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Edinburgh to Inverness train ticket prices
€28.91
On Thu 20 Aug
Edinburgh to Inverness train timetable
The journey from Edinburgh to Inverness on the fastest train in 3h 23m, usually 4h 23m. Each day, 37 trains leave from Edinburgh, starting at 06:36 and ending at 23:10. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
19:03 Edinburgh Airport (By Bus or Tram) | 4h 16m, 1 change | 23:19 Inverness | ScotRail | Find tickets |
19:34 Edinburgh (Waverley) | 3h 45m, Direct | 23:19 Inverness | ScotRail | Find tickets |
20:08 Edinburgh Airport (By Bus or Tram) | 12h 18m, 2 change | 08:26 Inverness | LNER | Find tickets |
20:10 Edinburgh Gateway | 12h 16m, 2 change | 08:26 Inverness | LNER | Find tickets |
21:00 Edinburgh Airport (By Bus or Tram) | 11h 26m, 2 change | 08:26 Inverness | ScotRail | Find tickets |
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.
Edinburgh to Inverness with ScotRail
Heading to the Highlands? When you travel by train, you can experience a direct route from Edinburgh to Inverness in only 3 hours 30 minutes with ScotRail. Here’s what you need to know about the onboard experience with ScotRail.
Can I buy food and drinks on ScotRail trains?
On the train from Edinburgh to Inverness, you may need some sustenance! Thankfully, ScotRail offers a wide choice of hot and cold drinks, plus snacks and light meals to keep passengers satisfied. If you have a sweet tooth, you can sip hot chocolate and nibble biscuits, or if coffee and crisps are more your thing, you can get your caffeine boost too (oat milk available for hot drinks). Arrive in Inverness feeling refreshed and ready to explore!
Does ScotRail provide enough luggage space?
Yes, ScotRail can accommodate passengers’ luggage with generous storage space aboard trains. Small bags will fit comfortably under your seat, medium suitcases should be placed in the overhead luggage compartments, while luggage racks at the end of carriages are ideal for large items.
What do I get in ScotRail First Class?
Booking ScotRail First Class will guarantee you complimentary food and drinks during your journey, as well as a more relaxed onboard experience. ScotRail First Class carriages have 32 seats, meaning that you’ll get a quieter travel environment.
Is ScotRail First Class worth it?
On a three-and-a-half hour journey up to Inverness, the comfort you’ll get in First Class could be worth the extra cost. Sit back and relax in ScotRail First Class recliners and make the most of extra space, comfier seats, or a productive workspace.
Is it faster to drive or train from Edinburgh to Inverness?
Depending on how busy the road is, it is generally faster to take the train from Edinburgh to Inverness. Your direct ScotRail service is also a more comfortable and relaxing way to reach the Highlands – sit back and enjoy the views!
Train travel from Edinburgh to Inverness
For your journey from Edinburgh to Inverness, these local station secrets can help you onto the train in the capital, and off it in the Gateway to the Highlands. Plus learn about the best sights to spot on your ScotRail train. Let’s go!
Edinburgh (Waverley): Getting to the Platform
- Getting into Edinburgh Station: A grand old building between the city’s Old Town and Georgian New Town, Edinburgh (Waverley) has several entries. If you're coming from the high street, you’ll enter from Princes Street, or the Market Street Entrance is the most convenient arrival point from the Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle.
- Food galore: Whichever way you get in, once you’re inside, head to the main concourse for an abundance of dining options, including The Pasty Shop, Bagel Factory, and Caffe Nero.
- Which platform to Inverness?: Edinburgh (Waverley) is the second busiest station in Scotland, so allow plenty of time to find your platform. The platform you depart from will vary according to the time of day, so check information boards. Common departure platforms for ScotRail trains to Inverness include 2, 15, and 17.
Onboard trains from Edinburgh to Inverness
To say that the route from Edinburgh to Inverness is scenic is an understatement! Head west from Edinburgh towards Falkirk, then north east to Perth, before zagging west again passing Pitlochry and east again to Aviemore… before a final zig to Inverness! Here are some of the best sights you’ll see.
- Key Landmarks: Look out for the dramatic Tay Forest Park on the Left-Hand Side in the middle of your journey, then shortly after Ben Macdui and the Cairngorms National Park to the right. Natural beauty all around!
- The View Alert: On the approach into Inverness, a seat on the Right-Hand Side of the carriage (facing North) is the best way to enjoy the views of Moray Firth.
Arriving at Inverness
Inverness is a busy station that serves as a crucial connection between the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands. It’s easy to navigate your way off the platform, using lifts or stairs, and into the heart of The Sneck.
- Main concourse exit: Inverness Station is located close to the compact city centre. For the quickest access, use the main exit onto Academy Street. If you’re making a beeline for the Eastgate Shopping Centre, choose the Falcon Square exit.
- Getting around Inverness: A few minutes from the station, you’ll be able to board Stagecoach Highlands routes to iconic destinations like Loch Ness and Fort William. Inverness is a great destination for cycling too. If you’ve travelled with your bike, join cycle paths near the station, which take you on scenic routes along the River Ness.
- Walking from Inverness Station: Most key attractions are located within a 10-minute radius of the station, making Inverness a highly walkable city. Stroll to Inverness Castle to be steeped in history and culture, or follow clear signposts to central dining areas if you’re looking for a brunch or dinner stop.
Why book Edinburgh to Inverness trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
Unlike Trainline, TrainPal charges no booking fees on any route. On top of that, TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Edinburgh to Inverness start from just €28.91 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., ScotRail, LNER on the Edinburgh to Inverness route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Edinburgh to Inverness train travel guide
Travelling by train from Edinburgh to Inverness is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Edinburgh, you can reach Inverness in just 3h 23m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Edinburgh to Inverness?
The average ticket fare from Edinburgh to Inverness is about €28.91, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
What is the best way to travel from Edinburgh to Inverness by train?
What is the fastest train from Edinburgh to Inverness?
The fastest train journey time from Edinburgh to Inverness is 3h 23m . 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 always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Edinburgh to Inverness train timetables?
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?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
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?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Edinburgh to Inverness route?
The train from Edinburgh to Inverness is operated by ScotRail. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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.
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Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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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.
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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
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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* 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.
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