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Inverness to Aberdeen train ticket prices

Travelling from Inverness to Aberdeen by train? Find fares from as low as £11.60. 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

£11.60󰄽

On Fri 19 Jun

£14.68󰄽
Sat13 Jun
£21.50󰄽
Sun14 Jun
£21.50󰄽
Mon15 Jun
£15.50󰄽
Tue16 Jun
£12.07󰄽
Wed17 Jun
£14.68󰄽
Thu18 Jun
Fri19 Jun

Inverness to Aberdeen train timetable

The journey from Inverness to Aberdeen on the fastest train in 2h 12m, usually 2h 14m. Each day, 11 trains leave from Inverness, starting at 04:54 and ending at 21:32. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
10:56 Inverness	2h 13m, Direct	13:09 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
12:39 Inverness	2h 17m, Direct	14:56 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
14:28 Inverness	2h 13m, Direct	16:41 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
15:35 Inverness	2h 14m, Direct	17:49 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
17:20 Inverness	2h 16m, Direct	19:36 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets

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Inverness to Aberdeen train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Inverness to Aberdeen 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 £11.60

Departure station

Inverness

Arrival station

Aberdeen

Distance

83 miles (133km)

Journey time

2h 12m

First train

04:54

Last train

21:32

Frequency

Train operators

ScotRail

ScotRail: Inverness to Aberdeen trains

By Daniel Clark | Updated May 20, 2026

Take the train from Inverness to Aberdeen with ScotRail to get from the Highlands to the East coast in approximately two hours and 10 minutes.

Whether you are travelling for a family holiday or a business meeting, the 83-mile journey takes you through scenic Scottish landscapes. From the first train in the wee hours until the last train at 21:04, enjoy the beauty of Northern Scotland from your window.

Getting to the sandy coastline of Aberdeen doesn’t have to cost the Earth either, with affordable train tickets available when you buy in advance with TrainPal. Prices start from only £11.60, while ScotRail passengers can get extra savings with a Railcard discount.

ScotRail is a publicly owned rail operator which provides excellent connections across Scotland. Move between popular cities such as Aberdeen, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Inverness, as well as into small Highland towns with full national coverage.

Departing from Inverness

When travelling to Aberdeen, set off from Inverness, a scenic Scottish city with a busy station at the gateway of the Highlands.

The station is only a short walk from the top destinations, like Inverness Castle. At the station, you’ll find amenities including a bar, cafe, and toilets, as well as a cashpoint, and even a barber shop.

Free public Wi-Fi is available at the station to help pass the time while you wait or if you need to look up any information about your journey. Help Points are also available at the station, while accessible toilets, an induction loop, and step-free access to all platforms ensure all passengers can travel safely and comfortably.

To start your journey from Inverness Station, use efficient tram routes or local buses from around the city. You can benefit from cheap fares when you buy a PlusBus ticket, and you will arrive at Inverness bus station only a few minutes’ walk from the train station.

Inverness is often regarded as the capital of the Highlands and provides access to around Scotland. Take the train to Edinburgh, Elgin, Aberdeen, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Glasgow on frequent ScotRail services, as well as occasional services to London Euston (Caledonian Sleeper) and London King's Cross (Highland Chieftain).

Main stops

From Inverness to Aberdeen, the direct ScotRail service will typically call at some or all of Inverness Airport, Nairn, Forres, Elgin, Keith, Huntly, Insch, Inverurie, Kintore, Dyce, before reaching your coastal destination. Exact stops depend on the service.

Arriving at Aberdeen

One of Scotland’s most picturesque cities, Aberdeen is a great coastal retreat for a weekend away for the whole family from Inverness. Known for its sandy coastline and Victorian stone architecture, Aberdeen is a city of contrasts.

When you arrive at Aberdeen Station, you’ll be within walking distance of Aberdeen Harbour and the North Sea coastline, and only a few minutes from Union Street, the city’s major shopping thoroughfare. The station has a bus stop directly outside the front, which can take you around Aberdeen and the surrounding villages.

When you disembark at Aberdeen Station, you’ll have everything you need to start your exploration of the Granite City in style. If you’re not in a hurry, browse a selection of shops and food counters to buy snacks and light meals, or relax in comfortable waiting rooms. The station has step-free access, lifts, and accessible toilets.

As a rail hub in the North East, Aberdeen provides travellers access to some of Scotland’s most impressive landscapes, as well as further afield to cities like London, Glasgow, Inverness, and Edinburgh. The main operators at the station are ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, and the Caledonian Sleeper.

ScotRail train classes

Standard Class: Get a comfortable journey at the lowest prices when you book Standard Class from Inverness to Aberdeen. All ScotRail passengers can enjoy power sockets at every pair of seats, free Wi-Fi, and spacious carriages.
First Class: To upgrade to the most luxurious travel experience, buy Inverness to Aberdeen First Class tickets. Stretch out in reclining seats with extra legroom, while the ScotRail team serves you drinks and light refreshments at your seat. Blissful!

ScotRail train travel advice

Children: There’s no reason not to take the whole family to Aberdeen when under-5s go free, and kids aged 5-15 get half-price tickets on ScotRail trains.
Bicycles: Take a bike from Inverness to Aberdeen for free, though be aware that space can be limited. Check in advance whether you need to make a reservation.
Luggage: ScotRail does not have specific luggage restrictions other than a request to store all bags in racks, under seats, or in designated areas. Help other passengers have a safe journey by not blocking seats or aisles.
Pets: Take two four-legged friends to the beach on ScotRail trains at no extra cost. Dogs should stay on a lead throughout the duration of the journey.
Passenger Assist: For extra help completing your journey with ScotRail, book Passenger Assist before you travel by phone or online, or speak to station staff.

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

Inverness to Aberdeen train travel guide

Travelling by train from Inverness to Aberdeen is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Inverness, you can reach Aberdeen in just 2h 12m, 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 Inverness to Aberdeen?

The average fare from Inverness to Aberdeen is approximately £11.60, 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.

What is the best way to travel from Inverness to Aberdeen by train?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Inverness to Aberdeen.

What is the fastest train from Inverness to Aberdeen?

The fastest train journey time from Inverness to Aberdeen is 2h 12m . 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 Inverness to Aberdeen?

No, there are no direct trains from Inverness to Aberdeen. 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 Inverness to Aberdeen?

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?

To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Inverness to Aberdeen train timetables?

While Inverness to Aberdeen 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 Inverness to Aberdeen 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?

Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.

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

Yes, most trains on the Inverness to Aberdeen route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

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

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?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the Inverness to Aberdeen route?

The Inverness to Aberdeen 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
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals 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 Inverness to Aberdeen 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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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.

More train routes

Trains from Inverness	Trains from Aberdeen
Inverness to Edinburgh	Aberdeen to Elgin
Inverness to Aberdeen	Aberdeen to Edinburgh
Inverness to Elgin	Aberdeen to Glasgow Queen Street
Inverness to London Euston	Aberdeen to London Kings Cross
Inverness to Thurso	Aberdeen to Glasgow

* 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.

Inverness to Aberdeen Trains From £11.60*

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