Inverness is within the Scottish Highlands. It is a city that is full of history, nature, and Highland charm. With a population of just under 50,000, it’s Scotland’s smallest city, yet it’s full of many experiences to enjoy. If you’re looking for Inverness things to see and do, or planning things to do near Inverness, this guide will help.
We’ll share historic landmarks, outdoor activities, day-trips, local food and drink experiences, and planning tips.
What are the historical sites and castles in Inverness?
Scotland is full of things to see, so when searching for Inverness what to do, the city and its surrounding area are home to castles, battlefields, and ancient monuments perfect for history lovers.
Here are our top picks for what to do in Inverness:
Inverness Castle
Inverness Castle is on top of a hill overlooking the River Ness. Although the current castle is not medieval but rather a 19th-century structure, it has served as a courthouse and government building for decades. The castle is now undergoing a major redevelopment and is scheduled to reopen as a visitor attraction later in 2025. It will include exhibitions and public spaces. While the interior remains closed, you can still visit the castle’s grounds.
Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Centre
Just a short drive east of the city is the Culloden Battlefield & Visitor Centre. This is where the 1746 battle that ended the Jacobite rising happened. It features battle reenactments, artefacts from the period, and detailed storytelling. Tickets cost around £14 for adults and £11 for children, with discounts available for families. The site is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in winter, and until 5:00 p.m. in summer. We highly recommend booking your visit in advance, especially during peak season.
Clava Cairns
Only five minutes away from Culloden is Clava Cairns. This is a fascinating Bronze Age cemetery complex that is over 4,000 years old. The site has passage graves, ring cairns, and standing stones, and has been featured in the show Outlander. Entry is free, and the site is open year-round.
St Andrew’s Cathedral
In the city centre of Inverness, St Andrew’s Cathedral is located on the banks of the River Ness. Consecrated in 1869 and designed in the Gothic Revival style, the cathedral is well-known for its impressive stained glass windows and ornate carvings. Entry is free, though donations are encouraged to help with upkeep. The cathedral is usually open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with extended hours in summer. You can also attend regular services, as it is a functioning church.
What are day-trips from Inverness worth doing?
Positioned at the heart of the Highlands, there are many things to do near Inverness, making the city an excellent base for exploring the Highlands further.
- Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle: Just a 25-minute drive south, Loch Ness draws millions of visitors every year. Combine a boat tour with a stop at the dramatic Urquhart Castle.
- Isle of Skye: Though located further away (2.5 hours each way), many visitors opt for a guided tour to see highlights like the Old Man of Storr and Fairy Pools.
- Fort George: Built after Culloden, this enormous 18th-century fortress is one of the best-preserved in Europe.
- Cairngorms National Park: The UK’s largest national park is just an hour away. Ideal for hikers and skiers in winter.
Inverness things to do nearby
If you enjoy nature, Inverness has plenty of ways to experience the Highland landscape without venturing far.
Great Glen Way
A 79-mile long-distance trail starting in Inverness. You can complete shorter portions if you don’t have time for the full route.
Chanonry Point
One of the best places in Europe to see wild dolphins. We suggest visiting during the rising tide for the best chance.
Water Sports
Canoeing on the River Ness or boat tours on Loch Ness.
Castle Stuart Golf Links
Don’t miss seeing this championship course that has hosted the Scottish Open.
Ness Islands Walk
Enjoy this peaceful riverside path just a short stroll from the city centre.
Local food and drink experiences in Inverness
This region is known for whisky, hearty dishes, and farm-fresh produce.
Just 20 minutes from the city, Glen Ord Distillery has whisky tours and tastings where you can enjoy authentic single malt Scotch. For something different, head to Black Isle Brewery, known for its organic, eco-friendly craft beers.
When it comes to traditional Scottish cuisine, you can’t miss dishes like haggis with neeps and tatties, the hearty Cullen Skink soup made with smoked haddock, or Highland venison.
Finally, if you’re in town on the first Saturday of the month, the Inverness Farmers’ Market is a must. Explore stalls selling local cheeses, fresh baked goods, and seasonal produce, all right in the city centre.
Useful tips for visiting Inverness
In summer, from June to August, Inverness has warm weather with average temperatures of 15–18°C. However, it is also the busiest season. By contrast, spring and autumn bring milder weather with fewer crowds, making them ideal for sightseeing. Finally, winter is quieter and much colder with shorter days, but you might get a glimpse of the Northern Lights.
Getting around Inverness is easy since the city centre is very walkable. There are buses and trains with good connections to other parts of Scotland for easy travel. However, for day-trips to destinations like Skye or the Cairngorms, hiring a car is highly recommended.
For accommodation in Inverness, staying central will save you transport time, and My Stay Inn offers modern, comfortable options right in the heart of the city.
Come and visit Inverness
When it comes to Inverness things to do, the list is long and diverse. So if you’ve been wondering what to see and do in Inverness, the answer is clear: history, nature, food, and culture all come together here.
To make your stay as enjoyable as possible, book your accommodation with My Stay Inn, your home away from home while you explore the Highlands.
