How to Get from Inverness Airport to Inverness Station

The Stagecoach Highlands Jet Service 11 is the only direct public bus route connecting Inverness Airport (INV) with the city centre and Inverness Railway Station. It is widely regarded as the most cost-effective and reliable option for most travelers.

Why it's the top choice: It offers an unbeatable combination of low price, decent frequency, and a direct stop at the train station forecourt.

Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details

1. Find the Bus Stop: Exit the terminal arrivals hall, turn left, and walk about 50 meters. The clearly signed bus stop is located directly outside the terminal building.
2. Board the Bus: Ensure you board the bus heading to "Inverness City Centre" or displaying "Service 11". The final destination is usually "Inverness Bus Station".
3. Paying the Fare:
   • You can pay the driver directly with exact cash or, preferably, by contactless debit/credit card.
   • Consider the City Dayrider ticket (£4.70) if you plan on using more buses in Inverness that day.
4. Alighting: Inform the driver you need "Inverness Railway Station". The bus stops directly on Academy Street, right outside the station's main entrance.

Bus Schedule & Frequency

Buses generally run from early morning (approx. 6:00 AM) until after midnight.

Time of Day	Frequency	First / Last Bus from Airport (Approx.)
Monday - Saturday (Daytime)	Every 30 minutes	First: ~06:10, Last: ~00:10
Sunday & Public Holidays	Every 60 minutes	First: ~08:40, Last: ~23:40

Always check the latest timetable on the Stagecoach Highlands website.

Luggage & Accessibility

• Luggage: Buses have dedicated luggage storage areas. There is no formal limit, but space is shared, so be considerate during busy periods.
• Accessibility: All Service 11 buses are wheelchair-accessible with low-floor entry and dedicated spaces.

For door-to-door convenience, especially with heavy luggage, late-night arrivals, or small groups, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is ideal.

Taxi Rank (Metered & Fixed Fare)

Upon exiting the arrivals hall, you will find the official airport taxi rank directly outside.

• Journey Time: 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Cost: A fixed fare applies for airport journeys into the city centre. Expect to pay between £20 and £30 for up to 4 passengers. Always confirm the fixed fare with the driver before setting off.
• Operators: Licensed local firms like Inverness Taxis or Rapid City service the rank.

Pre-Booked Private Transfer

Booking in advance via a global or local provider can offer peace of mind, fixed pricing, and meet-and-greet services.

• Advantages: Driver meets you in arrivals with a name sign. Fixed price locked in regardless of traffic. Often cleaner, newer vehicles.
• Cost: Similar to the taxi rank, around £25-£35 for a standard car. Slightly more for larger vehicles (e.g., 8-seaters).
• Recommended Providers: Consider booking through reputable platforms like HolidayTaxis or local companies like Inverness Airport Transfers.

Drive Guide & Parking

• The Route: Take the A96 road east directly towards Inverness. Follow signs for the City Centre. The journey is approximately 8 miles (13 km).
• Journey Time: 15-20 minutes in normal traffic.
• Dropping Off at the Station: There is a short-term drop-off/pick-up zone directly outside the station entrance on Academy Street (charges may apply for stays over a few minutes).
• Long-Term Parking: If you need to park, the station itself has limited parking. Consider the nearby Rose Street Multi-Storey or other city centre car parks. Highland Council provides parking information.

Rental Companies at INV

Major rental companies have desks in the arrivals hall, including: Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Enterprise. Booking in advance online is highly recommended for better rates and guaranteed availability.

Top Tips for a Smooth Journey

• Cash is (Mostly) Optional: You can pay for the bus with a contactless card. Taxis also accept cards, but it's wise to confirm.
• Late-Night or Early-Morning Flights: If your flight arrives very late (after midnight) or very early (before 6 AM), the bus will not be running. Your only public option is a taxi. Pre-booking a transfer is advisable for these times.
• Connecting to a Train: Inverness Station is relatively small and easy to navigate. If you arrive by bus, you will be dropped right at the entrance, giving you a short walk to the platforms. Allow at least 45-60 minutes between your bus arrival and train departure for a stress-free connection.
• Luggage for the Bus: While there is space, if you have multiple very large suitcases per person, a taxi might be less stressful for you and fellow passengers.
• Weather Watch: Inverness weather can change quickly. Having a jacket or umbrella handy for the short walk from the bus/taxi to the station is sensible.
• Local SIM/Data: Having mobile data to check real-time bus times (via the Stagecoach app or Google Maps) or to call a taxi via an app is very useful.