A complete 2 day guide

Inverness: The lively capital of the Scottish Highlands

Inverness offers the perfect blend of rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, and genuine Scottish culture, making it a must-visit for travellers. It's also the starting point of the famous NC500 route (link to NC500 blog).

While two days may seem short, with thoughtful planning, you can fully experience the charm of this captivating city and its nearby attractions. Below is a carefully crafted two-day itinerary designed to help you make the most of your stay in Inverness.

When I embarked on the NC500, I was pressed for time, so I made sure to explore as much of the city as possible before diving into the wilderness. Here's how I did it:

Day 1: Exploring Inverness and Loch Ness

Morning: Inverness city centre and historical sites

Start your first day in Inverness by exploring the heart of the city. After breakfast at your accommodation or a local café, head to Inverness Castle, perched majestically above the River Ness. Though the castle is not open to the public, its grounds offer a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding landscape. Take some time to stroll through the Castle Grounds and admire the views over the River Ness, which is particularly stunning in the morning light.

Next, visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, located just a short walk from the castle. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the Highlands. You’ll find exhibits on everything from the Picts and Jacobites to natural history and the Highland way of life. It’s a great way to gain context about the region before exploring further.

After the museum, make your way to the Old High Church, the oldest church in Inverness, dating back to the 18th century. The churchyard is an atmospheric spot, with ancient tombstones and views of the river. This church has strong historical significance as it was used as a prison after the Battle of Culloden in 1746.

From the church, take a leisurely walk along the River Ness, following the tree-lined path that meanders through the city. Cross the Greig Street Bridge, a charming suspension bridge that offers picturesque views of the river and cityscape.

Lunch: Victorian market or a local eatery

By now, you’re likely to have worked up an appetite. Head to the Victorian Market in the city centre, an indoor market filled with unique shops and small eateries. Grab a bite at one of the cafes inside or explore nearby restaurants. For a true taste of the Highlands, opt for traditional Scottish fare like haggis, neeps, and tatties at a local restaurant such as The Mustard Seed or The Kitchen.

Afternoon: Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle

No visit to Inverness would be complete without a trip to the legendary Loch Ness, home of the elusive Loch Ness Monster. After lunch, either drive or take a guided tour to Urquhart Castle, located on the western shore of the loch, about 30 minutes from Inverness. This iconic castle, now a picturesque ruin, offers a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past and provides one of the most stunning vistas over Loch Ness.

Explore the ruins, climb the Grant Tower for a sweeping view of the loch, and visit the castle’s visitor centre to learn about its turbulent history. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of Nessie from the castle’s vantage points!

After exploring the castle, consider taking a Loch Ness cruise. Several companies offer boat tours from the nearby village of Drumnadrochit, which allow you to experience the loch from the water and hear stories of the mythical monster. The cruises are particularly atmospheric in the late afternoon as the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the water. We loved Jacobite Loch Ness cruises, and with 3 departure points, (although one is for coaches), you will cover a wide area.  

Evening: Dinner and traditional Scottish music

Return to Inverness for dinner. For an authentic Scottish dining experience, consider The Riverhouse Restaurant or Café 1, both of which offer excellent menus featuring locally sourced ingredients.

After dinner, immerse yourself in traditional Scottish culture by attending a ceilidh (a traditional Gaelic social gathering involving folk music and dancing) or heading to a local pub like Hootananny, known for its live Scottish music. Enjoy a dram of whisky as you listen to lively tunes from local musicians, rounding off your first day in Inverness with a true Highland experience.

Day 2: Culloden, Clava Cairns, and the Highlands

Morning: Culloden Battlefield and visitor centre

Start your second day with a visit to the Culloden Battlefield, located just a short drive from Inverness. This is the site of the last battle fought on British soil in 1746, where the Jacobite forces led by Bonnie Prince Charlie were defeated by the British government army.

The Culloden Visitor Centre offers an immersive experience with interactive exhibits that provide deep insight into the events leading up to the battle, the battle itself, and its aftermath. After exploring the centre, take a walk on the battlefield where markers and memorial stones indicate where the different clans fought and fell. The atmosphere here is poignant, and it’s a place of great significance to Scottish history.

Mid-Morning: Clava Cairns

Just a short drive from Culloden is Clava Cairns, a well-preserved Bronze Age burial site dating back around 4,000 years. The site features a series of chambered cairns and standing stones, which are both fascinating and mysterious. The site is thought to have inspired the fictional Craigh na Dun from the “Outlander” series, making it a popular stop for fans of the show.

The peaceful and somewhat eerie atmosphere of Clava Cairns, surrounded by ancient trees and the distant sound of the river, offers a stark contrast to the battlefield and is a must-visit for those interested in Scotland’s ancient past.

Lunch: Cawdor Village

For lunch, head to the nearby village of Cawdor. Here you can find quaint tea rooms or small pubs where you can enjoy a light meal. If you have time, you might want to visit Cawdor Castle, another castle steeped in history, traditionally linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. The castle gardens are especially beautiful and worth exploring.

Afternoon: Explore the Highlands - Glen Affric or Fort George

In the afternoon, venture further into the Scottish Highlands. Depending on your interests, you can choose between two options:

Glen Affric: Often described as one of the most beautiful glens in Scotland, Glen Affric is about an hour’s drive from Inverness. It offers stunning landscapes of ancient Caledonian pine forests, lochs, and mountains. There are several walking trails ranging from easy to more challenging hikes, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Whether you choose a short walk or simply enjoy the drive through the glen, the natural beauty of this area is truly breathtaking.

Fort George: Alternatively, visit Fort George, a massive 18th-century fortress located about 30 minutes from Inverness. Built after the Jacobite rebellion, it’s still a working military base and one of the most impressive fortifications in Europe. The fort offers spectacular views over the Moray Firth, and if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins from the ramparts. The on-site museum and barracks offer a fascinating look into military history, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts.

Evening: Return to Inverness

After a day of exploration, return to Inverness for your final evening. Consider a more relaxed dinner, perhaps at Rocpool Restaurant, known for its contemporary take on Scottish cuisine. Afterward, take a peaceful evening stroll along the River Ness, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water, offering a serene end to your two-day itinerary.

Two days in Inverness provide a rich tapestry of experiences, from delving into Scottish history to exploring some of the most iconic natural landscapes in the Highlands. Whether you’re captivated by the mystery of Loch Ness, moved by the solemnity of Culloden, or enchanted by the beauty of Glen Affric, Inverness offers a perfect introduction to the wonders of the Scottish Highlands. As you leave, you’ll carry memories of a region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, and perhaps, a desire to return for a longer stay.