Top things to do in Inverness – A Local’s Guide! [2026]

Known as the capital of the Highlands, Inverness has lots to offer visitors – and is also the gateway to the North Coast 500. You can easily spend a day or two exploring this compact, walkable city, or use it as a base to discover the surrounding Highlands (check our guide to the best day trips from Inverness).

Read on for the very best things to do in Inverness!

Short on time? Here are the must-do highlights in Inverness:

• Explore the new Inverness Castle Experience
• Walk the beautiful Ness Islands trail
• Eat your way around the Victorian Market food hall
• Browse Leakey’s second-hand bookshop
• Catch live music at a traditional Highland pub

👇 Keep reading for the full guide…

Best things to do in Inverness

Visit the Inverness Castle Experience (Now Open)

Perched high above the River Ness, Inverness Castle has long been the city’s most recognisable landmark – and now, it’s finally open to visitors.

Following a major redevelopment, the castle has been transformed into the Inverness Castle Experience, a modern attraction that brings the spirit of the Highlands to life through immersive exhibits, storytelling, and interactive displays.

Inside, you’ll discover:

• The history and culture of the Highlands
• Stories of local people and landscapes
• Panoramic views from the castle tower

Even if you don’t go inside, it’s well worth the short walk up for one of the best views in the city – or to stop for a bite at the new café. You’ll also spot the statue of Flora MacDonald, who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape after the Battle of Culloden.

→ Inverness Castle Website

Take a Walking Tour with a Local

If you want to really get to know Inverness, joining a walking tour is one of the best ways to do it.

This highly-rated tour covers all the key sights – including Inverness Castle, the River Ness, the cathedral, and historic streets – while bringing the city to life with stories and local insight you’d easily miss on your own.

It lasts around 90 minutes, making it a great option at the start of your trip to help you get your bearings.

We recently had my Dad and Step-Mum visiting who took this tour and said it was a real highlight of their time in Inverness – their guide, Christine, was particularly brilliant at sharing local stories and history in an engaging way.

Want something more personal?

If you prefer a more tailored experience, there’s also the option of a private walking tour for up to 6 people. This is a great choice for families or small groups who want a more flexible pace and the chance to shape the experience around their interests.

You’ll still cover the main highlights of Inverness, but with your own dedicated local guide and a more relaxed, bespoke feel.

Guided E-Bike Tour of Inverness

If you like the idea of seeing more of the city in less time, an e-bike tour is a brilliant alternative to a walking tour.

Small-group guided tours with Nessie Bike Tours make it easy to cover a lot of ground without it feeling strenuous, thanks to pedal-assist bikes and mostly flat, scenic routes along the River Ness and canal paths.

There are two main options:

• A 2-hour daytime tour, which includes time to explore key sights such as Ness Islands, the Caledonian Canal, Inverness Castle, and the Cathedral area
• A 2-hour evening tour, which takes in the highlights of Inverness as the light starts to soften

Both routes are relaxed and accessible, with regular stops for photos and stories along the way. It’s a great way to see a wider slice of the city than you’d manage on foot, while still keeping things local and unhurried.

→ Check availability and book an e-bike tour

Leakey’s Second Hand Bookshop

It’s like something from Harry Potter in this wonderful old church… the building features stain glass windows and a spiral staircase. The books are piled high from the floor to the ceiling. If you visit in the winter months, then you will really appreciate the central wood burner that keeps the place heated. This is Scotland’s largest collection of rare books and maps. It’s located centrally, just a short walk from the train station and the staff are really friendly.

→ Leaky’s Secondhand Book Shop Website

Wander along River Ness Walk and Ness Islands

One of our favourite areas in Inverness! Just a stone’s throw from the castle is the attractive River Ness, which flows through the centre of Inverness. There is a lovely walk along its banks that includes crossing the river on a number of suspension bridges which link little islands. The nature walk is well signposted from the city centre.

👉 Local tip: Continue the walk towards the Botanic Gardens or Whin Park for a longer, scenic loop.

→ Ness Islands Website

An evening of live music

Inverness has some great live music venues! There are a few to choose from and our favourites include Hootananny, Gellions, Highlander and MacGregor’s. They’re all located fairly centrally and will deliver you a good time. Nothing beats an evening of live music entertainment.

Cathedral and Café

Inverness cathedral is an imposing piece of gothic sandstone architecture, whose foundation stone was laid in 1866 by the Archbishop of Canterbury. Its doors are open all year round from 8am to 7pm and if you wish, you can take a stroll inside for a small entry fee.

From time to time the cathedral plays host to classical music concerts, choir concerts and Scottish dancing, so keep an eye on their events page.

The lovely cafe and gift shop housed in an ornate stone building adjacent to the cathedral, is currently undergoing renovation work, however, it usually serves a wonderful array of cakes, soups, filled rolls and quality coffee.

👉 Local tip: Combine this with a walk along Ness Walk or Ness Islands, a bite from one of the food truck’s on the Highland Food & Drink Trail (see below) or a visit to Eden Court nearby.

Highland Food and Drink Trail

Just next to the Cathedral, along Ness Walk, you’ll find the wonderful Highland Food and Drink Trail. There’s an array of street vendors selling delicious fayre including cullen skink, chilli chicken burrito, pulled burgers, orkney mac, pizzas and smoothies. They’re usually there from Thursday through to Sunday, however, check their website for up-to-date information. There’s a really great buzz about the place on a sunny day – amazing local food in a beautiful setting by the river Ness!

Parks, Gardens & Family-friendly activities in Inverness

Visit Whin Park (Great for families)

If you’re travelling with children, then a visit to Whin park is a must, it’s a great place to burn off some energy. You can either drive there (it’s located on the opposite side of River Ness) or walk there using the lovely Ness Island walking trail. Allow time for little legs though.

This impressive purpose built theatre feels like the cultural centre of Inverness. Inside, discover the pleasant café bar which serves both drinks and tasty snacks behind huge glass windows, with views to the River Ness. The theatre hosts regular touring companies, including some big productions such as ‘Six the Musical’ and ‘Pride and Prejustice (*sort of)’. There is also a lovely cinema which shows a mix of mainstream and art house movies. While in November, there is a yearly film festival that showcases an eclectic mix of world cinema.

The theatre is located on the banks of the River Ness close to Bught park/Botanic Gardens and features a well kept garden with a lawn that is perfect to relax on during the summer months. Watch out for the ‘Under Canvas’ event during July and August where you can expect to find live music, Djs and a wood fired pizza oven.

→ Eden Court website

There is plenty of choice for places to eat in Inverness. Here are some of our top picks:

Enjoy dinner down by the river at the Mustard Seed restaurant, such a lovely setting. They also do a great value pre-theatre dinner.

Rocpool – located on the north-side of River Ness, enjoy a meal in this classy restaurant where you’ll be spoiled with wonderful fresh Scottish ingredients. They do a great value lunch and early dinner menu if you fancy treating yourself.

Café 1 – This chic restaurant can be found close to Inverness castle and is proud to serve dishes that make the most of local ingredients. Some of the meat on the menu even comes from the family run farm, just 12 miles away, ensuring that farm to fork miles are kept to the absolute minimum. While seafood and game comes from Duncan Fraser located in the Victorian Market.

The Walrus and Corskrew wine bar is Inverness’ only wine bar. It’s such a great find and a must if you’re visiting Inverness. They offer great cheese and charcuterie platters – all locally sourced.

A pint at the Black Isle Bar is a must! Located in the city centre, this bar does great wood-fired pizzas and of course, fantastic craft beer which is made just a few miles away on the Black Isle. You can even visit the brewery if you’re planning a visit to the Black Isle: check out our guide here!

And of course, as mentioned above, if you enjoy street food, then we highly recommend heading down to the riverside and checking out the various food trucks at the Highland Food and Drink Trail which generally takes place Thursday to Sunday (check their website for details).

Best Day Trips from Inverness

Urquhart Castle

Inverness sightseeing doesn’t need to be limited to the city… A beautiful 30 minute drive away and you’ll find Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic castles. The ruins of this 13^th century castle sit proudly on a rocky promontory on the banks of Loch Ness. A great location to do some Nessie spotting! It has a long and colourful history and was involved in a tug of war battle between the English and the Scots during the Wars of independence. Another must on your Scottish bucket list! Read our detailed post full of top tips if you’re planning to visit Urquhart Castle.

Culloden Battlefield

If you have your own transport and are looking for things to do near Inverness, head to Culloden Battlefield, an easy 15-minute drive from Inverness. There is something incredibly moving and atmospheric about this place. This is the plac e where the last battle was fought between the Jacobites (those faithful to the Stuart monarchy) and the government troops back in April 1746. 1500 Jacobites were slain within an hour and the battle marked the end of the Jacobite Rising. Visitors can walk on the ‘battlefield’, see some of the clan headstones and immerse themselves in the visitor centre. Our kids were particularly taken with the 360-degree battle immersion theatre (it’s a bit gruesome so we’d only recommend for older kids). You could easily combine a visit to both Culloden and Clava Cairns if you’re planning to do some day trips from Inverness.

Outlander Vibes at Clava Cairns

Any Outlander fans out there? Just a short five-minute drive from Culloden Battlefield and you’ll find Clava Cairns. This 4000-year-old bronze age cemetery has been firmly placed on the map following the incredible success of the Outlander series. It’s been said that Clava Cairns served as the inspiration for the fictitious Craigh na Dun stone circle in the series although there is much debate as to whether this is true or not. You can also book onto Rabbies organised tour which combines a visit to Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns (aka Outlander Stones) and Glen Affric – CLICK HERE to check availability and prices.

Where to stay in Inverness

There are lots of great options of accommodation in Inverness. We’ve tried budget, B&B and luxury… here are our favourites :

If you’re on a budget, there’s the Travelodge or the B&B Hotel in the town centre. There’s also Bazpackers Hostel which is a great option and a fun way to meet other travellers.

We loved our stay at the Ardentorrie Guest House located in the Crown neighbourhood. The views of the castle from the rooms and the dining room are fantastic.

For the ultimate in luxury, treat yourself to a stay in Ness Walk Hotel. You’ll be greeted with a glass of champagne – what more could you ask for! Click here to read our full Ness Walk Hotel review!

How to get to Inverness

Inverness by Car

If you’re coming from the south (Edinburgh, Glasgow, Perth), the easiest way to reach Inverness is via the A9. Alternatively, you can take the more scenic A82 if coming from Glasgow which will take you via Loch Lomond, Glen Coe, Fort William and along the banks of Loch Ness.

Inverness by Train

There are many direct trains to Inverness train station which is located a stone’s throw from the town centre. Check out train timetables on the trainline website or on the Scotrail website. For a truly unique experience, you might want to consider catching the overnight Caledonian Sleeper from London. Fall asleep in London and awaken in the stunning Highlands. Prices are a little eye-watering so make sure you book ahead!

Inverness by Bus

Inverness is very well served by bus companies – Stagecoach, Megabus, Citylink. We find the best way to check times and bus routes, is to use the website Traveline Scotland.

Inverness by Air

Inverness has a small airport located a 15 minute drive from the city centre. It is served by various airlines across the UK, Northern Ireland and direct from Amsterdam. Easyjet fly from London Gatwick, Bristol and London Luton. British Airways fly from London Heathrow. The Scottish airline, Logan Air, serve the Scottish Islands but also Belfast, Bergen, Birmingham, Exeter, Jersey, Newquay and Manchester. KLM fly direct between Amsterdam and Inverness.

For up-do-date timetables and information, we strongly recommend you check Inverness Airport’s website.

You can either catch a taxi (Inverness Taxis) into the city or the bus (Stagecoach Inverness) which links the airport to the city centre as well as Nairn (heading east). There is a new train stop close to the airport which serves travellers, however, it does require a short bus journey to get from the airport to the train stop as it’s about a 1 mile walk away. The best option is probably a taxi or a bus to get into Inverness.

Inverness is the starting point of the North Coast 500. Check out our epic guide to the East Coast section of the NC500 – CLICK HERE!