How to get to Loch Ness | Directions & Travel Tips

Edinburgh to Loch Ness: Time & distance

From Edinburgh: ~225 km (~140 mi)
By train & bus: ~4.5 hours (Edinburgh Waverley → Inverness, then bus to Loch Ness)
By bus: ~5 hours
By car: ~3.5-4 hours (no stops)
By tour (round trip): ~12-13 hours including sightseeing

Glasgow to Loch Ness: Time & distance

From Glasgow: ~235 km (~146 mi)
By train & bus: ~5 hours (Glasgow Queen St → Inverness, then bus to Loch Ness)
By bus: ~4.5 hours
By car: ~3.5 hours (no stops)
By tour (round trip): ~11-12 hours including sightseeing

Inverness to Loch Ness: Time & distance

From Inverness: ~13 km (~8 mi)
By bus: ~30 mins
By car: ~20 mins (no stops)
By tour (round trip): ~8.45 hours, including sightseeing and cruise

Guided tours (Recommended)

Skip the long drive: Tours include comfortable, direct transfers, so you avoid the stress of a 3–4 hour drive from Edinburgh or Glasgow, or navigating the scenic but winding A82 road.
Maximize your day: Your guide handles all the logistics, ensuring you fit in all the key sights like Urquhart Castle, Fort Augustus, and a boat cruise on the loch without worrying about parking or sequencing your stops.
Effortless entry: Many tours bundle tickets for a Loch Ness cruise and Urquhart Castle, saving you the time and hassle of queuing and booking tickets separately.
Gain local insights: Your guide brings the landscape to life, sharing captivating stories about the region's history, folklore, and the enduring mystery of the Loch Ness Monster.
Travel in comfort: Enjoy the journey in an air-conditioned coach, making the long drive and exploring in any weather far more comfortable than a DIY trip.

Book Loch Ness tours

From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

12 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

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From Inverness: Loch Ness & The Highlands Day Trip

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

8 hr. 45 min.

Transfers included

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From Glasgow: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

11 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

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By train

There is no station at Loch Ness, but you can travel to Inverness.

From Edinburgh: Hourly trains (3.5 to 4 hours)
From Glasgow: Frequent ScotRail services (3.5 hours)

From Inverness train station, walk to the main bus station nearby. Stagecoach and Scottish Citylink buses run regularly to nearby villages like Drumnadrochit (30 mins).

Ticketing tip:

Buying an off-peak return ticket is generally cheaper than two single tickets.

Duration: ~3.5-4 hours (to Inverness) + ~30 min bus to Loch Ness
Frequency: ~Hourly trains to Inverness
Best for: Independent travellers, scenic journeys, visiting Inverness as well
Cons: No direct train; requires an extra bus or taxi journey from Inverness

By bus

Travelling by bus is a cost-effective way of getting to Loch Ness. While it is generally slower than a train or car, it offers a direct connection to the Highlands.

From Edinburgh: Direct Scottish Citylink and FlixBus services from Edinburgh Bus Station to Inverness (4 hours); Stagecoach service from Inverness to Drumnadrochit or Fort Augustus.
From Glasgow: Scottish Citylink and FlixBus services from Buchanan Bus Station to Inverness (3.5 to 4 hours); local bus from Inverness to the loch.
From Inverness: Stagecoach Highlands (bus 17) from Inverness to Drumnadrochit.

Duration: ~4-4.5 hours (longer with traffic) from Edinburgh/Glasgow; ~30 mins from Inverness
Cost: ~£25 for the Edinburgh/Glasgow to Inverness + £4-£5 from Inverness to the loch
Frequency: Every 1-2 hours (from Edinburgh); 10 services per day (from Glasgow); hourly buses (from Inverness)
Best for: Budget travellers who don't mind a transfer and potential delays.
Cons: Slower than a car or train, requires a transfer, and can be impacted by congestion or traffic.

By car/self-drive

From Edinburgh, follow the M9 and then the A9 towards Inverness. From Inverness, simply follow the A82 south. The route from Glasgow follows the A82 north. The road is well-maintained but can be narrow and winding.

Duration: ~3.5 to 4 hours (from Edinburgh); ~3 to 3.5 hours (from Glasgow); ~20 to 30 mins (from Inverness)
Cost: Rental car + fuel + potential parking fees.
Best for: Flexible travel, scenic views, groups, and making impromptu stops.
Cons: Longer drive time, potential for traffic congestion near major cities and on single-carriageway A-roads, and limited parking in popular lochside villages like Drumnadrochit.

Compare your options

Mode	Duration	Cost	Best for	Notes
Guided tour	8–13 hours (full day)	£50-£90+	First-timers, solo travellers, and convenience	Hassle-free way to see multiple sights, including a boat trip and castle visit
Car	3.5–4 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh, ~30 mins from Inverness	Variable (fuel + parking)	Flexibility, groups, scenic stops	Provides the most freedom to explore the area at your own pace
Train	5–6 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh (with bus transfer)	£35-£90+	Scenic views, comfort	No direct service to the loch; requires a transfer in Inverness
Bus	4.5–5 hours from Glasgow or Edinburgh (with transfer), ~30 mins from Inverness	£20-£40+	Budget-conscious travelers	Slowest option from major cities, but the most affordable

Getting around Loch Ness

By car: Having a car is the most flexible way to explore the area. The A82 road runs along the western shore, offering views and easy access to major attractions like Urquhart Castle and Fort Augustus. The B862 on the eastern side is much quieter and more scenic. Driving allows you to stop at picturesque viewpoints and small villages beyond the main tourist trail at your leisure.
By bus: Local buses, operated by Stagecoach Highlands, are a good option for getting around Loch Ness. The Service 17 runs along the A82, connecting Inverness with Drumnadrochit, Invermoriston, and Fort Augustus. This is a reliable and affordable way to get between the key lochside villages, but the service is less frequent in the evenings and on weekends.
Walking & cycling: For more active travellers, walking and cycling are fantastic ways to explore. The Great Glen Way long-distance path runs along the lochside, providing incredible views. While you can't walk the entire length of the loch in a day, you can easily hike or cycle sections of the trail. The paths are well-maintained, but make sure you have appropriate footwear, as some sections can be rugged. Renting a bike is a great way to cover more ground.

Things to do near Loch Ness

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Urquhart Castle

A medieval ruin on the shores of the loch. This historic fortress offers dramatic views and a glimpse into over 500 years of Scottish history, including its role in the Wars of Independence.

More about Urquhart Castle

Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition

Located in the village of Drumnadrochit, this attraction is dedicated to the scientific and cultural story of the Loch Ness monster. It's the best place to learn about the legend and the efforts to find evidence of Nessie.

Things to do at Loch Ness

Loch Ness cruise

A must-do for any visitor. Numerous operators offer boat trips that take you out on the water, providing a unique perspective of the landscape and the opportunity to use sonar to look for any signs of the loch’s famous inhabitant.

Book your Loch Ness cruise

Fort Augustus

This village at the southern end of the loch is a hub of activity. Watch boats navigate the series of five locks on the Caledonian Canal, explore local craft shops, or simply enjoy a meal at one of the picturesque pubs.

The Great Glen Way

A 79-mile walking and cycling route that runs from Fort William to Inverness, following the loch for a significant stretch. Even a short walk on one of the sections offers a tranquil way to experience the Highland scenery.

Suggested itinerary for Loch Ness

Depart from your base city and aim to arrive at the loch by late morning. The first stop is Urquhart Castle, perched on the shores of the loch. Explore the ruins of this ancient fortress and learn about its dramatic history, offering a perfect introduction to the legend of the Loch Ness monster. After your castle visit, consider taking a cruise from the nearby pier for the best chance to spot Nessie and appreciate the scale of the loch.

Head into the nearby village of Drumnadrochit for a relaxing lunch at a local pub or cafe. Afterwards, visit the Loch Ness Centre & Exhibition, a well-regarded attraction that presents a compelling look into the scientific research and folklore surrounding the monster.

Before beginning your journey back, find a lochside pub or restaurant for a final meal. Villages like Fort Augustus or Drumnadrochit offer cosy spots to relax and reflect on the day. Enjoy a traditional Scottish meal and a pint before setting off. The return trip will offer twilight views, completing your experience of getting to Loch Ness and back.

If you have extra time or prefer a less-crowded experience, drive to Fort Augustus at the southern end of the loch. Here, you can watch boats navigate the impressive lock system of the Caledonian Canal.

Handy tips

Best time: To avoid the worst crowds at popular spots like Urquhart Castle and Dores Beach, aim to visit Loch Ness on a weekday and arrive before 10am or after 4pm.
Local insight: To experience a more tranquil side of the loch, consider exploring the quieter eastern shore (B862) or walking a section of the Loch Ness 360° Trail, which offers views away from the main road.
Seasonal note: While the main A82 route is open year-round, the B862 (South Loch Ness) can be more challenging in winter due to potential snow and ice. Always check local road conditions if you plan to drive the full loop.
Driving tip: If you are driving the single-track roads on the south side of the loch (B862), be aware of passing places. These are designated pull-ins that allow you to let oncoming traffic pass.
Booking hack: If you're planning a trip during the peak summer months (June–August), pre-book your tickets for Loxh Ness cruises and attractions like Urquhart Castle online.

Frequently Asked Questions about how to get to Loch Ness

What’s the cheapest way to get to Loch Ness?

The cheapest way is by bus. While the journey from Edinburgh or Glasgow requires a transfer in Inverness, booking your long-distance bus ticket in advance can result in significant savings.

What’s the fastest way to get to Loch Ness?

The fastest way to get to Loch Ness is by car. From Edinburgh or Glasgow, the drive takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, and from Inverness, it's a quick 20-30-min journey. Driving gives you the most control over your itinerary and is the quickest door-to-door option.

Can I see Loch Ness on a day trip from Edinburgh or Glasgow?

Yes, a day trip is a popular option, but be prepared for a long day. The round trip from either city is a minimum of 11–13 hours, including free time for exploring the loch itself. Guided tours are especially convenient for a day trip, as they handle the driving, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Is a guided tour worth it?

Yes, a guided tour is absolutely worth it if you prefer a stress-free experience. Tours take care of all the logistics, including transportation. They are a great option for day-trippers who want to see the main sights without the hassle of driving or public transport.

Do I need to book train tickets in advance?

Yes, it is highly recommended to book train tickets in advance, especially for the long-distance routes to Inverness. Booking "Advance Single" tickets up to 12 weeks before travel is the best way to secure the lowest prices. Prices can increase significantly for tickets purchased closer to the day of travel.

Can I drive myself to Loch Ness?

Yes, you can absolutely drive yourself, and it's a very popular option. Driving provides the most flexibility to explore the loch's shores and surrounding areas at your own pace. The main A82 road is well-maintained, but be prepared for narrower, single-track roads if you venture to the quieter B-roads on the loch's eastern side. Parking is available at all major attractions, though spaces can fill up quickly during peak season.

Is it better to drive the whole loop around the loch?

It's not essential to drive the entire loop to experience the best of Loch Ness. The main sights and visitor centres are on the A82 on the west side of the loch, and this is where most of the tourist traffic is concentrated. The eastern side (B862) is a much quieter, single-track road that is better suited for a slower, more scenic drive if you have extra time and want to get away from the crowds. For a day trip, sticking to the A82 is more efficient.