Inverness-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary: Exploring Inverness & the Scottish Highlands

This itinerary balances urban exploration with breathtaking Highland adventures.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Inverness Youth Hostel, The Columba Hotel
  • Mid-Range: Kingsmills Hotel, Rocpool Reserve Hotel & Chez Roux
  • Luxury: Culloden House Hotel,Inverlochy Castle

Transportation:

  • Within Inverness: Walking is ideal for the city centre. Buses are available for further destinations.
  • Beyond Inverness: Consider hiring a car for maximum flexibility exploring the Highlands. Alternatively, join organised tours or use local bus services.

Things to Know:

  • The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, so pack layers and waterproof clothing.
  • Midges (tiny biting insects) are common during summer months, especially in wooded areas. Insect repellent is essential.
  • Scottish currency is the Pound Sterling (£). Cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Day 1: Inverness City Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Inverness and check into your accommodation. Explore the historic city centre with its Victorian Market, Inverness Castle (viewpoint), and St. Andrew’s Cathedral.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Inverness Museum & Art Gallery to learn about local history and culture. Take a stroll along the scenic River Ness and admire the bridges.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Mustard Seed Restaurant for modern Scottish cuisine or try Rocpool Restaurant for fine dining with river views.

Day 2: Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle

  • Morning: Embark on a Loch Ness cruise to search for Nessie, the legendary monster. Explore Urquhart Castle, a ruined fortress overlooking the loch.
  • Afternoon: Hike or cycle along the shores of Loch Ness. Enjoy breathtaking views and keep an eye out for wildlife.
  • Evening: Dine at The Dores Inn, a charming pub with loch views, or try The Clansman Hotel in Drumnadrochit for hearty meals.

Day 3: Culloden Battlefield & Whisky Trail

  • Morning: Visit the Culloden Battlefield, site of the last Jacobite uprising. Reflect on history and learn about this pivotal event at the visitor centre.
  • Afternoon: Embark on a whisky distillery tour in Speyside, the heart of Scotch whisky production (Glenfiddich, Macallan, Balvenie are popular choices).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner in Inverness. Try The Castle Tavern for traditional pub food or try The Italian Kitchen for delicious pasta dishes.

Day 4: Cairngorms National Park

  • Morning: Drive to the Cairngorms National Park, Scotland’s largest national park. Hike amidst stunning mountain scenery, spot wildlife (red deer, ptarmigan), and enjoy panoramic views.
  • Afternoon: Visit Loch Morlich, a beautiful loch surrounded by pine forests. Go for a swim or paddleboarding if weather permits.
  • Evening: Dine at The Old Bridge Inn in Aviemore, a cosy pub with local flavours, or try the Rothiemurchus Centre Restaurant for seasonal Scottish cuisine.

Day 5: Farewell Inverness

  • Morning: Explore any remaining attractions you missed in Inverness. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at The Milk Bar Cafe or indulge in scones and tea at The Cake Shop.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Inverness, cherishing the memories of your Highland adventure.

Tips:

  • Book accommodation and tours in advance, especially during peak season (summer months).
  • Consider purchasing a Scotland Explorer Pass for discounts on attractions and transportation.
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of exploring!
  • Embrace the local culture by trying traditional Scottish food and drink like haggis, neeps & tatties, whisky, and Irn Bru.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Inverness and the Scottish Highlands!