Inverness is about 155 miles from Edinburgh Airport, roughly roughly three to three and a half hours without stops by road. Public transport works but usually means getting into the city first and changing at least once. A private transfer goes door to door with your luggage, can stop for sightseeing on the way, and is quoted as a fixed whole-vehicle price.
How long is the drive from Edinburgh Airport to Inverness?
The drive is about 155 miles and takes roughly three to three and a half hours without stops, depending on traffic, weather and roadworks. The usual route follows the Queensferry Crossing and M90 to Perth, then the A9 north through Pitlochry and over the Drumochter Pass.
All distances and times here are approximate. Check Traffic Scotland for live roadworks and closures, especially in winter.
Train or coach, or a private transfer?
ScotRail runs direct trains from Edinburgh Waverley to Inverness, typically taking around three and a half hours; you first need the tram or bus from the airport into the city. Citylink coaches also run to Inverness, mostly from Edinburgh or Glasgow city centre.
Public transport is the cheapest choice for one or two travellers with light bags. A private transfer is worth it when you have several suitcases, children or older relatives, a late arrival, or want to stop on the way. You also avoid the extra steps of getting to a station and changing trains.
Fixed whole-vehicle price, agreed in writing. Message us with your flight details.
Airport transfersCan the transfer include sightseeing on the way?
Yes. Pitlochry is the classic halfway stop, with its town centre and nearby distilleries. The House of Bruar, just off the A9 near Blair Atholl, is a popular place for lunch and a short walk to the Falls of Bruar. Dunkeld and the Hermitage are also close to the road.
We can also combine your airport pickup with a full Edinburgh Airport private tour, so the travel day becomes a sightseeing day. Tell us how many hours you would like to spend on stops and we will plan a realistic timing.
What about luggage, children and late arrivals?
- Vehicle: Toyota Alphard, up to 4 guests with room for their luggage.
- Flight tracking: we watch your flight, so a delay does not cost you the pickup.
- Meet at arrivals: your driver meets you in the arrivals hall.
- Children: tell us children's ages and heights when booking and we will confirm suitable seats.
- Language: English, Cantonese or Mandarin-speaking driver.
Late-evening arrivals are fine, but on a long Highland drive we may suggest an overnight stop on the way instead.
How much does it cost and how do I book?
Price on request — message us on WhatsApp (+44 7598 576685) with your flight, passengers and luggage for a fixed whole-vehicle quote. The price is agreed in writing before you travel, for the vehicle rather than per person. For reference, standard local Edinburgh airport transfers start from £90 one-way. See our Edinburgh airport transfers page for details.
Fixed whole-vehicle price, agreed in writing. Message us with your flight details.
Airport transfersFrequently asked
How long does it take to drive from Edinburgh Airport to Inverness?
Roughly roughly three to three and a half hours without stops without stops, covering about 155 miles. Allow more time in winter or if you want sightseeing stops.
How much is a private transfer to Inverness?
Price on request. Message us on WhatsApp (+44 7598 576685) with your flight, passengers and luggage for a fixed whole-vehicle quote.
Can we stop for sightseeing on the way?
Yes. Stops can be added to the transfer, or the pickup can be combined with a private day tour.