What to Do During Your Stay in Inverness

The city of Inverness is one of the most picturesque places in Scotland and is a fantastic destination for visitors. From the incredible rivers and mountains to the vibrant culture and history, Inverness has so much to offer. If you are planning a trip to the city, here are some of the best things to do during your stay.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Inverness is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with rivers, lochs, and mountains all around. This makes it the perfect spot for outdoor adventurers. You can take part in activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking, or simply take in the stunning views. If you’re looking for something a bit more extreme, you can go mountain biking, rock climbing, or even take a ride on a zip line.

If you’d rather stay on solid ground, you can take a stroll along the River Ness, which runs through the city centre. Here you can take in the sights of the old buildings and bridges, as well as go for a picnic or take a boat trip. There are also plenty of walking and cycling routes in the surrounding area, so you can really get out and explore the great outdoors.

If you’re looking for something a bit more leisurely, you can also take a stroll through the Inverness Botanic Gardens, which are full of exotic plants, tranquil ponds, and beautiful flowers.

Visit Historical Sites and Monuments

Inverness is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical sites and monuments to explore. One of the most popular attractions is the Inverness Castle, which was built in the 12th century and is now a major tourist attraction. You can also visit the nearby Culloden Battlefield, where the last battle of the Jacobite Rising took place in 1746. This area is full of history and is the perfect place to learn more about Scotland’s past.

If you’re a fan of whisky, you can also visit the Glen Ord Distillery, which is one of Scotland’s oldest whisky distilleries. Here you can take a tour of the distillery and learn how whisky is made, as well as sample some of the whisky itself. There are also plenty of other historical attractions in the city, such as the Old High Church and St Andrews Cathedral.

You can also take a trip to the nearby Cairngorms National Park, which is a beautiful area of mountains and forests. Here you can take in the stunning views and explore the many trails and paths. You can also visit the Isle of Skye, which is a beautiful island just off the coast of Inverness.

Sample the Local Cuisine

Inverness is well known for its delicious food, and there are plenty of restaurants to sample the local cuisine. Whether you’re looking for traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis and whisky sauce, or something a bit more exotic, you’ll find it here. Some of the best restaurants in Inverness include the Old Courthouse Bistro, the Waterfront Cafe, and the Kiltarlity Inn.

If you’re looking for something a bit more casual, you can also visit one of the city’s many pubs and bars. Here you can enjoy a pint of local beer or a dram of whisky, as well as sample some of the delicious pub grub. There are also plenty of cafes and coffee shops, where you can relax with a cup of coffee and a slice of cake.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you can also visit one of the city’s many food markets. Here you can pick up fresh produce, as well as local specialities such as haggis and oatcakes.

Take a Trip to the Shops

Inverness is a great place to go shopping, and there are plenty of shops to explore. The city has a large pedestrianized shopping area, where you can find all the big names as well as plenty of independent stores. Here you can find everything from fashion and accessories to books, music, and art.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you can also visit one of the city’s many craft and antique shops. Here you can find unique handcrafted items, as well as vintage clothing and furniture. You can also visit one of the city’s markets, where you can pick up fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local specialities.

If you’re looking for something a bit more high-end, you can also visit one of the city’s luxury boutiques and department stores. Here you can find designer clothes and accessories, as well as jewellery, homeware, and other luxury items.

Enjoy a Night Out

Inverness is a great place to enjoy a night out, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. The city also has a vibrant live music scene, with many local bands playing in venues around the city. You can also find plenty of pubs, where you can enjoy a pint of local beer and sample some of the delicious pub grub.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you can also visit one of the city’s many whisky bars. Here you can sample some of Scotland’s finest whiskies, as well as enjoy some traditional Scottish food. If you’re feeling brave, you can also take part in a whisky tasting session, where you can learn more about Scotland’s national drink.

If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxed, you can also take a stroll along the River Ness and enjoy the lights of the city. You can also visit one of the city’s many theatres, where you can enjoy a show or a film.

Take a Cruise on Loch Ness

No trip to Inverness would be complete without a trip to Loch Ness. Here you can take a cruise on the loch and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. You can also visit the nearby Urquhart Castle, which is a stunning medieval castle perched on the banks of the loch.

The loch is also home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster, so keep an eye out for any signs of the mysterious creature! You can also take a trip to the nearby Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition, where you can learn more about the loch and the history of the monster.

Visit the Highlands

Inverness is the perfect base for exploring the rest of the Highlands. The city is surrounded by stunning beauty, with mountains, lochs, and rivers all around. Here you can take part in outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking, or simply take in the stunning views.

You can also take a trip to the Isle of Skye, which is a beautiful island just off the coast of Inverness. Here you can take in the rugged scenery and explore the many trails and paths. You can also visit the Cairngorms National Park, which is a stunning area of mountains and forests.

Go to the Beach

Despite being located in the Highlands, Inverness also has plenty of beaches for you to explore. The city is surrounded by stunning coastline, with plenty of sandy coves and bays to explore. One of the most popular beaches is the West Beach, which is located in the city centre and is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics.

If you’re looking for something a bit different, you can also visit one of the nearby coastal towns, such as Dornoch or Wick. Here you can take in the stunning views and explore the many beaches and coves.

Visit the Museums and Galleries

Inverness is home to a number of museums and galleries, where you can learn more about the city’s history and culture. The city is home to the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, which is a great place to learn about the city’s past. Here you can see a range of exhibitions and displays, as well as take part in workshops and events.

If you’re a fan of whisky, you can also visit the Inverness Whisky Museum, which is the only whisky museum in Scotland. Here you can learn about the history of whisky and sample some of Scotland’s finest whiskies.

The city is also home to a number of art galleries, where you can find a range of artworks from local and international artists. Here you can find everything from traditional art to modern art, as well as take part in workshops and events.

Relax in the Spas and Hotels

Inverness is a great place to relax and unwind, and there are plenty of spas and hotels to choose from. Here you can enjoy a range of treatments, such as massages, facials, and body scrubs. You can also enjoy a soak in the hot tubs and saunas, or simply relax in the comfort of your hotel room.

If you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, you can also stay in one of the city’s many luxury hotels. Here you can enjoy a range of luxurious amenities, such as fine dining, spa treatments, and swimming pools. You can also take advantage of the fantastic views of the surrounding area.

Conclusion

Inverness is an incredible destination, with so much to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or simply a place to relax and unwind, you’ll find it in Inverness. There is something for everyone here, so why not plan a visit and start exploring all that this beautiful city has to offer.