Inverness is home. It is the Highland capital, the gateway to Loch Ness, Culloden, Speyside and the north. The city sits at the head of the Moray Firth where the River Ness meets the sea, and everything about it feels connected to the landscape around it. It is compact, walkable and has a surprisingly good food scene.
The city
The castle viewpoint looking out over the river and the hills beyond is the classic Inverness image. The River Ness runs through the centre and the walk along it to the Ness Islands (wooded islands connected by footbridges) is one of the best short walks in any Scottish city. The Victorian Market has local crafts, food stalls and independent shops.
Culloden and Clava Cairns
Culloden Battlefield is 15 minutes from the city centre. The 1746 battle that ended the Jacobite rising is one of the defining moments in Scottish history. The visitor centre is excellent. Clava Cairns, Bronze Age burial cairns surrounded by standing stones, are a five-minute drive from Culloden and far less crowded. See our Culloden and Clava Cairns tour.
Loch Ness
Loch Ness is 30 minutes from Inverness. Urquhart Castle on the loch shore, Fort Augustus at the south end, and the Great Glen stretching beyond. Whether or not you believe in the monster, the loch is beautiful. See our Loch Ness tour from Inverness.
The Black Isle and Chanonry Point
The Black Isle (not actually an island) is a peninsula north of Inverness. Chanonry Point is one of the best places in Europe to see bottlenose dolphins from the shore. Time your visit around an incoming tide for the best chance. Fortrose and Cromarty are attractive towns worth exploring.
Food and drink
The Kitchen on the river is modern Scottish. River House is excellent for seafood. The Mustard Seed in a converted church overlooking the Ness is a local favourite. For casual eating, Velocity does excellent coffee and brunch. See our full Inverness guide for more recommendations.
Touring from Inverness
Inverness is the natural base for exploring the Highlands. Loch Ness, Culloden, Speyside whisky, the Cairngorms, Wester Ross, Isle of Skye and the NC500 are all accessible from here. See our private tours from Inverness and Inverness chauffeur service.
Frequently asked questions
Is Inverness worth visiting?
Yes. It is the gateway to the Highlands with a good food scene, historic sites, river walks and easy access to Loch Ness, Culloden and the Black Isle. Most Highland tours start or end here.
How many days should I spend in Inverness?
One or two days in Inverness itself, plus additional days for day trips to Loch Ness, Culloden, Speyside or the coast. Inverness works best as a base for exploring the surrounding area.
Can you see dolphins near Inverness?
Yes. Chanonry Point on the Black Isle, about 30 minutes from Inverness, is one of the best places in Europe to see bottlenose dolphins from shore. Best around an incoming tide.
Do I need a car in Inverness?
The city centre is walkable. For day trips to Loch Ness, Culloden, Speyside and beyond, a car or private chauffeur is needed. We offer chauffeur services from Inverness for exactly this reason.
Highlands hub · All guides · Contact us
