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Inverness to Aberdeen train ticket prices

Travelling from Inverness to Aberdeen by train? Find fares from as low as £15.50. 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

£15.50󰄽

On Tue 09 Jun

£39.00󰄽
Mon08 Jun
Tue09 Jun
£21.50󰄽
Wed10 Jun
£27.60󰄽
Thu11 Jun
£16.13󰄽
Fri12 Jun
£16.13󰄽
Sat13 Jun
£15.50󰄽
Sun14 Jun

Inverness to Aberdeen train timetable

Travelling from Inverness to Aberdeen, the fastest train takes 2h 12m with an average travel time of 2h 16m. 11 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:54 and the last at 21:30. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
04:54 Inverness	2h 12m, Direct	07:06 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
05:49 Inverness	2h 14m, Direct	08:03 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
06:59 Inverness	2h 36m, Direct	09:35 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
08:56 Inverness	2h 27m, Direct	11:23 Aberdeen	ScotRail	Find tickets
10:56 Inverness	2h 13m, Direct	13:09 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 £15.50

Departure station

Inverness

Arrival station

Aberdeen

Distance

83 miles (133km)

Journey time

2h 12m

First train

04:54

Last train

21:30

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 £15.50, 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

The train journey from Inverness to Aberdeen combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Inverness, you can get to Aberdeen in just 2h 12m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

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

The average ticket fare from Inverness to Aberdeen is about £15.50, 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 Inverness to Aberdeen by train?

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 Inverness to Aberdeen.

What is the fastest train from Inverness to Aberdeen?

The fastest train journey time from Inverness to Aberdeen is 2h 12m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

Are there direct trains from Inverness to Aberdeen?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Inverness to Aberdeen. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Inverness to Aberdeen?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

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

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?

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

Yes, most trains on the route from Inverness to Aberdeen 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?

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?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

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 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
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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
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
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

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?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

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 £15.50*

Save more on your travel: Book Advance tickets and use a Railcard