next to the shops at Dochgarroch Locks on the Caledonian Canal.

That said, a much larger herd of Highland cattle are found outside the village of Foyers near Camerons Tea Rooms and Farm Shop. If the cows are not right behind Camerons, make your way down the one-lane road that runs above it and you will likely find the cows out at pasture.

Getting There: Visitors without a car can visit Foyers by using the Highlands Council public bus 302. The Foyers bus stop is just a short walk from Camerons Tea Rooms.

Travel Tip: The trip to Foyers should be combined with a waterfall hike! We share the details for the Falls of Foyers later in the article.

#30 Trek through Cairngorms National Park

Trekking is one of the top activities near Inverness – and Cairngorms NP is a magnificent place to hit the trails. Ranking as the largest park in the United Kingdom, Cairngorms National Park features hundreds of miles of hiking routes – as well as five of the six highest mountains in the UK. From short paths for easy jaunts and longer trails for challenging treks, pristine nature abounds on the park’s best trails .

That said, Cairngorms NP has a lot more to offer than hiking trails! Visitors can swim at Loch Morlich (which features an unusual sandy beach), drive the Snowroads Scenic Route through rugged landscapes, interact with the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, ride the Cairngorm Mountain Railway to the Ptarmigan Restaurant and even get a glimpse of the famous Balmoral Castle.

Getting There: Driving a car is the best way to discover the natural gems of Cairngorms NP, but visitors can use public transit (both trains and buses) to get around, as well. Additionally, there are organized tours – like this one – that transport guests to the best spots and scenic viewpoints.

Travel Tip: Need help planning what to do in Cairngorms NP? Use the official website for the best activities and up-to-date information.

#31 Ride the Rails from Aviemore

A quaint resort town nestled within Cairngorms National Park, Aviemore is a fun destination when exploring the Highlands. Well-known as a top Scottish ski resort, Aviemore is nice to visit in the summertime, too.

The historic Strathspey Railway steam train, which departs from Aviemore Station, is one of the top attractions near Inverness…and it offers a full dose of nostalgia. The locomotive transports passengers through the Cairngorm Mountain Range. The Aviemore to Broomhill train ride can be enhanced with a light lunch or afternoon tea.

Other attractions in Aviemore are The Cairngorm Brewery, the Aviemore Ring Cairn and Stone Circle and the Craigellachie National Nature Reserve.

Getting There: The Aviemore to Inverness distance is just 30 miles. Travelers without a car can take the Aviemore to Inverness train or bus. The train and bus times for Aviemore to Inverness can be found online and at the stations.

Travel Tip: Looking for a place to eat in Aviemore? We enjoyed The Winking Owl, but the Cairngorm Hotel restaurant gets top reviews, as well.  

#32 Search for Nessie on Loch Ness

No question about it, one of the best things to do around Inverness, Scotland is to go to Loch Ness. Famous around the world as the home of the elusive Loch Ness Monster, the 23-mile-long freshwater lake is one of the deepest and voluminous lakes in the United Kingdom.

Loch Ness is a haven of recreational activities – from boating to fishing to shoreline hiking. Of course, many travelers go to the lake in search of the Loch Ness Monster!

The mythical Loch Ness Monster, named Nessie, is known to live in the great depths of the lake, but the sea creature rarely makes an appearance. Visitors can learn more about the legendary Nessie at the Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit.

Getting There: Loch Ness can be reached by car, bus or boat. Before hopping on a bus to Loch Ness from Inverness, decide what part of the lake you want to visit (as several bus lines can be used to travel to the Loch Ness shore).

Travel Tip: Take a cruise on Loch Ness! The Jacobite Boat Trips Inverness Tour Company offers several options – including boat trips on Loch Ness from Inverness ( departing from Dochgarroch Lock on the Caledonian Canal) and Loch Ness bus trips that are combined with a boat cruise and visiting the Urquhart Castle (which we detail next on our list of Inverness Things To Do). Alternatively, visitors can join this cruise that departs from Clansman Harbour.

#33 Revel in the History of Urquhart Castle

A stunning castle on the shore of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle dates to the 13th century, when it was built as a Medieval fort. In subsequent years, the fortress was transformed into a royal castle – and now the crumbling remains are recognized as a national monument.

Visiting the Urquhart Castle is one of the fun things to do around Inverness. Guests are invited to tour the ruins, climb up Grant Tower, take in the lake views and learn more about the past through the collection of artifacts on display. 

Getting There: Urquhart Castle can be reached by car, bus or boat (via organized Jacobite Boat Tours ). There is a parking lot at the entrance – and CityLink buses stop right in front of the castle.

Travel Tip: Urquhart Castle is just a little over 2 miles from the town of Drumnadrochit, where visitors will find restaurants (try Fiddlers Highland), the Loch Ness Center, the Great Glen Distillery, gift shops and accommodations.

#34 Take in the View of Falls of Foyers

The cascading flow of the Falls of Foyers can be an impressive sight after heavy rains – and we think it is one of the best places to visit near Inverness. Part of the River Foyers, the water spills over rocky ledges in two long streams before it pours into Loch Ness.

A woodland trail and viewing platforms allow visitors to take in the waterfall from different perspectives. In fact, visitors can use the path that follows the streaming falls to trek all the way to the edge of Loch Ness.

Getting There: Travelers can reach the small village of Foyers by car or public bus. There is a large parking lot just across from the trailhead. The official bus stop is a bit further down the road (which is not tagged correctly on Google Maps), but drivers may stop right at the trailhead if requested. Additionally, there is a bus stop in Lower Foyers, allowing you to begin along Loch Ness and then hike to the waterfalls and end at Upper Foyers.

Travel Tip: After visiting the waterfall in Foyers, walk south along the road to Camerons Tea Rooms and Farm Shop. In addition to their delicious baked goods, don’t forget to spot the Highland coos!

#35 Meet the Alpacas on the Shores of Loch Ness

Travelers seeking out unusual things to do near Inverness can meet the alpacas that live on the Loch Ness shore. The amusing herd of cuddly creatures are available for meet-and-greets and shoreline treks.

Although alpacas are not native to the United Kingdom (their family roots are in Peru), there are more than 70,000 alpacas that live in the UK. The adorable alpacas are great trekkers, which make them quite suitable to Scotland.

Getting There: The Loch Ness Alpacas are located in Dores, a small town on the northeastern end of Loch Ness. Visitors can drive or use the public bus.

Travel Tip: Pre-booking your alpaca visit is essential! Make your reservation through the official website . 

#36 Go Wildlife Spotting at Chanonry Point

One of the cool things to see near Inverness is Chanonry Point – a small spit of land that stretches into the Moray Firth between the towns of Rosemarkie and Fortrose. A lighthouse, which dates to 1846, sits on the point, but the reason most visitors trek out to the promontory is to look for wildlife.

Chanonry Point is a popular place to spot bottlenose dolphins – as well as porpoises, grey seals and otters. For the best chance of seeing dolphins, go during the rising tide. Bring a pair of binoculars for better viewing and a good travel camera with a zoom lens for snapping photos. 

Getting There: Chanonry Point can be reached by car or bus and a bit of walking. There is a parking lot for Chanonry Point, but it is best to park in Fortrose or Rosemarkie and walk along the coastline to the point. There are bus stops in both towns (and public toilets near the stop in Rosemarkie).

Travel Tip: While Chanonry Point is a main attraction in the area, there are a few reasons to stay a bit longer. Travelers can complete a looping walk that mostly sticks to the seaside. The ruins of the Fortrose Cathedral are an interesting sight and The Union Tavern is an excellent local watering hole. In Rosemarkie, Crofters Café fronts the sea and is a good option for coffee, cakes, lunch or a beer. There are also waterfalls in Rosemarkie, which we detail next on our list of things to do around Inverness!

#37 Immerse Yourself in Nature at Fairy Glen Falls

Chasing waterfalls is one of the top things to do in the Scottish Highlands – and Fairy Glen Falls in Rosemarkie is one of the best. Fairy Glen Falls is actually comprised of two separate waterfalls that spill over rocky outcrops (make sure to keep trekking past the first falls to find the second!).

The waterfalls are nestled in a gorgeous glen of thick foliage and are reached via a relatively easy 1.5-mile trail that follows the stream through the forest. There are a few stairs and it can get rather slippery, so it’s best to wear good trail shoes.

Getting There: Rosemarkie is easy to reach from Inverness by car or public bus. There is a parking lot at the Fairy Glen Falls trailhead – and the bus stops there, as well. Public restrooms are just down the street across from The Plough Inn.

Travel Tip: Fairy Glen Falls was once the site of a “well dressing” – a local custom in which children brought flowers to the falls as an offering to the fairies to help keep the water supply clean.

#38 Set Off on The Great Glen Way

Hiking the Great Glen Way tops many active travelers’ lists of things to do in and around Inverness. The long-distance trail extends nearly 80 miles from Fort William to Inverness – and typically takes 5 days to complete.

Following the shores of lochs, delving deep into moss-covered forests and rising high along mountain ridges, the path features some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the Highlands.

The trail ranks as one of the best hikes near Inverness because visitors can opt to hike the entire route – or complete shorter distances while using Inverness as a base. The Great Glen Way trail starts (or ends) at Inverness Castle, but you can use buses to other points on the route.

Many trekkers enjoy the walk between Laggan and Fort Augustus, but we opted to hike a 7-mile section of the Great Glen Way from Invermoriston to Fort Augustus, which features dense forests and fantastic Loch Ness views.

Getting There: The Great Glen Way weaves through Inverness making it easy to walk along the route from the city center. Visitors who want to complete day hikes on other sections of the trail can use CityLink buses, which make stops at several access points between Inverness and Fort William.

Travel Tip: Two other popular long-distance trails in Inverness are South Loch Ness Trail and the John O’Groats Trail. The West Highland Way is another multiday hiking trail in the Highlands – but it ends in Fort William, where the Great Glen Way begins.

#39 Visit the Village of Fort Augustus

An idyllic lakeside village on the southern end of Loch Ness, Fort Augustus is one of the best places to see near Inverness. The town is spliced by three waterways: River Oich, River Tarff and the Caledonian Canal. The small-town center straddles the stairstep canal locks, with cafes and restaurants offering visitors front row seats to the fascinating spectacle.

Beyond the Fort Augustus Locks, other Fort Augustus attractions are the Loch Ness Viewpoints, the former Fort Augustus Abbey and locally owned shops.

Many trails crisscross through Fort Augustus – making it extremely popular with walkers. Both the Great Glen Way and the South Loch Ness Trail are well-trodden trails in the region. The South Loch Ness Trail runs 35 miles from Inverness to Fort Augustus along the east side of Loch Ness.

Getting There: From Inverness, Fort Augustus can be reached by car or bus. In the busy summer season, it is best to book tickets for the bus online in advance to ensure you get a seat.

Travel Tip: The Legion near the top of the locks is the best place in Fort Augustus for a drink. While they don’t serve food, patrons are permitted to bring in takeaway from neighboring restaurants. The bar itself is basic, but the beer is inexpensive and the views from their outdoor tables are perfect. Need a sweet treat? Pop into Cobbs Café for a Millionaire’s Shortbread (a Scotland specialty!).

#40 Embark on a Train Journey in the Highlands

The vast, rugged landscapes of the Highlands are stunning – and a fantastic way to experience the sublime scenery is by embarking on a train journey. It’s one of the best things to do around Inverness – and there are two exceptionally scenic train routes that depart from the city: the Kyle Line and the Far North Line.

The Kyle Line showcases the picturesque terrain between Inverness and Kyle of Lochalsh (via the village of Plockton). The route rambles through open countryside, along blue lochs and past hulking mountains.

The Far North Line connects Inverness to some of the most remote destinations in Scotland. The mesmerizing journey follows the coastline, passing both castles and peat bogs along the way.

Getting There: Trains for the Kyle and Far North lines depart from the main train station in Inverness.

Travel Tip: The West Highland Line is another epic train journey that connects Glasgow to the Highland coastal towns of Oban and Mallaig. The most extraordinary section of the ride is between Fort William and Mallaig, which features the Glenfinnan Viaduct (well-known from Harry Potter films).

#41 Spend a Day in Plockton Village

A quintessential Highlands town, the village of Plockton sits on the shore of Loch Carron. Often called The Jewel of the Highlands, the particularly pretty location is simply breathtaking.

There are also many great things to do in Plockton , besides just ogling it’s beauty! Start by wandering past the rows of cottages on Harbour Street and Frithard Road. Then, climb up to the Carn na Frith-aird Viewpoint, which offers panoramic views – all the way to Isle of Skye. Visitors can also walk out to Coral Beach and take boat trips to see seals.

Plockton only has a few dining options – but they are all good choices! Our top picks are The Harbour Fish Bar for classic fish-and-chips and Off The Croft for tasty takeaway burgers. For an afternoon tipple, there is no better place than the waterfront beer garden at The Plockton Hotel.

Getting There: The best way to reach Plockton from Inverness is by train (via the Kyle Line).

Travel Tip: If taking the train to Plockton, request to disembark at Duncraig Station – one stop before Plockton. Walk up the street to see the grandiose Duncraig Castle – then hop on the trail that follows the coastline, offering phenomenal views along the route.

#42 Swirl, Sniff and Sip Scottish Whisky

Whisky distilleries are top places to visit around Inverness – and there are many to choose from. We already mentioned the Uilebheist Distillery in the city center of Inverness, but there are several distilleries in the beautiful Highlands where visitors can join a tour.

The top distilleries near Inverness are Tomatin Distillery, Glen Moray Distillery, Singleton of Glen Ord, Glen Wyvis Distillery and the Great Glen Distillery.

Getting There: Most distilleries are a bit off the beaten track, making them difficult to reach with public transit. Rather than driving, we recommend joining one of the highly rated whisky tours from Inverness – like this one – that makes stops at two Speyside distilleries.

Travel Tip: We visited Tomatin Distillery, where we joined a tour of the facilities and a guided tasting of three whiskies. (This was part of a full day tour to Caringorms NP ).

#43 Dive Deep into Jacobite History in Culloden

Culloden is touted as one of the best things to see around Inverness, Scotland – especially for visitors who want to learn more about the Jacobite Rising of 1745.

In a fight for the crown, the Highlander-backed Jacobites met British forces in the Battle of Culloden in 1746. The gruesome battle lasted less than an hour – and the outnumbered Jacobites were left decimated, with more than a thousand soldiers slain. Culloden was the last pitched battle on British soil, ending the Jacobite Rising.

The haunting Culloden battlefield remains a significant site to this day and the informative visitor’s center helps explain the story of the bloody battle.

Getting There: The Culloden Battlefield and Center can be reached by bus or car. The Inverness to Culloden bus takes about 30 minutes. For a more in-depth experience, visitors can join one of the tours that includes Culloden Battlefield as a stop. 

Travel Tip: The Culloden House is another reason to see the town. Dating to the 16th century, the Georgian mansion is a classic country house of its day. Today, the Culloden House is a hotel with a fine dining restaurant, where they also serve an excellent afternoon tea.   

#44 Discover Fort George

Dominating a promontory that extends into the Moray Firth, Fort George is an impressive garrison and one of the mightiest in all of Britain. Built in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden and still used as an army barracks today, it ranks as one of the top tourist attractions near Inverness.

The fortifications feature thick stone walls, bastions and bunkers – and little has changed since it was constructed in 1748.

With a ticket, visitors can explore the expansive grounds and interesting exhibits at the on-site museum. A free audio guide can be used to enhance the experience.

Getting There: The best way to reach Fort George is by car. There is a bus that runs from Inverness to the town of Church – but it is about a 40-minute walk to the fort. Some tours – like this one – include a stop at Fort George.

Travel Tip: The fort provides fantastic views over the Moray Firth. Bring binoculars to see if you can spot any dolphins swimming in the sea!

#45 Marvel at the Mystical Clava Cairns

An ancient Bronze Age cemetery set on a hill, Clava Cairns is a fascinating mystical site. The burial grounds are surrounded by standing stones – and situated to align during the winter solstice, naturally brightening the burial chamber.

The historical value of 4000-year-old Clava Cairns makes it one of the top things to see near Inverness, Scotland. That said, fans of the Outlander series are particularly drawn to the site, as it served as inspiration for ancient stone circle in the fictious Craigh Na Dun where Claire travels through time.

Getting There: The best way to get to Clava Cairns from Inverness is by car. Travelers without a car can take a bus to Culloden Moor Inn and then walk about 25 minutes to the site. Several Inverness tours include Clava Cairns on their itinerary – like this one – that also visits the Culloden Battlefield, Glen Ord Whisky and Loch Ness.

Travel Tip: Clava Cairns is a free, public space! Visiting is one of the best free things to do near Inverness.

#46 Sink Your Feet in the Sand at Nairn Beach

A superb sandy stretch of beach along the Moray Firth, Nairn Beach is one of the top places to see near Inverness. In addition to the powdery soft sand, the beach features low sand dunes, a promenade and coastal walking paths.

The beach is an ideal destination for families visiting Inverness – as there is a playground, splash pad and miniature golf course.

Getting There: Nairn Beach can be reached by car, train or bus.

Travel Tip: From Central Beach it is just a short walk to West Beach, where there are rock pools that are fun to explore at low tide!

#47 Experience the Splendor of Cawdor Castle

Cawdor Castle looks as if it was plucked straight out of a fairytale – and visiting the splendid 600-year-old castle ranks as one of the best things to do around Inverness, Scotland.  

The private, family-owned property is open to visitors for self-guided tours; audio guides help explain the history of the castle rooms. In addition to the interior, visitors are welcome to explore the manicured gardens and use the walking paths to discover the expansive grounds. A ticket is required to visit Cawdor Castle.

Getting There: Visitors can get to Cawdor Castle by car or on a private tour . 

Travel Tip: The Cawdor Castle was mentioned in Shakespeare’s Macbeth – as the main character was made the ‘Thane of Cawdor.”

#48 Play a Round of Golf in the Highlands

As the birthplace of the game of golf, one of the fun things to do in Scotland is to play a round! The game developed in Scotland in the Middle Ages – and golf is still one of the top activities around Inverness.

The best golf courses in the Highlands are backdropped by sensational scenery. Among the many 18-hole courses, the Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club ranks supreme. The challenging course boasts a tremendous layout – and the location along the Moray Firth can’t be beat!

Getting There: The Fortrose and Rosemarkie Golf Club can be reached by car or bus.

Travel Tip: Other top-rated golf courses near Inverness are Castle Stuart Golf Links and Nairn Golf Course.

#49 Explore the Fishing Village of Ullapool

Traveling to Ullapool for the day is one of the fun things to do from Inverness. The quaint fishing village sits along Loch Broom in Northern Scotland – and it’s a popular stop on the North Coast 500 driving route.

Top attractions in Ullapool are hiking trails, amazing vistas, wildlife cruises and the Ullapool Museum. Experiences not to be missed are trekking up Ullapool Hill, seeking out Puffins on Handa Island and walking along the Ullapool Sea Front.

Getting There: Travelers can reach Ullapool by car or bus. While the bus only takes about 1.5 hours, the Inverness to Ullapool bus times are quite limited, with only 2 buses making the journey there and back each day.

Travel Tip: When visiting Ullapool, getting a taste of the locally caught fish is a must! The Seafood Shack is the best place for fresh-caught fish in Ullapool.

#50 Appreciate the Beauty of Isle of Skye

Visiting the captivating Isle of Skye is one of the best things to do near Inverness. Skye is the largest island of the Inner Hebrides and its landscapes are both striking and charming. With a jagged coastline and dramatic mountains, nature is the main attraction for visitors to Skye.

Getting There: Travelers can get to the Isle of Sky by car or bus. That said, taking a day trip from Inverness to Skye is best done by joining a full day tour that includes the highlights – as well as Highlands attractions enroute, like the Eilean Donan Castle. 

Travel Tip: We share top tips and advice for the Misty Isle in our article, Ultimate Isle of Skye Itinerary !

#51 Adventure into the Far North of Scotland

Traveling into the far northern reaches of Scotland is an adventure. Although the area is relatively remote, there are castles and small villages on the northernmost peninsula. Adventuring to the north ranks as one of the top things to do near Inverness, UK.

Popular attractions in the area north of Inverness are the Dunrobin Castle, the town of Wick, the expansive coastline and Scotland’s northernmost village, John O’Groats.

Getting There: Driving a car allows the most freedom when adventuring into the far north – but there are buses and trains that get you there, as well. Alternatively, guests can join an organized full-day tour that features the all top spots. 

Travel Tip: The area north of Inverness is fantastic for spotting wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, puffin, eagles – and, of course, hairy coos!

Where To Eat and Drink in Inverness, Scotland

Planning Inverness things to do and see is important…but it is also imperative to know where to eat and drink. We have rounded up our list of the best restaurants in Inverness, Scotland – and share our top picks for the best bars, too!

Best Restaurants Inverness, Scotland

Our list of the best places to eat in Inverness is based on our personal experiences, as well as top recommendations from both locals and fellow tourists.

The Mustard Seed Restaurant

Housed in a former church along the River Ness, The Mustard Seed is regularly ranked as one of the best Inverness restaurants. The rotating menu is upscale and features locally sourced products.

McBain’s By the River

The family-run McBain’s exudes a warm, yet classy atmosphere. Highlights of the menu are local Highlands favorites, like venison, salmon and steak.

Urquhart’s Restaurant Inverness

Homecooked fare in a refined space, Urquhart’s is a family-owned establishment and a top restaurant in Inverness. They excel at Scottish dishes – and it’s a great place to eat haggis in Inverness.

Rendezvous Café in Inverness

Highly rated for serving the best breakfast in Inverness, the Rendezvous Café is quirky and fun. Decorated with movie star memorabilia, what really shines is the excellent offerings. We recommend ordering the Full Scottish for a filling first meal of the day.

Black Isle Bar

Casual and hip, the Black Isle Bar is well known for their delicious wood-fired pizzas that feature local ingredients. Of course, the pizzas taste even better with one of their own craft beers!

Victorian Market Food Hall

A perfect place to stop for a quick lunch, the Victorian Market Food Hall has numerous vendors selling both local eats and international fare.

Best Bars in Inverness, Scotland

There is no shortage of bars in Inverness! We have already shared a few of our favorite places for a drink, but we have a few more tips for where travelers can find live traditional Scottish music, a dram of whisky or a proper pint of beer.

MacGregor’s

Unlike many Scottish pubs, MacGregor’s is bright and modern…and nearly always full of locals, laughter and live music. In fact, it’s our favorite spot for a traditional Sunday Session – but we like it any day of the week for the craft beer and pub eats.

The Gellions

Open since 1841, Gellions Bar is as classic as they come. This traditional boozer features a regular line up of live music and a nice variety of beers on tap. Our favorite act to watch at Gellions is the local duo, Schiehallion, performing on most weekends from about five-thirty.

Long known as having the best live music in Inverness, Hootananny has two stages; one for traditional music and the upstairs stage for a variety of acts (from indie rock to hip hop).

Highlander Bar Inverness

A fantastic venue for everything Scottish – from food to drinks to music – Highlander is always hopping and has live music on stage every night.

Johnny Foxes

Casual and fun, Johnny Foxes is a favorite riverside spot for locals with friendly bar staff and live tunes throughout the night.

The Castle Tavern

A traditional real ale tavern, the Castle is a classic place for a pint or a dram. It’s cozy and comfortable inside the bar, but there is plenty of outdoor space for sunny days, too.

The Malt Room

The best Scotch whisky bar in Inverness, The Malt Room offers whisky tasting flights and drams of the finest whisky in the region. The bar staff is top notch, too! 

MAP: Inverness, Scotland

Inverness Travel Tips

Now that you know all of the best things to see in Inverness and the Highlands, we have a few more travel tips that will help you plan your trip.

Planning an Inverness Itinerary

Planning an Inverness Sightseeing Itinerary is a big task – and it largely depends on your personal interests. That said, we have a few tips for creating your best trip plan.

1 to 4 Hours in Inverness

Travelers visiting Inverness on an organized tour or making a quick stop while touring other parts of the Highlands can make the most of their time by using our list of Things To Do in Inverness City Center.

We recommend walking along the riverside to the Ness Islands, snapping a photo of Inverness Castle and visiting either the Cathedral or the Inverness Museum. If time allows, stop by a few of the landmark sights – like the Old High Church, Leakey’s Bookshop and the Victorian Market.

24 Hours in Inverness

Visitors with 1 day in Inverness can squeeze a lot of sightseeing into a short timeframe. After seeing the sights in the city center (as mentioned above), visit the botanic garden (or Whin Park if traveling with young kids). Take a stroll along the Caledonian Canal and head up to Carnarc Point to look for dolphins. Alternatively, take an afternoon boat cruise to Loch Ness to track down Nessie.

In the evening, enjoy a casual dinner and local beers at Black Isle Bar and then catch some live music.

48 Hours in Inverness

Travelers spending 2 days in Inverness can see a lot of the city, plus some of the surrounding region. Use our advice for visiting Inverness is one day, then on the second day, embark on a day trip. Join a full day trip to Cairngorms NP or Culloden Battlefield.

Another option is to plan your own day trip to Falls of Foyers and Cameron Tea Shop (to see the Highland Coos) or go to Fortrose and Rosemarkie to hike to the waterfalls and search for dolphins.

For dinner on Day 2, make reservations in advance at one of the top restaurants – like The Mustard Seed or Urquhart’s Restaurant.

72 Hours in Inverness

Travelers with 3 days in Inverness can really cover some ground! Adding to our advice above for Days 1 and 2, set off on a full day hike on the Great Glen Way or embark on a train journey to Plockton.

Best Time to Visit Inverness, Scotland

Many travelers wonder, When is the best time to go to Inverness and the Scottish Highlands?

As the best Inverness activities and attractions are outdoors, it’s best to plan a trip to Inverness when it is most likely to have pleasant weather – which means traveling in the summertime.

In the summer, days are long ( really long!) and the weather is typically agreeable to being outside. That said, the summer temperatures in the Highlands rarely exceed 70 degrees Fahrenheit and passing rain showers are always possible.

The shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – can be a good time to visit Inverness, but the weather is fairly unpredictable in the Highlands and can range from sunny and beautiful to blustery and rainy.

Wintertime in Inverness can be dark, cold and snowy – which is great for getting cozy in the local pubs and touring the attractions with far fewer crowds. One of the things to do in Inverness at Christmas is to enjoy the festive music at a local bar – and stay for the Hogmanay celebration beginning on New Year’s Eve !

Accommodation in Inverness, Scotland

Travelers who decide to stay a few days want to know, Where is the Best Place to Stay in Inverness, Scotland?

We think the best places to stay in Inverness, Scotland are in the heart of the city center – especially for visitors traveling to the Highlands without a car. There is a wide range of accommodations in Inverness, Scotland – from hotels to bed and breakfasts to vacation rental apartments to hostels. Although it is difficult to find cheap hotels in Inverness, there are accommodation options to meet most budgets.

Before starting your search, read our tips for Finding the Best Hotels .

Best Hotels in Inverness, Scotland

Staying in a hotel is ideal for travelers spending just a few days in Inverness – and we are highlighting a few of the top choices in the city center.

Ness Walk Inverness Hotel

A beautiful property boasting spacious rooms and excellent service, Ness Walk is a premier luxury hotel in Inverness. Rooms feature patios and breakfast is included. Check available rooms and rates for your stay!

Columba Hotel Inverness

Located on the river in the heart of town, Columba Hotel offers guests large, clean rooms with modern amenities and an onsite restaurant and bar. Check rates and availability for your stay!

Heathmount Hotel

Stylish and clean, Heathmount Hotel is just a short walk from the humming city center – and guests rave about the hospitality. Check availability for your trip!

Drumdale B&B Inverness, Scotland

The Drumdale B&B in Inverness, Scotland warmly welcomes guests with comfortable rooms and an exceptional breakfast. Check rates for your stay!

Airbnb Inverness, Scotland

Travelers staying in Inverness for more than a few days might be more comfortable with an Airbnb in Inverness, Scotland. Having an apartment with access to a kitchen and more living space will help visitors feel more at home.

Not a fan of Airbnb ? You can also find vacation apartments in Inverness, Scotland on Booking.com ! 

How To Get To Inverness

Inverness, Scotland can be reached by plane, train, bus or car.

Airport in Inverness, Scotland

Most flights to Inverness Airport (INV) originate within the United Kingdom. Located east of the city, arriving passengers can rent a car , take a taxi or ride the Stagecoach bus or ScotRail train into Inverness.

Larger airports near Inverness, Scotland are located in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Before booking your plane ticket, read our advice for Finding the Best Flight Fares ! 

Buses and Trains to Inverness

Buses to Inverness are fairly frequent from other destinations in Scotland and the UK into the Highlands – and are usually the most affordable option.

Train travel is also popular in the Highlands, but more expensive. Visitors can use direct trains to get to Inverness from major cities, like Edinburgh and Glasgow. Additionally, there is a night train for Inverness from London.

Train and Bus Station Inverness, Scotland

Both the Inverness Train Station and Bus Station are located in the heart of the city.

Edinburgh to Inverness

The bus to Inverness from Edinburgh takes at least 3.5 hours. Routes are run by CityLink and FlixBus .

Trains to Inverness from Edinburgh are provided by ScotRail and depart from Edinburgh Waverley Station. Trains also take about 3.5 hours and range in cost depending on time of travel.

Glasgow to Inverness

Routes for buses from Inverness to Glasgow are managed by Megabus and FlixBus and the ride takes 4 hours.

Trains to Inverness from Glasgow are provided by ScotRail and typically depart from Glasgow Queen Street Station (but always check the departure point!). The journey takes about 3.5 hours.

Getting Around Inverness

The city of Inverness is easy to navigate as it is fairly flat and walkable. Travelers staying in Inverness for more than a day have many options for how to get around the region.

Many opt to rent a car for their Inverness trip – which is great for those who are comfortable with driving on the left side of the road. (Just use our tips for finding the Best Car Rental Rates !) 

That said, a car is not necessary for getting around Inverness. During our trip, we used local buses and trains along with one organized tour to get to the top Highland attractions.

Train and Buses in Inverness

There are several train and bus routes in Inverness that can be used to get to top destinations in the Highlands. 

We rode the train to travel from Inverness to Plockton and used buses get to Falls of Foyers, Fort Augustus, Chanonry Point and the Fairy Glen Waterfalls.

Travelers can also use the Inverness Hop On Hop Off Bus to get to top tourist attractions. Tickets on the open-air bus are valid for 24 hours. 

Bus Tours Inverness, Scotland

There are also several bus tours from Inverness, Scotland for travelers who prefer organized adventures…and can get you to some of the hard-to-reach places without a car.

One of the best tours from Inverness combines two of the great things about the Highlands: Nature and Whisky. This highly-rated Inverness tour features several stops in Cairngorms National Park, as well as a trip to a distillery for Scottish whisky tasting. Get info here!

Another popular tour from Inverness is an organized expedition to Loch Ness that includes transit, a boat ride, and visiting Urquhart Castle. It is possible to plan the trip on your own using the bus, but we priced it out and the tour was actually cheaper. Book it here!

Visitors can book all the best tours in advance on Viator .

What To Pack for Inverness

Our final travel tips for Inverness, Scotland are all about what to pack in your backpack or suitcase for your trip! You can find more advice on our Packing Tips page. Need a packing checklist? Get your FREE Packing Checklist here !

The Right Shoes

Many of the top things to see and do in Inverness are outdoors, so make sure you pack the right shoes. We recommend shoes with a good sole, but are versatile enough for wearing around the city.

I like to wear my everyday sneakers that are comfortable on the trails and the streets – and Kris prefers to wear these trail shoes for hiking and sightseeing.

Of course, if you plan on tackling some of the more intense hikes in the Highlands, you will want a pair of proper hiking boots .

We share more advice for choosing which shoes to pack in our article, The Best Shoes for Traveling .

Scotland Weather Gear

The weather in Inverness can be wild! It’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in the span of just a few hours in Scotland – and bursts of rain are likely throughout the year.

Rather than letting a little rain keep you from enjoying the Inverness top attractions, we recommend packing a few items that will help keep you dry. A raincoat and good travel umbrella are two items that should absolutely make onto your packing list .

Summertime travelers should also bring sunscreen , a favorite pair of sunglasses and a hat with a brim . 

An insect repellent with picaridin to combat the mosquitos, midges and ticks – like this one – is useful if you plan on spending time on the Highland trails during the summer months. 

Travel Camera

The best places to visit in Inverness, Scotland are utterly gorgeous! It is best to upgrade to a real camera  to capture the beauty of the Highlands.

On our travels, we use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens . Not only does it take high quality photos, but it is easy to use and comes at an affordable price. It is still one of the best cameras for budget travelers !

Favorite Day Pack

We highly recommend carrying a day bag while sightseeing in Inverness, Scotland. We like to wear small backpacks with multiple zippered pockets to store everything we need for our daily outings – including our weather gear!

If a backpack is not your style, find more suggestions in our Best Day Bags for Travelers article.

Your Travel Documents

Of course, don’t forget to pack your important travel documents! In addition to your passport, we recommend bringing printed copies of your booked travel (like hotel reservations and pre-booked activities – and your Travel Planner , too!

We keep our most important documents tucked away in a compact and zippered Travel Organizer . 

UK Trip Insurance

Travel doesn’t always go as planned – and when things go wrong, travel insurance can sometimes help. Whether it’s cancelled flights, lost luggage or getting sick while traveling, the right insurance policy might help recoup any costs incurred. Check the affordable rates and robust coverage at World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to the UK ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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The Top 12 Things to Do Inverness, Scotland

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Inverness, situated on Scotland's northwest coast where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, is the largest city in the Scottish Highlands and the nearest city to Loch Ness. It has a quaint old town with numerous historical attractions in the city center and the surrounding area. Inverness is popular with travelers who want to explore Loch Ness, the Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, and those looking for outdoor excursions. Whether you're planning a trip specifically to Inverness or stopping through on a visit to the Highlands, there's a lot to see and do. Here are the 12 best things to do when exploring Inverness.

Tour Inverness Castle

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Inverness Castle, built in the 19th century, overlooks the River Ness. The current structure was originally a prison, although there have been several past castles on the site through the centuries. Today, the castle grounds and the north tower are open to the public, with a scenic viewpoint located in the upper part of the tower. It's a great way to learn about the castle's history and get a 360-degree view of Inverness and its surrounding area. Hours can be limited, so check online in advance of your visit.

Explore Inverness Museum & Art Gallery

John Allan / CC BY-SA 2.0 / WikiMedia Commons

The history and culture of the Scottish Highlands are on view at the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery, which offers free admission to visitors. The museum, located in the city center at the foot of Castle Hill, features exhibitions on geology, natural history, archaeological heritage, and culture, focusing on Inverness and the Highlands. See everything from Jacobite memorabilia to Inverness silverware to Highland weapons and bagpipes. There are frequent special events and activities, including those tailored to families and kids. Don't forget to stop by the IMAG Café for coffee or a snack.

Visit Loch Ness and Urqhart Castle

Izzet Keribar / Getty Images

Loch Ness is about 30 minutes by car or bus from Inverness, and it's easily accessible even if you don't want to rent a car. The famed lake, supposedly home to the mysterious Loch Ness Monster, is also the site of the ruins of Urqhart Castle. At Loch Ness, enjoy walking or biking on the Loch Ness 360 Trail or embark on a boat tour. Urqhart Castle dates back over 1,000 years, and visitors can tour the grounds and ruins for a ticketed fee. From Inverness' city center, hop on the 919 bus for a direct route to Loch Ness.

Walk the Culloden Battlefield

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The site of the Jacobite Rising is now a historical attraction where curious visitors can learn about the history of the Battle of Culloden. The visitor center has an exhibition of the legacy of the battle, and there are a lot of details to spot on the battlefield itself. Don't miss Leanach Cottage, a traditional thatched cottage from the early 18th century, and the shop where you can score a bottle of Culloden Battlefield Highland Malt. Culloden is about 10 minutes outside Inverness and is accessible by car, taxi, or public bus.

Discover Clava Cairns

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The Prehistoric Burial Cairns of Bulnuaran of Clava, known as the Clava Cairns, make a great day trip from Inverness. Located near the Culloden battlefield, the Clava Cairns is a Bronze Age cemetery complex of passage graves and standing stones (yes, like in "Outlander"). The site is open year-round and free for visitors who can explore the preserved ruins. The Clava Cairns, which are well paired with a trip to Culloden, can be reached by car, bike, or public bus from Inverness.

Visit Fort George

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Head northeast of Inverness to explore Fort George, an 18th-century fortress built to control the Scottish Highlands after the Jacobite uprising. Since its construction, It has remained in use, and parts are currently open to the public for tours. Walk along the rampart, which extends over half a mile, and visit the Highlanders' Museum to learn more about the region's military history. Tours are self-guided, with an audio guide available to access on your phone. The fort is open most of the year, but the hours change depending on the season. Fort George is best accessed by car or taxi.

Stroll Along the River Ness

Dennis Barnes / Getty Images

Enjoy a two-hour circular walk from the Inverness city center along the banks of the scenic River Ness. The path takes visitors past the Ness Islands, the Inverness War Memorial, and Inverness Cathedral. Those who want to continue can extend the trek to the Great Glen Way or along the Caledonian Canal, both iconic trails. The path is generally flat, making it a good option for people of all ages and abilities. In the colder months, bring along layers, warm shoes, and an umbrella.

Explore Inverness Botanic Gardens

Courtesy of Inverness Botanic Gardens

Wander the Inverness Botanic Gardens, which is free to all visitors. The colorful gardens have numerous features, from a tropical house to a cactus house. Stop by the restaurant inside the gardens called Cafe Botanic, which is ideal for lunch or snacks. The attraction is located slightly outside of the city center and offers a peaceful respite for those tired of busy sight-seeing spots.

Shop in Leakey's Bookshop

Courtesy of Leakey's Bookshop

Stroll over to Church Street to discover Leaky's Bookshop, a second-hand bookstore that has been a fixture in Inverness since 1979. It's Scotland's largest used bookstore, and it's a must-see for book lovers. The emphasis is on non-fiction, although you can find books of all sorts on Leaky's vast shelves. The shop is located in the old town of Inverness, making it a good stop as you make your way through downtown.

Sip Coffee at Velocity Café & Bicycle Workshop

Courtesy of Velocity Cafe© & Bicycle Workshop

The best coffee in Inverness can be found at Velocity Café & Bicycle Workshop, located a short walk outside the city center. The cafe, which serves vegetarian food, delicious pastries, and coffee-based drinks, is a great place to sit and take a break from sightseeing. It's also a bike workshop, where cyclists can get repairs or other services on their bikes (or just find some like-minded people).

Dine at the Mustard Seed Restaurant

Courtesy of The Mustard Seed Restaurant

Downtown Inverness is relatively small, boasting several good dining options. One of the best and most popular is Mustard Seed Restaurant, located along the River Ness. It was built in a former church, leaving a ton of space for seating, and even has an outdoor balcony. They serve Scottish food and use local ingredients; you can't go wrong with any order. The restaurant has a little something for everyone who walks through its doors—the two-course lunch deal is a great budget-friendly option for travelers, and there are several vegan dishes perfect for those with plant-based diets. Reserve a table in advance; this restaurant fills up fast.

Hike to the Fairy Glen

Michael Jagla / Getty Images

Drive to nearby Rosemarkie and follow an easy trail to the Fairy Glen, a beautiful glen with two waterfalls. It's less than a two-mile walk, so kids and those with limited fitness abilities can also join in the fun. While the trail is not steep, it can get slippery and muddy, so sturdy shoes are highly recommended. Plan your visit for a warm day to take full advantage of the water.

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24 Fun Things to do in Inverness, Scotland

Home » Blog » Europe » United Kingdom » 24 Fun Things to do in Inverness, Scotland

Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, has an incredible variety of sights. Whether you’re searching for Nessie on the banks of the infamous Loch Ness or having a pint downtown, you can find your own adventure in this round up of things to do in Inverness.

Known as the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is the region’s busiest city and is on most Scotland itineraries.

The city itself is pretty and worth devoting part of a day exploring; but some of the best things to do in Inverness are actually outside the city limits. 

We’re going to share some of the top attractions in Inverness as well as some worthy off the beaten path adventures. 

Plus, you better believe we’re also including where to eat and fun places to grab a drink.

So sit back as we walk you through how to plan the perfect trip to Inverness and the Scottish Highlands!

Other contents

• Where to eat
• Where to stay

Psst! If you have time to discover more of the country, don’t miss these epic places to visit in Scotland .

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Scotland !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Scotland trip. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

1. Start your day at a cafe-slash-bike-shop

Start your day at Velocity Cafe , a cozy cafe-slash-bike-shop that has a variety of yummy breakfast options, like a vegetarian breakfast sandwich featuring eggplant and halloumi. Get in mah belly!

They also serve excellent coffee in a hip yet down-to-earth atmosphere.

2. Get lost in Leakey’s Bookstore

Leakey’s Bookstore is an Inverness staple. 

This charming independent bookstore is full, from floor to ceiling with books new and (very) old. Peruse the stacks and you might just find some treasures to take home.

Looking for a unique souvenir from Scotland?

In addition to books, Leakey’s has quite a selection of antique prints (guaranteed to be over 100 years old) that have been hand-colored and make really unique souvenirs. 

Flip through the hundreds of prints and see if there are any that suit you. We found a lovely flower drawing that we bought for £24, which we thought was quite a good price.

Will you be traveling from Edinburgh?  There are several options for transportation between the two cities, and we have a detailed guide on  how to travel from Edinburgh to Inverness  which outlines all of your options.

3. Go window shopping on High Street

This is the main drag of Inverness and home to all sorts of boutique shops, cafes and pubs. 

Wander at your leisure and pop into any spots that pique your interest.

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We traveled in Scotland for about 2 weeks and were able to visit most of the highlights of the country, including most of the top places to visit.

We took our 2-week travels and created the perfect Scotland road trip itinerary.  We’ll send you our complete 2-week itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your  2-week Scotland road trip itinerary  today!

4. Do a DIY Walking Tour

If you want to see the top attractions in Inverness in a short amount of time , you can do your own DIY walking tour.

Here’s the route at a glance:

• Falcon Square
• High Street
• Inverness Town House
• Inverness Museum and Art Gallery 
• Inverness Castle 
• Flora McDonald Statue
• Inverness Cathedral (one of the most iconic buildings in town)
• Highland House of Fraser
• Greig Street Bridge 
• Free North Church
• Dunbar’s Hospital
• Abertarff House (oldest house in Inverness)
• Victorian Market

Here’s more background information and history tidbits about each stop on this Inverness walking tour.

Planning a trip to Scotland? Find out the best time to visit Scotland based on seasonal weather patterns and your personal travel style.

5. Explore Highlands history & heritage at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

The Scottish Highlands are filled with historic battles, tall tales, and many important locations in the country’s history. 

At the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, you can explore a fascinating array of artifacts and collections to immerse yourself in these stories for free. Admission grants you access to both permanent and pop-up exhibits. 

Discover the importance of the Gaelic language, how the Highlands were formed, the fascinating history of the Highlands people, and how it connects with the rest of the world.

6. Enjoy a 2-course lunch at the Mustard Seed

This award-winning restaurant is located inside a former church right beside the River Ness. They have a great 2-course lunch special, making it the perfect place to stop for a midday meal.

Starting at just £16, you can choose a starter and a main course. Their menu features modern European cuisine including local ingredients when possible.

The Mustard Seed also has a large and varied gin menu featuring spirits from all around Scotland.

Insider Tip: The tables on the second floor offer a really nice view of the River Ness. 

7. Wander the Inverness Botanic Gardens

Situated in the heart of Inverness’s century-old stones, the gardens are an emerald in a sea of neutral tones where you can find peace from the bustle of the city.

Walk through the cactus house, wildflower gardens, tropical houses, and formal gardens for a serene, nature-filled walk through many different biomes.

Entry is free, but the entire place is funded through charity and donations, so that’s something to consider when you arrive. Otherwise, this is one of the best, free things to do in Inverness.

8. Walk Ness Islands (and spot the giant snake!)

Taking a leisurely stroll or bike ride (you can rent them in town) around the Ness Islands is one of the best things to do in Inverness. 

Situated in the middle of the River Ness which cuts through town, the Ness Islands are located just south of the city center. 

This tree-lined path is popular with locals on daily runs or walking their dogs, and along the way, there are unique artfully-made benches with lovely viewpoints.

Try to spot the large log that a local artist painted to look like a snake. 

Or is that Nessie…?

9. Book a scenic bike tour guided by an Inverness local

Cruising down the River Ness with a local is an immersive and fun way to see the city. 

You’ll pedal by over a dozen of different stops in Inverness including the Botanical Gardens, Caledonian Canal, and the Merkinch Nature Reserve.

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot pods of bottlenose dolphins while cruising along the city seawall!

For any first-timer in Inverness, a tour like this is ideal for getting a decent a lay of the land, so you can make note of interesting stops and revisit them after the tour. 

What you need to know

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 am and 2:30 pm departures
• Price : £30 per person

What guests are saying

“Alison’s tour was a delight. The bikes were well maintained and enjoyable to ride. The route included ~12 stops at key attractions and viewpoints around Inverness. The pace was easy to keep so that the tour was enjoyable while brisk. Alison herself was the best part. She is informative and shared stories in an engaging way and with an infectious wit. We would highly recommend to anyone looking for a fun way to visit Inverness.” -Kimberley, (August 2022)

10. Hear live Scottish folk music at ​​Hootananny pub

Perhaps one of the most well-known pubs in Inverness (and there are a lot!), Hootananny is famed for hosting live Scottish folk music each evening (starting at 9:30 p.m.). 

They also host music all day on Saturdays (hey-oh!) during their weekly ceilidh (Scottish word referring to a party with music, dancing and storytelling).

Big names, such as Mumford and Sons, have performed at Hootananny, so you never know who you’ll hear performing. 

Grab a pint and get ready for a cracking good time!

Sláinte! That’s Gaelic for “cheers”.

11. Glimpse the Inverness Castle

The Inverness Castle is a famed symbol of the city. 

Unfortunately, it is closed for renovations and won’t be open until 2025. 

In truth, you won’t even be able to get an up close view of the castle until the construction has been completed, as there is a fence closing it in. Womp womp.

But until then, you can spot it from afar. The best view you can get right now (while it’s closed off) is 

12. Make a wish at the Munlochy Clootie Well

Walking among the woodlands of the Highlands, you wouldn’t expect to stumble across a network of clotheslines draped in pieces of cloth. 

Clootie wells are holy wells, or sacred springs, that are commonly found in Celtic countries like Scotland, Ireland, and Cornwall in England. 

It’s said that if you’re ill, dipping a “clootie” or rag into the healing waters of the well will heal you from illness and ailments as the cloth disintegrates back into the earth. 

These wells have been a local tradition for centuries that has attracted travelers from all over the world. If you visit the Munlochy Clootie Well, be sure to bring a biodegradable clootie to help maintain the cycle of disintegration.

13. Wander the historic Victorian Market

This covered market dates back to the 19th century, and wandering through is one of the most popular things to do in Inverness. 

While the building itself has historic charm (the ceiling was my favorite part!), most of the shops inside are on the more kitschy-touristy side. That said, if you’re searching for a souvenir, you’re sure to find plenty to choose from here.

In addition to souvenir shops, jewelry purveyors, and even a florist, there is a small cafe and seating area that is currently being expanded into a small food hall. 

14. Choose your vice: Doughnut or Espresso Martini…

Perk is a cozy shop nestled just beside the Victorian Market in downtown Inverness and is known as a “doughnut shop by day, espresso martini bar by night”.

With options like a Biscoff espresso martini and a lemon curd filled doughnut with toasted meringue, how is one supposed to choose?!

I suppose you truly can have both… Come for your morning coffee and doughnut, then return at dusk for a pre-dinner cocktail.

• Cafe from 8:30am – 3pm
• Bar from 4pm – 11pm

See, you really can have it all!

15. Take a boat trip on the infamous Loch Ness

Taking a boat cruise on Loch Ness makes most travelers’ itineraries. If not the most popular thing to do in Inverness, it’s got to be up there in the top three.

On the Loch Ness boat tour, you’ll cruise this long and narrow body of water (25 miles long!) and listen as the captain shares interesting facts and tidbits about this famed lake over a speaker.

One of the most interesting facts (in my opinion) is that it is the largest freshwater lake in the UK by volume. In fact, it has more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined! 

At its deepest, Loch Ness measures 755 feet (227 meters). As you’re cruising, you can watch the sonar screen and see the current depth.

What about the Loch Ness Monster? 

Well, it turns out the famous picture of the Loch Ness Monster (aka “Nessie”), taken in 1934, were proven fraudulent. Scientists spent the next 30 years denouncing the creature’s existence.

But that doesn’t detract from the fact that sightings of a large sea creature are recorded as early as the first century A.D.

Believe what you might, this deep lake is certainly big enough to hold some secrets beneath its surface…

How to choose a Loch Ness Boat Tour

There are several Loch Ness boat tours, and they are all essentially the same. And curiously, the companies all have very similar names so it’s a little confusing. 

While the specific company doesn’t matter too much, the major decision you’ll need to make is w hether you want your tour to include a stop at Urquhart Castle. It is a bit more expensive to stop at the castle, but we’d recommend it. Without getting off for this stop, it would be kind a boring boat trip. Just being honest!

Insider Tips for booking a Loch Ness Tour 

Be sure you know the exact name and location of your tour company , as they all have different launching points and with such similar names it can be confusing. 

Arrive early so you can choose your seat. We arrived with about 15 minutes to spare, but finding parking was difficult, and by the time we walked down the path to the dock, there were few seats left. So we ended up on the upper deck on a very cold and drizzly day.

Our honest opinion about the Loch Ness boat tour

Now, I don’t want to dissuade you from taking a Loch Ness boat trip, but I want to be totally honest with you…

In our opinion, the boat tour was just okay.

The legend of the Loch Ness monster is what catapulted this lake to fame, but the lore is almost bigger than the place itself. 

It’s a beautiful lake, don’t get me wrong. But the best views can’t even be seen from the boat. Instead, you’ll want to head to Dores Beach (preferably for sunset) for the very best vista of Loch Ness. (See #17 on this list for more info.)

In short: If you’re pressed for time during your Scotland trip, I personally wouldn’t be too bothered if you miss this boat ride. However, it is one of those iconic activities and I totally get the FOMO.

This is the exact tour we went on.

16. Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle

The history of this castle goes back more than 1,000 years. And while only ruins are left, it’s a picturesque place to explore.

Situated on the shores of Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle is one of the stops you can opt for on many of the boat tours.

Related: See our roundup of beautiful castles in Scotland to visit!

17. Sunset at Dores Beach

Most visitors to Inverness take a Loch Ness cruise, but many people don’t know that the best view of the loch is actually on the other side of the water. 

We did the boat trip and can say without a doubt that the view from this beach is better than any we got on the boat.

Dores Beach sits on the northeast shore of this iconic lake, and offers views that stretch the length of this narrow body of water, with layers of mountains looming in the distance. 

If it works with the timing of your visit, we’d recommend stopping at Dores Beach for sunset. Pack some snacks to enjoy while you watch the sun go down, or better yet, pop into Dores Inn for dinner and a pint, which is located just beside this beach. 

18. Grab a pint and pub grub at Dores Inn

This cozy inn is situated on the shores of Loch Ness and looks just as you’d expect of a traditional pub — fireplace, flickering candles, homey decor, and classic pub fare. 

Enjoy a shepherd’s pie or fish and chips, and pair it with a pint or a Scottish (aka boozy!) coffee.

We ordered a few dishes to share, and they were good, but nothing super special. The Scottish coffees were a nice treat, and the sticky toffee pudding here is not to be skipped. 

We’d recommend having dinner and watching the sunset on Dores Beach just next to the pub.

This was truly our favorite thing to do near Loch Ness (& one of our favorites in Inverness!).

19. Go back in time at Clava Cairns

Clava Cairns is a sacred spot that is thought to be 4,000 years old . 

With standing stones and circular structures built out of piled rocks, it is a really unique place to see near Inverness.

Wandering around the tranquil grounds doesn’t take much time, but it feels like you’ve entered a different time. And maybe you have… 

If you’re a fan of the series Outlander , you’ll recognize these stones as similar to those used to travel through time. 

20. Walk through history at Culloden Battlefield

“Outlander” fans will recognize this as the location of a very bloody battle between the British and Jocobites in which more than 700 Scots were killed in just mere minutes.

If you’re in the area and have time, or just have a keen appreciation for history, this battlefield is worth a quick stop. However, if you’re pressed for time, this stop could be missed, in our opinion. 

Other than a memorial marker and some stones for Scottish clans, there’s not a ton to see here. That said, if you love “Outlander” (hey, us too!), you might just have to see the Fraser clan stone for yourself!

21. Take a distillery tour near Inverness 

If visiting a whisky distillery is one of the things you want to do in Scotland , Inverness (or the surrounding area, really) is a great place to book a tour. 

When in Rome — err — Scotland, right?

Whisky Regions

Scotland has 5 whisky regions , each with their own characteristics and flavor profiles: Highland, Lowland, Islay, Speyside and Campbeltown. 

Conveniently, Inverness is just a short drive from distilleries that belong to both the Highlands and the Speyside regions.

The Highlands: Covering the largest area, this region is known for a variety of styles, ranging from full-bodied whiskeys to lighter versions, they can be enjoyed by many palates. Inverness itself is part of the Highlands region.

Speyside: Famed for having the highest concentration of whisky distilleries in the world, this fertile river valley is home to some of the most famous names, like Glenfiddich.

Good to know: The American spelling of whiskey has an “e”, whereas it is spelled whisky in Scotland and the UK.

Whisky Distillery tours in Speyside and the Highlands

The Highlands region is home to 47 whisky distilleries and Speyside (a much smaller region by land mass) has 50. So it goes without saying that there are plenty to choose from. But it can also be a bit daunting figuring out where to begin.

Here are a few notable distilleries in the region that are all known for different things:

Glenfiddich Distillery

Quite possibly the biggest name in Scotch, Glenfiddich is an easy choice. If you are a whiskey aficionado, you’ll love going behind the scenes at this vast and iconic distillery. 

• Region: Speyside 
• Getting there from Inverness: 1 hour 20 minutes 
• Tour days: Wednesday – Sunday
• Book your Glenfiddich tour

Insider Tip: After your distillery tour, stop at the nearby Linn Falls for a lovely walk.

Tomatin Distillery

This single malt distillery is a smaller player than the Glenfiddiches of the world, but their size is part of the charm. What they do, they do well. 

Our experience 

This was the distillery we personally visited during our trip to Scotland , and we had a great experience. While not as polished or large as some other distilleries, the tour felt intimate and the Scotch they produce is excellent. 

As a Scotch newbie, this was a very approachable, down-to-earth experience, and since, I’ve actually ordered Scotch because I have felt like I understand it a little better and know what I like. 

• Region: Highlands 
• Getting there from Inverness: 25 minutes
• Tour days: 7 days a week
• Book your Tomatin tour

Why we chose to visit Tomatin Distillery

• It was an easy stop on our drive from Cairngorms National Park to Inverness. 
• We liked the idea of supporting a smaller distillery.
• They allow children of all ages on their tours (and we were traveling with our daughter who was 9 months old at the time).

The Singleton Distillery

This large facility is conveniently located near Inverness and offers guests a peek inside the whisky-making process in their sleek, modern facility.

• Book your Singleton tour

Glenfarclas

This distillery is located near the River Spey and has been family-owned for 5 generations. 

• Getting there from Inverness: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Tour days: Open Monday – Saturday in the summer months; Open Monday – Friday in the winter months
• Book your Glenfarclas tour

How to do visit a whisky distillery yourself

Determine what type of tour you’d like to take. Most distilleries offer 2-3 different types of tours — from shorter visits geared more towards newbies, and more immersive tours for whisky fanatics. Read each description carefully to determine which is best suited for your preferences (and budget). 

Make your reservations in advance. No matter which distillery you choose to tour, we’d recommend reserving your spots in advance, as they do fill up. Even though we went to a lesser-known distillery (Tomatin), they were fully booked at least a week before our visit. Luckily, we had made reservations, but we saw people show up trying to snag a last-minute spot to no avail.

Traveling with kiddos? Make sure you check to see if the distillery allows children. There are quite a few that welcome children, but not all do.

22. Get fancy at afternoon tea

Clotted cream, fresh jam, and piles of pastries are staples of afternoon tea. This has been a tradition in Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom since the late 1900s, so it’s a must while in Inverness. 

• Ness Walk Hotel : A seasonal afternoon tea with freshly baked scones and other goods. 
• Kingsmill Hotel : Indulge in french teas, fair trade coffee, and delectable bites.
• The Palace Hotel and Spa : Traditional afternoon tea with a view.
• Simpsons : Luxurious afternoon tea for any occasion. 
• Waterside Restaurant : A satisfying and budget-friendly afternoon tea along the River Ness.

23. Visit historic Fort George

This 18th-century fortress stands as one of the most outstanding battle fortifications in Europe. 

After the Jacobites seized control and blew up the original fortress in 1745, Fort George was built to regain control and serve as a base for King George II’s army.  

The current fortress has never been attacked or seized, and has served the British Army for more than 250 years. Visiting these grounds gives you an impressive look into what the 18th-century military life was like.

Walk around the main ramparts, see the massive collection of weapons in the Grand Magazine, visit the historic barracks, or find peace in the garrison chapel. 

24. Get off the beaten path and hike to Fairy Glen Falls

• Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km), out-and-back
• Elevation: 232 ft (70 m)
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate
• View the trail notes

Experience the awe and wonder of the Scottish woodlands as you walk along a river to two pretty waterfalls.

It was told In Scottish folklore that this glen was the setting of the well-dressing ceremony, a practice where young children would dress the glen in flowers so the fairies would keep the waters clean.

The mushrooms, moss, and plant varieties on the trail add that extra touch to the area. It definitely has that extra sparkle as you walk through it.

25. Visit a local farm shop with Highland Cows

There are few things more symbolic of Scotland than men in kilts, bagpipes, and highland cows. 

The first two things on this list will be easy to spot, but Highland cows can be a little trickier.

If you’re up for a unique place to visit near Inverness, Robertsons the Larder​​ is a charming farm shop not far from the city. They sell local produce, honey, and souvenirs. Plus, they have animals you can meet, including alpacas, donkeys, goats, and yes, Highland cows!

So grab yourself some ingredients for a little picnic and get a selfie with a cow!

Where to eat in Inverness

Inverness has an eclectic food and drink scene with a variety of different places to fuel your adventures in the city. These spots are great choices to get you started. 

• Velocity Cafe : A cozy cafe with creative vegetarian bites.
• Café Artysans : Comfort food in a modern setting.
• The Mustard Seed : European bites in a renovated church.
• Fig & Thistle : Classy bistro with elevated food and drinks.
• Urquhart’s Restaurant : Family-run stop for classic Scottish food.
• The Kitchen Restaurant : Three-tier restaurant along River Ness with a creative Scottish menu.
• River House : Local seafood with Scottish dining.

Where to stay in Inverness

It makes sense to spend at least one night in or around Inverness as a base for exploring the Highlands. Find the best hotels and campgrounds near the city,

Hotels in Inverness

Bazpackers Hostel : This hostel is in a prime location in the heart of downtown along the River Ness. You’ll be steps away from Inverness and the excitement of the city. 

Mansley Two-Bedroom Apartment : Sleep in style inside this modern and upscale apartment in the heart of the city. The views of Inverness on the outdoor terrace are some of the best in the city!

Ness Walk : Stay between the Ness Islands and downtown Inverness at this 5-star hotel. The stunning scenery and riverside location make this the perfect place to wind down and relax after a day in the city.

Camping near Inverness

Ardtower Caravan Park : If you are traveling Scotland in a campervan (like we did!), we highly recommend staying at Ardtower Caravan Park. The view over the city is nice, and it had the best facilities of any campground we stayed at in all of Scotland. They even have a small onsite cafe that serves pizza, and an ice cream truck comes through here most days.

Our only complaint is that the sites are pretty close together and there’s not much in the way of nature nearby. But that’s what you get for proximity to a large city, I suppose!

Bunchrew Caravan Park : We also stayed at this campground, and while it was a little more spread out and felt more nature-y, the facilities were pretty rough compared to those at Ardtower.

Our opinion: Between the two campgrounds, we’d recommend Ardtower .

Are you planning a trip to Scotland?

We have lots of resources on travel in Scotland and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Scotland Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Best Places to Visit in Scotland
• Insanely Fun Things to in Edinburgh
• Ultimate Guide to Isle of Skye: Things to do + Essential Tips
• Unique Things to Do in Glasgow

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11 of the Best Things to Do in Inverness – A Local’s Guide

• Last Updated 16 August 2023

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

This in-depth travel guide to the best things to do in Inverness is brought to you by local blogger Graham, as part of my UK travel guides series. 

If you’re thinking of visiting the Scottish Highlands , you’re probably thinking of mountains, lochs, and amazing views. And it’s true, all those things are guaranteed with a Highland break.

Yet you shouldn’t miss the chance to head to Inverness – popularly thought of as the capital of the Scottish Highlands. You may well be surprised by the range of activities and attractions it has tucked away.

I’ve lived nearby for many years, and honestly, I’ve found tons of things to do in Inverness – some of which only locals know about.

Here are my top picks – some familiar, some unusual – that you won’t want to miss if you visit.

Top things to do in Inverness

Unusual things to do in inverness, places to eat, things to do in inverness at night, festivals and events, plenty more to discover in inverness, take a guided tour of inverness.

Kick off your visit with a city tour. This is a great way to explore Inverness and get an overview of the area’s history – as well as some of the city’s main attractions.

• Guided Walking Tour – 1.5 hours, from £14pp
• 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – from £12

Ness Islands

This beautiful park is right in the heart of the city, yet you’ll feel as if you’re worlds away once you are there.

Two bridges take you across to the islands – one from the B862 to the east of the islands and one opposite Bught Drive to the west. Pack a picnic on a nice day and escape to the islands. There is a three-mile walk that takes you right around them too. Free to enter and filled with trees and wildlife. Idyllic.

Castle Viewpoint

Whenever I visit any city, I always want to get a view across it from a high vantage point. The best point in Inverness is from Inverness Castle. This boasts a tower that has been converted into a tourist attraction, offering magnificent views over the city.

You’ll need to climb 94 steps to reach the top, but the 360-degree views you’ll get when you arrive are well worth it.

Waterways Bike Tour

Get pedalling and cover the canal and towpath along the River Ness. This guided bike tour is ideal for couples and friends, and even takes in a quick pit stop at the Inverness Botanical Gardens.

Be sure to book in advance via the Inverness Bike Tours website. The tour covers around 6.2 miles (10km) but it’s all on flat ground. Helmets and bikes supplied. This is a superb chance to take in many of the best and most famous sights in Inverness, including views over the Moray Firth.

Culloden Battlefield

A dramatic one here, but it’s a mere 15-minute drive out from the city to reach it. Most people have heard of the Battle of Culloden that took place in 1746. Few know the details of the event as revealed at the battlefield itself.

For a day out that offers history, drama, and a monument to those who perished, you cannot beat Culloden . While you’re there, stop in the café and sample their own Culloden whisky. You could also share a tempting charcuterie platter with your pal.

Highland House of Fraser

Head for Bridge Street in Inverness and the home of kilts appears. It’s possible to rent a kilt while you’re there if you’d like to dress for dinner!

You can also look around the exhibition that reveals the history of the kilt. There is no better place to learn more than in their kiltmaking workshop. Yes, they make all their kilts on site. If you’re there with your significant other and planning a wedding, perhaps you could consider being fitted for one to get married in…

Dolphin Cruise

Are you ready to get away from the city for a bit? Hop on board a Dolphin Cruise out into the Moray Firth and experience 75 minutes of action on the water. Dolphins aren’t guaranteed, although seals, otters, and other wildlife are commonly seen as well.

Velocity Cafe

Time for a quick stop at the Velocity Café , where a cycling-themed idea is in force. You can’t miss the bike hanging in the window. If you’re thirsty, it’s the perfect spot for a Velocitea!

They offer an amazing range of healthy salads, but you might find it hard to choose one of those instead of a cake. I won’t reveal what I ate when I visited; I’ll just say after all the exploring, I was hungry. Salad wouldn’t have done the trick.

River House Restaurant

Look for the famous suspension bridge on Greig Street and you’ll also find the charming River House Restaurant . If seafood is your thing, don’t miss it. Freshly prepared seafood and shellfish are served daily.

Choosing something to eat is the biggest issue. Fortunately, they serve sharing plates for you both to enjoy. The Shetland scallops and Orkney crab sound appealing, and they also serve the classic Cullen Skink.

The Malt Room

What better place could there be to sample a dram or two of Scotland’s finest whisky creations?

Situated in Church Street, the charming bar is modern and welcoming. Choose from Modest, Memorable, and Magnificent drams from Scotland and worldwide. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening.

They also create seasonal tastings; one recent event included whisky and doughnuts. Who am I to argue with that?

Victorian Market

Fancy a spot of shopping? If the weather isn’t playing ball, you can head for the Victorian Market – a covered building filled with independent shops.

Don’t miss the Milk Bar when you need a break – they serve coffee from a local coffee roasting company. Just be warned – it’s almost impossible to resist the amazing ice cream treats also served there. Coffee and ice cream? Oh, yes…

Leakey’s Bookshop

Wander among the thousands of volumes held inside an old church dating from 1793. Read romances and live your own with your significant other inside this stunning building.

Seek out the wood-burning fire and a comfy sofa to share for an hour or two as you discover old volumes and new authors. No visit to Inverness would be complete without checking out Leakey’s .

The Highland Games may have its home in Braemar where the Royal Family gather, but most towns and villages – and cities – hold their own.

The Highland Games weekend in Inverness usually takes place in July, but check the latest dates for the next event before you travel if you’re planning on visiting for this purpose.

Take these suggestions and recommendations as a starting point for your exploration of Inverness. You’re only a few miles from Loch Ness, the Beauly Firth lies to the west of the city and the Moray Firth to the east. Just over the Kessock Bridge you’ve got the Black Isle, easily reached by car.

Recommended Inverness Tours

Inverness is a great base for adventures throughout the north of Scotland and the Scottish Highlands. You could take an Isle of Skye tour from Inverness , head into the Cairngorms National Park, or drive down to Glenfinnan to see the steam train crossing the famous Harry Potter viaduct !

• 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour of Inverness – from £12pp
• Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip from Inverness – from £59pp
• Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle Day Trip from Inverness – from £43.99pp
• 2-day Isle of Skye, Fairy Pools & Castles Tour – from £135pp

Whatever you’re in the mood for, Inverness has got something for you. And if you want to head further afield, check out these other posts on Scotland:

Planning a Weekend in Edinburgh

A Local’s Guide to Glasgow

9 of the Best Scottish Gin Distilleries

How to See + Ride the Harry Potter Train in Scotland

Graham Grieve is a Scottish travel blogger. Over the years, Graham has travelled the length and breadth of Scotland and knows Inverness very well. You can keep up to date with Graham at his Scottish travel blog My Voyage Scotland .

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Inverness Cathedral

Take a trip to the capital of the Highlands, Inverness. Explore this compact city and discover a slower way of life, but still with interesting things to do and events. Use Inverness as a base to explore Highland scenery, iconic castles, majestic mountains and unique wildlife, including the famous Loch Ness monster.

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Things to do in Inverness

Inverness has everything from history to wild landscapes on its doorstep. Explore distilleries and castles, and go looking for the famous Loch Ness monster.

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11 Amazing Activities & Things to do in Inverness

Find out about attractions, activities, tours and more in Inverness.

Inverness by public transport with Good Journey

Take public transport to these Inverness attractions and you could get a discount on your tickets.

The Highlands movie map

Explore iconic locations across the Highlands that have starred in blockbuster movies.

See where to catch a glimpse of a variety of Scottish species including majestic red deer, black grouse, golden eagles, osprey and ptarmigan.

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Discover the hidden gems of Loch Ness, and explore some of the best things to see & do in the area. From ancient mysteries, to enchanting forests.

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More information on the monster's background and potential whereabouts.

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Find great things to do in Moray Speyside. Including towns to explore, towers to climb, castles to discover, and more!

Inspiration for Inverness breaks

Inverness Youth Hostel

Places to stay

City centre hostels, quiet apartments or comfortable hotels - find accommodation in Inverness for your break.

Clava Cairns, near Culloden

Tours, Routes & Trails

Plan a hike up a nearby mountain, or cycle around a nearby loch. Book a tour to learn more on everything from wildlife to history.

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Travel to and Around Inverness

Plan your trip to Inverness with our handy travel info, or check out Visit Inverness Loch Ness for more travel tips .

Getting to Inverness

Getting around inverness, bus and coach.

There are many frequent and affordable bus services that travel from various main cities to Inverness daily.

• Megabus to Inverness
• Scottish Citylink to Inverness
• Flixbus to Inverness

Inverness railway station is right in the heart of the city and has frequent fast and reliable services to and from major cities.

LNER trains run along the east coast from cities such as London, York, Newcastle and Edinburgh.

Book with LNER

ScotRail provides an express rail service direct to Inverness from many major cities.

Check ScotRail timetables

Inverness can also be reached overnight from London on the Caledonian Sleeper.

Travel overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper

ScotRail are also offering a 20% discount on off-peak tickets for Caledonian Sleeper customers.

Inverness is linked to the rest of Scotland and UK by the A9. It is a great base for travelling further north or west into the Highlands, or for exploring Moray Speyside to the east.

• From Edinburgh or Glasgow - 3 hours
• From Manchester - 6 hours 30 minutes
• From Birmingham - 8 hours

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Inverness Airport is located 9 miles north-east of Inverness. You can fly from a number of destinations across the UK and Europe.

You can travel from the airport to the city centre in around 30 minutes by bus, tram, taxi or car.

Find out more on getting to Inverness from the airport

Inverness is easily explored on foot with most key attractions within walking distance of each other. Attractions beyond the city centre can be reached cost effectively by public transport and again explored further by foot.

Find walks in and around Inverness

You can easily hire a bike in Inverness from  Ticket To Ride  or use the  Hi-Bike service . 

Check out the Hi-Travel active travel map for recommended routes | PDF 1.9MB

Stagecoach operate regular buses across the city of Inverness.

Plan your journey within Inverness with Stagecoach

Plan your journey around Inverness with Traveline Journey Planner

There are several taxi companies available in Inverness. There are also licensed taxi ranks at Inverness Airport, Inverness Bus Station and Inverness Train Station.

Want to relax and let someone else drive?

Book a tour and hear from a knowledgeable local tour guide as they highlight points of interest, stop off at the best hidden gems and visit the iconic landmarks you’ve heard all about.

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What's on in Inverness

The Eden Court Theatre in Inverness

Check out what's on at the city's theatre, or get a flavour of traditional Scotland at the Inverness Highland Games. 

Places to eat in and around Inverness

Ness Walk Hotel and the Torrish Restaurant

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

Food & Drink

Enjoy a tasty bar meal, dine in a luxury restaurant, or find a food truck serving fresh local produce. There are some great places to eat in and around Inverness.

A tip from your local expert

Loch Ness by Jacobite - 5 star cruises on Loch Ness.

Experience the splendour of Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle by joining a cruise with Loch Ness by Jacobite. They offer a range of trips from a one-hour leisurely cruise to a six-hour coach and cruise combination.

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Must-Visit Attractions in and Around Inverness, Scotland

In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is surrounded by a wealth of places to visit. From naturally beautiful areas such as Loch Ness to man-made marvels including Cawdor Castle, the scope of things to see and do can be dizzying. Here are the best attractions in the area.

If you’re looking for a coastal adventure, you can now travel with Culture Trip to the Inner and Outer Hebrides – taking in the showstopping natural attractions and village communities of the Isles of Skye, Harris and Lewis. With a local insider leading the way, you’ll get an insight many other visitors don’t.

The most famous loch in the world and home to Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster, Loch Ness needs little introduction. Whether you decide to drive the short distance here from Inverness, walk or cycle along the canal and river, this is one place you need to see when visiting the area.

Urquhart Castle

On the banks of Loch Ness stands Urquhart Castle, an ancient fortress. While it’s mostly in ruins, it’s supposedly one of the best places to spot Nessie. There is a full-sized trebuchet siege engine, a pier for boat tours of the loch and an excellent visitor centre.

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Culloden Battlefield

On a windswept moorland, the Battle of Culloden ended the Jacobite cause and altered the course of UK history. Today, the battlefield is home to an informative visitor centre that provides excellent audio tours and features various artefacts.

Falcon Square

Gerald Laing designed the sandstone-and-bronze Falcon Square Mercat Cross in 2002. It features a falcon on each side, swooping down to catch its prey, and a 8ft (2m) unicorn, the national animal of Scotland, at the top.

RZSS Highland Wildlife Park

Specialising in native Scottish wildlife and other colder weather creatures, the RZSS Highland Wildlife Park has received acclaim for its Scottish wildcat breeding programme, as it tries to save the species from extinction. Other natural treasures include native grey wolves, polar bears and red pandas.

Eden Court Highlands

With several different shows every year, two theatres, two cinema screens, three galleries and various workshops, Eden Court Highlands is the pre-eminent arts venue in northern Scotland. It underwent a refurbishment and extension between 2004 and 2008, and many people travel to Inverness for the sole purpose of seeing one of the performances it hosts.

Munlochy Clootie Well

Clootie wells, the eerie and ancient Celtic tradition of hanging rags from trees, are seen in a few spots around Inverness, such as near Culloden. However, the main place to see this is at Munlochy, just north of the city, where there are thousands of scraps of fabric ominously decorating the trees.

Cawdor Castle and Gardens

This 15th-century castle, with roots dating back to the 14th century, was the home of the Thane of Cawdor, made famous by his mention in William Shakespeare’s cursed play, Macbeth . In addition to its rich history, the castle is home to three beautiful gardens: the walled, flower and wild gardens.

Beauly Priory

Disestablished in 1634, this 13th-century monastic settlement is surprisingly well preserved and worth exploring. The monks, originally from France, gave the priory the name Beauly, from the French beau lieu , meaning beautiful place.

Inverness Botanic Gardens

A subtropical wonderland in northern Scotland, the Inverness Botanic Gardens grow an astounding array of plants, from cacti to pitcher plants, with added fish ponds and even a waterfall. The sheltered outdoor garden is colourful and an excellent place to walk around on a sunny day; as the gardens sit between the Caledonian Canal and the River Ness, the opportunities to walk further are tempting.

Glenmorangie Distillery

It isn’t easy to select one distillery to recommend, simply because there are so many excellent options on offer. However, Glenmorangie is an excellent choice. It has three different tours and experiences, and a visit can potentially be combined with a day trip to Dornoch, Tain and the Seaboard Villages. Just be careful not to have too many wee drams on your visit.

Apart from the miles of sand, the challenging golf course, the walks, the shops and the excellent places to eat, the beauty of this little seaside town is that it’s only a 15-minute train ride from Inverness. Actress Tilda Swinton lives here, and with good reason; it’s a lovely corner of the world.

If you want to sample traditional Highland hospitality, drink, music and dance, Hootananny is perhaps the best option. On Fridays and Saturdays, some of the tables are cleared to enable ceilidh dancing, bringing with it many smiles, laughter and a feeling of accomplishment when you remember the steps.

River Ness and the Inverness Castle

The best way to see Inverness Castle is to walk along the River Ness, which provides several picture-worthy angles. Strolling along the banks, as people have been doing since before St Columba preached here in 565CE, is a great way to explore the heart of the city.

Clava Cairns

A prehistoric, Bronze Age cemetery, first used around 4,000 years ago, Clava Cairns is also a popular place to visit for Outlander fans. As it’s close to Culloden, it’s worth combining a visit to both sites.

Fort George (and dolphins)

Possibly the largest artillery fortification in Europe, the 18th-century Fort George was built to deter another Jacobite rebellion. There is an excellent museum detailing the Jacobite uprising, and the walls are a wonderful place to catch a glimpse of the wild dolphins that make the nearby waters home.

Glen Affric

If you’re looking for classic Highland scenery, somewhere away from the bustling crowds and full of incredible natural beauty and an abundance of wildlife, then Glen Affric is worth a visit. To get there, it’s a short trip to Cannich from Inverness, and you can then walk or cycle along the stunning glen.

Victorian Market

Built in the 19th century, this picturesque market is home to an abundance of cool craft shops and independent boutiques. If you start to feel peckish, the market also has a selection of delicious cafes and eateries.

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

Built to house the artefacts that tell the story of Inverness, the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery offers you an insight into Highland life. Meanwhile, the adjoining art galleries feature both permanent and temporary exhibitions, with a special highlight on local artists.

Inverness Cathedral

One of the more defining landmarks in Inverness, the cathedral, designed by architect Alexander Ross, stands as a monument to the religious beliefs in the area. With its foundation stone laid in 1866, it was the second cathedral built following the reformation.

Leakey’s Bookshop

Among the largest bookshops in Scotland – and built inside a former church – Leakey’s Bookshop is a literature lover’s dream. With everything from rare prints to classic editions, there is sure to be something that catches your eye. The shop also houses a cafe, which is perfect for taking a break.

Highlanders’ Museum

Showcasing the rich military history of Scotland’s Highland regiments, the Highlanders’ Museum is a must-visit for any history buff. Chronicling the Highland soldiers’ history from the nearby Battle of Culloden straight through to the active regiments of today, the museum shares the lives of the soldiers as well as some of their greatest victories.

A short trip out of the city, the Fairy Glen is a magical spot in the Highlands, with two picturesque waterfalls. The glen was once used for a traditional ceremony in which children would decorate the pond with flowers to keep the resident fairies happy. Part of a nature trail, the walk to the glen leads you through some terrific woodland.

Ness Islands

Lying in the middle of the River Ness, the Ness Islands are the perfect destination for a leisurely Sunday stroll. Crossing Victorian suspension bridges over to the islands, you’ll find several nature trails that will lead you around the area and past other local attractions, such as the Inverness Botanic Gardens and Whin Park.

Hogwarts Express and the Scenic Highlands Tour

For any Harry Potter fans who fancy a treat, why not take a trip on the real-life Hogwarts Express? Travelling from Inverness on the Jacobite steam train, the tour of the Highlands will take you through some of the most breath-taking scenery in the country. As a bonus, you’ll travel over the magnificent Glenfinnan Viaduct, a feat of Victorian engineering.

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Places to stay to book in inverness for a local experience.

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See & Do

Great day trips to take from inverness, scotland.

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20 Unforgettable Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Inverness

Inverness is a city in the Scottish Highlands region of Scotland, Great Britain. The city sits on the banks of River Ness, Beauly Firth, and Moray Firth. The majority of the best things to do in Inverness , Scotland can be found on the banks of these water bodies.

In Scottish Gaelic, Inverness literally means Mouth of the River Ness. The city sits on the banks of River Ness and Loch Ness. The latter is one of the most popular places to visit in Inverness , Scotland. It is best known for the Loch Ness Monster. The mythical creature has been popularized by books, films, documentaries and conspiracy theories. These have made Loch Ness one of the most well-known Inverness tourist attractions .

People can take a boat tour to explore the Loch. Some guided tours exclusively focus on the Loch Ness Monster. These tours are among the top activities to do in Inverness . The Loch is also surrounded by incredible natural beauty, historical sites, and small towns. You will get to see long canals, grasslands, rocky cliffs, and ruined castles. These are some of the beautiful things to see in Inverness .

The castles specifically hold great historical significance. They have been part of many battles of the Scottish Highlands since the Middle Ages. You will find many Inverness attractions from the period.

You can also visit the sites of major battles when you visit Inverness. The 11th-century battle of Blar nam Feinne and the 18th-century battle of Culloden are the most important ones in the region’s history. These battle sites are among the most popular day trips from Inverness. The site of the Battle of Culloden has been turned into an immersive experience.

There are also many historical sites within the city. Historical Inverness attractions include churches, castles, forts, market halls, and old houses. While the majority of these date between the 17th and 19th centuries, you will also find places that were built during the Middle Ages.

Besides the lochs, lakes, and rivers; the city is also surrounded by immense natural beauty. There are a lot of fun things to do around Inverness for people who enjoy nature and the outdoors. You can explore forests, mountains, wildlife parks, and rocky cliffs. These hills of the Scottish Highlands are also home to some renowned Scotch Whiskey Distilleries. You can take a tour of these places during Inverness sightseeing and try the famed Scotch directly from the source.

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Table of Contents

Top 20 Tourist Places to Visit in Inverness, Scotland

1. inverness museum and art gallery.

This museum and art gallery are housed in the Wynd Castle. The art gallery focuses on the Highland and Jacobite artworks. The gallery has a permanent collection of historical works and temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary artworks.

The museum focuses on the history and culture of the Highlands region of Scotland. It is one of the best places to visit in Inverness to give a little perspective to the rest of the trip.

The museum covers the region’s geology, politics, fashion, warfare, archeological findings, and more. You will need about 2 hours to tour the museum and the gallery.

2. Inverness Castle

This castle is one of the most iconic things to see in Inverness, Scotland. The castle was built in 1836 on the site of an 11th-century fort. It is best known for its red sandstone exterior. People can only tour specific parts of the castle, while the rest is used as the Sherriff Court.

You can explore the castle grounds to witness the wonderful work of 19th-century architecture and engineering. People can also climb the north tower to get amazing views of the castle. It is one of the top things to do in Inverness for sightseeing. You will need about an hour to explore the castle.

3. Caledonian Canal

The canal connects Inverness with Corpach. It was built in the 19th century and was designed by Thomas Telford. It runs for about 97 km and consists of 29 lochs, 10 bridges, and 4 aqueducts.

You can explore parts of the canal by road. But the best way to enjoy the engineering marvel is with a boat tour. It is one of the best things to do near Inverness, Scotland.

The tour takes you through various parts of the canal narrating its history and engineering work behind it. You will need about an hour for this tour when you visit Inverness.

I suggest you should go for a 2.5 Hours Cruise Trip to Caledonian Canal .

4. Loch Ness

This loch is best known for the legend of the Loch Ness monster. The stories, tales, theories, shows, and documentaries have generated incredible buzz for the Loch Ness monster. People still come to tour the loch in a boat in hopes of catching a glimpse of the creature. It is one of the most popular day trips from Inverness.

Even without any sight of the monster, Loch Ness is a beautiful natural landscape. The calm waters are surrounded by lush green mountains and forests. You can also enjoy hiking and cycling trails along the banks of Loch Ness. It is one of the best things to do around Inverness, Scotland. You will need about half a day to enjoy a trip to Loch Ness.

I suggest you should book a Loch Ness Sightseeing Cruise in advance.

5. Urquhart Castle

This ancient castle stands on the banks of Loch Ness. The boat trip of the loch will also take you to tour this castle. This castle dates back to the 14th century and is one of the most important historical sites of Scotland. It also played a significant role in the Scottish Wars of Independence.

Despite being in ruins, the castle is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Inverness, Scotland. Even in ruins, you will see the size and architecture of the castle. You also get amazing views of the Loch Ness from Urquhart Castle. You will need about an hour to tour this castle.

I suggest you should book your Trip to Urquhart Castle in advance.

6. Inverness Cathedral (Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew)

This Anglican cathedral is dedicated to St. Andrew, the patron saint of Inverness. It was built in the 19th century and was designed by Alexander Ross. The cathedral is a fine example of the Scottish Episcopal Church.

The church is built with red tarradle stone and columns of Peterhead granite. It is one of the most incredible Inverness tourist attractions. The stone carvings of the exterior and wood carvings of the interior along with stain-glass windows are the best features of this church. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore it.

7. Ness Islands

This group of islands sits in the river Ness and are connected with the mainland through Victorian suspension bridges. The islands are a lush green retreat within the city.

They are perfect for outdoor activities to do in Inverness, Scotland. You can enjoy nature trails through the woods, explore the botanic gardens, and enjoy some leisurely time in this Park. You can easily spend an hour or so on Ness Islands when you travel to Inverness, Scotland.

8. Fort George

This fort was built in 1746 by George II after the defeat of Culloden. Then during the late 18th century, this fort had the mightiest artillery in Britain. It is one of the most impressive places to see in Inverness, Scotland.

The fort is massive in all regards. You can tour almost the entire fort to see how the defenses have been set up. In the garrison buildings, you will see weapons, uniforms, ammunition pouches, bayonets, and so on. The fort is a major highlight of sightseeing in Inverness, Scotland. You will need about 2 to 3 hours to tour this entire fort.

I suggest you should book a Day Trip to Fort George in advance.

9. Clava Cairns

The archeological findings from this site date back 4000 years ago. The site shows evidence of human settlement from the Bronze Age. It was a cemetery as well as a sacred place.

A guided tour of the place will give a glimpse of the prehistoric life. It is one of the most fascinating Inverness attractions. You will see evidences of farming, settlements, and constructed monuments. It takes about an hour or so to tour this site.

I suggest you should book your Tour to Clava Cairns in advance.

10. Culloden Battlefield

The Battle of Culloden is considered one of the most brutal ones in the history of the country. It was the last battle of the Jacobite rising in 1746. It is said that more than 1500 men died under an hour in this battle.

The visitor center recreates events of the battle and the history behind it through interactive experiences. It is one of the top things to do in Inverness for families. The center also holds some interesting artifacts from the battle including weapons, uniforms, personal belongings, and so on. It truly gives you a sense of this battle’s impact. You will need about 2 hours from Inverness travel to tour the battle site.

I suggest you should book a Day Trip to Culloden Battlefield in advance.

11. Cawdor Castle & Gardens

This castle dates back to the 14th century and is one of the magnificent medieval structures. The castle has been mentioned in Shakespeare’s renowned play Macbeth. In the play, it was home to the Thane of Cawdor.

People visit this castle for its history and architecture. It is also one of the best Inverness day trip destinations for its majestic gardens as well. The castle grounds have three gardens: a flower garden, a walled garden, and a wild garden. You will need to take 2 to 3 hours from Inverness sightseeing to explore this castle.

12. The Victorian Market

Dating back to the 19th century, this market has been at the heart of the city’s culture. It is a great piece of Victorian architecture. The wooden roof dome, cast iron column tops, and rounded storefronts are visible features of the era’s architecture.

You will find a variety of shops selling street food, bakery goods, handicraft items, boutique stores, and more. This is the right place if you are looking for fun things to do in Inverness city centre. You can easily spend a couple of hours exploring this market.

13. Inverness Botanic Gardens

These gardens offer a tranquil space to explore the varieties of nature. This place has themed gardens, flower gardens, herb gardens, fruit cages, cactus house and more. It also has fountains, ponds, and seating spaces. This is one of the best places to go in Inverness for some leisure time. You can easily spend an hour or so here enjoying the peace and tranquility here.

14. Fort William

This town sits on the shores of Loch Linnhe on the banks of the Caledonian Canal. It is one of the most popular day trips from Inverness. The town is named after an old fort which now lies in ruins.

Alongside the old fort, you will find the Great Glen Way. This is a 123 km long glen. It is the longest one in Scotland. You can stroll along the banks of this glen while exploring the town.

Fort William is also known for fun things to do near Inverness. The town is close to Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. You can enjoy some amazing hiking trails around the mountain. You will need to take a day from Inverness Travel to enjoy a trip to Fort William and its surroundings.

I suggest you should go for a Seal Spotting Cruise Trip in Fort William.

15. Leakey’s Bookshop

This historic bookstore looks like it has been pulled straight from Harry Potter. The family-owned store has been around since 1979. It has become part of the city’s culture and one of the most popular Inverness tourist attractions.

The bookstore is housed in an old Gaelic Chuch and is filled to the brim with books from different periods. The store has more than 100,000 volumes of books, prints, charts, maps, and more. It is one of the most interesting places to see in Inverness. You can easily spend 30 to 45 minutes exploring it.

16. Glen Ord Distillery (The Singleton Distillery)

The Scottish Highlands produce one of the most renowned whiskies in the world: the Scotch. And one of the best things to do in and around Inverness is to explore the golden drink in its native land.

While you will get to try and enjoy a variety of scotch whiskies in the city, you should visit the source once. The Glen Ord Distillery dates back to 1838 and is well-known for The Singleton brand.

You can tour the distillery to see how the iconic scotch whiskey is made. People also get to try out variants of the drink during the tour. This tour is also one of the more popular Inverness day trips and you will need about 2 to 3 hours for it.

I suggest you should book your Tour to Northern Whisky Distilleries .

17. Isle of Skye

This island sits on the west coast of the Highlands. It is known for cliffs, valleys, grasslands, and lochs. The island is one of the most magnificent natural landscapes in the UK. It is one of the best places to visit near Inverness for outdoor activities.

The island is only 3 hours away by road. It is a natural paradise with majestic rock formations and monumental sea cliffs. You will feel like you are exploring a fantasy land. There are numerous hiking, trekking, and mountain climbing trails to explore on this island. You will need to dedicate at least a day from the Inverness trip to explore this island.

I suggest you should book a Day Trip to Isle of Sky in advance.

18. Fort Augustus

This town sits on the banks of Loch Ness and is frequented by travellers in search of the Loch Ness Monster. It is a scenic village by the waterbody with some nice harbours and viewpoints.

It is also the origin point of many hiking and cycling trails around the loch. You will need about 2 to 3 hours from Inverness sightseeing to visit this village.

19. Highland Wildlife Park

This park is home to a variety of animals from different parts of the world. The animals are kept in large natural habitats. If you are fond of wildlife, this park is among the best places to visit in Inverness. You get to admire them in their full glory instead of in caged condition.

You will see Amur Tigers, Polar Bears, European Wolves, Bukhara Deers, Eurasian Elks, Wild Horses, Snow Leopards, and many other amazing animals. The wildlife park is also popular for fun things to do in Inverness for families. This includes interactive experiences with the animals and feeding sessions. You will need about 2 to 3 hours to enjoy this place.

20. Glenmorangie Distillery

This is yet another Distillery of a popular Scotch whiskey brand you can tour when you visit Inverness. The brand dates back its origins to 1843. It is one of the most well-known Scotch whiskey brands in the world.

You can tour the distillery to see how Glenmorangie makes their signature whiskeys. You will also get to try out different products of the brand and buy a bottle or two directly from the source. This is again a popular day trip from Inverness. You will need at least 2 to 3 hours for the trip.

If you are looking for more things to do in and around Inverness, check out the sections below. We have compiled a complete list of attractions and activities that you can enjoy while sightseeing this city in the Scottish Highlands.

Things to do in inverness, scotland, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in inverness, scotland.

• National Memorial of Scotland
• Balnain House
• Inverness Castle
• Inverness Museum and Gallery
• Urquhart Castle
• Clava Cairns
• Culloden Battlefield
• Cawdor Castle
• Fort George
• Fort William Old Castle
• Fort Augustus
• Knocknagael Boar Stone
• Chanonry Lighthouse
• Inverness Cathedral
• Cumberland Stone
• Clootie Well
• Highlander’s Museum
• Fortose Cathedral
• Wardlaw Mausoleum
• Old High Church
• Highland Archive Center
• The Barn Church
• St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church
• St. Columba’s Catholic Church
• Browns Gallery
• Saint Ninian’s Church
• Smithton Church
• Hall of Names
• Behind the Radar
• Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Center
• Abertaff House

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Inverness, Scotland

• Moray Firth
• Beauly Firth
• Merkinch Local Nature Reserve
• Craig Phadrig
• Isle of Skye
• Reelig Glen
• Craig Dunain Duck Pond
• The Great Glen Way Trail

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Inverness, Scotland

• Ness Islands
• Inverness Botanic Gardens
• Leakey’s Bookshop
• Glen Ord Distillery
• Highland Wildlife Park
• Glenmorangie Distillery
• Bellfield Park
• Ardersier Common
• Inverness Ice Center
• Walker Park
• Inverness Crazy Golf
• Inverness Leisure Center
• Uilebheist Distillery
• Eden Court Theatre and Gallery
• Tomatin Distillery
• Infinity Trampoline Park
• Ness Islands Railway

Shopping in Inverness, Scotland

• Victorian Market
• Eastfield Retail Park
• Eastgate Shopping Center
• Holm Mils Shopping Village
• Inverness High Street
• Inverness Shopping Centre
• Inverness Farmers’ Market

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Inverness, Scotland

Sightseeing in inverness, scotland.

• Milton of Leys Viewpoint
• Kessock Bridge
• Chanonry Point
• Fort William
• Greg Street Bridge
• Dolphin Viewpoint
• Tomnahurich Cemetery Hill

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Inverness, Scotland

• The Mustard Seed
• River House
• Macgregor’s Bar
• Velocity Cafe
• The Kitchen
• Scotch & Rye
• The Castle Tavern
• The White House
• Cafe Artysans
• Fig & Thistle

Where to Stay in Inverness?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Inverness. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Inverness.

Luxurious Hotels

• Bunchrew House Hotel
• Loch Ness Country House Hotel at Dunain Park
• Kingsmills Hotel
• Loch Ness Lodge
• Highland Apartments by Mansley
• Inverness City Suites
• The Chieftain Hotel
• Bazpackers Hostel
• Torridon Guest House

Mid-Range Hotels

• The Royal Highland Hotel
• Glenmoriston Townhouse Hotel
• Craigmonie Hotel Inverness by Compass Hospitality
• The Glen Mhor Hotel & Apartments
• Inverness Lochardil House Hotel
• Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa
• River Ness Hotel, a Member of Radisson Individuals
• Moyness House
• Carisbrooke Guest House
• Loch Ness Clansman Hotel

Budget Hotels

• Premier Inn Inverness Centre River Ness
• Strathness House
• Ardentorrie Guest House
• Travelodge Inverness City Centre Hotel
• Travelodge Inverness Fairways
• Premier Inn Inverness East hotel
• Columba Hotel
• Premier Inn Inverness West hotel
• Travelodge Inverness
• Holiday Inn Express Inverness, An IHG Hotel

Custom Tours Package in Inverness

How to reach inverness, scotland.

The Inverness Airport sits about 15 km east of the city. You can get direct flights to visit Inverness from London , Palma de Mallorca , Amsterdam , Belfast , Bristol , Manchester , Sumburgh, Kirkwall, Benbecula, Stornoway, and Bergen . You can get cabs and buses from the airport to the city. The Inverness Airport station also runs train services to the city centre.

If you are travelling from other international destinations, you can also choose the airports of Aberdeen , Edinburgh or Glasgow . You will get trains from each of these cities to reach Inverness.

The train network of the United Kingdom connects Inverness to several towns and cities in Scotland, England and Wales. The city is connected to three train routes: ScotRail, CrossCountry, and Caledonian Sleeper. You can get direct trains to reach Inverness from cities like Perth, Aberdeen, Dundee , Stirling , Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, Newcastle , Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool , Birmingham , and many more.

You can also get buses to travel to Inverness from several cities and towns in the UK. However, if you need to cover a significant distance, you should go for train travel. It is faster and more convenient. Bus travel is suitable to reach places to visit near Inverness.

The city sits at the intersection of routes A9 and A82. You can pick the most suitable routes among these to reach Inverness by car. These are also the primary routes to go for day trips from Inverness.

There are no direct boat routes to travel to Inverness. However, you can get boat rides and ferries to tour Loch Ness. The tour also extends to Fort William and Mount Ben Nevis.

Image Reference

• Inverness Museum and Art Gallery – Gabriel Mauricio Salmén / Flickr
• Inverness Castle – Andreas Finkelmeyer / Flickr
• Caledonian Canal – Gertjan van Noord / Flickr
• Loch Ness Lake – Joao De Almeida / Flickr
• Urquhart Castle – Malcolm Manners / Flickr
• Inverness Cathedral (Cathedral Church of Saint Andrew) – Stefan Klaas / Flickr
• Ness Islands – Dave Conner / Flickr
• Fort George – Katie Burt / Flickr
• Clava Cairns – Dave Conner / Flickr
• Culloden Battlefield – Jeff Hitchcock / Flickr
• Cawdor Castle & Gardens – Vicky Brock / Flickr
• The Victorian Market – Charles / Flickr
• Inverness Botanic Gardens – Matt Ruff / Flickr
• Fort Wiliam – mariejirousek / Flickr
• Leakey’s Bookshop – sethoscope / Flickr
• Glen Ord Distillery (The Singleton Distillery) – Paul A Hardy / Flickr
• Isle of Skye – Harry Burgess / PixaBay
• Fort Augustus – Tom Parnell / Flickr
• Highland Wildlife Park – Charlie Marshall / Flickr
• Glenmorangie Distillery – Jack Shainsky / Flickr
• 28 Wonderful Tourist Places to See and Things to Do in Stuttgart, Germany

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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Inverness Travel Guide (including essential tips, itinerary & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 5, 2024

Our  Inverness Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for the beautiful Highland city. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Inverness!

Plan your visit to Inverness

The Scottish city of Inverness is the perfect base to explore the Highlands of Scotland. If you enjoy road trips the North Coast 500 is recognised as one of the most spectacularly scenic drives around the world.

Inverness is one of our recommended top 19 attractions, sights and landmarks to see in Scotland.

What you will find in this complete Inverness Travel Guide

Map of Inverness

When is the best time of year to visit inverness, how many days do you need in inverness, what is the best way to explore inverness, 🚆 by train from london, 🚗 by car (road trip option), ✈️ fly to inverness airport, attractions and things to do in inverness, attractions and things to do in scotland, inverness accommodation quick picks, inverness travel guide -tickets, tours & attractions, best day trips from inverness, best multi-day tours from inverness, best pubs, cafes and restaurants in inverness, books to read before visiting inverness, enjoy your visit to inverness.

Inverness travel guide – Visiting Inverness FAQ’s

The best time to visit Inverness is during the late spring and summer. These are the busy times of the year with warmer weather and long light days.

If you prefer to avoid crowds aim for September and October. The weather can still be good during these months and you will find better deals on accommodation.

Make sure to pack for the weather – layers are always recommended (and waterproofs too) whatever time of year you plan to visit.

If you are visiting in winter note that the weather can be particularly brutal with low temperatures, snow and of course short dark days the norm.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

Inverness is a fantastic base from which to explore the Highlands. Catch the train to Thurso and Wick or to the Kyle of Lochalsh for Skye and the Hebrides. Alternatively, pick up a tour to the Isle of Skye from Inverness.

The North Coast 500 begins in Inverness and follows a circular route through some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery. Plan to spend at least 5 days to make the most of this fantastic Scottish road trip .

• Inverness is a compact, walkable city easy to get around.
• There is a hop on hop off bus available as well as taxis and buses to get you around the city.
• Hire a car from Inverness train station or Inverness airport. Alternatively, there are taxis available to transfer into the city or you can book a private transfer here .

🚗 There are a multitude of car rental companies to choose from in the UK. We recommend comparing prices and deals Discover Cars  before making your booking.

What is the best way to travel to Inverness from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline .

We recommend booking the Caledonian Sleeper service to Inverness from London. Leave London in the evening and arrive in Inverness the following morning.

This is a fabulous trip and although not cheap it is the perfect way to travel between the 2 cities by train.

Alternatively, take the East Coast Mainline from London to Edinburgh. Once in Edinburgh, you have 2 options – read more in our guide to the top 10 scenic train journeys in the UK.

🔀 Distance from London : 715 km (444 miles)

🕐 Time taken by sleeper train: 11 ½ hours

📍 Leave from: London Euston (Caledonian Sleeper)

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

If you are taking a road trip around the UK and plan to include Inverness in your itinerary make sure you book hotels & accommodation well ahead of time especially if you are visiting during the busy summer months.

I recommend checking car hire options through  Rentalcars.com  who compare the prices from a number of companies to secure the best deal for you.

If you want to fly directly to Inverness from London Gatwick, Luton or Heathrow. We recommend checking skyscanner for flights,

Click here for transfers from Inverness airport

THINGS TO DO IN INVERNESS

BEST DAY TRIPS FROM INVERNESS

SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE

19 PLACES TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND

SCOTTISH ISLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE

EDINBURGH TRAVEL GUIDE

NORTHUMBERLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

ISLE OF SKYE TRAVEL GUIDE

Accommodation in Inverness

There is a variety of accommodation options in Inverness to suit every budget. These are my choices of some of the best hotels in the city based on location and customer reviews.

Pentahotel Inverness

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Located 100 m from the city’s train and bus stations

Ness House B&B

Located in the centre of Inverness, Ness House has free WiFi and free private parking.

Wee Ness Lodge

Boasting a patio with river views, a garden and a terrace

➡️ Area and accommodation guide to Inverness

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for Scotland.

This is our selection of the best tours and attractions available in Inverness .

Click here for more tickets, tours and attractions for Inverness

Best day & multi-day trips from Inverness

I have handpicked the best tours available from Inverness through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy) and Viator (another tour company we have used during our travels).

You will find even more options to choose from in our guide to the best day trips and multi-day tours from Inverness.

There are so many fantastic places to eat in Inverness you are spoilt for choice. These are our top picks:

• MacGregors Bar – local and seasonal dishes
• Scotch and Rye – Gastropub with craft beers
• The Grumpy Chef – Best brunch in town
• The Mustard Seed – Beautiful food in a stunning setting
• Castle Tavern – Terraced beer garden with castle views
• Cafe 1 – locally sourced produce 

For more Scottish literary inspiration check out my selection of 25 of the best books to read before you visit Scotland.

This guide will provide inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Inverness . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Scotland in these travel guides:

Best castle hotels in Scotland

Aberdeen Travel Guide

St Andrews Travel Guide

Glasgow Travel Guide

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Things to do in Edinburgh

10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Scotland Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

Special in Spring

Discover the history, experiences, people and places that surround Inverness and Loch Ness.

The official website for the Inverness & Loch Ness tourism destination

Everything you need in one place to plan the perfect holiday, day out or most exciting adventure! Discover the best places to stay in Inverness and Loch Ness , explore all the exciting food and drink options of Inverness city or in the rural communities surrounding Loch Ness and create the most amazing itinerary with all that there is to see and do In Inverness and Loch Ness .

Exploring our diverse destination gives you the best of both worlds combining stunning natural landscapes of Loch Ness with the bright lights and city vibe of Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.

What's on In Inverness and Loch Ness

Find out what's on throughout the year in Inverness and Loch Ness on our helpful What's on calendar of events. There may be something not to miss during your trip or you may find something to inspire you to come and visit!

Lochs, sea, rivers, waterfalls, and the Caledonian canal, there is so much to explore on and in our waters.

Discover 1000 years of history when visiting Inverness and Loch Ness.

From fine dining to street food, there are options catering for all tastes and budgets.

where to see our beloved Highland coos!

Find out all the facts you need to know about our most legendary resident.

Catch a glimpse of the Loch Ness monster from where ever you are in the world!

Be inspired and discover more!

Discover our history, explore our waters, meet our people, taste the Highlands, experience nature ... and find our monster!

Come and experience the very best of Inverness and Loch Ness, read our inspirational guides and create the best itinerary, we can guarantee you will need to stay for longer!

Memories to be made for a lifetime - don’t just dream it, live it!

Discover the local communities

Driving along the banks of Loch Ness is just the start of discovering what our destination has to offer. Make sure to build time in your itinerary to discover the wonderful, local villages and communities that surround Inverness and Loch ness. 

Explore the Highlands

From picturesque villages and untamed wilderness to the rolling hills and legendary Loch Ness monster, make Visit Inverness Loch Ness your single port of call when planning a holiday to one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland.

Spring into Inverness and Loch Ness

Spring Activities in Inverness and Loch Ness

Wellness city break in Inverness

Finding the best afternoon tea in inverness and loch ness.

Finding all the places to have a delicious Afternoon Tea in Inverness and Loch Ness

Discover Our Stories

We've been discovering stories since 565AD when St Columba first saw Nessie, come and discover our stories!

‘‘ Loch Ness is one of those rare destinations that engages everyone, from children enchanted with Nessie, to adults interested in photography, hiking and more. It combines Jacobite history, stunning scenery and the possibility of a monster sighting, ensuring it’s a perfect destination all year round, for all ages. ’’

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Scottish Highlands

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Encompassing a broad swath of Scotland that stretches from Inverness north to Thurso, Scotland's spectacular Highlands are separated from the rest of the country by the Great Glen: Glen More. This ancient fault line was used to create the remarkable Caledonian Canal, a unique waterway that extends from the west coast to the east, from Loch Linnhe to the Moray Firth, taking in magnificent Loch Ness along the way.

While much of this mountainous region is uninhabited and therefore excellent for hiking and biking adventures, it does boast many lovely small towns and villages. In fact, one of the top things to do in the Highlands of Scotland is to take a scenic drive along what is one of the. country's most beautiful stretches of coastline.

Along the way, you'll see many fine Scottish castles , which together comprise some of the most popular tourist attractions in the country . At the top end is John o'Groats , home to Scotland's most photographed signpost. It famously includes distances from here to Lands End in Cornwall at the southernmost tip of England, some 1,406 kilometers away.

You can find the best places to visit in this ruggedly beautiful region with our list of the top attractions in the Scottish Highlands.

1. The City of Inverness

2. loch ness, 3. urqhuart castle, loch ness, 4. culloden battlefield and visitors centre, inverness, 5. cawdor castle and gardens, nairn, 6. historic fort george, inverness, 7. the lantern of the north: elgin and its historic cathedral, 8. hike loch maree: mother nature at her best, 9. take a drive to the seaside town of dornoch, 10. inverewe garden and estate, 11. loch assynt and ardvreck castle, 12. the clo mor cliffs and cape wrath, 13. dunrobin castle, 14. john o' groats, 15. the orkney isles, 16. the shetland islands, map of tourist attractions in the scottish highlands.

The beautiful city of Inverness is a great place to begin exploring the Scottish Highlands. Start your adventure in the grounds of lovely Inverness Castle . Although only the north tower of the castle is open to the public, this old sandstone building does provide an imposing and photo-worthy backdrop overlooking the River Ness.

After sightseeing, head to the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery with its displays about the city's rich cultural heritage, as well as the history of the Highlands. The late 19th-century Neo-Gothic St. Andrew's Cathedral stands opposite Castle Hill on the banks of the River Ness and is well worth a visit.

Another notable attraction is Abertarff House , Inverness's oldest building dating from 1592. Also worth a visit is the pleasant Inverness Botanic Gardens.

Finally, wrap up your walking tour of Inverness with a little shopping or a beverage at the attractive old Victorian Market . This historic Victorian-era indoor shopping arcade was built in 1890.

Located an easy and extremely scenic 30-minute drive southeast of Inverness city center, Loch Ness is a must-visit when exploring the Scottish Highlands. Famous the world over as the supposed home of Nessie the Loch Ness monster, this picture-perfect freshwater lake is also home to Urquhart Castle, one of the country's most iconic fortresses.

To learn more about the mythical beast that inhabits the lake, visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition . This fun attraction features fascinating displays relating to the monster and the surrounding area.

Given its popularity as a major Scottish tourist destination, Loch Ness is also well served by organized tour operators. One of the best for those based in Edinburgh is the Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Day Tour .

Highlights of this great trip north include a visit to Fort William; Linlithgow Palace; the country's tallest mountain, Ben Nevis; and, of course, Loch Ness itself. Once at the loch, you'll have the chance to hop aboard a boat and explore the lake from the water (transportation and tour guide included).

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do at Loch Ness

Once the scene of numerous conflicts between the English and Scots, it's easy to picture just how magnificent Urqhuart Castle once must have been. Dating as far back as the 13th century, the castle's role in Scotland's rich history is well documented and presented in the visitor's center.

Although now just ruins, it's well worth wandering around to get a true sense of its former significance. Its commanding views over Loch Ness are simply breathtaking, with panoramic views along the lake's full length. You'll also have partial access to the Great Tower, and can also visit the dungeons where famous and infamous prisoners alike were once held captive.

In addition to superb exhibits dealing with the castle's rich history, the site also boasts a great café with stunning views over Loch Ness, as well as a gift shop. Given the castle's immense popularity among tourists, admission tickets, as well as parking, must be purchased in advance from its official website (see link below).

Address: Drumnadrochit, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/urquhart-castle/

It was in Culloden on April 16, 1746, that the last great battle was fought on Scottish soil and the fate of the Stuarts, and of Scotland, was determined. The historic site's visitor center is a must-see, with its first-hand accounts of the battle, a 360-degree film realistically portraying the day's events. Be sure to also check out the spectacular rooftop views of the battlefield .

Also of interest are the gravestones of the Scottish clans, as well as the six-meter-high Memorial Cairn erected in 1881 to commemorate the battle. Other landmarks include Old Leanach Cottage and the Cumberland Stone commemorating the spot where the Duke of Cumberland issued orders to his troops.

The battlefield is strewn with memorials bearing witness to the dead, including the Keppoch Stone indicating the location where Alastair MacDonell, head of the Keppoch clan, fell. Another recalls the Irish Wild Geese, a group of mercenaries in the service of the French crown, who fought on the side of the Highlanders. The "English Stone" commemorates those who fought alongside Cumberland.

If you're based in Inverness, there's a great day-long tour option that takes in both Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield . Highlights include a very personal experience (only eight guests are included), the services of a professional guide, and transportation.

Another great way to learn more about the history of the battle while taking in a variety of other beautiful Highland film locations is to join the popular Diana Gabledon's Outlander Experience Tour .

Starting in Inverness, these private full-day tours include a dedicated professional guide well-versed in Scotland's history and the TV series, and take in top tourist attractions such as the battlefield and the Clava Cairns, as well as Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle. This first-rate tour includes pickup from your hotel and round-trip transportation.

Address: Visitor Centre, Culloden Moor, Inverness, Highlands, Scotland

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/culloden/

Cawdor Castle, just 16 kilometers northeast of Culloden, is famous as the place where the Scottish King Duncan was murdered in William Shakespeare's version of Macbeth . Although not historically accurate as Duncan was in fact murdered by Macbeth at the Battle of Elgin, it's a wonderful place to visit with its large collection of Shakespearean literature and fine period furniture.

A hawthorn tree dating from 1370 acted as a sign to the first Thane to build a castle here, and today the lovely grounds of this fairy-tale garden, with its colorful flowerbeds, are well worth a visit. Also fun to explore are the nature trails and nine-hole golf course. A quaint cottage on the grounds is available for rent for those looking to really soak up the ambience of this historic castle and estate.

Address: B9090, Cawdor, Nairn, Scotland

Official site: www.cawdorcastle.com

Also of interest for those making the journey to Culloden is nearby Fort George . This huge artillery fortress was built soon after the Battle of Culloden as a means to keep the defeated Highlanders in check. It also served as a constant reminder of the English domination over Scotland.

Besides extensive military installations, including the armoury and barracks, the fort also houses the regimental museum of the Queen's Own Highlanders. The visitor center is also well worth exploring, and puts the fort's role in perspective. A gift shop is also located on the premises. Tickets are bookable in advance from the attraction's official website (see link below).

Address: Ardersier, Inverness, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/fort-george/

Located about 61 kilometers east of Inverness on the road to Aberdeen, Elgin has a number of historic attractions worthy of a visit. After centuries of plundering, what's left of Elgin Cathedral's tower hints at the former splendor of the 95-meter-long "Lantern of the North," as the church was known.

Other features still visible include the west facade, the 13th-century choir, the great east rose window, and the octagonal chapter house. Daily guided tours are available and are well worth joining. Elgin is also home to Scotland's oldest church, Birnie Church, which dates from 1140.

Other tourist sites of interest are Spynie Palace, with its massive David's Tower built in 1470; Duffus Castle, a fine example of a Norman motte and bailey castle; and Brodie Castle and Country Park .

Seat of the Brodie family since 1160, it's home to fine French furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, Chinese porcelain, and a notable collection of paintings. The collection includes works by French Impressionists and English and Dutch artists.

Your tour around the extensive grounds should include a visit to the 1.8-meter-high Pictish Rodney Stone, carved with Celtic animal symbols and inscriptions.

Address: King Street, Elgin, Moray, Scotland

Official site: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/elgin-cathedral/

Loch Maree is a deep Pleistocene valley that serves as a habitat for otters and black-throated divers, and is a big draw for hikers due to its nature trails and campsites. The more demanding mountain trail, a six-kilometer circular tour, offers an unforgettable view over Loch Maree and the majestic mountains that make this part of the Highlands so popular.

Other nearby highlights include Victoria Falls , a waterfall near Shatterdale named after Queen Victoria, who visited the loch in 1877. It's also a popular fishing location, too, with fun excursions along with scenic boat rides available to tourists.

The attractive village of Gairloch is another scenic stop on the Highlands' tourist route and lies in a sheltered sandy bay. Along with its nine-hole golf course, there's also the Gairloch Heritage Museum with its displays detailing the cultural and economic development of the area from the Stone Age to the present day.

A scenic one-hour drive north of Inverness, the seaside town of Dornoch is one of the best places to visit in the Highlands of Scotland for those wanting a fun small-town getaway . Its coastal setting also makes Dornoch the perfect place to sample Scottish seafood, with great eateries such as the Highland Larder offering fresh fare caught that day.

For such a small town (its population is just shy of 1,500 souls), Dornoch also boasts a surprisingly diverse array of fun things to do. Topping the list of attractions to visit is Dornoch Cathedral. Built in 1224, it's an impressive structure that adjoins Dornoch Castle, a 16th-century mansion that now houses a hotel. Other points of interest include the old Witch's Stone, the sandy and sheltered Dornoch Beach, and the nearby Loch Fleet National Nature Reserve.

Dornoch is also something of a mecca for golfers, too. Here the big draw is Royal Dornoch. As old but not quite as famous as the golf courses of St. Andrews (except among golfers), Royal Dornoch boasts two championship 18-hole courses overlooking the Dornoch Firth, making them among the most picturesque in the UK.

The subtropical Inverewe Garden and Estate overlooks a sheltered bay by Loch Ewe near Poolewe, eight kilometers north of Gairloch. It has thrived here thanks to the area's mild climate. Osgood Mackenzie was only 20 years old when, in 1862, he proved that plants from distant lands could survive on the poor Torridon sandstone and acid peaty soil if it is enriched by loam from the coast and the wet peat was drained.

Highlights include rhododendrons, azaleas, and magnolias, eucalyptus from New Zealand, Japanese ferns, Himalayan lilies, South American water lilies, giant forget-me-nots from the South Pacific, rock gardens, ponds, Scotch pines, and rare varieties of palms. Guided walking tours are available weekdays. Be sure to also pop into the Sawyer Gallery, which hosts art and crafts-related exhibits throughout the year.

Address: Inverewe, Poolewe, Wester Ross

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/Property/Inverewe-Garden-and-Estate/

Some of the Highlands' most stunning scenery is to be found 35 kilometers north of Ullapool around beautiful Loch Assynt. This unforgettable picture-book landscape is famous among anglers for its salmon and trout fishing, as well as its majestic mountain panoramas. At the eastern end of the loch stand the ruins of Ardvreck Castle, built in 1590 for the MacLeods and later run by the MacKenzies and Sutherlands.

Other historic ruins include a kiln barn and mill, as well as the remains of an ancient chambered cairn. Also nearby is Inchnadamph Nature Reserve, home to Scotland's largest network of caves ; Loch a'Chairn Bhain's seal colony; and the 200-meter-high Eas a Chual Aluinn Falls, Britain's highest waterfalls.

Address: Lairg, Sutherland, Scotland

Mainland Scotland's most northwesterly point, Cape Wrath offers up some of the most remarkable views over the North Atlantic toward the Orkney Isles. It's also one of the wildest parts of the Highlands, full of interesting geological features and steeped in maritime history.

One of the few man-made structures in the area is the lighthouse built by Robert Stevenson in 1827 on the spectacular Clo Mor Cliffs . The area is also popular among bird-watchers, and for hikers, numerous trails crisscross the area, including some leading to lovely Loch Nevis .

Only a mile northeast of Golspie stands imposing Dunrobin Castle. It served as the seat of the influential counts and dukes of Sutherland who, by the end of the 19th century, owned more land than any other landowner in Europe.

The castle itself was begun in 1275, although much of the neo-Baronial style seen today dates from the mid-19th century. The attractive corner towers with their conical slate roofs lend a distinct fairy-tale look reminiscent of the famous Loire Valley chateaux in France.

Of the castle's 189 rooms, the Drawing Room stands out as a highlight, with its Louis XV-style furniture, fine portraits, and 18th-century tapestries. The extensive Italian-style gardens are ideal for a stroll and also offer fine views over the Dornoch Firth.

If there's time available in your Highlands travel itinerary, linger a little longer for one of the castle's regular falconry shows. There's also a first-rate tea shop on-site serving traditional high tea.

Location: Golspie, Sutherland, Scotland

Official site: www.dunrobincastle.co.uk

Famous as the northernmost community on the mainland, the village of John o' Groats is well worth visiting. Legend has it this small village was named in the 1400s after a Dutchman, Jan de Groot, who was well-known in the area for the ferry service he provided, connecting the mainland to the Orkney Islands some 40 miles away to the north.

As legendary as the name is the famous signpost that stands overlooking the coast. For decades, hikers, adventurers, and tourists have stood next to the sign for a photo opportunity, often after having made an epic cross-country journey from Lands' End, the UK's most southerly point.

Traveling from Lands' End, some 847 miles to the south, to John o' Groats by bike takes around 14 days, and is a bucket-list item for many cyclists. However you get here, you can even put up a name of your own choosing, adding letters to spell out the name and mileage to your hometown.

John o' Groats still acts as a jumping-off point for adventurers and travelers to the Orkneys, with a summer ferry service that connects the mainland to the communities of South Ronaldsay and Burwick. But stick around long enough to sample other fun things to do in John o' Groats, including visiting during its annual book festival, popping into nearby Mey Castle, and Castle Sinclair Girnigoe.

While the Orkneys are popular with walkers, nature lovers, bird-watchers and anglers, there's also plenty of interest for more traditional tourists, including its famous prehistoric sites. Two of the most famous are Maes Howe Chambered Cairn , Britain's best-preserved Stone Age burial chamber dating from 2500 BC, and the Skara Brae Prehistoric Village , an open-air museum with well-preserved houses and remnants of Stone Age furnishings.

Of the 67 Orkney islands, only 18 are inhabited, and many of the others serve as breeding grounds for seabirds, kestrels, peregrine falcons, sparrow hawks, and golden eagles. Kirkwall , the largest town, has a number of historic sites of interest, including St. Magnus Cathedral , reminiscent of the cathedral in the Norwegian city of Trondheim (Norway once owned these islands).

Also worth seeing is the 12th-century Bishop's Palace, in which Norway's most famous King, Haakon, died in 1263, and the ruins of Earl Patrick's Palace, one of the finest examples of 16th-century Scottish secular architecture.

Hikers and mountain bikers alike enjoy exploring the Shetland Islands, as do water sports enthusiasts, who can choose to play on more than 350 lakes or the vast Atlantic Ocean. The lochs, well stocked with brown and rainbow trout, are a paradise for fly fishermen, and there are also many opportunities for deep-sea fishing.

For golfers, the chance of a round at midnight on Britain's northernmost golf course is irresistible, and bird-watchers are drawn to Fair Isle, Mousa, Noss, and near Herma Ness to watch Arctic terns; shearwaters; razorbills; gannets; and the amusing puffins, known here as "Tammy Noirie."

Shetland consists of nearly 100 islands, together forming the northernmost outposts of the British Isles (it's 160 kilometers from the mainland and on the same latitude as the Norwegian city of Bergen). Other top things to do on the Shetland Islands is visit the many spectacular Stone Age sites, the best of which is the Jarlshof Prehistoric Settlement , a fascinating complex that includes Bronze Age roundhouses alongside Viking longhouses.

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The Best of Bonnie Scotland : The stunning Isle of Skye is the easiest of Scotland's islands to access. Connected to the mainland by road, it's definitely worth spending a few days exploring its many old castles, prehistoric sites, stunning scenery, and ample wildlife. So, too, is lovely Loch Lomond , home to countless great hiking trails through the Trossachs National Park. The town of Oban is also a magnate for hikers and climbers, drawn here to scale the impressive Mount Etive overlooking pretty Loch Etive.

Scottish City Experiences : The Scottish capital of Edinburgh offers no end of fun attractions for tourists including the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Queen's Royal Yacht Britannia. The industrial and cultural city of Glasgow is also worth visiting, and is home to a stunning cathedral and many fine art galleries and museums. Closer to Inverness is Aberdeen , a scenic two-hour drive away but well worth it for its ancient cathedral and splendid historic architecture.

Scotland Vacation Ideas : Tucked away in the southwest of Scotland, the cities of Ayr and Dumfries are best known for their connections to the famed Scottish poet Robbie Burns, where a museum has been set up in his birthplace. Other top-rated destinations to include in your Scotland itinerary include Dundee , popular for its amazing rail bridge and marine museum, and St. Andrews , home to the world's best known golf course.

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Passing Thru Travel

6 Luxury Experiences in Scotland’s Historic Highlands 2024

Posted: February 20, 2024 | Last updated: February 20, 2024

If you’ve ever wanted to explore mist-covered mountains topped by ancient castles and surrounded by legendary tales passed down for generations, it’s time to venture into the Scottish Highlands.

Throughout the Scottish Highlands, there are a variety of luxury lodges, historic tours, loch cruises, and private whiskey tasting that allow you to experience the region in comfort and style, but how do you know which one to choose? Below, we have listed the best experiences the Highlands have to offer so you can confidently plan your trip into the wilds of Scotland.

The Fife Arms, Braemar

The first stop on our list is a Victorian coaching inn meticulously restored with a unique art collection. The Fife Arms Inn, near the royal Balmoral Castle, offers a regal experience of traditional Scottish life. Each room in the Fife Arms Inn is themed around Scottish culture and history to fully embrace your stay with the culture you’ve set out to experience.

The inn also hosts traditional activities like Scottish storytelling and game hunting, so you’ll have plenty of activities to do when you’re not exploring the hills and castles surrounding you. They also have a well-acclaimed restaurant that serves local and seasonal cuisine to ensure that every aspect of your stay is a complete cultural experience.

Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the Ghillie’s Bar for a cozy evening with over 180 whiskies.

When To Travel: Summer for pleasant weather, or winter for a snowy wonderland.

How To Get There: Drive or take a bus from Aberdeen, approximately 1.5 hours away.

Best Time of Year To Travel: May to September for mild weather and outdoor activities.

Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fort William

The second experience we recommend is a 19th-century castle surrounded by the scenic beauty of Ben Nevis, which happens to be the tallest mountain in Scotland. The Inverlochy Castle Hotel offers a variety of activities, from falconry to fishing and even tennis.

However, they also offer plenty of experiences off the castle grounds, like a cruises around the nearby loch. Renowned for its Michelin-starred restaurant led by a top chef, the Inverlochy Castle is the perfect choice for those who want to experience the history of Scotland while maintaining modern luxuries.

Insider’s Tip: Request a room with a view of Ben Nevis for an unforgettable wake-up scene.

When To Travel: Spring or early autumn for fewer tourists and stunning scenery.

How To Get There: About a 2-hour drive from Inverness or 3 hours from Glasgow.

Best Time of Year To Travel: April to October, especially beautiful in autumn.

Glenmorangie House, Tain

Next, we have the Glenmorangie House in Tain. An intimate coastal retreat an hour from Inverness, this elegantly decorated house is known for romance, luxury, and a tranquil walled garden. Here, they offer exclusive whiskey tastings and distillery tours for Glenmorangie whiskey.

Nearby, plenty of historical attractions like Foulis Castle and Tarbat Ness Lighthouse overlook the beautiful highland coast. Guests at Glenmorangie can also enjoy local golf courses and stunning coastal walks, making this the perfect destination for those who want to experience the nature of the Highlands in a more private setting.

Insider’s Tip: Book a private whiskey-tasting session for a personalized experience.

When To Travel: Late spring to early autumn for the best coastal weather.

How To Get There: A 1-hour drive north from Inverness.

Best Time of Year To Travel: May to August for longer daylight hours and milder weather.

Aldourie Castle, Loch Ness

If you’ve ever wanted to stay in your own private castle next to the most famous Loch in Scotland, then Aldourie Castle is the place for you. A private hire castle offering exclusivity and luxury on the Loch Ness shores, this castle features beautifully restored interiors with historical themes throughout every room.

During your stay, guests can enjoy traditional Scottish banquets and entertainment as part of their private experience. Outside, you are surrounded by vast private grounds that are perfect for outdoor activities. The castle also offers boat trips on Loch Ness so you can make your search for the legendary Loch Ness Monster!

Insider’s Tip: Explore the private gardens; they are especially beautiful in spring.

When To Travel: Summer for the best chance of good weather and outdoor activities.

How To Get There: Around 30 minutes by car from Inverness.

Best Time of Year To Travel: June to August, with long daylight hours and warmer temperatures.

The Torridon, Wester Ross

Next we have a stay for those more interested in a scenic experience filled with outdoor activities. Set in 58 acres of parkland at the end of a sea loch, the Torridon offers breathtaking sea views and surrounding highlands.

The Torridon also provides a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking and mountain biking, for a more adventurous highland experience. Known for its luxurious accommodations, award-winning whiskey, and gin bar, and 3 AA Rosette restaurant serving the best of Scottish produce it is, there is also no shortage of options for those interested in a tamer stay.

Insider’s Tip: Try their bespoke adventure days, tailored to your interests.

When To Travel: Spring or autumn for stunning natural beauty with fewer crowds.

How To Get There: A scenic drive of about 1.5 hours from Inverness.

Best Time of Year To Travel: May to September, ideal for outdoor activities.

Boath House, Nairn

Last on our list is a Georgian country house known for its stunning architecture and gardens. The Boath House focuses on personal wellness with spa treatments to relax the body and abundant serene surroundings to calm the mind. The Boath House also provides an AA Rosette restaurant emphasizing organic and local ingredients.

Each room is individually styled with antique furnishings and modern comforts to provide a more personal experience. When not relaxing in the grounds, guests can venture out to the nearby attractions like Cawdor Castle and Nairn Beach to ensure they experience all the Scottish Highlands have to offer.

Insider’s Tip: Book a garden tour to appreciate the house’s horticultural heritage.

When To Travel: Spring and summer for garden blooms and pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Approximately a 30-minute drive from Inverness.

Best Time of Year To Travel: April to July, to enjoy the gardens in full bloom.

The Bottom Line

Exploring the Scottish Highlands is not just about seeing the sights; it’s about experiencing them in comfort and style. From the Victorian elegance of The Fife Arms in Braemar to the secluded luxury of Boath House in Nairn, each location offers a unique way to enjoy the region’s natural beauty and rich history.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a peaceful retreat amidst stunning landscapes, these destinations cater to various preferences. With insights on the best times to visit, how to get there, and insider tips, planning your Highland adventure becomes a straightforward task. In the wilds of Scotland, each of these luxury experiences promises a memorable journey, blending the allure of the past with the comforts of the present.

The post 6 Luxury Experiences in Scotland’s Historic Highlands 2024 republished on Passing Thru

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / JeniFoto.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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