Is Inverness expensive to visit?
Inverness is a terrific city that attracts a multitude of tourists with a broad spectrum of travel styles and budgeting preferences. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
You can find Inverness to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like eating at less expensive restaurants and exploring on foot can help you save money.
On average, budget travelers spend $118 (£88) per day, mid-range travelers spend $272 (£204) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $537 (£402) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Inverness.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Inverness is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Amalfi or Santorini.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Inverness Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Inverness?
The average Inverness trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Inverness travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Inverness cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Setting realistic expectations for your travel budget is important. Many people assume they can visit Inverness on a minimal budget, but most find that style of travel to be uncomfortable. Think about what makes a vacation enjoyable for you. Do you like staying in budget hostels, regular hotels, or high-end resorts? Do you want to experience the local attractions? Do you enjoy dining out? Your budget and itinerary will be determined by your answers to these questions.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $118 that backpackers often get by on.
Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Fortunately, there's plenty of hostels in Inverness, like Inverness Student Hotel, Bazpackers Hostel, and Inverness Youth Hostel. Here, you can score affordable dorm accommodation along with a vibrant social scene, though amenities may be lacking. Food is a standout attraction for all visitors to Inverness, but those on a budget might rely on street food or cook in their hostels, which could mean less exposure to the fantastic local dishes.
So, are you average?
As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Many visitors to Inverness are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $272 per person, per day.
There are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals available in Inverness. If you're traveling with companions, sharing a hotel with a partner, friend, or kids can help lower costs. Families should seek out hotels and dining options that are suitable for children. Culliss House B&B is a wonderful family-friendly hotel, and Eildon Guest House is another excellent choice. For more family and couple-oriented hotels, visit our hotel cost guide for Inverness here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $537 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the city, a luxury budget will be necessary. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private Walking Tour in Inverness with a Local - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Inverness
In Inverness, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $129, but during peak season they jump to an average of $241. You can find budget options starting at $78 up to luxury rates at $485. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Inverness for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $239 (£183). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $119 (£91) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Inverness? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Inverness include:
- Ardentorrie Guest House & Holiday Home starting at $142
- Inverness Lochardil House Hotel starting at $130
- Kingsmills Hotel Inverness starting at $85
- Culliss House B&B starting at $115
- Eildon Guest House starting at $202
By skipping summer and traveling during the low or shoulder season, you'll enjoy lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds.
Many enjoy discovering Inverness by walking, so it's beneficial to stay in a central spot. However, this convenience could lead to increased costs.
Transportation Budget in Inverness
In Inverness, the public transit system is not very good. There are local buses that pass through the town.
Walking enthusiasts will have a wonderful experience during their visit. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.
Public Transit: (moderate)
Walkability: (great)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $43 (£33) per person, per day, on local transportation in Inverness. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Inverness is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$43
£33
If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Private Inverness Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport for $59 details
- Private Inverness Arrival Transfer- Airport to Hotel / Accommodation for $59 details
- Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer for $66 details
How much does it cost to go to Inverness? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Inverness will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Inverness
The culinary offerings in Inverness are superb, so be sure to dedicate some time to experience all the local flavors. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Inverness can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Inverness is $111 (£85) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$111
£85
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Inverness is around $113 (£85) per person, with previous travelers spending from $50 to $212. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Inverness are as follows:
- Breakfast: $11 to $34
- Lunch: $17 to $45
- Dinner: $34 to $79
- Coffee: $9
- Fast Food or Street Food: $17
Inverness has a wealth of options when it comes to restaurants, ranging from upscale seafood on the River Ness to delicious Thai and Indian food. If you're looking for traditional Scottish fare, head to one of the many pubs where you'll find lamb and potatoes as the stars of the menu. Enjoy freshly made whisky at the Glen Ord Distillery and the Tomatin Distillery, both of which you can tour and taste some of their finest whiskies.
Countless hotels provide breakfast as part of your stay, but some will add it as an additional fee. The price and quality can change based on the hotel. Being informed ahead of time can aid in deciding whether to budget extra funds. You might enjoy the delightful buffet offered at the hotel, or perhaps a more economical option would be a nearby bakery or cafe.
Using a water bottle can save you money on drinks while being eco-friendly.
When planning your tour, don't forget to check what meals are included. You might have to pay for some of your own food, which could add to your expenses.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Inverness
Tourists are naturally attracted to Inverness due to its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and family-friendly activities.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Inverness typically cost an average of $58 (£44) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$58
£44
Inverness is in the perfect location, right at the beginning of the Highlands, and offers fantastic sights of natural wonders and architecture steeped in history. North of the city center is Fort George, an 18th century army barrack that combines incredible architecture with the stunning beauty of the Moray Firth around it. Head south to the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle of the Jacobite Rising, which holds great importance to the Scottish people. Further south past the battlefield is Loch Ness with the impressive ruins of the 13th century Urquhart Castle on its shores. You can take a wander along the shores or even catch a boat ride from the Loch Ness visitors center to the castle. Inside the city center of Inverness, you'll find Inverness Castle and Inverness Cathedral, both of which date back to the mid 1800's and feature stunning red brick architecture.
One of the best ways to explore the city is on foot by taking one of the walking trails. The River Ness and Caledonian Canal path takes you along the riverbank by the castle, then over a bridge to the sea wall where you may even see some Moray Firth Dolphins when the tides change. For a better chance at seeing the dolphins, head to Chanonry Point where you'll find a delightful pebble beach that is perfect for dolphin spotting. Get out of the city center and go for a small hike to Plodda Falls, a gorgeous waterfall hidden in the forest. If you happen to be around in July, you may see the annual Inverness Highland Games where locals compete in traditional Scottish sports that are thousands of years old.
Museums and Attractions:
Museums and landmarks are a major reason why Inverness attracts so many visitors. 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.
Shopping:
The shopping experience here is something you have to do. 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.
A nice way to explore destinations in Inverness is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Skye Explorer Hiking Day Tour for $209 details
- Isle of Skye and the Fairy Pools Tour for $237 details
- Invergordon Shore Excursion Highland Bucket List Tour for $158 details
Nightlife Budget in Inverness
While Inverness offers some nightlife options, they aren't as bustling as those in other more popular locations. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $30 (£23) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Inverness per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$30
£23
Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.
If you're out drinking at night, keep an eye on your surroundings. You could be a target for pickpockets, so it's wise to stay in a group and with people you trust.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Inverness. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- INVERGORDON PORT Tour Dunrobin, Dornoch & Distillery for $118 details
- Distillery and Brewery Tour in Inverness Scotland for $46 details