Edinburgh to Inverness Trains From £21.70*

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!

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.