Hotels in Inverness

Enchanted Inverness: Where Castles Embrace the Whispering River

Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a charming blend of history and natural beauty. This vibrant city, often referred to as the Gateway to the Highlands, boasts the stunning Inverness Castle overlooking the River Ness. Stroll along the scenic riverbanks, visit the intriguing Inverness Museum, and admire the majestic Inverness Cathedral. With its warm Highland hospitality, the city offers a range of delightful accommodations and a vibrant culinary scene. Ideal for romantic getaways or cultural explorations, Inverness invites you to experience its unique allure and breathtaking landscapes.

Discover great hotels in Inverness

Inverness offers a range of hotel accommodations, from charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious stays. You'll find friendly service, lovely rooms, and great deals. Whether you prefer a boutique hotel or a more upscale experience, Inverness caters to diverse tastes and budgets, making it an ideal base for exploring the Scottish Highlands. Here are some of the best hotels in Inverness that our travelers love:

1. BedBreakfast: This charming Bed and Breakfast offers a unique pet-friendly experience, perfect for leisure travelers seeking comfort and a homely atmosphere. With a focus on personalised service, this property welcomes pets and features various amenities tailored for animal lovers. The inviting environment is complemented by cozy rooms and delightful breakfasts, ensuring a memorable stay. Guests appreciate the warm hospitality and the opportunity to relax in a tranquil setting, making it an ideal choice for those who cherish distinctive experiences.
2. The Priory HotelOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel provides an inviting retreat for leisure travelers, featuring an array of dining options that include a complimentary breakfast and a restaurant for dinner. The hotel encourages relaxation and enjoyment, with entertainment choices like cable television and billiards. Guests can also explore nearby bicycle rentals, adding an adventurous touch to their stay. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with excellent amenities, makes this a popular choice among visitors looking for a comfortable and enjoyable getaway.
3. Hillview ParkOpens in a new window: Hillview Park is a refined 4.0-star Bed and Breakfast that captivates leisure travelers with its elegant charm and inviting ambiance. Offering a complimentary full breakfast daily, this hotel ensures a delightful start to the day. With digital television and a focus on relaxation, guests can unwind in a sophisticated setting that promotes comfort and tranquillity. The stylish decor and attention to detail create a serene atmosphere, making it a preferred destination for those seeking a memorable and high-quality stay in Inverness.

Top locations to stay in Inverness

Some great areas to stay in Inverness are Bunchrew, Lochend, and Inverness City Centre. Bunchrew offers delightful dining options and scenic views, while Lochend is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty. Inverness City Centre, with its vibrant atmosphere and ideal accommodation choices, is best suited for first-time visitors wanting to experience Highland hospitality.

1. Inverness City CentreOpens in a new window: Staying in Inverness City Centre puts you right in the heart of this vibrant city. It's a fantastic base for exploring local shops, cultural attractions, and dining options. You can easily wander through charming streets lined with boutiques, enjoy a meal in a cozy café, or visit the iconic Inverness Castle. With its lively atmosphere and central location, you’ll find entertainment options like theatres and cultural events to immerse yourself in the local scene.
2. BunchrewOpens in a new window: Bunchrew offers a more tranquil retreat just a short distance from the bustling city centre. Nestled along the shores of the Beauly Firth, it’s perfect for those who appreciate scenic views and a peaceful environment. This area is known for its delightful dining options, where you can enjoy local Scottish cuisine while taking in beautiful waterfront vistas. Bunchrew is ideal for leisurely strolls and experiencing the natural beauty of the Highlands without straying far from Inverness.
3. LochendOpens in a new window: Lochend is a picturesque area that showcases the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. This location is a great choice for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. You can enjoy scenic walks along the loch or explore nearby nature trails. While it may be quieter than the city centre, Lochend offers opportunities to experience authentic local culture and breathtaking views, making it an excellent spot for a peaceful getaway.

Things to do in Inverness

Inverness enchants with its stunning riverside vistas and nearby mountains, perfect for scenic walks and invigorating hikes. Explore lush parks, enjoy leisurely boat trips, and dance the night away in vibrant local venues. With its rich history and natural beauty, this charming city promises a delightful experience for every traveller.

• River FoyersOpens in a new window – Wander along the banks of this stunning river, where you can enjoy the serene sounds of flowing water and observe the beautiful natural scenery. This is an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic while soaking in the fresh air.
• Glen AffricOpens in a new window – Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Glen Affric, a park renowned for its captivating forests and shimmering lochs. Take a hike on one of the many trails that wind through this picturesque area, offering stunning views and a chance to spot local wildlife.
• Inverness CastleOpens in a new window – Visit the iconic Inverness Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city. Climb up to the viewing platform for panoramic vistas of the surrounding area, and admire the striking architecture that tells the story of Inverness's rich history.
• Inverness CathedralOpens in a new window – Step inside the majestic Inverness Cathedral, a splendid example of Gothic architecture. Marvel at the intricate stained-glass windows and tranquil atmosphere as you explore this spiritual haven in the heart of the city.
• Nessieland Castle Monster CentreOpens in a new window – Dive into the world of Loch Ness legends at the Nessieland Castle Monster Centre. This engaging exhibit offers a fun and informative experience for visitors of all ages, where you can learn about the mysteries of Nessie and the folklore surrounding Scotland's most famous lake.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Inverness

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Inverness is during January, February, and October, when hotel prices tend to be lower. For those looking to explore the city’s historical and cultural landmarks, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This duration allows visitors to enjoy key attractions such as the iconic castle, take part in insightful tours, stroll along the picturesque river, and experience the local dining and café scene. With friendly locals and opportunities for dancing, visiting Inverness provides great value for money, especially for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to Inverness, explore the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted accommodation options as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don’t miss potential savings. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a useful comparison tool available via the app, helping you compare hotel prices and amenities. With these resources, you're more likely to see price drops or available rooms for your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year. Therefore, having some flexibility with your travel dates could enable you to save on your stay in an Inverness hotel. For those in search of distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we will suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you to secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre generally tend to be pricier, but thanks to Inverness's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those keen to explore alternative, less populated neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative locales could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Inverness

Inverness experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.8°F (3.2°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 58.1°F (14.5°C). October are typically the wettest months. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Inverness, April, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.