Inverness 5 Day Itinerary

Inverness 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Inverness

Morning

  • Arrive in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands
  • Check-in at Glenmoriston Town House or similar accommodation in the city center
  • Visit Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the history and culture of the Highlands (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Walk along the River Ness, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside
  • Explore Eden Court, a popular spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Mustard Seed, serving delicious Scottish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Take a stroll around the city center, enjoying the evening atmosphere

Day 2: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

Morning

  • Take a guided tour of Loch Ness, one of Scotland’s most famous lakes (approximately £20-£30 per person)
  • Visit Urquhart Castle, a 13th-century ruin with stunning views of Loch Ness (£9.50 adult admission)

Afternoon

  • Drive to Drumnadrochit and explore the village, known for its picturesque scenery and Nessie spotting
  • Enjoy lunch at The Loch Ness Inn, serving traditional Scottish pub food

Evening

  • Return to Inverness and enjoy dinner at The Dores Inn, offering a range of seafood dishes
  • Relax with a drink at Hootananny’s, a popular bar with live music performances

Day 3: Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns

Morning

  • Visit Culloden Battlefield, the site of the final Jacobite Rising in 1746 (£7.50 adult admission)
  • Explore the nearby Clava Cairns, ancient burial grounds with mysterious stone circles (free admission)

Afternoon

  • Drive to Cawdor Castle, a 14th-century fortress with beautiful gardens (£12.50 adult admission)
  • Enjoy afternoon tea at the castle’s cafe

Evening

  • Return to Inverness and enjoy dinner at The Kitchen Brasserie, serving modern Scottish cuisine
  • Take in the sights and sounds of the city center, perhaps visiting the Inverness Castle (free admission)

Day 4: Eilean Donan Castle and Isle of Skye

Morning

  • Drive to Eilean Donan Castle, a picturesque 13th-century castle situated on an island (£7.50 adult admission)
  • Take in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding countryside

Afternoon

  • Continue to the Isle of Skye, known for its rugged landscapes and stunning natural beauty
  • Visit the iconic Old Man of Storr rock formation (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as The Old School Restaurant in Dunvegan
  • Relax with a drink at a pub or bar, taking in the island atmosphere

Day 5: Return to Inverness

Morning

  • Spend the morning exploring the Isle of Skye, perhaps visiting the Dunvegan Castle and Gardens (£12.50 adult admission)
  • Drive back to Inverness, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way

Afternoon

  • Visit The Highlanders’ Museum, showcasing the history of the Highland regiments (free admission)
  • Explore the Inverness Market, offering local crafts, food, and souvenirs

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at River House Restaurant, serving modern Scottish cuisine with a focus on seafood
  • Reflect on your incredible 5-day journey in Inverness and the Highlands

Things to Know

  • Inverness is easily accessible by car, train, or bus from major UK cities
  • The city center is pedestrian-friendly, but a car is recommended for exploring the surrounding countryside
  • Be prepared for unpredictable Scottish weather, with layers and waterproof gear essential
  • Respect the local environment and wildlife, particularly in rural areas

Transportation

  • Inverness Airport (INV) offers flights from major UK cities
  • Regular train services connect Inverness to Glasgow, Edinburgh, and London
  • Bus services operate from Inverness to surrounding towns and villages
  • Car rental is available at the airport or in the city center

Tips

  • Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance to avoid peak season crowds
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes and outdoor gear for exploring the countryside
  • Try local specialties, such as haggis, neeps and tatties, and Scottish tablet
  • Be mindful of midges (small insects) during summer months, with insect repellent recommended

Other Things of Interest

  • Inverness Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the city center (free admission)
  • Ness Island, a scenic spot for walking and picnicking (free admission)
  • The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre, showcasing traditional Highland dress (£5.50 adult admission)

Enjoy your trip to Inverness!󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿