A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Loch Lomond National Park vs. Inverness for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Loch Lomond National Park and Inverness can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a peaceful, relaxing, and scenic national park. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Inverness

Inverness is a historic, cultural, and traditional city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Loch Lomond National Park and Inverness: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Inverness. Although Loch Lomond National Park and Inverness are both popular with visitors, Inverness has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Inverness is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Loch Lomond National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Inverness is more touristy than Loch Lomond National Park and is popular for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness. It is also home to Loch Ness. Loch Lomond National Park is popular for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

How is Loch Lomond National Park different from Inverness?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Inverness is a great city for its historical sights. However, Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Inverness is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Inverness has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness Better for Nightlife?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Inverness is a city with good options for its evening party scene. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Inverness has a few options to choose from. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness Better for Hiking?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Loch Lomond National Park is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Loch Lomond National Park. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Inverness is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness Better for Families?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Loch Lomond National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Loch Lomond National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

Inverness is a family-friendly national park. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness Better for Couples?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

Inverness is a good national park 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Loch Lomond National Park is very good for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Loch Lomond National Park is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Loch Lomond National Park and Inverness both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

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

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness a more walkable city?

Loch Lomond National Park
Inverness

Inverness is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Loch Lomond National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Inverness Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Inverness or Loch Lomond National Park?

How long in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Loch Lomond National Park and Inverness. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Loch Lomond National Park than in Inverness. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Loch Lomond National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Inverness.

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


  • How many days in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness? Ideal Length of Stay
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4 
    Inverness 1-3

One day in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

You'll find around the national park of Loch Lomond National Park. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the traditional city of Inverness. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

You'll find around the relaxing destination of Loch Lomond National Park. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Inverness. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the peaceful national park of Loch Lomond National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Inverness is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.


A week in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

Loch Lomond National Park is a popular choice for travelers. 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 choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Inverness or Loch Lomond National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Loch Lomond National Park is £61, while the average daily cost in Inverness is £168. 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 Loch Lomond National Park and Inverness in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
    Inverness £91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
    Inverness £182
Compare Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park and Inverness

Looking for a hotel in Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness? 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 Loch Lomond National Park


Hotels in Inverness


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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £20
    Inverness £33

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $773
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $773
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $617
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $370
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $228
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $130
  • Private Transfer from Invergordon Port to Aberdeen Airport (ABZ): $115
  • Private Transfer from Inverness City to Inverness Airport INV by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport and Hotels Private Transfers: $95
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Loch Lomond National Park or Inverness?

Prices for flights to both Inverness and Loch Lomond National Park 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
    Loch Lomond National Park £15
    Inverness £49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Loch Lomond National Park £16
    Inverness £44

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • DAY TOUR; loch Ness, Coo's,Drams,Battles &Stones,from INVERNESS : $163
  • Inverness Tour-Cawdor Castle,Culloden Battlefield,Clava Cairns : $139
  • 1-Day Moray Coast Tour with Speyside Whisky from Inverness: $96
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour in Inverness City Centre with a Guide: $190
  • 2-Day Tour to Isle of Skye, The Fairy Pools & Highland Castles: $190
  • 2-Hour Private Celtic Handfasting Ceremony Experience: $108
  • 25 Shot Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience: $63
  • Applecross, Loch Carron & Wild Highlands Tour from Inverness: $68
  • Cawdor Castle, Inverness, Culloden, Outlander and Loch Ness Tour: $163
  • Chauffeur driven sightseeing Edinburgh to & from Inverness: $990
  • Clan Tour - Castle ,Whisky and History Tour: $171
  • Clan Tour - of Speyside Distilleries: $171

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93
    Inverness £23

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

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

  • Legendary Glenmorangie Distillery Visit: $165
  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $209
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,113


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

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