A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Isle of Skye vs. Inverness for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Inverness?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Isle of Skye and Inverness. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. You'll find world class beauty in Isle of Skye as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food. See Isle of Skye travel costs.

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. See Inverness travel costs.

Isle of Skye and Inverness: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

Both Inverness and Isle of Skye have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Isle of Skye is very popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Inverness attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Isle of Skye is famous for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Inverness is famous for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.

How is Isle of Skye different from Inverness?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

Inverness is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Inverness. 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Inverness? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Isle of Skye and Inverness.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Isle of Skye or Inverness Better for Nightlife?

Inverness is a good destination for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Isle of Skye is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You can find a place for a glass of wine of a craft beer and relax with friends.

Is Isle of Skye or Inverness Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for the beach. However, Inverness is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Inverness is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Inverness Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

Inverness is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Inverness More Beautiful?

Isle of Skye is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Inverness is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Isle of Skye as well. The stunning coastline and beautiful hikes make this a truly unique destination in Scotland.

Inverness is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Isle of Skye or Inverness Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and Inverness are nice family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Inverness. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Is Isle of Skye or Inverness Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for couples. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

Inverness is a good island 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 Isle of Skye or Inverness Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Isle of Skye is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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

Inverness is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Inverness a more walkable city?

Inverness is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its high level of walkability.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable island. It's nice to explore on foot, but you need a vehicle to cover the long distances.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Inverness Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Inverness or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Inverness. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Inverness. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Inverness.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.

One day in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

You'll find food around the island of Isle of Skye. 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.

In Inverness, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this traditional city offers. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

You'll find food around the picturesque destination of Isle of Skye. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Inverness is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

You'll find food around the diverse island of Isle of Skye. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Inverness. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Inverness?

Isle of Skye 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.

Inverness is a popular place to visit. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Isle of Skye and Inverness, we can see that Inverness is more expensive. And not only is Isle of Skye much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Isle of Skye would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.

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

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Inverness?

Inverness has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Inverness, 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 Isle of Skye or Inverness?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Inverness in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Inverness. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Inverness in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Isle of Skye is cooler than Inverness. Typically, the summer temperatures in Isle of Skye in July average around 13°C (55°F), and Inverness averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Inverness. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 147 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Inverness. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Inverness in the Autumn?

Both Inverness and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Inverness for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Isle of Skye is generally around the same temperature as Inverness. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 9°C (49°F), and Inverness fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Inverness during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Inverness. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Inverness in the Winter?

Both Inverness and Isle of Skye during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Inverness because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Inverness can be very cold. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. Isle of Skye is a little warmer than Inverness in the winter. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Inverness fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Inverness. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Inverness receives 42 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Inverness. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Inverness in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Inverness. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Inverness this time of year.

In the spring, Isle of Skye is around the same temperature as Inverness. Typically, the spring temperatures in Isle of Skye in April average around 7°C (44°F), and Inverness averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives more sunshine than Inverness during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Inverness receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Inverness. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Inverness receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Inverness and Isle of Skye