- Must visit
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
The city's main museum, covering Highland history, archaeology, art, and local culture in a central Victorian building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Thurso to Inverness
Showing times and prices for Aug 22
Cheapest price
$56
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
3 h 11 m
Average duration
3 h 20 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
130 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Thurso to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Thurso to Inverness will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Thurso for Inverness on Sat, Aug 22, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 22 the direct buses cover the 130 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 11 m .
On Sat, Aug 22 the slowest buses will take 3 h 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:27 AM3h16Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland8:43 AMInverness$561One-way0 transfers- 11:59 AM3h35Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland3:34 PMInverness$561One-way0 transfers
- 4:14 PM3h18Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland7:32 PMInverness$561One-way0 transfers
- 7:22 PM3h11Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland10:33 PMInverness$561One-way0 transfers
- 7:22 PM3h11Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland10:33 PMInverness$561One-way0 transfers
- 5:27 AM3h16Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland8:43 AMInverness$561One-way0 transfers
- 4:14 PM3h18Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland7:32 PMInverness$561One-way0 transfers
- 11:59 AM3h35Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland3:34 PMInverness$561One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Thurso to Inverness
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Thurso to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 38m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $17, and a bus costs an average of $56.
Distance: 80 miles (130 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$56 Average price | $33 Average price Cheapest | $41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 8m Average total duration Fastest 3h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration 3h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Thurso to Inverness is a train with an average price of $40 (€32).
This is compared to other travel options from Thurso to Inverness:
A train is $2 (€2) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Thurso to Inverness costing on average $43 (€34).
The fastest way to travel from Thurso to Inverness is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 38m.
Other travel options to Inverness take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Thurso and Inverness including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Thurso to Inverness among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -2h -8m sooner (3h 38m by bus vs 2h 30m by car) and save roughly $-1.66 (€-1.33) compared to fuel and tolls ($43 (€34) vs $41 (€33)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Ember.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Thurso to Inverness Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Ember | Departure Time 03:52AM | Arrival Time 07:13AM | Duration 3h21 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Ember | Departure Time 05:27AM | Arrival Time 08:43AM | Duration 3h16 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Ember | Departure Time 09:24AM | Arrival Time 01:03PM | Duration 3h39 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Ember | Departure Time 11:59AM | Arrival Time 03:34PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Ember | Departure Time 01:49PM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 3h41 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Ember | Departure Time 04:14PM | Arrival Time 07:32PM | Duration 3h18 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Ember | Departure Time 07:22PM | Arrival Time 10:33PM | Duration 3h11 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Ember | Departure Time 07:42PM | Arrival Time 10:53PM | Duration 3h11 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
Live departures
Thurso to Inverness bus times
The table below shows live departures for Thurso to Inverness buses for today, Friday, August 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:49 PM Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland | 3h41 | 5:30 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:42 PM Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland | 3h11 | 10:53 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, August 22 | |||||
| 5:27 AM Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland | 3h16 | 8:43 AM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:59 AM Thurso Royal Bank Of Scotland | 3h35 | 3:34 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Thurso to Inverness by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Thurso to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Thurso to Inverness run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by train.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:58, the last at 18:31. The fastest bus covers the 80 miles (130 km) distance in 3h 45m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $26 (€21)
Distance 80 miles (130 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€34) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 3h 45m |
First bus 6:58 AM |
Last bus 6:31 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $26 (€21)
Bus providers: Ember from Thurso to InvernessYou can travel by bus between Thurso to Inverness with Ember for as low as $26 (€21). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Ember
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€45)
Ember frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Inverness
Things to do in Inverness
Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.
- Must visit
Culloden Visitor Centre
A modern visitor centre exploring the Battle of Culloden through artefacts, immersive displays, and Jacobite history.
- Recommended
The Highlanders' Museum
A compact military museum telling the story of the Queen's Own Highlanders and local regimental heritage.
- Must visit
Ness Islands
The River Ness islands and footbridges create one of Inverness's best urban walks, with calm water, trees, and views.
- Must visit
River Ness Walk
A central riverside route ideal for strolling past cathedral, castle views, bridges, and classic Inverness scenery.
- Recommended
High Street
The main pedestrian shopping street, lively with historic facades, local businesses, and easy access to central sights.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty Highland soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Deeply linked to northeast Scotland and widely enjoyed in Inverness pubs and homes.
Haggis
Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding made with sheep offal, oats and spices. A classic Burns supper dish and a staple on traditional Highland menus.
- Vegetarian
Vegetarian Haggis
A vegetarian version of haggis using oats, lentils, beans and spices. Popular across Scotland as a meat-free way to try a national classic.
Torrish Restaurant
Refined tasting menus in an elegant setting inside Ness Walk Hotel. Known for modern Scottish cooking with Highland produce and polished service.
The Castle Tavern
Historic pub by Inverness Castle known for cask ales, whisky and classic Scottish fare. A traditional stop for hearty local dishes.
The Kitchen Brasserie
Smart but relaxed bistro and bar near the river, serving modern Scottish dishes, seafood and steaks with a lively local atmosphere.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are usually reasonable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Inverness Bus Station -> Inverness Railway Station
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Inverness. Buy on board or use the official app for mobile tickets.
- Inverness city centre is compact, so many trips from the bus station to central sights are walkable in under 10 minutes.
FAQs: Bus from Thurso to Inverness
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thurso to Inverness by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Thurso to Inverness can start from as little as $56 (€45) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Thurso to Inverness is $56 (€45) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Thurso to Inverness is 3h 11m to travel the 80 miles (130 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Thurso to Inverness leaves at 6:58 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Thurso to Inverness leaves at 6:31 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Thurso to Inverness with Ember. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Thurso to Inverness, you can count on Ember for the best way to get you to Inverness. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Thurso and Inverness and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Inverness from Thurso is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 11m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Thurso to Inverness is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Thurso and Inverness including taking a train and bus.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Thurso to Inverness.
No, the bus from Thurso to Inverness has no accessibility options.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Inverness are:
- Inverness Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and River Ness
- Loch Ness, a famous freshwater loch known for its mythical monster and scenic beauty
- Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle on British soil with an informative visitor center
- Inverness Cathedral, a striking 19th-century cathedral with impressive architecture
- Clava Cairns, ancient burial cairns and standing stones dating back to the Bronze Age.
The best things to do in Inverness include:
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, discover the local history and art through diverse exhibits
- Eden Court Theatre, enjoy a variety of performances including theater, dance, and music in a modern venue
- Ness Islands, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque islands on the River Ness
- Caledonian Canal, enjoy a relaxing boat trip or a scenic walk along this historic waterway
- Merkinch Local Nature Reserve, explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of this tranquil reserve.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Thurso to Inverness.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Thurso to Inverness.
No, luggage for the bus from Thurso to Inverness needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Thurso to Inverness.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Thurso to Inverness.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Thurso to Inverness.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Thurso to Inverness.
Since neither Thurso nor Inverness are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Thurso to Inverness among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Inverness, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Some visitors report occasional overcharging by taxi drivers, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Always be aware of your surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas. Standard travel safety practices help ensure a secure visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Thurso to Inverness
Most Thurso to Inverness buses use the to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Thurso and Inverness bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Thurso
Arrival bus stations in Inverness
Inverness
More options for your journey from Thurso to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Inverness and Thurso
Most popular bus connections to Inverness
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