When we think of Scotland, we imagine beautiful stretches of water, verdant landscapes and period architecture. Inverness offers all this, and much more, to amazed travelers. Located in the north of the nation, this Scottish gem with its bewitching charm welcomes you for an unforgettable journey to the land of Celtic dreams. Its rolling hills promise a total escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. But what can you do and see in Inverness to make the most of this enchanting destination? In this article, we present 11 must-sees, from the Victorian Market with its well-preserved Victorian clock to the majestic Fort George and the mysteries of Loch Ness. Get ready to discover a city where every street corner tells a story!
1. Wander the lanes of Inverness
To lose yourself in the narrow streets ofInverness is to immerse yourself in the authentic soul of Scotland. Every cobblestone pavement, every stone facade tells a centuries-old story, testifying to the rich past of this charming town. The narrow, winding streets, lined with craft stores and welcoming cafés, invite you to stroll. Here, time seems to flow more slowly, allowing visitors to savor every moment. Photography enthusiasts will find a multitude of picturesque subjects, while history buffs can soak up the medieval atmosphere that still reigns in some quarters. Don't miss a stop at the Victorian Market, a covered market where the well-preserved Victorian clock adds an extra touch of charm to your stroll.
To book: Take advantage of a multi-stop bus tour you can book right here to discover all the places to see in Inverness.
To read: What to do, what to visit in the Highlands? The 15 most beautiful places
2. The Victorian Market, a hidden gem of the city
Founded in 1870, this covered market is home to some forty specialist stores. It's not immediately visible when visiting Inverness, almost blending into the background like a hidden gem. Its Victorian architecture makes it a real gem, and you'll enjoy strolling through its covered aisles. A little frequented place, it exudes a special charm. Among the boutiques, you'll find a Belgian chocolatier, an ice-cream "milk bar", The Highland Cake Fairy, and the Chez Paulo café, renowned for its excellent pastries. A must-try to warm up for a trip in October, for example!
Read more: What to do in Scotland 17 must-sees
3. Visit majestic Fort George
King George II ordered the construction of this vast fort to prevent any future uprisings. Garrison buildings, artillery and weapons create a unique martial atmosphere in this magnificent Vauban-inspired citadel. Still occupied by the army to this day, it's worth exploring the 1 km rampart surrounding the fortifications, the historic barracks, one of only two military dog cemeteries in the country, and the museum of the Highlanders, one of Scotland's oldest regiments.
Read more: Top 10 most beautiful castles in Europe
4. Culloden Visitor Centre
April 16, 1746 marked the end of the last Jacobite revolution and the Stuart dynasty's hopes of regaining the Scottish throne. After threatening to take London, Bonnie Prince Charlie's troops retreated to the Highlands, pursued by the Duke of Cumberland's men. The two armies clashed on the plain of Culloden, where the outnumbered Scots suffered a total defeat in less than an hour, forcing Charles to flee. The Culloden Visitor Centre is a must-see for fans of Scottish history.
- Museum area: The museum tells the story of the battle from the perspective of both sides, with period artefacts, re-enactment films and a wealth of information on the causes and consequences of this major event. Ultra-modern, it offers an immersive 360-degree experience of the battle.
- Free access: The battlefield is visible (but not accessible) on a free access basis, as is Leanach Cottage, reopened to visitors in 2019. This traditional 18th-century thatched cottage, inhabited until 1912, has been restored and transformed into a free temporary exhibition space.
- Store: Fans of the Outlander series will find plenty of goodies to add to their collection in the open-access shopping area.
5. Visit Cawdor Castle
Cawdor Castle, the historic home of the Baron of Cawdor, is famous to the general public thanks to the character of the thane of Cawdor in Shakespeare's play Macbeth. However, the events of the play predate the construction of the castle, which dates from the late 14th century. In the 16th century, the castle passed into the hands of the Campbell clan, and was subsequently renovated and enlarged. A visit to the castle reveals its sumptuous interiors, adorned with precious decorative elements and magnificent paintings. The surrounding gardens are equally splendid.
6. Inverness Museum of Art and History
This contemporary museum explores in depth the past, culture, environment and traditions of the Highlands and Inverness. The tour begins with the region's geology, natural history and archaeological discoveries, before focusing on the key events that shaped its destiny, such as the Jacobite movement. The museum gallery hosts temporary exhibitions by local artists throughout the year. The museum's relevant explanations (in English) give a good overview of Scottish art and history as a whole.
7. Enjoy the view from Inverness Castle
Overlooking the River Ness, this castle was taken by the Jacobites in 1746. Today, it houses a court of justice and a military garrison. The statue of Flora MacDonald, the heroine who helped Bonnie Prince Charlie escape, sculpted by Inverness-born Andrew Davidson, adorns its front. Although it's not possible to visit the castle, the Castle Viewpoint is open to the public. If you're passing through Inverness, make a detour to admire this remarkable building. The exterior is very pretty, offering beautiful views of the river, bridges and mountains in the distance. It's a must-see on any walk, offering 360-degree views of the city and the Highland hinterland.
Read more: Scotland, nature in all its splendor
8. Visit the Tomatin distillery
Officially founded in 1897, this Highland distillery may have been producing whisky as early as the 16th century. Around 80% of its production is destined for the blended whisky market, while the remainder is bottled as single malt. The distillery is renowned for its friendly, dedicated staff, who offer detailed but accessible explanations of this local heritage. The hour-long tour concludes with a tasting of three different drams, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuances of their whiskies.
9. For Outlander fans: check out the Clava Cairns!
Clava Cairns will captivate both history buffs and fans of the Outlander series. History buffs will be delighted to discover one of Scotland' s most famous and impressive prehistoric sites. Dating back some 4,000 years, the Clava Cairns were built to house the dead. This cemetery, sacred for millennia, is a valuable source of information on Bronze Age beliefs. Two remarkable areas are open to the public, offering a moving visit. For Outlander fans, the mere name of Clava Cairns will evoke familiar memories.
10. Take a tour of the Scottish Flair art gallery
Scottish Flair, located in Inverness, Scotland, is a Victorian art gallery exhibiting a varied collection of 19th-century works, including oil paintings, watercolors and prints. Founded in 2004, the gallery is ideally located in the city center and welcomes visitors free of charge six days a week. With a diversity of art media and price ranges, Scottish Flair offers a rich array of 19th-century art, catering to a wide range of preferences and tastes.
Good to know: The gallery is accessible by public transport via buses 5 and 5C.
11. Search for Clootie Wells
The area around Inverness is dotted with "Clootie Wells",ancient pilgrimage sites decorated with colorful fabrics hung from trees. In days gone by, people would come to these wells and springs, dip a piece of cloth in the water, tie it to a branch and say a prayer, either to spirits and goddesses before the Christian era, or to saints afterwards. Among these wells, the Munlochy Well, dedicated to Saint Boniface, is still in use today. It is even mentioned in Ian Rankin's novel "The Naming of the Dead".
Where to stay in Inverness
Choosing the best area to stay in Inverness depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your stay. The City Center is ideal for travelers who want to be close to restaurants and major tourist attractions. The Ness Riverbank is a good option for those looking for picturesque views and a peaceful setting while still being close to the city center. The Crown neighborhood will suit travelers who want a mix of tranquility and proximity to downtown amenities.
Discover our three favorite accommodations in Inverness!
- The most typical: Loch Ness Country House Hotel
Bookable right here, this Georgian-style country house is located very close to the city and boasts magnificent gardens where it's a pleasure to stroll and admire the superb view of the Highlands. Rooms are luxurious, elegant and tastefully decorated. Bonus: delicious afternoon tea!
- Best value for money: Inchrye Bed & Breakfast
Bookable here, the Inchrye Guest House is a Victorian bed & breakfast offering comfortable, affordable accommodation. Rooms feature TV, tea and coffee making facilities. Breakfast is included in the room rate and is served in a relaxed dining room. Bonus: free parking and pets allowed.
- The cheapest: Inverness Youth Hostel
Bookable right here, inverness Youth Hostel is housed in a building that's anything but historic, but it 's got it all : several lounges, a kitchen, a dining room, a huge reception area and a varied choice of rooms and dormitories, depending on comfort and budget. In all, 163 beds ensure you'll almost always find room.
How long does it take to visit Inverness?
The ideal length of time to visit Inverness depends on what you want to see and do during your stay. Here are some suggestions depending on the length of your visit:
1-2 days
Ideal for : A quick getaway or a stopover on a wider Scotland itinerary.
Things to see and do:
- Explore the city center and Victorian Market.
- Visit Inverness Castle and enjoy the view from the Castle Viewpoint.
- Stroll along the River Ness and cross the picturesque bridges.
- Discover the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery.
3 to 4 days
Ideal for : A more relaxed stay that allows you to explore the Inverness area.
Things to see and do:
- All the activities mentioned above.
- Visit the Culloden battlefield and visitor center.
- Explore Clava Cairns and Clootie Wells.
- Take a trip to Loch Ness and visit Urquhart Castle.
- Discover Glen Ord Distillery or another local distillery.
To book: Discover the legendary Loch Ness on a scenic cruise and stop off to explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle by booking here this guided tour from Inverness.
5 to 7 days
Ideal for : A complete holiday that lets you enjoy the Highlands region to the full.
Things to see and do:
- All the activities mentioned above.
- Hiking in the surrounding area, such as the Great Glen Way.
- Visit other historical and natural sites, such as Fort George and Cawdor Castle Gardens.
- Explore Highland villages and landscapes, such as Beauly and Drumnadrochit.
- Take part in local activities, such as festivals and markets.
Additional tips
- Season: The best time to visit Inverness is generally from May to September, when the climate is milder and the days are longer.
- Transport: Inverness is well served by public transport, including buses and trains, making it easy to get around the region.
- Activities: Depending on your interests, you can adjust your itinerary to include specific activities, such as fishing, golf, or visits to film and TV locations (like Outlander).
In summary, for a complete and relaxed visit of Inverness and the surrounding area, 3 to 4 days are generally sufficient. However, if you have the time, a week's stay will enable you to fully discover the richness of the Highlands region.
Where to eat in Inverness
For the best food in Inverness, here are our two favorite restaurants:
- The Mustard Seed
Description: Located in a former church, this restaurant offers a unique and warm atmosphere. The menu offers modern Scottish cuisine with tasty dishes made from local ingredients.
Specialities: fresh fish dishes, local meats, homemade desserts.
Address: 16 Fraser Street, Inverness
- The Castle Tavern
Description: Located near Inverness Castle, this traditional Scottish pub offers a warm and friendly atmosphere. Ideal for sampling traditional Scottish dishes in an authentic setting.
Specialities: Haggis, neeps and tatties, fish and chips, Scotch pie, sticky toffee pudding.
Address: 1 View Place, Inverness
You'll also find below some of the hottest things to do in and around Inverness :
What to see between Edinburgh and Inverness?
The journey between Edinburgh and Inverness offers a multitude of sites to discover, from breathtaking natural landscapes to fascinating historical sites. Here are just a few must-sees:
Stirling
What to see
- Stirling Castle: An impressive medieval castle with panoramic views over the region.
- Wallace National Monument: A monument to Scottish hero William Wallace, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
What to see:
- Loch Lomond: Scotland's largest loch, ideal for boating or hiking.
- Trossachs National Park: Magnificent scenery with mountains, forests and lochs.
Glencoe
What to see
- Glencoe Valley: A spectacular valley with breathtaking scenery, perfect for hiking and photography.
- Three Sisters: Three iconic peaks offering panoramic views.
Read more: What to do, what to visit in Glencoe? The 11 must-sees
Fort William
What to see:
- Ben Nevis: The highest peak in the UK, ideal for experienced hikers.
- West Highland Museum: A museum exploring the history and culture of the Highlands.
Glenfinnan
What to see:
- Glenfinnan Viaduct: A famous railway viaduct, notably for its appearance in the Harry Potter films.
- Glenfinnan Monument: A monument commemorating the Jacobite uprising of 1745.
Loch Ness
What to see:
- Loch Ness: The famous loch, renowned for its legendary monster, Nessie.
- Urquhart Castle: picturesque ruins overlooking Loch Ness.
Culloden
What to see:
- Culloden Battlefield: The site of the last Jacobite battle in 1746, with an informative visitor center.
Enjoy this article? See also our articles What to see and do in Edinburgh? The 17 must-sees and What to do and see in Edinburgh in 2 or 3 days? Itinerary tips.
