Aberdeen to Inverness from $23: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Aberdeen to Inverness: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$23 by busBest price

134 kmDistance

2h 9m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Aberdeen to Inverness with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Type	Mo 06/01	Tu 07/01	We 08/01	Th 09/01	Fr 10/01	Sa 11/01	Su 12/01
Bus	$13	$11	$10	$11	$12	$13	$14
Train	$15	$15	$15	$15	$15	$15	$14

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Traveling From Aberdeen to Inverness

The journey from Aberdeen to Inverness reveals a striking contrast between Aberdeen's bustling port city vibe and Inverness's serene Highland charm, offering you a blend of urban energy and natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Inverness

Inverness features diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive charm.

City Centre

• Vibrant shops and cafes line the streets.

• Close to attractions like Inverness Castle.

Inverness East

• Offers scenic views of the River Ness.

• Known for peaceful residential areas.

Leachkin

• Features stunning panoramic views of the city.

• Great access to walking trails and nature.

Best Times To Visit Inverness's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Inverness's popular sites.

Inverness Castle

Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and a peaceful view.

Loch Ness

Late afternoon offers stunning sunsets and quieter trails.

Culloden Battlefield

Weekdays are less crowded, allowing for a more reflective visit.

Inverness Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Inverness experiences a temperate maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters, making spring and early autumn ideal for exploring the outdoors. Be prepared for varying conditions, as sudden changes in weather can impact your travel plans and activities.

Dining in Inverness: A Culinary Gem

Try the haggis at The Kitchen, where local ingredients meet a contemporary twist, giving you a delicious taste of Highland traditions. Unlike Aberdeen's seafood-heavy meals, dining here immerses you in a cozy atmosphere while savoring bold flavors and authentic Scottish fare.

Aberdeen - Inverness operators

Explore transport companies operating between Aberdeen and Inverness, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+44 344 811 0141

Website

https://www.scotrail.co.uk/

Train from Aberdeen to Inverness

Average Duration

2h 14m

Estimated price

$30-50

Bus Show bus routes

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Aberdeen Coach Station to Inverness Bus Station

Average Duration

3h 23m

Estimated price

$15-21

Aberdeen to Inverness: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Aberdeen and Inverness offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Aberdeen to Inverness, a drive spanning 167.4 km through the beautiful Scottish countryside. With an estimated travel time of 2 hours and 9 minutes, you'll have ample time to soak in the stunning landscapes along the way. 💷 Discover affordable road trip options to reach Inverness from Aberdeen by car, with prices ranging from £24 to £39.

Average price

£23 - £39

🚆 Traveling from Aberdeen to Inverness by train takes approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes, covering a distance of 174 km. The prices for this journey can range from £32 to £45. 🚆 Route options vary in terms of duration and transfers. Some direct routes take around 2 hours, while others with transfers can take up to almost 5 hours. ScotRail operates these train services, providing a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the two cities.

Useful tips for train travellers

Onboard services for your journey from Aberdeen to Inverness are quite comfortable. The ScotRail trains typically offer a variety of catering options, including light snacks and beverages available for purchase. You can find a trolley service during peak travel times, and the café-car will often provide hot meals, sandwiches, and a selection of hot and cold drinks.

Seating options on this route include Standard Class and First Class. In Standard Class, you will find spacious, comfortable seats with ample legroom. First Class offers an upgraded experience with wider seats, more legroom, and quieter carriages, plus complimentary refreshments. Check the ScotRail website for specific details on booking and availability at scotrail.co.uk

Multiple operators run services between Aberdeen and Inverness, with ScotRail being the primary operator. For more information on schedules, you can visit their website at scotrail.co.uk Other operators may include East Coast or CrossCountry, but they may not serve the route directly. Ensure to check the latest travel information well in advance.

🚌 Traveling from Aberdeen to Inverness by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 28 minutes, offering a convenient and scenic journey through the beautiful Scottish landscapes. 🛣️ Route options vary in duration and distance, with the shortest option covering 167 km in 3 hours and 23 minutes directly to Inverness. 🎫 Ticket prices for buses between Inverness and Aberdeen typically range from £18 to £25, allowing budget-conscious travelers to explore the picturesque route at an affordable cost.

Useful tips for bus travellers

• For the most efficient journey, take the Megabus M96 direct from Aberdeen to Inverness, which takes about 3 hours and 23 minutes and will cost between £17 and £24; you can check schedules and book tickets at Megabus.

• Arriving at the Farraline Park bus station in Inverness, be sure to take note of the local transport options; you can easily access city buses and taxis right from the station, and for detailed maps and schedules, visit Highlands and Islands Transport.

• If you have some time before your next destination, explore the nearby shops and dining options at Farraline Park; there's a small café inside the bus station where you can grab a snack or coffee before continuing your journey.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Aberdeen to Inverness.

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The distance between Aberdeen and Inverness is approximately 133.6 km by air or 167.2 km by road. If you choose to travel by train, it takes about 2 hours and 28 minutes to reach Inverness from Aberdeen. The travel time by car is shorter, with an average of 2 hours and 9 minutes. However, if you prefer a more economical option, taking the bus will take approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes to reach Inverness from Aberdeen.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Aberdeen to Inverness is by bus, which costs between £14 and £21 and takes approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes. However, if you prioritize saving time, the quickest option is to drive, which takes around 2 hours and 9 minutes and costs between £24 and £40.

The prices for traveling from Aberdeen to Inverness by train vary from £26 to £76. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey from Inverness to Aberdeen range from £14 to £21.

To get from Aberdeen to Inverness without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The distance between the two cities is approximately 167.4 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 9 minutes to drive. The cost of renting a car or using your own vehicle can vary from £24 to £40, depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll fees.

The most convenient way to travel from Aberdeen to Inverness without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes, and ticket prices range from £24 to £79.

Yes, there is a direct link between Aberdeen and Inverness. The distance between the two cities is approximately 133.6 km by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are 2 hours and 28 minutes by train, 2 hours and 9 minutes by car, and 3 hours and 37 minutes by bus.

There are numerous options for accommodation near Inverness. With over 923 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of options to suit their budget and preferences. Prices start at £21 per night, providing affordable choices for those on a tighter budget.