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Edinburgh to Inverness train ticket prices

Travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness by train? Find fares from as low as €26.93. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€26.93󰄽

On Thu 14 May

  • €32.76󰄽
    Fri08 May
  • €73.21󰄽
    Sat09 May
  • €53.87󰄽
    Sun10 May
  • €37.11󰄽
    Mon11 May
  • €37.11󰄽
    Tue12 May
  • €37.11󰄽
    Wed13 May
  • Thu14 May

Edinburgh to Inverness train timetable

Travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness, the fastest train takes 3h 22m with an average travel time of 3h 44m. 16 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 06:48 and the last at 23:10. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

06:48

Edinburgh Gateway
3h 41m, 1 change

10:29

Inverness
ScotRail
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08:38

Waverley
3h 28m, Direct

12:06

Inverness
ScotRail
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08:44

Edinburgh Park
3h 22m, 1 change

12:06

Inverness
ScotRail
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09:50

Edinburgh Gateway
3h 35m, 1 change

13:25

Inverness
ScotRail
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10:32

Waverley
3h 44m, Direct

14:16

Inverness
ScotRail
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Edinburgh to Inverness train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Edinburgh to Inverness with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.

Price
From €26.93
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
113 miles (181km)
Journey time
3h 22m
First train
06:48
Last train
23:10
Frequency
16
Train operators

ScotRail: Edinburgh to Inverness trains

Getting from Edinburgh to Inverness with ScotRail takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. The first train departs at 6.48 am and the last train leaves Inverness at 11.10 pm. There’s plenty of time to get back in time for a day trip, or travel at your own pace if you’re staying longer.

On your journey, you’ll encounter the stunning natural beauty of Scotland – think wild, untamed moors and scenic mountain vistas as your train races you to Inverness. If you’re lucky, you might even see a dear or two!

ScotRail operates most rail services in Scotland, linking major cities such as Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen, and Inverness to smaller towns and cities across the country. It also provides cross-border services to destinations in Northern England.

Departing from Edinburgh(Waverley)

Edinburgh Waverley is located directly in the centre of Edinburgh, between the ‘old’ and ‘new’ towns, on Princess Street. Overall, the station has four entrances: Market Street, Carlton Road (via lift), Waverley Bridge (via ramp), and, of course, Princess Street.

The station is easily accessible, being right in the centre of the Scottish capital. Market Street has a taxi rank, and public buses are available on Princess Street and North Bridge. Plus, if you need an airport bus, they are available throughout the day on Waverley Bridge.

Edinburgh Waverley is the end of the electrified East Coast Mainline's northern terminus, making it a very popular station with other UK train operators, such as LNER, Lumo, TransPennine Express, and the Caledonian Sleeper.

Main stops

There are eight stations between Edinburgh Waverley and Inverness. They are: Edinburgh Haymarket, Falkirk Grahamston, Stirling, Gleneagles, Perth, Pitlochry, Kingussie, and Aviemore.

Nevertheless, these may change due to various factors like engineering works or scheduling issues. It’s best to check which stations you’ll stop at before you travel.

Booking early also helps you buy cheap train tickets. Sites like TrainPal can help you secure the cheapest fares. Add a Railcard for an even larger discount.

Arriving at Inverness

Inverness train station is located in the heart of the city along the banks of the River Ness, near the famous Loch Ness, where the eponymous monster is said to be found.

The station can be found between Academy Street and Falcon Square. The station is centrally located, so you’ll find buses and taxis nearby. A bus service also operates between the station and Inverness Airport. ScotRail, LNER, and the Caledonian Sleeper all operate from Inverness. Providing rail links to the rest of the UK.

ScotRail train classes

  • Standard Class: Passengers benefit from complimentary Wi-Fi and convenient plug sockets for all devices.
  • First Class: ScotRail offers a First Class ticket from Edinburgh to Inverness. Every seat has a table, a dedicated charging station, and Wi-Fi.

ScotRail train travel advice

  • Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
  • Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
  • Bicycles: Reservations are highly recommended, as each train has only two cycle spaces. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book early.
  • Children: Offer allows children aged 5 to 15 to travel for £1 each when accompanied by an adult. Children under five can travel for free.
  • Passenger Assist: Boarding and alighting assistance, luggage carrying, and support for station issues ensure a smooth and successful trip.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Edinburgh to Inverness train travel guide

The train journey from Edinburgh to Inverness combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can get to Inverness in just 3h 22m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Edinburgh to Inverness?

The average fare from Edinburgh to Inverness is approximately €26.93, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.

How do I find the best train route from Edinburgh to Inverness?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from Edinburgh to Inverness.

What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to Inverness?

The fastest train journey time from Edinburgh to Inverness is 3h 22m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

Are there direct trains from Edinburgh to Inverness?

No, there are no direct trains from Edinburgh to Inverness. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip

Is it worth taking a train from Edinburgh to Inverness?

Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Edinburgh to Inverness trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

While Edinburgh to Inverness trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Edinburgh to Inverness is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

Do Edinburgh to Inverness trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Edinburgh to Inverness are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone

Which train companies operate the Edinburgh to Inverness route?

The Edinburgh to Inverness route is operated by ScotRail. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • Bicycle

    You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.

  • Children

    Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.

  • Pets

    Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.

How to buy cheap Edinburgh to Inverness train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.