Hotels in Inverness

Whispers of the Highlands: Discover Inverness's Enchanted River and Timeless Castle

Nestled along the banks of the River Ness, Inverness is a charming gateway to the Scottish Highlands. This vibrant city seamlessly blends rich history with natural beauty, featuring the iconic Inverness Castle overlooking the river. Stroll through the picturesque city center, where local shops and cafes invite you to explore. Don't miss the tranquil Inverness Botanic Gardens and the intriguing exhibits at the Inverness Museum. With its captivating landscapes and warm hospitality, Inverness is a perfect base for adventures into the mystical Loch Ness and beyond, making it an unforgettable destination for nature lovers and culture seekers alike. For great hotel rates in Inverness, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Inverness

Inverness offers a range of accommodations from charming B&Bs to luxurious hotels. Whether you prefer a cozy stay with local charm or a five-star experience with stunning views, you're sure to find wonderful options. Enjoy the warm Scottish hospitality while exploring the beautiful Highlands. Here are some of the best hotels in Inverness that our travelers love:

1. Loch Ness LodgeOpens in a new window: This exquisite 5-star lodge offers a remarkable experience for leisure travelers seeking luxury and natural beauty. With stunning views of Loch Ness, this property features cozy lounges perfect for unwinding by the fire, and an impressive breakfast that garners rave reviews. The attentive service and wellness-focused atmosphere create an ideal retreat for those looking to rejuvenate while enjoying the picturesque Scottish landscape. Visitors appreciate the charming decor and comfortable accommodations, ensuring an unforgettable stay.
2. Ness WalkOpens in a new window: This elegant 5-star hotel caters to discerning leisure travelers who appreciate refined luxury and exceptional service. Guests are welcomed with a glass of champagne, setting the tone for a lavish experience. The beautifully designed rooms and the serene location along the River Ness enhance the overall ambiance. Travelers enjoy the well-appointed amenities, including meeting spaces for any corporate needs, and the exquisite breakfast offerings. The attentive staff and meticulous attention to detail contribute to an extraordinary stay.
3. Rocpool ReserveOpens in a new window: This luxurious 5-star boutique hotel is an ideal choice for travelers seeking an exceptional experience in Inverness. The unique decor and carefully curated artwork create an inviting atmosphere. With a focus on indulgence, the hotel offers complimentary afternoon tea and an array of delightful snacks, ensuring guests feel pampered throughout their stay. The spacious rooms and opulent bathrooms elevate the comfort level, providing a perfect sanctuary for relaxation. Visitors rave about the high-quality amenities and the warm, welcoming ambiance, making it a top pick for discerning travelers.

Top locations to stay in Inverness

When visiting Inverness, Scotland, great areas to stay include Kinmylies, Inshes, and Inverness City Centre. Inverness City Centre is appealing for its rich history, with attractions like Inverness Castle and the Cathedral, and vibrant nightlife. Inshes offers scenic riverside views, while Kinmylies provides a quieter atmosphere. For first-time visitors, Inverness City Centre is the best option due to its accessibility and attractions.

1. Inverness City CentreOpens in a new window: If you want to immerse yourself in the heart of Inverness, the City Centre is the ideal spot to stay. With its stunning river views and historical sites, you'll find must-see places like Inverness Cathedral and the iconic Inverness Castle. The area boasts a vibrant shopping scene, with the Eastgate Shopping Centre and the charming Victorian Market offering a range of shops. For cultural experiences, check out the Eden Court Theatre, where you can catch a show or performance. The nightlife here is lively, with various options to unwind after a day of exploring.
2. InshesOpens in a new window: Inshes is a delightful area that combines serene surroundings with easy access to the attractions of Inverness. Known for its beautiful riverside views and a more relaxed atmosphere, it’s perfect for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle while still being close to the action. You can enjoy leisurely walks along the river, making it a great spot for those who appreciate nature. While Inshes may not have the extensive shopping or nightlife options of the City Centre, its charm and tranquility make it a lovely place to recharge.
3. KinmyliesOpens in a new window: Kinmylies offers a peaceful retreat just outside the city center, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a quiet place to stay. This residential area has stunning natural landscapes, perfect for leisurely strolls or outdoor activities. Although Kinmylies is primarily a residential neighborhood, its proximity to Inverness means you can easily access the city's attractions, including the nearby river and historic sites. This spot is great for families or anyone looking for a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to everything Inverness has to offer.

Things to do in Inverness

Nestled along a scenic river, Inverness enchants with its blend of lush parks, rolling hills, and tranquil lakes. Travelers can enjoy leisurely walks, exciting boat tours, and vibrant local dances. With its charming landscapes, it's an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a lively cultural experience.

• Inverness CastleOpens in a new window – Perched on a cliff overlooking the River Ness, this striking castle is a perfect starting point for your Inverness adventure. Explore its charming grounds and take in the picturesque views of the city and the river below.
• Urquhart CastleOpens in a new window – Venture just a short drive from the city to discover the captivating ruins of Urquhart Castle. Nestled on the shores of Loch Ness, this historic site invites you to wander through its remains and imagine the storied past of this once-mighty fortress.
• Inverness CathedralOpens in a new window – Step inside Inverness Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic-style structure that stands gracefully along the riverbank. Admire its stunning stained-glass windows and peaceful atmosphere as you take a moment to reflect and enjoy the serene surroundings.
• Culloden BattlefieldOpens in a new window – Walk the hallowed grounds of Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle on British soil. Here, you can delve into the poignant history of the Jacobite uprising and see the memorials that honor those who fought.
• Castle StuartOpens in a new window – Discover the elegance of Castle Stuart, an impressive structure surrounded by lush landscapes. Stroll through the scenic grounds and soak in the splendor of this historic castle, which offers stunning views of the Moray Firth.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Inverness

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Inverness is during January, February, and October, when hotel rates tend to be lower. For those on a budget, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is ideal for discovering the city's significant landmarks, historical sites, and cultural offerings, such as the impressive castle and scenic river. By planning your trip during these months, you can enjoy great value for money while immersing yourself in the rich history and beauty of Inverness.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Inverness, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you're more likely to see updates on flash sales and special promotions, helping you snag the best hotel deal. Additionally, utilize the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool in the app to compare room rates and amenities, ensuring you make informed choices. With these options, you'll be among the first to know about available rooms or price drops for your Inverness getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate based on various factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in an Inverness hotel. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If it appears to be on the higher side, we’ll recommend more economical dates that could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Inverness's great public transportation options, you might discover more affordable independent hotels a bit farther out that are still well-connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often excellent value to be had. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic experience while being budget-friendly.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Inverness. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

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 tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Inverness are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.