Inverness to Aberdeen Trains From £11.60*

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.