- 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 trains from Thurso to Inverness
Showing times and prices for Aug 22
Cheapest price
€20
Average price
€30
Fastest journey
3 h 53 m
Average duration
3 h 59 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
130 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 €30 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €20.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Thurso for Inverness on Sat, Aug 22, 3 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 trains cover the 130 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 53 m .
On Sat, Aug 22 the slowest trains will take 4 h 2 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.
1:06 PM4h02Thurso5:08 PMInverness€201One-way0 transfers- 8:34 AM3h53Thurso12:27 PMInverness€341One-way0 transfers
- 12:06 PM4h02Thurso4:08 PMInverness€351One-way0 transfers
- 8:34 AM3h53Thurso12:27 PMInverness€341One-way0 transfers
- 1:06 PM4h02Thurso5:08 PMInverness€201One-way0 transfers
- 12:06 PM4h02Thurso4:08 PMInverness€351One-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 €21. 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 €21, and a bus costs an average of €34.
Distance: 80 miles (130 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€32 Average price Cheapest | €34 Average price | €33 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 23m Average total duration 3h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 8m Average total duration Fastest 3h 38m 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 €26.
This is compared to other travel options from Thurso to Inverness:
A train is €19 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Thurso to Inverness costing on average €45.
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 52m.
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 train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €26 compared to roughly €33 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €7. The journey takes 3h 52m versus 2h 30m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with ScotRail.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Thurso to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for Thurso to Inverness trains for today, Friday, August 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C15071 | On time 1:06 PM Thurso station (THS) | 4h02 | 5:08 PM Inverness station (INV) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C15077 | On time 4:32 PM Thurso station (THS) | 3h41 | 8:13 PM Inverness station (INV) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, August 22 | |||||
| 8:34 AM Thurso | 3h53 | 12:27 PM Inverness | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train 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.
Sat
Aug 22
Aug 22
Sun
Aug 23
Aug 23
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Aug 24
Aug 24
Tue
Aug 25
Aug 25
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Aug 26
Aug 26
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Aug 28
Aug 28
Why should you book Thurso to Inverness trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as ScotRail offer trains services from Thurso to Inverness.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Thurso to Inverness.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Thurso to Inverness.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Thurso to Inverness.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Thurso to Inverness.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Thurso to Inverness?
The best time to book your train from Thurso to Inverness is 2 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Thurso to Inverness route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Thurso to Inverness per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Thurso to Inverness.
Trains
from €18Journey information
Overview: Train from Thurso to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Thurso to Inverness run on average 2 times per day, taking around 3h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €14 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:50, the last at 18:31. The fastest train covers the 80 miles (130 km) distance in 3h 41m.
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
Distance 80 miles (130 km) |
Average train duration 3h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price €14 |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 3h 41m |
First train 6:50 AM |
Last train 6:31 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 2 days |
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
Train companies: Scotrail, ScotRail from Thurso to Inverness trainsScotrail, ScotRail trains will get you between Thurso and Inverness from €21. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Price
€14
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
ScotRail
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Price
€55
ScotRail frequency
3 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
- /
To the city center
Inverness Airport -> Inverness Railway Station
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Most local Stagecoach buses accept contactless card payment as well as cash; ask the driver if you need the cheapest fare option.
- The £2 single fare cap commonly applies on many local bus journeys, but check the operator app or website before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Thurso to Inverness
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thurso to Inverness by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Thurso to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €14, while the average price is around €26.
The train from Thurso to Inverness takes 3h 41m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Thurso to Inverness is 80 miles (130 km).
The first train from Thurso to Inverness leaves at 6:50 AM.
The last train from Thurso to Inverness leaves at 6:31 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Thurso to Inverness.
Yes, there is a direct train from Thurso to Inverness. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Scotrail, ScotRail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Thurso to Inverness.
The train station in Thurso that goes to Inverness is Thurso station (THS), which connects to Inverness station (INV).
The cheapest way to get from Thurso to Inverness is by train, with a cost of around €14.
Yes, the train journey from Thurso to Inverness is considered scenic, offering views of the rugged Scottish Highlands, coastal landscapes, and charming small towns along the route.
A day trip from Thurso to Inverness is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 41m each way, with a frequency of 2 trips per day by train.
In Inverness, visitors can explore the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to discover local history and art, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a leisurely walk on the Ness Islands. The Caledonian Canal offers scenic walks or boat trips, while the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is perfect for wildlife exploration. Key sights include the historic Inverness Castle, the scenic Loch Ness, the informative Culloden Battlefield, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
To experience the highlights of Inverness, 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore the city, visit nearby attractions like Loch Ness, and enjoy local culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train 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.
Popular day trips by train from Inverness include Invergordon, Aviemore, Elgin, Nairn, Pitlochry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Thurso to Inverness among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 train stations
Popular train stations from Thurso to Inverness
Most Thurso to Inverness trains use the Thurso to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Thurso and Inverness train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Thurso
Arrival train stations in Inverness
Which Thurso station do trains to Inverness leave from?
Trains from Thurso to Inverness leave from Thurso. The station is from Thurso city centre at Thurso station, Princes Street, Thurso, Highland, KW14 7DL.
ThursoThurso station, Princes Street, Thurso, Highland, KW14 7DL
City-centre transport
Getting to Thurso from Thurso city centre
Bus921 · 1m · €2
800, 803 · 2m
Thurso train station facilities and services
Thurso has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Thurso.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Thurso. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Thurso: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Thurso: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Thurso: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 1, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Inverness station do trains from Thurso arrive at?
Trains from Thurso to Inverness arrive at Inverness. Inverness is from Inverness city centre.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Thurso
More options for your journey from Thurso to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Inverness and Thurso
Most popular train connections to Inverness
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