Inverness-5-day-itinerary
Inverness 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Inverness
Morning
- Arrive in Inverness and check-in at Glenmoriston Town House (4-star hotel with comfortable rooms) or Inverness Hostel (budget-friendly option)
- Start your day at Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands
- Take a stroll along the River Ness, which runs through the heart of the city
Afternoon
- Visit Eden Court Theatre and Cinema, a popular spot for live performances and film screenings
- Explore the Inverness Botanic Gardens, featuring a variety of plants and flowers
- Grab lunch at The Mustard Seed, serving delicious Scottish cuisine with a twist
Evening
- Enjoy traditional Scottish music and pub grub at Hootananny’s
- Take a sunset stroll along the river and admire the city’s scenic views
Day 2: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle
Morning
- Take a guided tour of Loch Ness, famous for the legendary Loch Ness Monster
- Visit Urquhart Castle, a 13th-century ruin with stunning loch views
- Stop by Drumnadrochit, a charming village with shops, cafes, and restaurants
Afternoon
- Have lunch at The Loch Ness Inn, offering hearty meals and drinks
- Explore the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre to learn more about the loch’s history and myths
Evening
- Return to Inverness and dine at The Dores Inn, serving fresh seafood and local produce
- Relax with a whisky or cocktail at The Whisky Bar
Day 3: Cairngorms National Park
Morning
- Take a day trip to Cairngorms National Park, home to ancient forests, heather-covered moors, and the highest mountain range in the UK
- Drive to Aviemore, a charming town at the heart of the park (approximately 1 hour)
Afternoon
- Explore the Cairngorms Visitor Centre for insights into the park’s natural heritage
- Take a hike through the park’s stunning landscapes, such as the Rothiemurchus Forest
Evening
- Enjoy dinner at The Skiing-Doo Restaurant, serving modern Scottish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
- Return to Inverness in the evening
Day 4: Eilean Donan Castle and Isle of Skye
Morning
- Drive to Eilean Donan Castle, a picturesque 13th-century castle situated on an island (approximately 1.5 hours)
- Take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its rich history
Afternoon
- Cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye and explore its rugged landscapes, picturesque villages, and iconic landmarks like the Old Man of Storr
- Stop by Portree, the largest village on the island, for lunch and souvenir shopping
Evening
- Return to Inverness in the evening and enjoy dinner at The River House Restaurant, offering modern British cuisine
- Relax with a drink at The Kings Highway
Day 5: Culloden Battlefield and Departure
Morning
- Visit Culloden Battlefield, site of the final Jacobite Rising in 1746 (approximately 10 minutes from Inverness)
- Explore the Culloden Visitor Centre for insights into the battle’s history and significance
Afternoon
- Return to Inverness city centre and spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute attractions
- Depart from Inverness Airport or continue your journey by train or bus
Things to Know
- Inverness is a compact city, easily explored on foot or by bike
- Be prepared for unpredictable Scottish weather with waterproof gear and layers
- Try some traditional Scottish cuisine, such as haggis, neeps and tatties, or Cullen skink (smoked haddock chowder)
Transportation
- Inverness Airport (INV) receives flights from various UK and international airports
- Train services connect Inverness to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and other Scottish cities
- Bus services operate throughout the Highlands, including to Loch Ness and Cairngorms National Park
Tips
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season (June to August)
- Pack comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring the countryside
- Respect the local environment and wildlife, and take all litter with you when leaving natural areas