A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inverness vs. Utrecht for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Inverness or Utrecht?

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 Utrecht can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a cultural, traditional, and local city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Inverness and Utrecht: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Loch Ness
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Inverness or Utrecht?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Utrecht. Although Inverness and Utrecht are popular destinations, Utrecht has more sights and attractions for tourists. Utrecht is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Inverness attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Inverness is famous for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. Utrecht is famous for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. It is also well known for the Dom Tower.

How is Inverness different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Utrecht 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 Utrecht?

Inverness
Utrecht

Inverness is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.


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

Inverness
Utrecht

Inverness is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Inverness makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Inverness or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Utrecht

Utrecht is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Utrecht offers plenty to do in the evening. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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.

Is Inverness or Utrecht Better for its Old Town?

Inverness
Utrecht

Utrecht is terrific for its old town. However, Inverness does not have a historic old town.

Utrecht has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Inverness does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Utrecht?

Inverness
Utrecht

Both Inverness and Utrecht are great shopping destinations.

Inverness is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Is Inverness or Utrecht Better for Families?

Inverness
Utrecht

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

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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly city. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Inverness or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Inverness
Utrecht

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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 Utrecht Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inverness
Utrecht

Utrecht is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Utrecht is a great to visit for backpackers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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 Utrecht Better for Students?

Inverness
Utrecht

Utrecht is a well-known place for students. However, Inverness is not popular with students.

Utrecht is very popular with students. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Inverness is not popular with students.

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

Inverness
Utrecht

Utrecht is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Utrecht has some very good public transit options. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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


Is Inverness or Utrecht a more walkable city?

Inverness
Utrecht

Utrecht is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Utrecht on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Utrecht or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Utrecht?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Inverness and Utrecht. In our opinion, Utrecht has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Utrecht than Inverness. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Utrecht 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 Utrecht.


  • How many days in Inverness or Utrecht? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Utrecht 1-3

One day in Inverness or Utrecht?

In Inverness, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint of Utrecht. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Utrecht has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Inverness or Utrecht?

In Inverness, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Inverness has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Utrecht. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this has to offer. This offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Inverness or Utrecht?

Inverness is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant of Utrecht. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Inverness or Utrecht?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Inverness. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Inverness. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Utrecht is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Utrecht 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 Utrecht is £162. 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 Utrecht in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Inverness or Utrecht? 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 Utrecht


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 and Utrecht Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Utrecht £19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • 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
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Inverness or Utrecht?

Prices for flights to both Utrecht 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
    Utrecht £49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Utrecht

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Utrecht.

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Inverness £44
    Utrecht £37

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

Tours and Activities in Utrecht

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

  • Hoge Woerd Museum Entry Ticket with Audio Tour: $4.28
  • Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $5.45
  • Highlights walking Tour in Utrecht with Audio and GPS Guide: $6.06
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • De Haar Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $7.49
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Lofen Palace Time Travel with Entry Ticket & Guide: $12
  • Guided Highlights Walking Tour: $13
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Dom Tower Entry Ticket and Guided Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inverness £23
    Utrecht £20

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21


When comparing the travel costs between Inverness and Utrecht, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Inverness or Utrecht?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Inverness. When comparing the sizes of Inverness and Utrecht, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Inverness or Utrecht?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Inverness or Utrecht in the Summer?

Both Utrecht and Inverness are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Inverness for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Utrecht because of the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Inverness is generally cooler than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 14°C (58°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Utrecht during summer. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Inverness usually receives less rain than Utrecht. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Inverness 14°C (58°F) 
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Utrecht in the Autumn?

Both Utrecht and Inverness during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Inverness because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year.

Inverness is cooler than Utrecht in the autumn. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 9°C (49°F) in October, and Utrecht fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Utrecht. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 100 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in October than Utrecht. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Inverness 9°C (49°F) 
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Utrecht in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Utrecht. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Inverness this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Utrecht for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Utrecht. It's quite cold in Inverness in the winter. In the winter, Inverness is much warmer than Utrecht. Typically, the winter temperatures in Inverness in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Utrecht averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Inverness usually receives more sunshine than Utrecht during winter. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 38 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Inverness usually receives less rain than Utrecht. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Inverness 3°C (38°F) 
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Utrecht in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Utrecht. Many travelers come to Inverness for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Utrecht in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Inverness is generally cooler than Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 7°C (44°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Utrecht. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in April than Utrecht. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Inverness 7°C (44°F) 
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Inverness

Inverness Utrecht
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)