Hotels in Inverness

Whispers of the Highlands: Discover Inverness’ Enchanting Castles and Serene Rivers

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a charming city that serves as the gateway to breathtaking landscapes and rich history. Stroll along the picturesque banks of the River Ness, where you can admire the iconic Inverness Castle and explore the fascinating exhibits at the Inverness Museum. This vibrant destination offers a perfect blend of culture and nature, making it ideal for romantics and adventurers alike. With nearby attractions like the mystical Isle of Skye, your Inverness trip promises unforgettable experiences amid stunning scenery and captivating heritage. For the best hotel rates in Inverness and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Inverness

Some of the best places to stay in Inverness are Inverness City Centre, Aviemore and Nairn. Inverness, Scotland, offers vibrant experiences for travelers. The Inverness City Centre is ideal for first-time visitors, featuring shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Aviemore is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with stunning landscapes and adventure sports. Nairn boasts beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts in all three locations, ensuring options for every budget. Whether in Inverness hotels or those in Aviemore and Nairn, you'll find comfortable stays to enhance your trip. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Inverness:

1. Inverness City CentreOpens in a new window: Inverness City Centre is a vibrant hub that offers a rich blend of culture, romance, and entertainment. With stunning attractions like Inverness Castle and Inverness Cathedral, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in local history. For comfortable accommodation, consider Ness WalkOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel perfect for business travelers, featuring meeting rooms and conference spaces. Another option is Trafford Bank Guest HouseOpens in a new window, also a 5-star guesthouse that offers delicious breakfast and entertainment amenities like a DVD player and cable TV. Lastly, Rocpool Reserve Luxury Highland PackageOpens in a new window boasts a boutique luxury experience with uniquely designed decor and art, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
2. AviemoreOpens in a new window: Known for its outdoor adventures, Aviemore is a gateway to stunning natural landscapes, including CairnGorm Mountain and Loch Morlich. This area is perfect for sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. For a luxurious stay, Mount Barker Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window is a charming 4.5-star bed and breakfast that promises a relaxing experience. If you’re traveling with pets, The Old Manse of BlairOpens in a new window is a 5-star hotel that allows dogs and offers upscale amenities. Alternatively, for budget-conscious travelers, Fraoch Lodge - HostelOpens in a new window is a 4-star hostel with free breakfast and nearby hiking and skiing activities, ensuring a memorable trip.
3. NairnOpens in a new window: Nairn is a picturesque coastal town famous for its stunning beaches and historical attractions like Cawdor Castle. This location is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation. Ramnee HotelOpens in a new window is a comfortable 4-star hotel that accommodates pets, making it a great choice for animal lovers. For those looking for a luxurious experience, Blervie HouseOpens in a new window offers adventure sports and natural wellness activities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, Knockomie HotelOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that features a full-service spa, catering to those in need of relaxation after a day of exploring.

Things to do in Inverness for first time

Inverness offers a captivating blend of scenic beauty and cultural experiences, making a three-day visit worthwhile. Travelers can explore lush forests, serene lakes, and majestic mountains while enjoying activities like hiking, boating, and dancing. The charming riverside setting invites leisurely strolls and immersive sightseeing opportunities. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Inverness:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at Chanonry Point Lighthouse, a picturesque spot that offers stunning views of the Moray Firth and, if you're lucky, you might even spot some dolphins! After soaking in the sights, head to Groam House Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits showcasing local history and Pictish artifacts. Finally, make your way to Fortrose Cathedral, a magnificent ruin that tells the story of its medieval past and provides a serene setting for reflection.
• Day 2: Your day starts at Red Castle, a charming historic site that offers a glimpse into Scotland's storied past. Next, head to Beauly Priory, where you can wander through the remnants of this beautiful 13th-century structure, enveloped in lush greenery. To wrap up your day, visit the Tore Art Gallery, where you can appreciate local art and perhaps find a unique souvenir to take home.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Cawdor Castle, renowned for its stunning gardens and rich history tied to Shakespeare's Macbeth. After exploring the castle, make your way to the Clootie Well, a unique sacred site where visitors leave pieces of cloth as offerings for healing. Finish your day at Rosemarkie Beach, where you can take a leisurely stroll along the shore, enjoy the fresh sea air, and unwind while watching the waves dance on the sand.

5 tips to find a great Inverness hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Inverness is during January, February, and November when hotel rates are more affordable. For domestic travelers, it's advisable to book flights at least 8 months in advance to secure great value for money. International travelers should aim to book at least 7 months ahead for better pricing. To fully enjoy the main attractions, including the iconic castle and scenic river, plan to stay for at least 2-3 days. This way, you can experience Inverness without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Inverness, you're in luck! By exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, you could find exclusive offers and discounted rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and special promotions. This way, you’re more likely to uncover refundable options and save on your stay in Inverness without missing any opportunities.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Inverness.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Inverness is usually more expensive. However, if you opt for accommodations further from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like buses, taxis, or walking to explore the area while keeping costs more manageable.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Inverness and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Inverness

Here are some famous dishes in Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom:

• Cullen Skink: This hearty soup hails from the coastal town of Cullen, featuring smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions in a creamy broth. Traditionally enjoyed as a warming dish, it reflects the region's fishing heritage and is often served with crusty bread, making it perfect for spontaneous dining experiences.
• Haggis: A quintessential Scottish dish, haggis is made from a mixture of sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, combined with onions, oats, and spices, all encased in a sheep's stomach. It's often enjoyed during celebrations like Burns Night and is typically served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes), showcasing the rustic culinary traditions of Scotland.
• Cranachan: This delightful dessert layers whipped cream, toasted oats, fresh raspberries, and a splash of whisky, creating a sweet and creamy treat. Traditionally enjoyed at special occasions, cranachan reflects the region's agricultural bounty and is a perfect personalizable dessert for any meal.

Best time to go to Inverness

Inverness experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.8°F (3.2°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 58.1°F (14.5°C). October is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in Inverness, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.