Top 15 Tours in Inverness for Adventure Seekers

Inverness is the northernmost city in the United Kingdom and is commonly referred to as the ‘Highland Capital’ of Scotland.

Despite its relatively small population of approximately 60,000 inhabitants, Inverness’s economy is significantly enhanced by the steady influx of tourists from around the globe.

The town boasts a range of historic sites, however, it is primarily the nearby castles, lochs, and numerous Scotch distilleries that attract visitors for professionally guided excursions.

Visitors often appreciate the town’s charming appeal, welcoming locals, and the ease of accessing local attractions. Tours encompass a variety of local experiences, including culinary traditions, historical perspectives, and cultural entertainment.

1. Loch Ness Cruise and Urquhart Castle

Situated along the picturesque shores of the renowned Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle stands as one of Scotland’s largest and most magnificent historic sites.

Guests will embark on a 30-minute cruise departing from one of the loch’s harbors, allowing them to witness some of the area’s most stunning natural vistas.

The views from the water are remarkable, and guests will be treated to historical narration from their guide during both the cruise and the castle tour.

While aboard, participants will enjoy access to refreshments, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating.

Entry to the castle and visitor center is included in the tour.

2. Inverness Food and Drink Walking Tour

Participants of this engaging walking tour often conclude that cultural immersion is best achieved through culinary experiences.

Travelers who prefer a street-level perspective will follow their guide to some of the city’s more notable attractions, with a focus on the local culinary scene that showcases traditional dishes.

The tour navigates through lesser-known neighborhoods, uncovering fascinating local history and lore that enhance the overall experience.

At local pubs, guests will encounter residents, sample local beers and whiskeys, and tasting dishes such as seafood and haggis.

3. 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Hop-on hop-off bus tours are increasingly popular among travelers seeking flexibility beyond the constraints of traditional excursions.

Guests will have convenient access to many prominent attractions in Inverness from the comfort of a double-decker bus.

Stops include significant sites such as Abertarff House, St. Andrews Cathedral, and the Highland Archive Center, among others.

Participants will learn about notable figures from Scotland’s history, including Robert the Bruce and Mary Queen of Scots. They will have the opportunity to disembark to explore sites of interest while bypassing those that do not appeal to them.

Tickets are valid for an entire day of exploration.

4. Alternative Loch Ness Tour

Since the first sightings of a large creature in the chilly waters decades ago, Loch Ness has magnetically attracted visitors eager to unravel the enigma of the Loch Ness Monster.

The picturesque drive from Inverness to Loch Ness is rich in natural beauty and historical significance. Throughout the journey, guests will receive engaging narration from their tour guide.

Key highlights comprise spectacular views of Urquhart Castle, charming villages, and expansive stretches of untouched highland wilderness.

Excursions allow ample time for guests to stretch, capture photos, and enjoy a meal and drink before the return journey to Inverness.

5. Culloden Battlefield Visitor Center Ticket with Audio Guide

In April 1746, loyalist and revolutionary forces engaged in a pivotal battle at Culloden, resulting in the death of over 1,500 soldiers in less than an hour.

On this excursion from Inverness, guests will utilize convenient audio guides instead of a traditional live guide to learn about one of Scotland’s most significant battles.

Self-guided explorations commence at the visitor center, where a variety of exhibits display original weaponry, uniforms, and personal accounts from that historic day.

Guests may also explore the battlefield, which is well-marked and accessible for independent walking.

6. Inverness Guided Walking Tour

For families traveling with children who require physical activity and engagement, relaxed family-oriented walking tours are excellent choices.

This two-hour tour covers a moderate distance and encompasses various facets of local history and culture.

After meeting their guide at a central location, the tour will proceed to some of the city’s notable landmarks, including Inverness Castle, Cathedral, Old High Church, and Balnain House.

Tours also incorporate a local beverage tasting experience along with several historical insights that are slightly off the beaten path.

It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear and bring along one or two bottles of water.

7. Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Small-Group Tour from Inverness

Scotland is rich with fascinating history often stretching back many centuries.

On this small-group tour from Inverness, guests will travel in comfortable style in a Mercedes minivan to one of the country’s most striking historical castles.

The tour includes a guided visit to Eilean Donan Castle, followed by a journey through a breathtaking mountain range en route to the Trotternish Peninsula, which hosts iconic sites like Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr.

Participants will enjoy a lunch break in the town of Portree and a scenic drive along Loch Ness on the way back.

8. John O’Groats and the Far North Tour

John O’Groats is recognized as the northernmost point on the mainland of the United Kingdom.

It is situated along a rugged yet beautiful stretch of the North Sea coastline, characterized by historic villages, remarkable castles, and some of the most stunning coastal views in the country.

While journeying, guests will learn about the sights they encounter and have opportunities to stop for photographs, refreshments, and a brisk walk along the cliffs overlooking the sea.

In Wick, travelers will be afforded time to enjoy a leisurely lunch and explore the town on foot before returning to Inverness.

9. Jacobite Steam Train and Highlands Tour from Inverness

Full-day tours that feature numerous distinct attractions present excellent value for travelers looking to maximize their limited vacation time.

Beginning in the morning, this enjoyable and memorable steam train excursion from Inverness is often regarded as one of the highlights of visitors’ journeys.

A favorite among photography enthusiasts and those captivated by history and natural beauty, the tour encompasses sites like the ruins of Urquhart Castle, the United Kingdom’s tallest mountain range, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and a scenic return trip across Loch Ness.

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, commencing and concluding in Inverness.

10. Full-Day Fort William and Glencoe Tour from Inverness

Although few visitors ever catch a glimpse of Nessie, a trip to Loch Ness is essential for those in Inverness with time to spare.

In addition to the natural beauty and mystical lake legends, the Loch Ness region hosts numerous historical attractions such as the archaeological site of Urquhart Castle, the Caledonian Canal, and Fort William.

Travelers will delve into contemporary history by visiting a film location from a Harry Potter movie as well as a memorial dedicated to British Commandos from the Second World War.

11. Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Tour from Inverness

Departing from Inverness in the morning, this tour explores some of Scotland’s most captivating sites, encompassing the shores of Loch Ness, reputedly home to the legendary creature that occasionally makes a surprise appearance for photographs.

From the loch, the journey progresses to Eilean Donan Castle, where guests will have the opportunity to stretch their legs and explore the surroundings with their guide.

The tour continues to the Isle of Skye, known for its traditional villages, rugged cliffs, and lush green hills alongside the North Sea.

12. Speyside Whisky and Moray Firth Tour from Inverness

For enthusiasts of picturesque landscapes and fine spirits, this multi-distillery tour from Inverness offers a splendid way to spend a day in the scenic Scottish countryside.

Setting off in the morning, guests and their guide will take a leisurely drive to the Benromach Distillery, where they will discover the ancient methods that transform ordinary ingredients into renowned spirits enjoyed globally.

Following lunch in Elgin, guests will have opportunities for shopping and an exploration of a historic cathedral before visiting the Speyside Cooperage to observe the cask-making process for local scotch.

13. Brodie Castle Entrance Ticket

From the 12th to the 16th centuries, Brodie Castle served as the residence of the Brodie Clan, which played a significant role in Scottish history.

With this entrance permit, visitors may explore the castle’s interior and exterior at their own pace.

The grounds are well-maintained and feature numerous plaques detailing the significant elements at every turn.

The castle houses a stunning library filled with thousands of volumes, exquisite furnishings, artwork, and expansive gardens home to numerous varieties of daffodils.

14. Full-Day Loch Ness, Whisky and Outlander Tour from Inverness

Upon the scenic transfer from Inverness to Loch Ness, participants in this combined tour will have the option to embark on a cruise of the loch or take a side trip to the village of Drumnadrochit.

If they opt for the cruise, they will visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle; if remaining on land, they will have the leisure of exploring the town and visiting several filming locations from the series ‘Outlander.’

When reunited, guests will continue to a Highland distillery, where they will tour the production facility and partake in a tasting session.

The tour encompasses intriguing anecdotes of local lore and history, concluding at the historic site of the Culloden battlefield.

15. Spirit of the Highlands Tour from Inverness

On this eight-hour Highlands tour from Inverness, guests will depart the city to explore some of Scotland’s most rugged and undisturbed regions.

The tour package includes round-trip transportation from accommodations or cruise ships and highlights prominent sites while also incorporating some lesser-known attractions.

Participants will enjoy intimate views of stunning Loch Ness, visit the historic Culloden Battlefield, and uncover fascinating stories of individuals and events that shaped Scottish history.

The duration of the tours ranges from six to eight hours, commencing in the morning and facilitated by a knowledgeable local guide.