Five Easy Day Trips from Inverness – No Car!

Looking to explore the Scottish Highlands without renting a car?

Inverness is often called the Capital of the Highlands. It is not only a charming city but also an ideal base for day trips. Whether you’re into historical sites, coastal walks, or spotting dolphins, these five destinations are easily accessible by public transit. They are perfect for solo travelers, budget-conscious adventurers, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape from city crowds.

Inverness: Your Base for Car-Free Day Trips

Inverness is a compact, walkable city with excellent public transportation. The train station is in the city centre, with friendly staff to help you find deals. Bus departures are just steps away near the public library.

Traveling in late spring or early summer? You’ll enjoy long daylight hours, perfect for evening strolls along the riverside. I loved walking from the suburbs into the heart of Inverness at 9:00 PM with full daylight. It’s ideal for solo female travelers like me.

1. Beauly

Distance from Inverness: 15 minutes by train
Best for: Abbey ruins, village charm, local shops

The name comes from the French ‘beau lieu’ meaning ‘beautiful place’.

The quaint village set along the River Beauly. It’s home to the atmospheric ruins of Beauly Priory, dating back to the 13th century. Admission is free, and it’s a peaceful place to explore Scottish monastic history.

Pop into the tweed shops and grab a flat white at Café Biagiotti. Enjoy the slow pace of small-town Highland life.

2. Fortrose

Distance from Inverness: 40 minutes by bus
Best for: Historic cathedral, coastal walks, dolphin spotting

Fortrose is a lovely seaside town on the Moray Firth. Visit the ruins of Fortrose Cathedral in Cathedral Square. Then head down to Chanonry Point—a prime spot to see dolphins playing in the firth. The lighthouse, though now automated, adds a scenic backdrop.

Don’t miss: A stop at IV10 Bistro or a walk along the beach that continues on to Rosemarkie.

3. Rosemarkie

Distance from Inverness: 1 hour by bus, or walk from Fortrose
Best for: Fairy trails, waterfalls, Celtic history

A hidden gem just northeast of Fortrose, Rosemarkie offers a perfect mix of folklore and history. The Groam House Museum focuses on Celtic and Pictish art—small but fascinating. For nature lovers, the Fairy Glen trail leads to a mossy, magical waterfall.

Tradition says to greet the fairies at the glen! The path is popular, safe, and easy to follow—even when traveling alone.

Pro tip: Check trail conditions on the excellent Walk Highlands website, a goldmine for hikers in Scotland.

4. Cromarty

Distance from Inverness: 1 hour by bus
Best for: Cobblestone charm, seafood, seaside walks

On the tip of the Black Isle, Cromarty feels like a step back in time. Winding lanes, independent shops, and seaside views make it a picturesque day trip. I only had time for dinner at Sutor Creek, a local favourite known for wood-fired pizza and seafood. Highly recommend a stop here!

Visit the Cromarty Courthouse Museum, walk along the beach, and soak up views of the firth. Accommodations are limited, so day-tripping from Inverness is ideal.

5. Dingwall

Distance from Inverness: 35 minutes by train
Best for: Local history, quirky museums, a laid-back vibe

Dingwall is not be flashy, but it has plenty to explore. The Dingwall Museum gives a fun glimpse into local politics (with mannequins in a town meeting setup!), while the oddly named castle doocot is the last remnant of a medieval fortress.

Don’t miss the library housed inside Dingwall Academy—a sweet find if you’re a library lover like me.

How Long Should You Stay in Inverness?

I recommend at least 6 days in Inverness. 1–2 days to explore the city and riverside, and 4–5 for these easy, scenic day trips. You’ll be amazed by how much of the Highlands you can experience—all without renting a car.

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