Things to do in Inverness

Activities, attractions and tours

A historic stone castle ruin with a lake in the background.
A bridge with a gothic church in the background.
A river with a bridge, historic buildings, and a church tower at dusk.
A historic stone castle by a lake with a boat in the water.
A river with two prominent church spires, a bridge, and a cityscape with buildings under a twilight sky.

Things to do

Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip

Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip

RM463
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Inverness: Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Day Trip
Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Outlander Sites & More from Inverness

Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Outlander Sites & More from Inverness

RM817
per adult
Loch Ness, Cawdor Castle, Outlander Sites & More from Inverness
Inverness: Loch Ness & The Highlands

Inverness: Loch Ness & The Highlands

RM333
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Inverness: Loch Ness & The Highlands
Inverness: Guided Walking Tour with a Local

Inverness: Guided Walking Tour with a Local

RM82
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Inverness: Guided Walking Tour with a Local
Loch Ness and Highlands Explorer Full-Day Tour

From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glen Coe and Highlands Explorer Full-Day Tour

RM441
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glen Coe and Highlands Explorer Full-Day Tour
Skye and Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness

Skye and Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness

RM529
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Skye and Eilean Donan Castle from Inverness
Inverness: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig, & Loch Ness Day Tour

Inverness: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig, & Loch Ness Day Tour

RM403
per adult
Inverness: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Mallaig, & Loch Ness Day Tour
Inverness: Loch Ness, Outlander & Whisky Distillery

Inverness: Loch Ness, Outlander & Whisky Distillery

RM545
per adult
Inverness: Loch Ness, Outlander & Whisky Distillery
castle in edinburgh

West Highland Lochs & Castles from Edinburgh

RM556
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
West Highland Lochs & Castles from Edinburgh
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Top places to visit

1. Loch Ness

Loch Ness is the largest lake in Scotland by volume. Surrounded by craggy mountains, woodlands and picturesque glens, the loch is hauntingly beautiful. Of course, its fame stems not from its natural scenery but from the infamous Loch Ness Monster, also known as Nessie. Walk along one of the many wonderful trails around the loch, take a boat tour on its waters and learn more about its fabled resident.
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A historic castle on a grassy hill overlooking a large body of water.

2. Inverness Castle

Inverness Castle is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks, its baronial turrets dominating the skyline. You might recognize the castle as the location of Duncan’s murder in the Shakespearean play Macbeth. Walk around the castle grounds to admire its architecture up-close and see impressive views of the city and along the River Ness.
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A historic castle on a hill with a river in the foreground.

3. Urquhart Castle

Bring your camera for your trip to Urquhart Castle. Its crumbling brown walls and spectacular towers, which are set against the tree-covered hills and still waters of Loch Ness, are extremely photogenic. Learn about 1,000 years of history and trace centuries of conflict between the English and the Scots at these stirring medieval ruins.
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A historic castle ruin by a lake with a grassy hill and a stone pathway.

4. Inverness Cathedral

Inverness Cathedral, also known as St. Andrews Cathedral, is in a northern diocese of the Scottish Episcopal Church. The cathedral’s architecture prompts much debate, yet it’s one of Inverness’ most remarkable churches. View the cathedral’s controversial exterior and step inside to see its historic treasures.
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A historic church with twin towers and a surrounding park.

5. Eden Court Theatre

The Eden Court Theatre is the largest entertainment venue in the Scottish Highlands and one of the community’s main cultural centers. Take a drama class, view an independent film or enjoy a meal at the theater’s excellent on-site restaurant.
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A modern building with a glass facade and a covered entrance area.

What to do in Inverness

Stay near popular Inverness attractions

A historic castle on a grassy hill overlooking a large body of water.

Loch Ness

Scotland’s most legendary attraction, this mysterious loch is said to be home to a mythical monster.
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Where to stay in Inverness

Find the best Inverness areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Inverness
Learn more about Inverness
A historic castle with multiple towers and a moat.

Inverness City Centre

The fantastic nightlife and stunning river views are just a few highlights of Inverness City Centre. Make a stop by Inverness Castle or Victorian Market while you're exploring the area.

A historic building with a prominent tower and green dome.

Crown

While there might not be top attractions in Crown, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Inverness Castle and Eastgate Shopping Centre.

A river with trees and a historic building on the right.

Ballifeary

While visiting Ballifeary, you might make a stop by sights like Eden Court Theatre and Inverness Botanic Gardens.

A historic waterfront with a row of Gothic-style buildings reflecting in calm water.

Lochardil

When in Lochardil, you can plan a visit to Eden Court Theatre and Inverness Castle, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A lake surrounded by mountains and a forested area.

Dalneigh

Though Dalneigh may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Eden Court Theatre and Inverness Castle.

Frequently asked questions

Is Inverness worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or try regional foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Inverness.
How do I spend a day in Inverness?
Dores Beach and Inverness Museum and Art Gallery are two awesome places to kick-start your holiday adventures. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Inverness while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Inverness?
The top tourist attraction in Inverness is Inverness Cathedral, so don't forget to put it on your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Inverness?
Three days will be plenty of time to check out the leading city highlights, including Inverness Cathedral, Eden Court Theatre and Inverness Museum and Art Gallery. The average stay in Inverness is two days. If you have the time to extend your adventure, Loch Ness isn't far away.
Is Inverness a walkable city?
Some top sights in Inverness, like Inverness Cathedral and Eden Court Theatre, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 0.16 kilometres from central Inverness is Inverness City Centre and Bunchrew is 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Inverness with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our ideas for what to do in Inverness with kids.
What to do in Inverness for adults?
Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns are just a couple of the things to do in Inverness. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Inverness?
In Inverness, Inverness Cathedral is a popular spot for anyone planning to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Inverness.

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