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Edinburgh to Inverness from $29: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
to
Inverness, United Kingdom

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

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$29 by busBest price
183.5 kmDistance
2h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Edinburgh 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.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  47m
Estimated price
$65-172
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$29-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 183.5 km
Duration: 2h 55m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  55m
Estimated price
$50-75
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$88-109

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $10 $9 $9 $10 $9 $10 $9
Train $28 $34 $28 $28 $47 $34 $62
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Traveling From Edinburgh to Inverness

Your journey from the historic charm of Edinburgh, with its vibrant city life and majestic architecture, to the serene landscapes of Inverness, where the Scottish Highlands invite you to explore nature’s beauty, offers a striking contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Inverness

Inverness boasts a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different tastes and interests.

City Centre
• Vibrant shopping district with local boutiques.
• Historical landmarks like Inverness Castle nearby.
Bellas Park
• Picturesque park perfect for leisurely strolls.
• Family-friendly environment with playgrounds.
Inverness West
• Scenic views of the River Ness.
• Proximity to the beautiful Caledonian Canal.

Best Times To Visit Inverness's Attractions

Planning your visit to Inverness's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Inverness Castle
Early mornings offer a peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists.
Loch Ness
Visit during weekdays for a quieter and more scenic experience.
Culloden Battlefield
Late afternoons are ideal, as crowds usually thin out by then.

Inverness Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Inverness boasts a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, with rainfall occurring throughout the year. Understanding the weather helps you choose the best times to visit, whether you're looking to explore under sunny skies or enjoy the scenic beauty wrapped in a cozy atmosphere.

Dining Recommendation in Inverness

Visit the Rocpool Restaurant for an unforgettable taste of Highland cuisine; their locally-sourced venison dish captures the essence of the region with rich flavors and seasonal ingredients. This dining experience features a cozy, intimate atmosphere that contrasts with Edinburgh's bustling dining scene, allowing you to savor each bite while overlooking the River Ness.

Edinburgh - Inverness operators

Explore transport companies operating between Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Inverness

Average Duration
3h 43m
Estimated price
$55-85
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
https://www.lner.co.uk/

Train from Edinburgh to Inverness

Average Duration
3h 32m
Estimated price
$110-170
Website
https://sleeper.scot

Train from Edinburgh to Inverness

Average Duration
4h 14m
Estimated price
$80-100
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Inverness Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 53m
Estimated price
$22-35
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Inverness

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$21-29

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

Traveling between Edinburgh 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 picturesque road trip from Edinburgh to Inverness, spanning a scenic driving distance of 252.7 km. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands as you cruise towards your destination. 💸 Prices for this journey range from £39 to £59, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers exploring the stunning landscapes between these two historic cities. 🏞️ Once you arrive in Inverness after approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes of driving, immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of this city known for its rich history, captivating architecture, and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.
Average price
£39 - £58
Useful tips for car travellers
• Plan your fuel stops wisely; gas stations can be sporadic after you leave the Edinburgh urban area, with average prices around £1.45 per liter. A reliable station is located on the A9 near Perth, about 45 minutes from Edinburgh.
• Keep an eye on driving regulations, such as the 70 mph speed limit on the dual carriageways and the A9; adhere to local road signs, and be prepared for tourist traffic, especially near popular sites like Pitlochry and the Cairngorms National Park.
• When arriving in Inverness, be mindful of restricted traffic zones; the city center has various pay-and-display parking areas costing between £1.50 to £2.00 per hour, with options for all-day parking available at about £8.00 per day.
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Edinburgh to Inverness that takes approximately 3 hours and 47 minutes, offering beautiful views of the Scottish countryside along the way. 🎫 Prices for the train ride between Edinburgh and Inverness can range from £51 to £136, providing flexibility for travelers with different budgets to enjoy this convenient mode of transportation. 🌲 Opt for the faster Route 4, which takes just 3 hours and 24 minutes to cover the 302 km distance between Edinburgh and Inverness, allowing you to arrive at your destination in a relatively short time frame.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the train from Edinburgh to Inverness include a catering service offering a range of snacks, hot meals, and beverages. Services like the 'chilled food options' include sandwiches, salads, and sweet treats, while beverages feature coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Be sure to check the onboard menu for any seasonal specials.
• The train operators for this route include LNER (London North Eastern Railway) and ScotRail. LNER offers both Standard (Economy) and First Class seating, with First Class providing complimentary meals and refreshments. ScotRail typically features Standard Class and offers an upgraded First Class option that includes more spacious seating and enhanced onboard services. You can check their websites for bookings and more details: LNER - lner.co.uk and ScotRail - scotrail.co.uk
• Upon arrival at Inverness Station, you’ll find ample facilities including public restrooms, but note that showers are not available. You can leave your luggage at the station using the left luggage service, which is useful if you want to explore the city without carrying your bags. For navigating the station, follow the signs for the main exit to find your way easily.
🚌 Traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes, offering a convenient and scenic journey through Scotland. 🎟️ The prices for bus tickets between Inverness and Edinburgh can range from £23 to £32, providing affordable transportation options for travelers on this route.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Upon arriving at Farraline Park Bus Station in Inverness, familiarize yourself with the layout by checking the station map available online, and consider dining options in the nearby Bellfield Park area which offers various eateries.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Edinburgh to Inverness.

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The distance between Edinburgh and Inverness is approximately 183.5 km by road. The typical travel time by train from Edinburgh to Inverness is about 3 hours and 52 minutes. If traveling by car, the journey from Inverness to Edinburgh usually takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes. However, if opting for a bus, the travel time between the two cities can take approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Edinburgh to Inverness is by bus, with tickets costing between £18-£51. While it takes 4 hours and 2 minutes to reach Inverness by bus, it offers a budget-friendly option for travelers. However, for those looking to save time, driving is the most time-efficient option, taking only 2 hours and 55 minutes. Though it may be slightly more expensive with costs ranging from £39-£59, driving allows for a quicker journey between the two cities.
The train prices for a journey between Edinburgh and Inverness range from £44 to £124. On the other hand, the bus prices for the same route vary from £18 to £47.
To get from Edinburgh to Inverness without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car and driving. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 252.7 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 55 minutes to drive from Edinburgh to Inverness. Rental car prices vary, ranging from £39 to £59, so it's advisable to compare prices and book in advance for the best deal.
The best way to travel from Edinburgh to Inverness without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes and ticket prices range from £43 to £125.
Yes, there is a direct link between Edinburgh and Inverness, but it is not available for all modes of transportation. There is a direct train service that takes approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes to reach Inverness from Edinburgh. However, there is no direct bus route between the two cities, and the journey by bus with transfers takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes. It is also possible to drive from Edinburgh to Inverness, which typically takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Inverness. With over 923 hotels available, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at £20, making it possible to find affordable options.

Trips from Edinburgh

Trips to Inverness