* 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.
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
€16.14
On Tue 10
If your ScotRail train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
30–59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket.
1 hr–1 hr 59 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket.
2 hr or more: 100% of a single or return ticket (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
Travelling from Inverness to Aberdeen, the fastest train takes 2h 13m 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
15:35 Inverness | 2h 15m, Direct | 17:50 Aberdeen | ScotRail | Find tickets |
17:20 Inverness | 2h 16m, Direct | 19:36 Aberdeen | ScotRail | Find tickets |
18:01 Inverness | 2h 28m, Direct | 20:29 Aberdeen | ScotRail | Find tickets |
21:30 Inverness | 2h 16m, Direct | 23:46 Aberdeen | ScotRail | Find tickets |
ScotRail is Scotland’s national train operator, connecting major cities, regional towns and rural communities across Scotland. You can take high-speed Inter7City trains on routes like Glasgow to Edinburgh for a city break, or relax on a scenic route across rugged terrain on their Highland Explorer service, with extra room onboard for your bike.
Ideal for most rail passengers in Scotland, from commuters and students to families and tourists
Comfortable airline-style seating, plush seats on newer trains
Spacious intercity trains, less space on regional trains
Optional seat reservations on some longer routes
Air conditioning available
Onboard trolley service on longer routes
Ideal for business commuters who need extra space for working and travellers seeking lounge access
Large leather* reclining** seats; larger windows with curtains/blinds
More space and guaranteed table (for 4 or singles*)
Optional seat reservations on some longer routes
Air conditioning available
Hospitality on selected services**
First Class lounge access at Aberdeen station
*On Inter7City fleet
** On Inter7City and Intercity (Class 170) fleets
"If you’re into railway scenery, don’t miss taking a ScotRail train along the West Highland Main Line, which runs from Glasgow to Oban and Mallaig. In addition to lochs, steep mountains and heather moors, you can also spot the Glenfinnan Viaduct, the famous curved bridge on the route to Hogwarts in Harry Potter!"
"Don’t expect catering to be a sure thing just because you’re on a long-distance route. Some routes have a trolley service (albeit with limited selection), and First Class passengers only get a free hot drink or water and a shortbread. Check the ScotRail website for which trains have a trolley in operation."
Tickets from Inverness to Aberdeen typically cost €38.70, but can be as cheap as €16.14 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
The journey should take, on average, 2h 16m, though it can be as quick as 2h 13m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
Yes, there is a direct train between Inverness and Aberdeen. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
You can typically book tickets from Inverness to Aberdeen up to 12 weeks before departure.
Yes, most trains on the route from Inverness to Aberdeen are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
The distance between Inverness and Aberdeen is approximately 83 miles (133km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
There is 11 train running from Inverness to Aberdeen per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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 and Off-Peak 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.
Pack your binoculars and keep watch for wild bottlenose dolphins from the clifftop fort at Torry Battery
Nip down to the coast near Stonehaven and explore the romantic ruins of Dunnottar Castle
Roll back the centuries and lose yourself in the historic lanes of Old Aberdeen
Union Street for big-brand shops, Belmont Quarter for lunch and coffee, and Rosemount for traditional bakers, butchers and cheesemongers.
"Visiting Aberdeen: Aberdeen can feel quite spread out, so if you want to squeeze more into your day, it's worth grabbing an e-bike from the city's hire scheme. Whether on foot or two wheels, it's a good idea to start in Old Aberdeen first, as it's a more logical order. Start at King's College before winding your way through to St Machar's Cathedral."
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