A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Inverness vs. Inner Hebrides for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Inner Hebrides can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a traditional, local, and historic city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a stunning, natural, and peaceful islands. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Inverness and Inner Hebrides: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Inverness. Although Inverness and Inner Hebrides are popular destinations, Inverness has more sights and attractions for tourists. Inverness is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Inner Hebrides attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Inverness is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. It is also well known for Loch Ness. Inner Hebrides is famous for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is Inverness different from Inner Hebrides?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Inner Hebrides and Inverness. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inverness is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Inverness offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Inverness or Inner Hebrides? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inverness is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inverness is a popular place for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides Better for Beaches?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for the beache. However, Inverness is not a beach destination.

Inner Hebrides is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Inverness is not a beach destination.


Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides Better for Hiking?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Inner Hebrides is a popular spot for hiking. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inverness is a very popular place for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Inverness. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian Market.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides Better for Families?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Inverness or Inner Hebrides.

Inverness is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Inner Hebrides is a family-friendly city. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.


Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides Better for Couples?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Inner Hebrides is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is very good for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Inner Hebrides is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.

Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Both Inverness and Inner Hebrides offer reasonable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.


Is Inverness or Inner Hebrides a more walkable city?

Inverness
Inner Hebrides

Inverness is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

Inverness is very walkable. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Inverness Worth Visiting? and Is Inner Hebrides Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Inner Hebrides or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

In either Inverness or Inner Hebrides, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Inner Hebrides than Inverness because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Inverness, and 3-5 days is enough time in Inner Hebrides.

Families should spend more time in Inverness than Inner Hebrides. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Inverness, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Inner Hebrides than Inverness. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Inner Hebrides that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Inner Hebrides than Inverness if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Inner Hebrides.


  • How many days in Inverness or Inner Hebrides? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Inner Hebrides 3-5

One day in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

In Inverness, you'll find museums and nightlife. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find food around the islands of Inner Hebrides. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

Inverness is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food around the natural destination of Inner Hebrides. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This islands offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Inverness. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food around the tranquil islands of Inner Hebrides. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this islands makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this islands has to offer.

A week in Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Inverness. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Inner Hebrides is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh.


Which place is cheaper, Inner Hebrides or Inverness?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, while the average daily cost in Inner Hebrides is £142. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Inverness and Inner Hebrides in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Inner Hebrides £67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Inner Hebrides £134
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Inner Hebrides

Looking for a hotel in Inverness or Inner Hebrides? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Inverness


Hotels in Inner Hebrides


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Inverness Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Inner Hebrides £76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184

Is it cheaper to fly into Inverness or Inner Hebrides?

Prices for flights to both Inner Hebrides and Inverness change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Inverness £49
    Inner Hebrides £31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inverness £44
    Inner Hebrides £22

Tours and Activities in Inverness

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Inverness are as follows:

  • 1-Day Moray Coast Tour with Speyside Whisky from Inverness: $97
  • 2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles: $191
  • 2-Hour Private Celtic Handfasting Ceremony Experience: $108
  • 25 Shot Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience: $63
  • Applecross, Loch Carron & Wild Highlands Tour from Inverness: $69
  • Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour: $164
  • Chauffeur driven sightseeing Edinburgh to & from Inverness: $1,000
  • Clan Tour - Castle ,Whisky and History Tour: $172
  • Craigs Luxury Speyside Private Whisky Tour: $686
  • Day tour to Isle of Skye and Fairy Pools from Inverness: $126
  • From Cairngorms National Park and Whisky Tour: $76
  • From Glen Affric, Culloden and Clava Cairns Tour: $73

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inverness £23
    Inner Hebrides £7.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

Also in Inverness, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Inverness and Inner Hebrides, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. And not only is Inner Hebrides much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Inner Hebrides would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Inner Hebrides and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Inverness would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Inverness than you might in Inner Hebrides.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Inverness Expensive? and Is Inner Hebrides Expensive?.