Inverness

Private car transfer
from Glasgow to Inverness

Door-to-door
in 3 h 10 min
From ...
per seat
Comfortable
car
One way
Cancel for free 24 hours before departure
Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice 2024
Excellent
trustpilot-stars

Trip Information

Pick-up

Your driver will meet you at your address in Glasgow.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage

Trip

You’ll travel in comfort for 3 h 10 min.

  • Optional sight-seeing
  • Clean, comfortable car
  • Professional driver
  • Bottled water
  • Child seats
  • Prepared for handicapped
  • Smoke-free
  • Pet friendly

Drop-off

Your driver will drop you off at your address in Inverness.

  • Door-to-door service
  • Help with your luggage
In total
  • 272 km
  • 3 h 10 min

A car trip from Glasgow to Inverness

Something is exhilarating about driving through winding roads with craggy hills flowing into the distance, covered in a blanket of foggy dew. The mystic ambiance and the breathtaking vistas are why the car trip from Glasgow to Inverness is a travel enthusiast's dream!

Glasow's Victorian lanes will lead the way into the nation's iconic countryside, where glimmering lochs and rugged glens take center stage. Traditional villages and medieval fortresses nestled among the foliage offer evidence that the countryside is steeped in a rich history, where locals still favor ancient ways of life and centuries-old architecture.

Things take a turn halfway through the journey as you sprawl alongside Cairngorms National Park. The unspoiled views of exposed rock formations and rustic hills rolling as far as the horizon seem untouched by humanity. The road, dropped like spaghetti and littered with natural wonders, will lead you to Inverness's historic streets, where you can begin the next chapter of your Scottish staycation.

The drive from Glasgow to Inverness is one of the world's most scenic road trips. Comfort and panoramic seating are priorities for this route. So uncover which mode of transport can offer you everything you need for a surreal venture from south to northern Scotland!

About Inverness

You'll notice a significant difference after your scenic Glasgow to Inverness transfer. You'll travel 168 miles from Scotland's largest city to a town with a population of under 47,000 residents stretching along the banks of the River Ness.

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The town sits in northeastern Scotland, hugging the border with the North Sea. Its position earned Inverness the nickname of the Gateway to the Highlands, and it's why over 310,000 travelers flock to the region annually.

Beginning of Inverness

Civilizations have lived around Inverness for over 8,500 years. In fact, farmers of the Nairn Valley built the nearby Clava Cairns burial grounds in 2000 BC. However, one of the early indicators of Inverness as a village was in the 560s, when King Brude named Inverness the capital of the Picts.

Inverness grew in size and importance during the medieval ages when the city built a castle with significant fortifications. This fortress became the royal residence until its destruction during the Jacobite uprising, which saw Charles Edward Stuart attempting to regain the British throne for his father.

Recent and modern Inverness

The reconstruction of the Inverness Castle in the 19th century and the city's rapid economic growth in the late 20th century contributed to Inverness's charm today. Due to significant financial investment, the city's Victorian buildings and ancient landmarks have been well preserved. These almost Harry Potter-styled walkways, mixed with the carefree atmosphere, make Inverness one of Europe's most underrated destinations.

But you can't talk about Inverness without mentioning the picturesque landscape and folklore tales surrounding its hustle and bustle. As the Gateway to the Highlands, one of the world's most intriguing legends, the Loch Ness Monster, lies only 9 miles from the town. Thus, this makes Inverness an ideal base for nature lovers hiking in the nearby hills or mythology enthusiasts hoping to sneak a peek at the monster!

  • Language: English and Scots
  • Currency: British sterling (GBP)
  • Climate: Oceanic
  • Time zone: GMT
  • Plug type: G </show-more>

From Glasgow to Inverness: travel tips

Unless you're a local who regularly travels from Glasgow to Inverness, you might miss out on some extraordinary treats en route. That's why our drivers and experts included insider tips for your upcoming voyage! <show-more>

Raindrops keep falling on my head

Scotland is one of Europe's wettest nations. And the further north you drive, the rainier it gets.

Remember to check the forecast on the morning of your departure. But if you plan to sightsee en route, you should always have essential items like rain jackets, umbrellas, and waterproof shoes in case of a sudden rain shower.

Speak to the locals

If you want to feel like a local in northern Scotland, you'll need to chat with the residents. By 21st-century standards, the region remains off the beaten tourism map, and few guidebooks give a deep insight into the folklore and ways of life here.

With Daytrip, you can speak with your local driver with extensive regional knowledge who would be delighted to share tales, give tips, or recommend hidden spots in Inverness!

Explore natural and manmade wonders

Scotland's nature and manmade structures blend harmoniously like a surprising marriage. Over 31,000 lochs and around 1,500 castles litter through Scotland, and some of the most alluring reside on the road from Glasgow to Inverness.

The Queen's View overlooking Loch Tummel is arguably the most captivating spot in the United Kingdom. Blair Castle was the home of Europe's last private army, while Loch Ness, with its mystical beast, dazzling lake, and panoramic vistas, is the cream of the crop! </show-more>

How to get from Glasgow to Inverness

The road from Glasgow to Inverness is a scenic yet thrilling experience. Fortunately, three modes of transport connect the cities, so you'll find one that suits your needs and travel preferences below!

Buses from Glasgow to Inverness

Buses are by far the cheapest way to transfer from Glasgow to Inverness, which is ideal when traveling on a budget. Since it costs less than other methods, it's the least comfortable and has the most extensive duration. This is something to consider when traveling as a family or when limited on time.

Megabus, Citylink, and Flixbus operate direct and indirect services, requiring only one change in Perth before continuing your journey. Whether you travel directly or not, you'll purchase a ticket online through either company's website from Glasgow Buchanan Station to Inverness Bus Station. All firms offer wifi, restrooms, and power outlets on board.

  • Cheapest bus ticket: $10 (€9)
  • Average bus ticket: $17.50 (€16)
  • Quickest bus duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes
  • Longest bus duration: 4 hours and 15 minutes
  • First bus departure: 6:15 AM
  • Last bus departure: 6:55 PM

Trains from Glasgow to Inverness

The train is the most popular means of transport for locals and tourists from Glasgow to Inverness. Therefore, you may find crowded carriages and inflated tickets if you reserve a seat at the last minute during the peak summer hours from 6 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 8 PM.

ScotRail runs 15 daily trains from Glasgow Queen Street to Inverness Railway Station. Since only a handful are direct, many require a quick change at Perth. You can explore the charming town en route or jump straight back on a direct carriage to your final destination in under 1.5 hours.

  • Cheapest train ticket: $27.50 (€25)
  • Average train ticket: $54 (€49)
  • Quickest train duration: 3 hours and 17 minutes
  • Longest train duration: 5 hours
  • First train departure: 6:52 AM
  • Last train departure: 10:55 PM

Daytrip from Glasgow to Inverness

Daytrip is the fastest, most comfortable, and most convenient transportation from Glasgow to Inverness. A private door-to-door service will whisk you off your feet from your hotel down south and transport you directly to your new one in the north in only 3 hours.

After a professional driver greets you with a smile and helps with your bags, you'll cruise along in a clean and sanitized vehicle. You can roll down the windows and let the crisp country air flow through or set the thermostat to perfection with your seats reclining in a quiet environment.

Daytrip also offers the most flexibility when traveling from Glasgow to Inverness. No other vehicle will drop you at the doorstep of Hopetoun House, the finest manor nationwide, and wait with your luggage while you explore indoors. Since you'll be out of the driver's seat, you can even sample the finest whiskey at Edradour Distillery, which happens to be one of Scotland's smallest producers!

  • Seats from: $114 (€104)
  • English-speaking driver
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Equipped for pets, kids, groups, or those with limited mobility
  • 24/7 responsive customer service
  • Free cancellation 24 hours before departing

Things to do when you get to Inverness

Inverness isn't on the same tourist radar as other world-renowned British cities like London, Edinburgh, or Liverpool. Therefore, you'll be pleasantly surprised when you discover you'll have a full itinerary after driving from Glasgow to Inverness!

Cruise along Loch Ness

A visit to Inverness wouldn't be complete without a day trip to the legendary Loch Ness. Just a short drive from the city, this vast, mysterious loch is world-famous for its elusive monster, Nessie.

The best way to experience Loch Ness is by taking a boat cruise, which allows you to appreciate the loch's depth and beauty. Many cruises depart from the nearby village of Drumnadrochit and often include visits to the ruins of the historic Urquhart Castle.

Journey through Inverness Castle

The Inverness Castle standing before you dates back to the 1830s. However, a fortress has stood here since 1057, so you can expect a rich and fascinating history lesson within its imposing fortress.

The Inverness Castle Experience will guide you through its walkways, showcasing historical relics and sharing legends in its newly refurbished visitor center. After soaking up the culture, you can relax in the onsite gardens while overlooking the city and River Ness.

With Inverness receiving over 140 days of rainfall annually, you'll likely witness some showers while in town. Luckily, visiting the Inverness Museum and Gallery is the perfect place to shelter from the elements and inject some art and culture into your Scottish adventure.

The vast showrooms highlight the history of Inverness but also the whole Highlands region. The art gallery section portrays many permanent and temporary exhibitions, focusing on promoting local talent. It's free to enter the setting, but donations are welcome!

Relax in Inverness Botanical Gardens

The Inverness Botanical Gardens should be the first in town when traveling as a family. The stunning environment allows you to unwind and your kids to admire unique features like the tropical conservatory or the cactus house, and you won't have to spend a penny to enter!

Prince Edwards opened the gardens in 1993. Today, the gardens are a peaceful oasis, ideal for a relaxing afternoon, and also host a cafe where you can enjoy a light snack surrounded by nature.

When is the best time to visit Inverness?

Summer is the most popular time local and international tourists flock to Inverness. Since the town remains off the tourist's map, it's also the best time to book a Glasgow to Inverness transfer!

July and August are the hottest months of the year when the daily high temperature reaches 65° F. Unlike parts of southern Europe, the summer climate is ideal for exploring the outdoors and participating in city walking tours during the day.

The warm weather brings a vibrant atmosphere to town when cafes dust off their outdoor terraces from the wet winter and spring seasons. But the most significant reason Inverness bursts into life is the live concerts and cultural events around town, such as The Gathering Festival, National Whiskey Fest, and the beloved Inverness Highland Games!

Questions & Answers about Traveling from Glasgow to Inverness

The average train distance from Glasgow to Inverness is 112 miles, which takes 4 hours and 9 minutes. However, some direct services can travel between the cities in only 3 hours and 17 minutes. Check the timetable at ScotRail on your departure date to find the fastest carriage available.
Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the easiest way to travel from Glasgow to Inverness. A provisional driver will collect you directly at your accommodation down south and manage your luggage at the time that best suits your travel plans. They'll also arrive at your new hotel's doorstep, eliminating the hassle of dragging bags through town or arranging taxis from bus stations.
As of 2024, three travel options are available from Glasgow to Inverness, each with unique advantages. The bus is ideal when traveling on a budget, the train is the most scenic option, and Daytrip's private door-to-door service is the fastest, most comfortable, and most convenient option.
Currently, no direct flight operates from Glasgow to Inverness. Due to the proximity, extensive public transport network, and lack of demand for the service, one will unlikely appear. You can fly indirectly through London. However, this flight isn't recommended due to the cost, hassle, and duration.
Daytrip is the fastest way to travel from Glasgow to Inverness. A private door-to-door service can transport you between the cities in only 3 hours. A professional driver will even collect you at your hotel down south and drop you off at your new one up north. As a result, you'll save more time not organizing taxis to departure stations or when you arrive in Inverness.
Inverness is worth visiting and should be on every travel enthusiast's bucket list. It's one of Europe's most underrated destinations, with a bustling downtown home to lively bars, high-quality restaurants, and a thriving museum scene. It's also the perfect base for exploring the extraordinary Scottish wilderness, including the world-renowned Loch Ness!

Visit these sights on the way

Hopetoun House

Hopetoun House

Scotland’s finest stately manor has hosted kings, knights, and the BBC show Outlander. Outlandish Opulence 

Scone Palace

Scone Palace

An integral part of Scottish history, Scone Palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings for centuries. Where You Can Smell the History 

Queen's View

Queen's View

Overlooking Loch Tummel and surrounded by green forest, this viewpoint is one of the most picturesque in Scotland. The Nobility of Nature 

Blair Castle and Hercules Gardens

Blair Castle and Hercules Gardens

This historic Highland Castle has a fascinating history that includes queens, rebels, and Europe’s last private army. High Tales 

Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle

Loch Ness & Urquhart Castle

With its legendary beastie, historic castle, and beautiful views, the world’s most famous lake is a breath of fresh air. The Legendary Lake 

Why people love Daytrip

Tripadvisor logo
4,800+ reviews
  • 58 travelers took this route with us
Nov 9, 2024

Great communication with an actual person! They will take you ANYWHERE, No pre-set routes to choose from!

Last minute plan change and Daytrip was our last resort so I chatted with them and had an immediate response from a real person, best situation ever. Never used Daytrip before but the reviews were incredible so we took the chance and booked a driver at like 11-12pm and by 7am the next morning when we woke, they found us a driver and the driver had already texed us making contact! Very impressed and will definitely use them again. We went from Dubrovnik, Croatia to Tivat, Montenegro.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler James B
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James B

Nov 9, 2024
Nov 1, 2024

Perfect Transport

Andreas did a great job picking us up from Pireaus Cruise Port and taking us to our rental in Spata. The three of us had been on a long cruise and had 9 pieces of luggage. He arrived in an appropriate vehicle and loaded and unloaded all of it. We are very happy with out decision to book with Daytrip.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler LuckyTraveler01
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LuckyTraveler01

Nov 1, 2024
Oct 5, 2024

Great day

The ride was fantastic. The diver was great, he was on time, very informative, and could not have been nicer. Definitely would do again

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Steve N
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Steve N

Oct 5, 2024
Sep 30, 2024

Exactly what they promised

We used Daytrip.com for 4 trips within Italy. This door-to-door service is not inexpensive. That said: All 4 drivers arrived on time. All spoke fluent English. All were excellent drivers, and all were kind and considerate. Lots of other things went wrong on this trip, but Daytrip.com did exactly what they promised.

Reviewed by Tripadvisor traveler Curious51658572354
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Curious51658572354

Sep 30, 2024

Vehicle options for this trip

Most popular

sedan

Sedan

Comparable to aVolkswagen Passat
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-3
  • 3x
  • 3x
  • Clean
  • Comfortable
  • Air conditioned
  • Handicapped accessible
  • Child seats
  • Pet friendly
  • Smoke-free
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luxury sedan

Luxury sedan

Comparable to aMercedes Benz E-class
Passengers and luggage
  • 1-2
  • 2x
  • 2x
  • All standard sedan features
  • Luxurious vehicle
  • Chauffeur-style service
  • Extra amenities
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mpv

Compact MPV

Comparable to aVolkswagen Touran
Passengers and luggage
  • 4
  • 4x
  • 4x
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van

Van

Comparable to aMercedes Vito
Passengers and luggage
  • 5-7
  • 7x
  • 7x
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The Daytrip driver advantage

Daytrip driver
  • Local knowledge about the route from Glasgow to Inverness
    Including available sights:
  • English speaking*

    All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.

  • Safety first!

    We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.

World-class customer support

  • Available 24/7
  • Close relationship with drivers
  • Experts on the route from Glasgow to Inverness

Flexible cancellation policy

  • Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
  • Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!

Good to know

Children

If you’re traveling with children, make sure to let us know in the booking so we can get the appropriate child seats ready!

Pets

Pets are allowed (and loved)! We just need to know beforehand. You can tell us about them in the next phase of the booking.

Tips

Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).

Luggage

  • Big luggage
  • 29x21x11 inches
  • 74x53x28 cm
  • Small luggage
  • 22x14x9 inches
  • 56x36x23 cm

Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.

Payment methods

Pay by credit card online, or in cash directly to your driver!

Daytrip is the most convenient way to experience 13,700+ cities around the world.

Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.

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