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Inverness to Aberdeen train ticket prices

Travelling from Inverness to Aberdeen by train? Find fares from as low as €14.01. 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

€14.01󰄽

On Sat 21 Feb

  • €42.98󰄽
    Mon16 Feb
  • €33.32󰄽
    Tue17 Feb
  • €47.09󰄽
    Wed18 Feb
  • €19.48󰄽
    Thu19 Feb
  • €18.71󰄽
    Fri20 Feb
  • Sat21 Feb

Inverness to Aberdeen train timetable

The journey from Inverness to Aberdeen on the fastest train in 2h 34m, usually 2h 40m. Each day, 12 trains leave from Inverness, starting at 04:54 and ending at 21:30. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

04:54

Inverness
2h 34m, 1 change

07:28

Aberdeen
ScotRail
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05:49

Inverness
2h 39m, 1 change

08:28

Aberdeen
ScotRail
Find tickets

06:59

Inverness
2h 59m, 1 change

09:58

Aberdeen
ScotRail
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08:56

Inverness
2h 52m, 1 change

11:48

Aberdeen
ScotRail
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10:56

Inverness
2h 37m, 1 change

13:33

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 €14.01
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
83 miles (133km)
Journey time
2h 34m
First train
04:54
Last train
21:30
Frequency
12
Train operators

ScotRail: Inverness to Aberdeen trains

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 €14.01, 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

Taking the train from Inverness to Aberdeen is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Inverness, you can arrive at Aberdeen in just 2h 34m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average fare from Inverness to Aberdeen is approximately €14.01, 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 quickest train journey from Inverness to Aberdeen takes 2h 34m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

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?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Inverness to Aberdeen trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Inverness to Aberdeen trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find 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?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

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

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, 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 train from Inverness to Aberdeen is operated by ScotRail. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • 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

    Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its 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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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

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.

* 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.